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Friday, April 24, 2026

Earning more throughout your career doesn’t guarantee wealth. Without strong habits, spending often rises alongside income, leaving little progress toward long-term goals. True financial growth comes from consistent, intentional...

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Many people believe that higher income automatically leads to wealth, but without strong habits, spending often grows just as fast. Building wealth is less about big wins and more about consistent choices that compound over time. Here...

Monday, March 23, 2026

Sometimes the best things in life are unexpected and bring immeasurable joy. Other times even the most careful planning can still end up in heartbreak and tragedy. We are here to support and advise you through all of life’s ups and...

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

Building wealth is an incredible achievement but preserving it for future generations requires intentional habits. Without structure and foresight, decades of effort can erode quickly due to market risks, taxes, or family conflict....

Tuesday, February 10, 2026

February is National Financial Aid Awareness Month, so it’s time to explore the many financial aid resources available for college-bound students. Whether you’re a parent or grandparent, understanding these choices may help your loved...

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Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Your retirement strategy is a journey that requires foresight, diligence, and a clear understanding of your financial needs. While there's no one-size-fits-all rule for determining how much you need to retire, there are some helpful...

Thursday, January 22, 2026

Retirement marks a new chapter, one that often requires a shift in both strategy and mindset. After decades of saving, moving into the distribution phase can feel overwhelming. The good news? With the right habits, you can approach...

Tuesday, January 6, 2026

Retirement isn’t the end of planning; it’s the start of a new chapter called the distribution phase. This stage focuses on preserving savings, creating reliable income, and preparing for surprises.

Tuesday, December 16, 2025

The end of the year is prime time to reflect on whether you've met your financial goals. Some examples include repaying debt, saving for college, or building an emergency fund. Giving your finances a year-end checkup can help get you...

Tuesday, December 9, 2025

A solid strategy will help put you on the path towards a happy retirement. If you work with an experienced financial professional, they can help you retire with confidence knowing you’ve taken steps to protect your assets. Are you...

Thursday, November 20, 2025

As you likely know, there are more and more attacks on our security online every day, and it’s even more frequent around the holidays. This time of year, be on guard for cyber criminals. To help you stay safe, here are some tips: Do...

Thursday, November 6, 2025

Manage Your Money More Effectively Not having positive money management habits can have a severe impact not just on your current finances but also on your future finances. Creating and sticking to good habits can help you feel more in...

Tuesday, October 21, 2025

Planning for your children’s education is a long-term effort. With college costs on the rise, starting early is key—but what about getting some other important individuals on board? Depending on your circumstances and preferences, you...

Friday, October 10, 2025

1. Tax-Free Withdrawals Money that goes into a Roth IRA is after-tax dollars. Because you've already paid taxes on that money, once it is withdrawn, it comes out tax-free. There are some restrictions on those withdrawals if you want...

Tuesday, September 23, 2025

A recent survey reported that 47% of parents had made financial sacrifices to support their adult children. It's often a difficult decision that can stress relationships, impact retirement strategies, and harm overall financial...

Monday, September 8, 2025

The SECURE Act 2.0 has introduced catch-up contribution choices for those aged 50+, designed to help boost your retirement savings. These enhanced catch-up provisions are available if you're participating in workplace retirement plans...

Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Your 70s represent a time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, but there’s still work to do. When you turn 73, you’ll need to start taking one of the more complex and time-consuming aspects of managing your retirement income: required...

Thursday, August 7, 2025

Plan for Your Future You may have considered all the fun things you will do in retirement – travel, take up a new hobby or spend more time with your family – but well before your official retirement, it’s a good idea to create a...

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

6 Questions to Ask When Planning for Retirement Financial security in retirement doesn’t happen by accident. Planning for a financially independent retirement involves more than just putting money away into a savings account and...

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Representatives from Carpenter Financial Services were celebrated as Elite Financial Professionals of Avantax during the invitation-only Avantax Elite Summit 2025 in Banff, Alberta, Canada. Avantax is a community of tax-focused...

Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Throughout your life, you’ve likely dreamt about what your retirement will look like. There are many possibilities about what you can do with your time, where you can live and what your income and finances will look like. As you get...

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Managing your traditional or Roth IRA each year is a powerful step toward building your retirement strategy. In 2025, you can contribute up to $7,000—or $8,000 if you're 50 or older (depending on your modified adjusted gross income)....

