Financial Planning Blog

Plain-English answers to the financial questions we hear most from clients in Land O' Lakes, Wesley Chapel, and the greater Tampa Bay area.

10 Financial Moves to Make in the 5 Years Before Retirement
June 5, 2026 · Matthew Ferrell, CFP®

10 Financial Moves to Make in the 5 Years Before Retirement

For many people, retirement isn’t something that happens overnight. The five years leading up to retirement are some of the most critical years of your...

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The Retirement Superpower Most University Employees Never Fully Use
May 20, 2026 · Matthew Ferrell, CFP®

The Retirement Superpower Most University Employees Never Fully Use

When I was a college professor, I only contributed to the 401(a) — the mandatory defined contribution plan my university offered. It felt like enough....

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5 Ways Tampa Bay Residents Can Maximize Their Retirement Savings in 2026
January 30, 2026 · Matthew Ferrell, CFP®

5 Ways Tampa Bay Residents Can Maximize Their Retirement Savings in 2026

If you have spent your career in the Tampa Bay area, you know Florida is one of the best places in the country to build wealth. However, tax friendly...

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Designing Your USF Retirement: A Guide for Professors & Administrators
January 30, 2026 · Matthew Ferrell, CFP®

Designing Your USF Retirement: A Guide for Professors & Administrators

If you are a faculty member or a high-level administrator at the University of South Florida (USF), you aren’t just preparing for retirement; you’re...

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DROP vs. Waiting: How to Decide When to “Retire on Paper”
January 30, 2026 · Matthew Ferrell, CFP®

DROP vs. Waiting: How to Decide When to “Retire on Paper”

For faculty and staff at the University of South Florida (USF), the acronym “DROP” carries a lot of weight. Entering the Deferred Retirement Option...

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Inheriting a Florida Home? How to Avoid Probate and Save Thousands in Taxes
January 30, 2026 · Matthew Ferrell, CFP®

Inheriting a Florida Home? How to Avoid Probate and Save Thousands in Taxes

For families in Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel, a home is often the largest part of an inheritance. However, without a plan, your heirs could face...

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The Legacy Strategy: Why Your Heirs Want Your Roth and Your Charity Wants Your IRA
January 30, 2026 · Matthew Ferrell, CFP®

The Legacy Strategy: Why Your Heirs Want Your Roth and Your Charity Wants Your IRA

When we talk about legacy planning in Land O’ Lakes and Wesley Chapel, the conversation usually starts with a total dollar amount. But in 2026, the...

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