Most business owners come into the financial game as the quarterback. They’re telling their CPA and financial advisor what they need and when they need it instead of working as a team to plan out a cohesive strategy.

This needs to change.

Listen to the latest episode of the podcast to learn why your business needs a financial team that works together, and how to incorporate tax planning strategies into your operation, so you’re not overpaying taxes and maximizing the odds of your long-term success.

• Tanner is a CPA with 22 years of experience in the tax world. Born and raised in Utah, Tanner was a natural mathematician and considered joining the FBI as an accountant but didn’t end up going that route. He spent 12 years with five different CPA firms, discovering what he liked and didn’t like, before venturing out on his own.
• The Trump tax cuts expire in 2025 and a lot of professionals are anticipating higher tax rates in the near future. One tax benefit that is likely to expire is the QBR deduction for small business owners.
• Every client is different, but one piece of advice that every business owner can benefit from is choosing the right entity. A lot will depend on what your lifestyle looks like and what you are already paying for.
• Tax deductions are great but finding tax credits is even better. A good example is the Research and Development tax credit, which can go back as many as three years.
• Most people wait until there is an immediate need to contact their CPA, but that leaves a lot of opportunity on the table.
• Tax planning is very different from tax preparation. Tax planning occurs throughout the year and is a more proactive approach that many don’t realize is an option.
• The relationship you have with your CPA is crucial and can play a pivotal role during tax season. With a good relationship you also get the benefit of your CPA’s experience in other industries. Taxes are changing all the time, so it helps to have someone you can reach out to throughout the year.
• Having a financial plan should incorporate tax mitigation strategies. You, your financial planner, your attorney, and your CPA should be working as a team to manage your business finances. The more they can communicate and work together, the more effective they can be.
• There are a lot of inefficiencies in your business by having your financial plan and tax plan operating in separate silos. Individually, everyone does their job well, but when working together they can really shine.
• Typically, there’s a three-year window on filing for a refund claim. If you feel like your current CPA may not be bringing all the opportunities to your attention, it might benefit you to get a second opinion.
• If you’re planning on selling your business, there are a few things to keep in mind. Is it a stock sale or an asset sale? Do you have clean and accurate records? Plan your sale as far out in advance as you can to make sure you have all that you need for a smooth transition.
• One of the most underrated and overlooked aspects of tax planning is your bookkeeping for your businesses. Monthly bookkeeping makes it a lot easier to plan and stay ahead of the finances and taxes compared to waiting until January or April to figure out what you have to do.
• If you make a lot of money, you're going to pay taxes, and that's just the way it is. But when it's a surprise, that's where the problem comes into play.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube 

Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify

MTAconsulting.net

Brian Skrobonja and Tanner Adams are not affiliated. There is no compensation exchanged between Brian Skrobonja and Tanner Adams.

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered  individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be  rendered by Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC unless a client service agreement is in  place.

Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers of industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you  away from our website. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites. Any references to protection, safety or  lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the  issuing carrier.

This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole  basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer, and no  statement made on this site shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and  opinions contained here in provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Brian Skrobonja is stated or implied. The awards, accolades and appearances are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance. Each of these awards have set criteria for their nominations and eligibility requirements. “Best Wealth Managers” and “Future 50 Company” are annual surveys conducted by Small Business Monthly. The winner is chosen by an online vote of the general public and no specific criteria is utilized to determine the winner other than number of votes. Some voters may not be clients of Brian Skrobonja and Skrobonja Financial Group. These awards are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance.

Entrepreneurs by nature are continuously occupied with running their business and wearing multiple hats throughout the day just to keep things running smoothly. Unfortunately, that leads entrepreneurs into making a number of common mistakes.

Mistakes that damage the long-term success and potential of their business.

Listen to the latest episode of the podcast to learn about the four most common financial mistakes entrepreneurs make that put the future of their business at risk, and how you can avoid them.