Monday, June 2, 2025

Robert Sekerak of Carpenter Financial Services recently joined co-owner Joseph Carpenter for a return visit to Bishop McCort High School, where they spoke with students about foundational money principles like saving, investing, and...

Thursday, May 22, 2025

6 Questions to Ask When Planning for Retirement Financial security in retirement doesn’t happen by accident. Planning for a financially independent retirement involves more than just putting money away into a savings account and...

Tuesday, May 6, 2025

If you’re like most Americans, you’re counting on the income from Social Security to help pay for expenses in retirement. But did you know that once you start receiving Social Security, up to 85% of your benefits may be taxable? In...

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Are you financially prepared for retirement? You’ve spent your working life saving for the time when you can leave your career behind and enjoy your family, pursue hobbies or simply relax on the beach. But are you financially prepared...

Thursday, April 10, 2025

Are you going back and forth on when you should quit working for good? If you haven’t hit your retirement age and are thinking about moving into your next chapter, here are some personal and financial milestones you’ll want to reach...

Thursday, March 27, 2025

As you are building your wealth and saving for retirement, a Roth IRA could be a tax-advantaged solution for you to invest your money and boost your retirement savings. Money that goes into a Roth IRA is after-tax dollars. Because...

Tuesday, March 11, 2025

Did you know an estimated 70% of wealth passed down doesn’t make it past the second generation? Up to 90% disappears by the third generation.1 This is why proper financial education, and an established estate plan are important....

Tuesday, February 18, 2025

You have an important financial milestone coming up! The year you turn 73 is deemed by the IRS your “first distribution year.” This means you must start taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) from any qualified retirement...

Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Carpenter Financial Services is excited to announce that Robert J. Sekerak, Jr., who has been a member of the team on a limited basis since 2010, is now stepping into a full-time role as Financial Services Associate. Robert, who is Joe...

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

The SECURE Act 2.0 created a provision to allow people to rollover unused funds from a 529 college savings account to a Roth IRA. Starting in 2024, beneficiaries of 529 college savings accounts are permitted to do a tax-free rollover...

Tuesday, January 28, 2025

1. Tax-Free Withdrawals Money that goes into a Roth IRA is after-tax dollars. Because you've already paid taxes on that money, once it is withdrawn, it comes out tax-free. There are some restrictions on those withdrawals if you want...

Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Joseph A. Carpenter, co-owner of Carpenter Financial Services and an alumnus of Bishop McCort High School, recently returned to his alma mater alongside advisor Robert Sekerak, Jr. to educate students on personal finance. The duo also...

Thursday, December 19, 2024

Every stage of life brings new challenges and opportunities and planning for the future can be daunting. However, working with a Financial Professional can help you make the most of your current situation and prepare for what lies...

Thursday, December 5, 2024

Do you know the name of the professional handling your investment? When was the last time you got a call or email from them? Has your investment been assigned to someone you’ve never even heard of – a total stranger who never bothers...

Tuesday, November 19, 2024

Few financial solutions can elicit an emotional response like life insurance. This is understandable as a life policy typically deals with a topic many find unpleasant. But do most of us genuinely understand what life insurance does...

Thursday, November 7, 2024

When I meet with people, one of the first topics we discuss is "emergency fund" money. I ask a few questions, such as, “Do you have any funds set aside?”, “Where is it located?”, and, most importantly, “What would trigger you to tap...

Thursday, October 24, 2024

Did you know that we offer comprehensive wealth management that has helped clients like you make choices that yield healthier financial and investment decisions? Every financial decision you make has tax implications. You need to be...

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

At the age of 62, you become eligible to start drawing Social Security retirement benefits.

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

Did you know September was National Preparedness Month? This event promoted by FEMA guides Americans in ensuring their families and communities are ready in case of natural disasters or other emergencies. But did you also know that...

Tuesday, September 17, 2024

On Sunday, September 8, 2024, 20 children from the Run Home Camps program enjoyed an unforgettable day at PNC Park as they attended a Pittsburgh Pirates game, watching the home team secure a 7-3 victory over the Washington Nationals....

Tuesday, September 10, 2024

Whether you want to leave work at 62, 67, or 72, claiming the retirement benefits you are entitled to by federal law is no casual decision. You will want to consider a few key factors first.

