Marisa Menzel, Financial Advisor

10/13/2026

This Thursday is the start of the Medicare Open Enrollment period, which runs October 15th to December 7th annually for those already on Medicare. Now is the time to check your plan for any changes in co-pays, deductibles, coverages, doctors, covered medications… and compare costs. You can switch to a different Medicare Advantage plan, go back to Original Medicare, add vision or dental, or make other choices for the 2027 benefit year. And remember, your Medicare premium is based on your income from two years prior, so we will consider that when developing your retirement income plan!

10/12/2026

Healthcare costs are on the rise, and your retirement plan should help ensure you have adequate funds dedicated to this, especially as you get older. Fidelity’s newest projections are $185,500 needed during retirement for healthcare by the average person who has reached age 65. This includes Medicare premiums, copayments, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs, but does not include long-term care: https://ow.ly/T06b50ZVYju

Let’s talk about how healthcare fits into your retirement plan! Call me at 608-274-9110.

10/09/2026

WHERE you retire matters more than ever. Is your location on this list? 🏙️ This annual ranking by Fast Company compares four key factors, affordability, activities, quality of life, and healthcare, across more than 180 cities: https://www.fastcompany.com/91599956/where-you-retire-matters-more-than-ever-these-cities-just-ranked-the-best-in-america

No matter where you choose to live, I can help you with retirement planning. Call me at 608-274-9110.

09/29/2026

Fall is already busy enough for working moms. Between work deadlines, school schedules, sports, family commitments, and getting everyone ready for the holidays, it’s easy to put your own finances on the “I’ll get to it later” list.

But waiting until December to look at your financial strategy could mean missing opportunities that could have been considered earlier. Essential fall strategies could include maximizing your retirement and HSA contributions, planning charitable gifts, tax-loss harvesting, and evaluating Roth conversions or business expenses. And, of course, RMDs (required minimum distributions) must be taken from taxable retirement accounts by Dec. 31 for those 73 or older.

Are you on track?

We can review your strategy together and explore potential opportunities to mitigate taxes before the busy holiday season. I am more than happy to team up with your CPA! Contact me today at 608-274-9110.

09/25/2026

When it comes to retirement, just thinking about it isn’t the same as actually having a plan.

Many women approaching retirement have an idea of what they want their retirement to look like but haven’t yet taken the next step to figure out exactly how they’ll turn their savings and resources into reliable retirement income.

And for hardworking moms, that planning matters.

Contact me today to start building a retirement strategy designed around your goals. You can call 608-274-9110.

*Please note that any guarantees discussed in the attached article are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.*

Nearly six in 10 pre-retirees consider themselves well prepared for retirement, while about four in 10 do not, new LIMRA research finds.

09/22/2026

Hello, autumn!🍁 Today marks the fall equinox, welcoming cooler weather and fresh opportunities. What activities do you look forward to most this time of year?

09/18/2026

Moms, what if Social Security isn't enough to support the retirement you've worked so hard for?

You’ve spent years building your career, raising kids, managing a household, and making sure everyone else is taken care of. But your retirement deserves just as much intention.

Social Security can be part of your retirement income, but it shouldn't be the only thing you're living off of. Plus, women generally live longer than men so there’s a good chance that at some point, you may be the one managing the household finances alone.

Social Security is designed to supplement your retirement savings, not replace them, making it important to understand why having a comprehensive retirement strategy matters.

Let’s discuss how you can build a personalized plan with the tools and strategies to help support your financial goals. Contact me today at 608-274-9110.

Four in every 10 American workers expect Social Security to be their main form of income when they retire, according to NFP. Yahoo Finance Senior Columnist Kerry Hannon takes a closer look at these survey results.

09/14/2026

National Assisted Living Week reminds us that planning for the future is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and our loved ones.

Although many people don't like to think about the possibility of needing assisted living, planning ahead can help reduce financial stress, prepare for unexpected healthcare expenses, and provide greater peace of mind for you and your family.

Start the conversation today so you're ready for whatever tomorrow may bring. Contact me today at 608-274-9110.

09/11/2026

Football season is back, which means the calendars are filling up again with practices, games, carpools, and those busy weeknight dinners that somehow happen between everything else.🏈

If your kids just started football, you might be realizing how quickly these seasons of life go. And while you're cheering from the sidelines today, it's worth thinking about the life you want to be able to enjoy when your kids are grown, too.

Maybe retirement means having the freedom to travel and catch games across the country. Maybe it means having more time for your family, supporting your kids as adults, or simply having the financial flexibility to say yes to the experiences that matter to you.

Just like a football team needs a game plan before stepping onto the field, your financial future needs a strategy, too. Let's make sure your plan works toward the life you want. Contact me today at 608-274-9110.

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day to all the hardworking individuals who consistently demonstrate dedication, commitment, and perseverance in our communities and businesses. We hope everyone enjoys the holiday celebrating with family and friends!