• Many entrepreneurs find themselves underserved when it comes to financial planning and often rely too heavily on their CPA for financial advice.
• One common mistake entrepreneurs make is assuming that as long as they meet payroll, stay current on taxes and receive payments from customers, their business is financially healthy.
• The problem is CPAs primarily focus on looking backwards and reviewing the previous year or quarter to meet tax filing deadlines, instead of looking forward and making strategic plans for the following year.
• Proper financial planning can help your business reduce its tax liability and increase its profitability.
• Another common mistake is entrepreneurs take the profit of their business as income, which may not be the most efficient method of distribution. Proper planning helps find the balance between income and profit.
• Financial planning can also help you determine whether your business structure is still appropriate for where you are or if it needs to evolve.
• Financial planning also helps mitigate risk, and there are three major risks that every business faces: death, disability, and divorce. Any of these risks becoming a reality can seriously derail a business and its long-term potential.
• Entrepreneurs tend to visualize positive outcomes rather than seriously considering what could go wrong and how they should address those potential problems. Having a financial plan can include agreements and other triggering events that can help facilitate a smooth outcome when facing such events.
• Another common mistake made by business owners is treating the business exit as merely a transaction rather than a transition. Exiting the business involves more than just the sale itself; it requires planning for life after the exit.
• Owners frequently overvalue their business leading to unrealistic expectations regarding the outcome of the sale. Many business owners also underestimate the time and effort required to prepare for a successful exit.
• Preparation for a sale can take years of planning, if done right, and should be incorporated into an overall financial planning process.
• Another common mistake is succumbing to the pressure of spending money to avoid tax liabilities. While tax planning is essential, it should not be the sole, driving factor behind financial decisions.
• FOMO (fear of missing out) can also lead to poor cash flow management, where entrepreneurs may be tempted to seize every opportunity that comes their way without considering its compatibility with their business vision.
• By having a well defined cash flow plan, entrepreneurs can allocate resources efficiently, reduce financial stress, and build wealth inside and outside of their business while helping to maintain stability during both prosperous and challenging times.
• A cash flow strategy is an integral part of an overall financial plan and acts as a roadmap, guiding financial decisions and helping you make the most of the cash flow.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube 

Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify

BrianSkrobonja.com/Resources

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered  individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be  rendered by Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC unless a client service agreement is in  place.

Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers of industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you  away from our website. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites. Any references to protection, safety or  lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the  issuing carrier.

This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole  basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer, and no  statement made on this site shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and  opinions contained here in provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Brian Skrobonja is stated or implied. The awards, accolades and appearances are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance. Each of these awards have set criteria for their nominations and eligibility requirements. “Best Wealth Managers” and “Future 50 Company” are annual surveys conducted by Small Business Monthly. The winner is chosen by an online vote of the general public and no specific criteria is utilized to determine the winner other than number of votes. Some voters may not be clients of Brian Skrobonja and Skrobonja Financial Group. These awards are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance.

High income professionals face a unique situation when it comes to their retirement. You have the dual challenge of having your money tied up in your investments and also looming tax burdens once you retire.

Listen to the latest episode of the podcast to learn about a Specially Designed Life Insurance policy, also known as a life insurance retirement plan, and how it could be the wealth preservation tool you’ve been looking for.

• A high cash value life insurance policy can help facilitate tax-advantaged growth that standard retirement accounts may not be able to match.
• Many professionals spend a considerable amount of effort accumulating wealth for most of their life only to find themselves in a bind: their money is inaccessible with looming tax burdens.
• High Income professionals often face a dual tax burden where their current high income places them in a high tax bracket, reducing the net income they have available for investment. Meanwhile, the money you've diligently saved in your retirement plan will be subjected to potentially hefty taxes upon withdrawal later in life.
• Retirement accounts are great vehicles for long-term savings, but they lack flexibility, and you're penalized for early withdrawals leaving you without a readily available source of funds for unexpected opportunities or emergencies.
• For high income individuals grappling with these issues, a Specially Designed Life Insurance policy may be the answer.
• A Specially Designed Life Insurance (SDLI) policy utilizes a high cash value life insurance policy to facilitate tax-advantaged growth and offer flexibility that standard retirement accounts simply can't match.
• Cash value builds over time in the policy, growing in a tax-deferred basis mirroring the benefits of a retirement account, yet the cash value can be accessed at any time through a non-recognition policy loan.
• If properly managed, these policy loans have flexibility and are not required to be repaid during your lifetime and can be simply deducted from the death benefit or cash surrender value when the policy pays out.
• The SDLI strategy enables you to tap into your wealth when needed, providing the liquidity to seize investment opportunities or meet unexpected expenses.
• The policy loans do have an interest charged on them, but well-designed policies provide an opportunity to offset the interest.
• Not all life insurance policies offer the features necessary to execute the strategy effectively. It's a delicate balance that must be carefully managed and is best done with the help of a professional.
• This strategic tool offers several other key advantages for wealth management, asset protection and estate planning.
  • In many jurisdictions, life insurance policies are protected from creditors providing a shield for your assets.
  • Life insurance can also play a crucial role in balancing out an estate amongst surviving family members.
  • A life insurance policy can also provide immediate liquidity to family members or business partners upon a death, ensuring the continuity of a business or farm without the need to sell off assets.
  • Life insurance proceeds can also provide a tax free inheritance to your beneficiaries, helping to preserve your legacy.
• A common pushback against using life insurance as an accumulation vehicle is the perception that it is expensive and takes a long time to accumulate substantial cash values. This is because most common policies are focused on maximizing a death benefit instead of rapid cash value accumulation.
• While there is an undeniable cost associated with a special desire life insurance policy, it's crucial to consider this expense in contrast to the potential tax liabilities.
• Retirement account distributions are generally taxed as ordinary income. For a high income individual, this can be losing a substantial chunk of your retirement savings to taxes.
• In many cases, the cost of a Specially Designed Life Insurance policy could be a mere fraction of what the tax liabilities may be on an investment growth over time.
• The true cost of these policies become apparent only when considering the full financial picture, including current and future tax burdens, access to cash and long-term wealth accumulation.
• A Specially Designed Life Insurance policy is not a catch-all solution but rather a tool within the context of a comprehensive wealth management plan.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube 

Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify

BuildBanking.com

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

Any descriptions involving life insurance policies and its use as an alternative form of financing or risk management techniques are provided for illustration purposes only, will not apply in all situations, may not be fully indicative of any present or future investments, and may be changed at the discretion of the insurance carrier, General Partner and/or Manager and are not intended to reflect guarantees on securities performance.

The term BUILD Banking™️, private banking alternatives or specially designed life insurance contracts (SDLIC) are not meant to insinuate that the issuer is creating a real bank for its clients or communicating that life insurance companies are the same as traditional banking institutions. This material is educational in nature and should not be deemed as a solicitation of any specific product or service. BUILD Banking™️ is offered by Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC only and is not offered by Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. nor Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC. Any references to protection, safety or guarantees, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the issuing carrier.

Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC does not provide tax or legal advice. The opinions and views expressed here are for informational purposes only. Please consult with your tax and/or legal advisor for such guidance.

The concept of investing is often associated only with money and the pursuit of wealth, but this Annuities are a popular thing these days… why is that the case?

And are they a valid option for those planning their retirement?

In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian Skrobonja explores the world of annuities – from what they are and the three types of annuities all the way to four common myths, Brian’s “unpopular opinion” and why annuities and investments aren’t in competition.

Plus, Brian reveals what he considers the best way to accumulate wealth.

• You need to keep in mind that there are plenty of unknown factors in your life, such as how long you’re going to live, inflation, how the market is performing, healthcare costs, and economic shifts.
• Brian believes that the uncertainty surrounding retirement is why annuities are so popular.
• Annuities are a way to transfer risk over to an insurance company and provide some sense of safety for the future, says Brian.
• According to Statista, the risk of running out of money is a real concern for many retirees, with an estimated $2.53 trillion of retirement assets held inside of annuities.
• Brian breaks down the three types of annuities – variable, fixed-indexed, and fixed-rate – and shares a common misconception about income benefits.
• In his own words, Brian has an “unpopular” stance: he’s a believer in the fact that whether or not someone should use an annuity depends on their situation.
• Brian touches upon when it makes sense for you to use an annuity and when it doesn’t.
• “Capital appreciation over time” is what Brian considers the best way to accumulate wealth.
• Brian explains that annuities and investments aren’t in competition, because they both have a place at different times in someone’s life, depending on their needs.
• Brian goes over four common annuity-related myths.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube 

Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify

Statista.com

Brian’s article: My 5-Minute Retirement Plan

Brian’s article: The Financial Fiduciary Standard Explained

Brian's article: What to Do With Cash in a Low Interest Rate Environment

Annuity guarantees rely on financial strength and claims-paying ability of issuing insurance company. Annuities are insurance products that may be subject to fees, surrender charges and holding periods which vary by carrier. Annuities are not FDIC insured.

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered  individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be  rendered by Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC unless a client service agreement is in  place.

Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers of industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you  away from our website. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites. Any references to protection, safety or  lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the  issuing carrier.

This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole  basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer, and no  statement made on this site shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and  opinions contained here in provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Brian Skrobonja is stated or implied. The awards, accolades and appearances are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance. Each of these awards have set criteria for their nominations and eligibility requirements. “Best Wealth Managers” and “Future 50 Company” are annual surveys conducted by Small Business Monthly. The winner is chosen by an online vote of the general public and no specific criteria is utilized to determine the winner other than number of votes. Some voters may not be clients of Brian Skrobonja and Skrobonja Financial Group. These awards are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance.

In this episode, Brian Skrobonja breaks down ways to save, grow, and invest your money.

He sheds light on what a well-diversified portfolio looks like, the true definition of financial freedom, and why you need different mindsets for spending versus investing money.

• We all want the same thing when it comes to money--we all desire to make money, grow money, and use the money that we have.
• However, most people have a belief system that is rooted strictly on growing money--which, on some level, makes sense. But this singular focus leaves out the idea of using money.
• Why is this important? Because how we grow money is not the same as how we spend money. Growing money and using money require different approaches and different ways of thinking.
• Brian reveals that many people spend money wrong. This is not about what people spend money on, but the source of the income being spent.
• If you earn a dollar and spend it, it's gone forever. If you earn a dollar and invest it for income, you potentially have income for life.
• Brian explains why it makes more sense to spend the money your investments earn versus spending the money you earn directly.
• Why is this important? If you want to grow your wealth over time, you should find ways to hang on to as much money as possible.
• What is the difference between making and growing money? 
• Brian breaks down a brilliant way to use other people’s money to access cash while your money continues to grow. 
• The definition of passive income and the benefits of making money with little to no effort. 
• Better ways to generate income other than the stock market. Brian explains why the stock market is great for growing money, but it’s not the best option for generating recurring income.
• Ideally, you want to position assets so you have a tax-free, passive income to live on. You need to have the ability to spend money with uninterrupted growth while simultaneously investing long-term.
• Financial freedom is defined by how much passive income you are generating.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

SkrobonjaFinancial.com

SkrobonjaWealth.com

BUILDbanking.com

Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube 

Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure.

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training.

Annuity guarantees rely on financial strength and claims-paying ability of issuing insurance company. Annuities are insurance products that may be subject to fees, surrender charges and holding periods which vary by carrier. Annuities are not FDIC insured.

Investments in securities are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal. Prices of securities may fluctuate from time to time and may even become valueless. Gas and oil investments are speculative in nature and are sold by Private Placement Memorandum (PPM). Carefully read the PPM before investing. Certain accreditation requirements may apply.

Our firm does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult your tax or legal advisor regarding your situation.

The concept of investing is often associated only with money and the pursuit of wealth, but this fails to capture the true essence of investing.

An ideal future isn’t encapsulated by a stack of $100 bills.

The true essence of investing is not about building wealth, but about building the atmospheric conditions that align with your ideal future self.

Listen to the latest episode of the podcast to learn why a relentless focus on accumulating wealth will end up costing you what you’re actually working for, and why you need to have a more encompassing vision for what your retirement can be beyond your portfolio.

• Your quality of life isn’t determined just by the number in your bank account. Those dollars are merely the resources you use to create the ideal life.
• Wealth extends beyond the mere accumulation of money. It’s about the life you can construct around it and the atmospheric conditions you can create for yourself.
• You can possess all the wealth in the world, but without the cornerstones of a healthy life like thriving relationships, health, purpose and meaning, the value of that wealth diminishes.
• We need to exercise caution in our perception of wealth and the significance we ascribe to money. Investing shouldn’t only mean contributing to your financial future but should be considered building towards your ideal future.
• Having a vision for your retirement that involves activities and people requires a keen understanding of what’s important.
• Brian had a client who embodied the rags to riches narrative that people in the West admire so much, but after years of diligently working toward accumulating his wealth, this client ended up sacrificing his health. Instead of traveling the world and enjoying the fruits of his labor, this client spent his golden years visiting doctors and hospitals.
• “Man sacrifices his health to make money, then he sacrifices his money to recuperate his health.” -Dalai Lama
• A healthy lifestyle lays the foundation for our capacity to live fully and pursue our ambitions actively. The importance of investing in health can not be overstated.
• Along with health, investing into your relationships is paramount. Relationships form an integral part of our support system. The rewards are not always monetary, but they are no less important, and investing time into relationships is crucial.
• Investing into a steady flow of income beyond just building a portfolio is another key component to enjoying your retirement.
• Growth is not income generating and growth is not the same as income. Retirement needs to be a time of shifting from a diversification of growth assets into a diversification of income producing assets.
• The true essence of investing is not about building wealth, but about building the atmospheric conditions that aligns with your ideal future self. That includes nurturing your health, cultivating meaningful relationships, ensuring a steady income, and fostering cognitive ability.
• Money is a tool to reach those goals, and not the goal itself.
• Retirement should be seen as a chapter in your life that is ripe with potential.
• True wealth is not just the abundance of money, but the presence of all the components that make life fulfilling.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