Tuesday, August 20, 2024

Today, as we celebrate your 73rd birthday, we also want to highlight an important financial aspect that comes with this special age. It's time to embrace your required minimum distributions (RMDs) and make the most of your retirement plans!

Tuesday, August 6, 2024

When was the last time you reviewed your will or estate strategy? August is National "Make a Will" Month, an excellent annual reminder to update or create your will. A will can outline your wishes and help guide the settlement of your...

Tuesday, July 23, 2024

Did you know that we offer comprehensive wealth management that has helped clients like you make choices that yield healthier financial and investment decisions? Every financial decision you make has tax implications. You need to be...

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Samuel and Joseph Carpenter were celebrated as exceptional affiliates of Avantax® Inc. for their exemplary client service and business achievements during the Avantax Elite Summit in Nassau, Bahamas. 

Thursday, June 13, 2024

In case you didn’t know, June is National Internet Safety Month. With nearly 5 billion people on social media worldwide, plus the risks of using online brokerage and bank accounts, the need for digital security has never been higher.

Thursday, June 6, 2024

One of the surest signs of trust is when a client refers their friends and family to us for financial advice.

Tuesday, May 21, 2024

May is a month to celebrate the older Americans in our country and honor their lives and the accomplishments they still have ahead of them. Older Americans Month was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy to bring awareness...

Tuesday, May 7, 2024

Before You Claim Social Security: A few things you may want to think about before filing for benefits. Whether you want to leave work at 62, 67, or 72, claiming the retirement benefits you are entitled to by federal law is no casual...

Thursday, April 25, 2024

As we continue through 2024, I wanted to share some data that many may find positive. Fidelity Investments just announced that 440,000 retirement savers reached an incredible milestone in 2023: $1 million in their 401(k).

Thursday, March 21, 2024

Every stage of life brings new challenges and opportunities and planning for the future can be daunting. However, working with a Financial Professional can help you make the most of your current situation and prepare for what lies ahead.

Thursday, February 22, 2024

As of age 62 you may be eligible to claim Social Security benefits. When to begin taking Social Security benefits requires careful consideration and planning, and it is prudent to begin that process early. Below is a quick overview of...

Thursday, February 8, 2024

Congratulations on having a baby – this for sure represents one of the most consequential and life-changing events you may ever experience. There are many emotions to navigate … and then there are also some financial...

Wednesday, January 24, 2024

Like some of my clients, you may have seen the latest regarding Aretha Franklin's estate. The Queen of Soul passed in 2018, and years later, her loved ones are still caught in legal trials thanks to the existence of multiple wills. As...

Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Have you saved enough? Whether you started late, or have regularly saved throughout your career, you might wish you could stash some additional cash in your retirement fund. Fortunately, if you’re 50 or older, you can. The IRS...

Thursday, December 28, 2023

Joseph A. Carpenter, CRPC® CFS® CSA, FRCSM, co-owner of Carpenter Financial Services, joined GBU’s Producer Advisory Council (PAC). GBU is a member-owned, not-for-profit life insurance and annuities company...

Tuesday, December 19, 2023

The Social Security Administration recently announced that over 71 million Americans, including Social Security and Supplemental Security Income beneficiaries, will receive a 3.2% increase in their benefits for 2024.1 However, it is...

Thursday, December 7, 2023

The Internal Revenue Service recently released updated income tax brackets, standard deduction, and retirement contribution limits for the 2024 tax year. While these taxes are not due for some time, it may benefit you to start...

Tuesday, November 21, 2023

It's no secret that the cost of higher education has been steadily rising over the years and without proper planning and saving, it can be a significant financial burden on both you and your family.

Thursday, November 9, 2023

Global unrest, inflation, energy costs -- it’s understandable that you might be wondering what’s coming next, and how it will impact your financial goals.

Monday, October 23, 2023

A common financial goal is to afford a comfortable retirement – but that takes planning. Retirement planning includes taking advantage of your saving and investing opportunities through the years.

Saturday, October 7, 2023

As we age, the need for long-term care becomes more prevalent, and without proper planning, it can have a significant impact on your financial wellbeing.

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Carpenter Financial Services has been voted The Tribune Democrat's "Simply the Best" Financial Planner in the Greater Johnstown area for 2023. We extend our sincere gratitude to our clients, friends, and partners who voted for us again.

