The Standard Newsletter

Comparing 530A “Trump Accounts”, 529s, and UGMA/UTMAs  Written by: Giles Hudelot, AFC®, CFP® With the rollout of the new 530A Trump accounts, one of the most common questions financial counselors will face is whether clients should invest in Trump accounts, 529 plans, or Uniform Gift to Minor accounts. The answer, as always, is: it... Read More >

A Guide to Side Hustles Written by: Avi Pfeffer  For many people, a single job does not provide enough income to meet their needs, especially in the current economy. More than one third of American workers currently maintain a side hustle [1][2]. For those who are struggling to enter the regular workforce, a side hustle... Read More >

Kids Corner: Roth IRA for Children and Teens: Eligibility Rules, Contribution Requirements, and Long-Term Planning Opportunities Written by: Shari Evans AFC®, MSFP Many kids find themselves working during the summer months. Jobs like lifeguarding, babysitting, pet sitting, lawn care, and so much more top the list of jobs often filled... Read More >

Book Review: Overcoming Financial Trauma: How to Break Free from Guilt, Build Wealth, and Redefine Success by Rahkim Sabree  Written by: Valerie Richards, AFC®, MSFP Book Review:  Overcoming Financial Trauma: How to Break Free from Guilt, Build Wealth, and Redefine Success by Rahkim Sabree  Overcoming Financial Trauma offers a thoughtful look at the systems, experiences, and personal histories that can leave people feeling powerless in their... Read More >

Book Review: "It’s Not About the Money" by Brent Kessel Written by: Dr. Kara Monroe , AFC® Candidate Several years ago, It's Not About the Money by Brent Kessel was my first real foray into personal finance books. It's a book that rarely gets the attention it deserves in the personal finance space.  When I... Read More >

The President's Message: The Power of Paying it Forward Written by: Ann Lentell, CFA, AFC®, CFP®, AFCPE Board President Earlier this year when I stepped into the role of Board President, I chose the word “community” to anchor our work for 2026. When I think about that word, I’m reminded of the interconnection points amongst us all and how... Read More >

Executive Director’s Message: Why Financial Education Is Personal Written by: Rachael DeLeon, Executive Director AFCPE® My interest in personal finance began long before I knew there was a profession dedicated to this work. It began with my grandfather, whose father passed away when he was just nine years old. He never... Read More >

President's Message: Spring into Renewal and Community Written by: Ann Lentell CFA, AFC®, CFP®, AFCPE Board President Spring always brings a sense of renewal, a quiet energy that signals it’s time for growth and fresh perspectives. As I’ve reflected on what makes this organization truly special, it’s more than just a collection of professionals, experts, and advocates. At our... Read More >

Executive Director’s Message: All In for Financial Literacy Written by: Rachael DeLeon, Executive Director AFCPE® April is Financial Literacy Month. It’s a time when communities across the country amplify the importance of financial education and the role it plays in long-term stability and opportunity. This year, it also feels like a timely invitation to go All In. All... Read More >

Counseling for the Unknown: How AFC® Professionals Can Help Military Spouses Prepare for a Divorce Written by: Dr. David Fernandez, PsyD., JD, AFC®   As a family mediator and financial counselor, I often find myself working with military families who unfortunately choose to divorce. Some of my clients want to divorce as soon... Read More >

Book Review: “Conversations with Your Financial Therapist” by Erika Wasserman Written by: Heidi Clemons, MA, AFC®, MQFP®  Erika Wasserman breaks down awkward money conversations into financial dialogue opportunities in “Conversations with Your Financial Therapist.” Throughout the book, she encourages the reader to explore their money mindset to better understand how... Read More >

Kid's Corner: What Families Need to Know About 529 Plans Written By: Shari Evans AFC®, MQFP®, AFCPE Kids Corner Contributor Planning for education is rarely just about saving. It’s about making thoughtful, informed decisions in the face of rising costs, changing goals, and competing financial priorities. 529 plans are often... Read More >