BuildBanking.com

Previous episode - Make Health Planning Part of Your Retirement Planning, with Regan Archibald

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered  individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be  rendered by Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC unless a client service agreement is in place.

Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers of industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you  away from our website. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites. Any references to protection, safety or  lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the  issuing carrier.

This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole  basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer, and no  statement made on this site shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and  opinions contained here in provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Brian Skrobonja is stated or implied. The awards, accolades and appearances are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance. Each of these awards have set criteria for their nominations and eligibility requirements. “Best Wealth Managers” and “Future 50 Company” are annual surveys conducted by Small Business Monthly. The winner is chosen by an online vote of the general public and no specific criteria is utilized to determine the winner other than number of votes. Some voters may not be clients of Brian Skrobonja and Skrobonja Financial Group. These awards are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance.

Many people accumulate their wealth in a bank or a long-term investment, and this may create problems.

But there is a different strategy.

In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian Skrobonja goes over the Build Banking strategy and how you can consider a different banking paradigm using specially designed life insurance policies that allow you to start banking on yourself.

• Most people know that banks use other people’s money to generate profits. This process is known as Fractional Reserve Banking, which is basically the bank using the spread between interest rates to profit.
• For banks, it goes a little deeper. Banks can loan out the money they have on deposit to people, and those dollars are then deposited again, which begins the cycle anew. This process acts as a money-printing machine within the economy.
• Banks aren’t currently required to hold any reserves to cover their customer’s deposits. The result of Fractional Reserve Banking is the expansion of the money supply which contributes to increased inflation.
• Silicon Valley Bank recently found itself in trouble and was unable to cover its liabilities leaving depositors to rely on the government to bail them out.
• It’s not realistic to be able to bypass the banking system entirely, but there are ways to take control of how you save and store money with a personal bank-like strategy.
• Build Banking uses a specially designed whole life insurance policy that’s built on the inherent tax-favored nature and unique capabilities of those policies.
• What makes Build Banking different is the design allows for rapid cash accumulation with uninterrupted tax-free growth, while having access to cash without having to rely on banks or Wall Street, but you have to set aside your preconceptions around life insurance.
• The challenge is the language around life insurance policies and how most people understand what they are capable of.
• With traditional banking, you either accumulate money and spend or borrow and then repay it. The Build Banking method offers a different strategy with a specially designed life insurance system that allows you to take back some of the control.
• Not all policies are the same and loan features can vary greatly, so it’s important to work with a professional with experience in this area.
• The main benefit of the Build Banking strategy is the ability to have your money remain in the policy and continue to grow uninterrupted, while simultaneously using a policy loan from the insurance company for personal use.
• A business owner has an extra advantage because they can leverage the loan in their business, creating both an internal and external return.
• This strategy also gives the policy owner a lot of control over how and when the loan is repaid because of the nature of the life insurance policy. 

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

BuildBanking.com

BUILD Banking™️ is a DBA of Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC. Benefits and guarantees are based on the claims paying ability of the insurance company. Not FDIC insured. Results may vary.

Any descriptions involving life insurance policies and its use as an alternative form of financing or risk management techniques are provided for illustration purposes only, will not apply in all situations, may not be fully indicative of any present or future investments, and may be changed at the discretion of the insurance carrier, General Partner and/or Manager and are not intended to reflect guarantees on securities performance.