Wednesday, September 6, 2023

If you’re like most of us, you’ve probably been thinking about your health quite a bit lately — especially if you’re approaching retirement. When it comes to your health, Medicare may be an important part of your retirement strategy.

Thursday, August 24, 2023

Legacy planning is an essential step that many people overlook when it comes to financial planning. It involves developing a strategy for how you want to pass on your assets, values and beliefs to your loved ones after you are gone.

Tuesday, August 8, 2023

Having a baby is an incredible experience, but it can also fill you with financial anxiety.  Developing a solid financial plan now will help you provide your baby with the best life possible.

Thursday, July 20, 2023

Avoid riding Wall Street’s daily roller-coaster so we can focus on what’s ahead.

Thursday, July 6, 2023

Joseph and Samuel Carpenter, co-owners of Carpenter Financial Services, were recognized as an Elite firm of Avantax Wealth Management® at the Elite Summit event held recently in London, England.

Thursday, June 22, 2023

Even the most thought-out financial strategy may need to be adjusted for unexpected events, such as changes to your family life or career, or shifts in your family priorities.

Monday, June 5, 2023

In case you didn’t know, June is National Internet Safety Month. With nearly 4 billion people on social media worldwide, plus the risks of using online brokerage and bank accounts, the need for digital security has never been higher.

Thursday, May 25, 2023

For more than four generations, the Carpenter family’s businesses have included a grocery store, income tax services’ and an accounting firm and a financial planning firm, all in downtown Johnstown.

Thursday, May 11, 2023

Here’s a little-known fact that may help you save money on life insurance: when it comes to underwriting, insurance carriers typically rate clients to their closest birthday.

Tuesday, April 18, 2023

As your financial plan becomes more complex, your insurance needs may change with it. When you’re just starting out, the primary focus is often on protecting your family if something should happen to you.

Tuesday, April 4, 2023

Local financial advisor and co-owner of Carpenter Financial Services Joe Carpenter returns to his alma mater, Bishop McCort Catholic High School, on March 13, 2023 to educate students about personal finance topics.

Monday, March 20, 2023

In the final days of 2022, Congress passed a new set of retirement rules designed to make it easier to contribute to retirement plans and access those funds earmarked for retirement.

Thursday, March 16, 2023

Carpenter Financial was recognized by the Cambria Regional Chamber of Commerce for Excellence in Business at their annual dinner on March 2, 2023.

Tuesday, March 7, 2023

There’s a lot of concern among industry experts about whether the popular 4% withdrawal rule can provide enough income during retirement, but little discussion on the important role taxes play in how much cash you will actually have on hand

Monday, February 20, 2023

As a young investor, you have a powerful ally on your side: time. When you start investing in your twenties or thirties for retirement, you can put it to work for you.  

Friday, February 10, 2023

Look to build savings, reduce risk, minimize taxes and ensure a successful retirement by reviewing your budget, contributions, allocations and beneficiaries.

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

Whether you want to leave work at 62, 67, or 72, claiming the retirement benefits you are entitled to by federal law is no casual decision. You will want to consider a few key factors first.

Thursday, January 19, 2023

Keeping it all in perspective can be tough at times, but this is one of the many reasons you aren’t going it alone. When times seem turbulent, it’s good to have someone to reach out to who can help you keep that big picture in mind.

Tuesday, January 3, 2023

Financial Advisor Joseph A. Carpenter, along with Wealth Management Assistants Heather McClelland, Lisa Wirfel, and Michelle Maksymik of Carpenter Financial Services joined 1,100 Financial Professionals, Educational Partners...

Thursday, December 15, 2022

The Internal Revenue Service has released new limits for the coming year. After months of high inflation and financial uncertainty, some of these cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels. Individual Retirement...

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

You’re at that age when you find yourself thinking more and more about retirement. It’s really not that far away.

Friday, November 18, 2022

There are many ways to start saving, even if you start out small, that can increase your net worth without significantly altering your current quality of life.

Tuesday, November 8, 2022

When it comes to picking an IRA, both traditional and Roth IRAs may play an important role in your retirement strategy. If you have any questions, let’s chat soon about how these products may be a good fit for your goals.