The term BUILD Banking™️, private banking alternatives or specially designed life insurance contracts (SDLIC) are not meant to insinuate that the issuer is creating a real bank for its clients or communicating that life insurance companies are the same as traditional banking institutions. This material is educational in nature and should not be deemed as a solicitation of any specific product or service. BUILD Banking™️ is offered by Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC only and is not offered by Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. nor Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC.

Any references to protection, safety or guarantees, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the issuing carrier.

Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC does not provide tax or legal advice. The opinions and views expressed here are for informational purposes only. Please consult with your tax and/or legal advisor for such guidance.

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered  individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be  rendered by Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC unless a client service agreement is in  place.

Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers of industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you  away from our website. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites. Any references to protection, safety or  lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the  issuing carrier.

This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole  basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer, and no  statement made on this site shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and  opinions contained here in provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Brian Skrobonja is stated or implied. The awards, accolades and appearances are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance. Each of these awards have set criteria for their nominations and eligibility requirements. “Best Wealth Managers” and “Future 50 Company” are annual surveys conducted by Small Business Monthly. The winner is chosen by an online vote of the general public and no specific criteria is utilized to determine the winner other than number of votes. Some voters may not be clients of Brian Skrobonja and Skrobonja Financial Group. These awards are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance.

Time is your most precious resource, but how you use it is up to you.

The shift from earning to retirement can be quite challenging, as you have to thread the needle between income, growth, and time.

In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian Skrobonja goes over the most important mindset shift people need to make in order for their retirement plan to succeed.

• It is possible to retire without growth, but it’s impossible to succeed without income. But many people have trouble shifting their mindset from focusing on long-term growth into a consistent and reliable income.
• When you invest long-term, that means not having to withdraw money from your assets for a long time. But once you enter retirement, your timeline moves from the future to the present.
• This transition requires a mindset shift to be made before significant progress can be made.
• Retirement planning is a discovery process that boils down to learning whether or not you have an income gap in retirement and, once that’s discovered, the whole plan is built around replacing that income.
• Without that number, everything else is a guessing game. If you shortcut this step with estimates, you will only compound the issue downstream.
• Retirement seems like a simple concept, but it’s surprisingly complex and solving the issue with old ways of thinking will lead you astray.
• Future performance of investments can’t be determined by looking at the past. An investment doesn’t address the risks you face in retirement. The sooner you figure out that investing is a spoke in a very large wheel, the sooner you can begin to formulate a true retirement roadmap.
• There are common components for retirement scenarios, like the income gap.
• There are also common risks that all retirement plans need to account for: sequence of return risk, market risk, interest rate risk, mortality risk, legislative risk, longevity risk, and health risk. All retirement plans should be built around the idea of protecting yourself and mitigating as much risk as you possibly can.
• Most people’s largest asset is their income, but it’s often not considered for insurance.
• Confirmation bias can hinder our ability to consider alternative perspectives and make the mindset shifts we need to make in retirement. People can find themselves endlessly searching for experts to tell them that they don’t need to change their strategy in retirement because of our natural need to confirm our beliefs.
• The more successful a person becomes, the more valuable their time becomes. To preserve those valuable hours, it becomes increasingly more important to surround yourself with professionals to whom you can delegate responsibilities to free up time.
• Insurance is just a form of delegation. You delegate your risk to the insurance company, which mitigates the risk and increases the quality of your time.
• Delegating the research and leveraging the experience of a professional in retirement planning can help you leverage your time with confidence.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered  individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be  rendered by Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC unless a client service agreement is in place.

Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers of industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you  away from our website. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites. Any references to protection, safety or  lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the  issuing carrier.

This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole  basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer, and no  statement made on this site shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and  opinions contained here in provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Brian Skrobonja is stated or implied. The awards, accolades and appearances are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance. Each of these awards have set criteria for their nominations and eligibility requirements. “Best Wealth Managers” and “Future 50 Company” are annual surveys conducted by Small Business Monthly. The winner is chosen by an online vote of the general public and no specific criteria is utilized to determine the winner other than number of votes. Some voters may not be clients of Brian Skrobonja and Skrobonja Financial Group. These awards are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance.

In this episode, Brian Skrobonja sheds light on the complex and often overwhelming process of managing an estate after the loss of a loved one. This is a step-by-step guide from the initial steps you need to take after a loved one passes, to the intricate details of settling an estate.

Brian offers valuable advice and practical tips to navigate this difficult time with grace and efficiency.

• Having a clearly defined process in place for managing an estate can help avoid the emotional drain of making important decisions through the loss of a loved one.
• Friends and family may wish well and provide advice on what to do, but without a proper plan in place, that can lead to more financial problems in the future.
• Setting expectations for yourself and the beneficiaries of the estate is a great first step to help minimize the confusion and questions around how long it will take to settle an estate. This process can take anywhere from two months to several years depending on the type of assets that are owned and the size and complexity of the estate.
• A funeral home director will often help obtain death certificates, which will be required before making any claims. It’s a good idea to request 10 to 12 original documents because, once submitted, you may not get them back.
• It's important to first locate the deceased’s will, trust, or other estate documents they have on file. If none of these exist, you could have difficulty settling a person's estate which will most likely require an attorney to assist you through the probate process.
• Check to determine if the person may have left a letter of instruction behind as well. A letter of instruction is not a legal document, but it's a letter that can provide more personal intentions and information regarding an estate.
• The next step is to begin gathering an itemized list of all known financial institutions where money is held and life insurance companies for filing a claim. It's a good idea to put the list together before jumping into making calls because you'll want to keep track of phone conversations and other instructions.
• Tip: A really good practice is to keep a journal or Excel spreadsheet of all the conversations to keep track of everything. You'll want to avoid writing on the back of envelopes or scrap pieces of paper as that can become really unmanageable.
• Checks made out to the deceased will require a bank account to deposit them. Avoid closing bank accounts too early because of this.
• You will have to notify Social Security that a death has occurred as well as any pension provider to have payments stopped and any eligible benefits paid to the estate.
• If your loved one served in the military, you may be eligible for veterans benefits. You can get more information about these benefits by visiting va.gov.
• Over the next one to three months, you will want to screen incoming mail, both physical and email, to look for and gather bills, statements, and notices relating to various types of accounts and insurance policies. You will want to review credit card statements to identify subscriptions or other recurring charges to follow up with the service providers about cancellation.
• Next, notify creditors and credit card companies that were a part of your loved ones credit history. You can notify the big three credit bureaus; Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion, of their passing, which can usually be done online over the phone or by letter.
• You will also want to locate where they filed important documents to find deeds, titles to real estate, car titles, or lease agreements as well as storage space keys and account records.
• Look for a computer file or printout with digital account passwords so you can disable any active social media accounts.
• If the person was still working, contact the human resources office at their place of work to inform them of what has happened, the HR officer may need you to fill out some paperwork pertaining to retirement plans, health benefits and compensation for unused vacation time.
• If your loved one owned a small business or professional practice, a discussion with business partners and clients may be necessary as well as consulting with the company attorney who has advised the business.
• If there was a child in college, it may be a good idea to contact the Financial Aid Office to inform them of what has happened. Depending on the school and the financial situation the surviving child may qualify for more assistance.
• Before rushing into this process, you should consider speaking with a financial advisor and attorney. There are so many areas where you can make expensive mistakes, working with a professional through this difficult time is usually the best decision.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

SkrobonjaFinancial.com

Common Sense Financial Podcast on YouTube 

Common Sense Financial Podcast on Spotify

va.gov

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA &SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.   Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure.   The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training.

Investments in securities are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal. Prices of securities may fluctuate from time to time and may even become valueless. Gas and oil investments are speculative in nature and are sold by Private Placement Memorandum (PPM). Carefully read the PPM before investing. Certain accreditation requirements may apply.

The appearances in Kiplinger were obtained through a PR program. The columnist is not affiliated with, nor endorsed by Kiplinger. Kiplinger did not compensate the columnist in any way.

Our firm does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult your tax or legal advisor regarding your situation.

“The more money you have, the bigger the mistakes,” someone once told Brian…

How does that translate into retirement planning? And how can you help ensure you approach your financial planning for your “golden years” in the best possible way?

In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian Skrobonja goes over five retirement mistakes that you should stay away from at all costs, as well as what retirement is actually about.