Tuesday, October 11, 2022

"What is your greatest retirement fear?" If you ask some pre-retirees this question, "outliving my money" may be one of the top answers. In fact, 42% of workers say they fear outliving their savings and investments.

Tuesday, September 20, 2022

When it comes to retirement, women may face unique obstacles that can make saving for retirement more challenging. Given that women typically live longer than men, retirement money for women may need to stretch even further.

Friday, September 2, 2022

Have you heard? The Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law on Tuesday, August 16. While the $430 billion package includes many provisions, I thought I’d highlight three key areas where you may benefit the most.Tax credits...

Tuesday, August 23, 2022

When markets cycle lower like they have been lately, perspective is critical. If you’re not connected to someone with experience, it can be easy to miss the big picture.

Tuesday, August 2, 2022

Sam and Joe Carpenter, owners of Carpenter Financial Services, have been recognized as top affiliates of Avantax Wealth Management®.

Monday, April 11, 2022

If your family relies on your income, it’s critical to consider having enough life insurance to provide for them after you pass away. But too often, life insurance is an overlooked aspect of personal finances. In fact, according...

Tuesday, April 5, 2022

Many income sources contribute to your retirement fund. Your retirement plan might include taxable assets like mutual funds and brokerage accounts, tax-deferred assets like IRAs, 401(k) plans, pensions, and nontaxable assets like Roth...

Monday, February 28, 2022

The start of a new year brings yearly adjustments from the IRS, encompassing more than 60 tax provisions that adjust annually for inflation. Below are some of the changes that stand out the most and could have the broadest impact on...

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Preparing your estate can be complicated, and if you’re a part of a blended family, estate decisions can be even more complex and nuanced. Blended families take on many forms, typically consisting of couples with children from...

Friday, February 18, 2022

Carpenter Financial Services has been recognized as one of the top affiliates of Avantax Wealth Management®, a leader in tax-advantaged financial planning. Only a handful of Avantax’s more than 3,000 affiliates are awarded...

Friday, January 7, 2022

YOUR 4% WITHDRAWAL STRATEGY MAY NOT BE ENOUGH Get the Tax Guidance You Need to Help Live the Retirement You Desire There’s a lot of concern among industry experts about whether the popular 4% withdrawal rule can provide enough income...

Wednesday, December 29, 2021

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

You see it in prices at the grocery store and the gas station. You feel it in your monthly budget. So why don’t the financial markets seem too concerned about inflation?Remember, financial markets are considered...

Tuesday, November 23, 2021

Preparing for retirement just got a little more financial wiggle room. This week, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced new contribution limits for 2022.Staying put for 2022 are traditional Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)...

Tuesday, October 12, 2021

Medicare’s annual open enrollment period begins October 15 and ends December 7. During this time, current Medicare beneficiaries have the option to adjust their coverage for the coming year. Any changes to your plan will go into...

Thursday, September 16, 2021

Few life events are more stressful than a job loss. If you or someone you know is in this situation due to COVID-19, you’ll likely have several questions about job hunting, unemployment insurance, and health care. You may also...

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

September is National Life Insurance Awareness Month, so it’s a great time to review your coverage.1 If you don’t have any life insurance, you’re not alone. Life insurance is one of those “someday” things...

Wednesday, August 25, 2021

Summer jobs are a perennial aspect of the American workforce. It’s a time when teenagers are filling out applications and, in many cases, earning wages of their own for the first time. But some of what we’ve become...

Monday, August 23, 2021

Recently, you may have seen headlines regarding the Securing a Strong Retirement Act, also referred to as the second version of the SECURE Act, or SECURE Act 2.0.As the bill moves from the House of Representatives to the Senate, many...

Friday, August 20, 2021

The news keeps getting better for Social Security recipients.It's now projected that benefits will increase 6.1% in 2022, up from the 4.7% forecast just two months ago. That would be the most significant increase since 1983.1...

Tuesday, August 3, 2021

Inflation is defined as the general upward price movement of goods and services in an economy. The key word is “general.” Inflation tends to be uneven and affects the price of some items more than others. If you’ve...

Saturday, July 24, 2021

Brothers Sam and Joe Carpenter, have been named to the Avantax Wealth ManagementSM Premier Advisors’ Forum, which recognizes the top 75 financial professionals out of more than 3,000 across the country affiliated with the...