• Brian touches upon something that a very successful person told him when he was getting started with his business back in 1993: ‘The more money you have, the bigger the mistakes.’
• With his desire to work hard and strong work ethic, Brian quickly became successful. But there was a problem with his approach – Brian opens up about that.
• Brian shares some of the retirement mistakes he has seen people make in his 30-year career.
• Having a distorted view of what wealth really is and having what Brian calls “vertical diversification” are two common mistakes Brian has seen over and over again in his career.
• There are many factors to consider when attempting to diversify. You shouldn’t believe that a bank account and a portfolio of public investments are all that’s available to you as you move your diversification horizontally.
• Brian points out a common practice to avoid: making an investment decision based on the tax deduction alone.
• When making decisions regarding how you save money, Brian suggests considering how you’ll ultimately use the money.
• Brian discusses why you shouldn’t have too much dependency on markets nor having complacency.
• Brian sees retirement as a balancing act between growing money for the future while drawing income for your retirement needs.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA & SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered  individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. This website is solely for informational purposes. Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk and possible loss of principal capital. No advice may be  rendered by Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC unless a client service agreement is in  place.

Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers of industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you  away from our website. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites. Any references to protection, safety or  lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the  issuing carrier.

This is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole  basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer, and no  statement made on this site shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and  opinions contained here in provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm. Any media logos and/or trademarks contained herein are the property of their respective owners and no endorsement by those owners of Brian Skrobonja is stated or implied. The awards, accolades and appearances are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance. Each of these awards have set criteria for their nominations and eligibility requirements. “Best Wealth Managers” and “Future 50 Company” are annual surveys conducted by Small Business Monthly. The winner is chosen by an online vote of the general public and no specific criteria is utilized to determine the winner other than number of votes. Some voters may not be clients of Brian Skrobonja and Skrobonja Financial Group. These awards are not representative of any one client’s experience and is not indicative of future performance.

Are you part of that 68% of people who would like to have a personalized financial plan, but aren’t sure where to find a financial advisor?

What should you pay attention to when trying to get a financial planning expert to help you, and you’re evaluating different options?

In this new episode of the Common Sense Financial Podcast, host Brian Skrobonja shares six factors you should keep into consideration and look at when going through different financial advisor options.

• According to a May 2022 PR Newswire survey, 68% of people would like to have a personalized financial plan, but they’re not sure where to find a financial advisor.
• Brian sees information-gathering and understanding that planning isn’t the same as investing are the biggest mental hurdles of financial planning.
• When it comes to picking a financial advisor, there are six primary factors Brian suggests looking at.
• A 2022 study found that 80-90% of advisors fail in the first three years of practice – the main reason being the steep learning curve involved in serving clients.
• 10 years is the minimum that Brian would look for in terms of experience a financial advisor has.
• Brian discusses the different designations a financial advisor might have.
• Brian touches upon the importance of whether a financial advisor owns the company and the range of services they offer.

Mentioned in this episode:

BrianSkrobonja.com

Dan Sullivan

Chat GPT

FINRA 

The Financial Fiduciary Standard Explained (2021 Kipliger article by Brian)

Reference for this episode:

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/nearly-3-in-5-americans-59-want-financial-advice-but-are-not-sure-where-to-get-it-according-to-intelliflo-survey-301494402.html

Securities offered only by duly registered individuals through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC. (MAS), Member FINRA &SIPC. Advisory services offered only by duly registered individuals through Skrobonja Wealth Management (SWM), a registered investment advisor. Tax services offered only through Skrobonja Tax Consulting. MAS does not offer Build Banking or tax advice. Skrobonja Financial Group, LLC, Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC, Skrobonja Insurance Services, LLC, Skrobonja Tax Consulting, and Build Banking are not affiliated with MAS.

Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC is a registered investment adviser. Advisory services are only offered to clients or prospective clients where Skrobonja Wealth Management, LLC and its representatives are properly licensed or exempt from licensure. 

The firm is a registered investment adviser with the state of Missouri, and may only transact business with residents of those states, or residents of other states where otherwise legally permitted subject to exemption or exclusion from registration requirements. Registration with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or any state securities authority does not imply a certain level of skill or training.

Past performance is no guarantee of future returns. Investing involves risk, including the potential loss of principal. It is not possible to invest in an index. Any references to protection, safety or lifetime income, generally refer to fixed insurance products, never securities or investments. Insurance guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying abilities of the issuing carrier. This video is intended for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice designed to meet the particular needs of an individual's situation. Our firm is not permitted to offer and no statement made during this presentation shall constitute tax or legal advice. Our firm is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Government or any governmental agency. The information and opinions contained herein provided by third parties have been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness cannot be guaranteed by our firm.