Stratos Wealth Partners-Prescott Branch

05/15/2026

🔍 Think you can spot a scam? With AI, it’s getting a lot harder.

Today’s online shopping scams are powered by artificial intelligence, making fake websites look polished and convincing. Scammers now use AI to create:
- Believable product listings and fake reviews
- Deepfake influencer videos that promote fraudulent sites
- Near-perfect website addresses that mimic trusted retailers

🛑 Before clicking “add to cart,” take a second look:
✅ Double-check URLs for misspellings
✅ Avoid shopping directly through social media links
✅ Use credit cards for added fraud protection

Scammers are moving fast—but awareness helps slow them down. 🧠💻

Source:

Malicious sites are on the rise and thanks to AI, it's almost impossible to tell the difference.

05/01/2026

If you've seen those tempting signs advertising luxury goods at bargain prices at pop-up auctions, you'll want to read this important warning.

Recent investigations reveal concerning practices at these temporary auction events:
Items advertised as "fine art" and "luxury goods" are often worthless reproductions.
One victim spent $6,000 on a "Picasso" that was appraised at just $70.
The fine print states descriptions are "opinions," not "facts."
Once auctions conclude, phone numbers on promotional signs stop working.
Operators use multiple business names, making them difficult to track.

The organizations behind these auctions have faced penalties, suspensions, and license issues across multiple states. Rep. Jan Schakowsky calls for an FTC investigation into these potentially deceptive practices.

Industry expert Renee Jones advises that legitimate auctions have extensive marketing, online catalogs, proper websites, and visible licensing - unlike these questionable pop-ups that disappear overnight.


Source:

One auction attendee spent $6,000 on what was supposed to be an "authenticated" Picasso. It was actually a reproduction worth about $70.

04/24/2026

The Treasury Department in January said more than a million people have signed up for Trump accounts. Are you eligible?

04/17/2026

Have you ever heard of the bucket strategy? With this approach, you segment your retirement expenses into three buckets, attempting to match income sources to essential expenses.

04/10/2026

A new provision in the recently signed One Big Beautiful Bill is restoring a tax deduction for certain car buyers—but with limits.

Here’s what’s changing:
▪️ Buyers can deduct up to $10,000 in auto loan interest each year (2025–2028)
▪️ Applies only to new, U.S.-assembled light vehicles purchased for personal use
▪️ Used vehicles and leases do not qualify
▪️ The deduction is available even for those taking the standard deduction
▪️ Income caps apply: phased out above $150K (single) or $250K (joint)

This could affect an estimated 3.5 million vehicle loans this year. But the benefit won’t apply to every buyer, especially those with higher incomes or leasing preferences.


Source:

The tax and spending bill signed into law by President Trump on July 4 includes a limited tax break for car buyers.

04/03/2026

03/27/2026

The IRS announced adjustments for 2026, which address a few key areas:
https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/401k-limit-increases-to-24500-for-2026-ira-limit-increases-to-7500

What does that mean for you?

There are changes to capital gains tax rates, annual exclusion for gifts, estate tax exclusion, and more.

Have questions about the new rules? My office has 2026 tax resources that you may find helpful.

This material is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for real-life advice, so make sure to consult your tax professional before modifying your tax strategy.

03/13/2026

🚀 Big News for Your 2026 Retirement Plans! 🚀

The IRS announced new contribution limits for 2026 in November, and there's a lot to look forward to! Here's a quick breakdown:

🔹 401(k), 403(b), 457 Plans & TSP: Contribution limit increased to $24,500 (up from $23,500 in 2025). If you're 50 or older, you can contribute up to $32,500 annually!

🔹 IRA Contributions: Limit increased to $7,500. Catch-up contributions for those 50 and older are now $1,100.

🔹 Roth IRA & Saver’s Credit: Income phase-out ranges have increased, making it easier to qualify and maximize your savings.

🔹 SIMPLE Accounts: Contribution limit up to $17,000, with higher limits for certain accounts.

🔹 Medicare Part B: Monthly premiums will rise to $202.90, impacting how much of your Social Security COLA you'll see.

Stay up-to-date with details about your retirement savings! For full details, check out Notice 2025-67 on the IRS website.

With most retirement accounts, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions. Roth accounts are the exception. Withdrawal penalties may apply if you take the money before age 59½. Roth IRA distributions must meet a 5-year holding requirement and occur after the account holder reaches age 59½.



Sources:
IRS.gov, November 13, 2025
CNBC, November 17, 2025

03/06/2026

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act extends the 2017 tax cuts, making some rules permanent. The bill also creates several new tax laws for individuals while addressing other tax issues for businesses.

It might be a good time to check with your tax, legal, or accounting professional about the changes in the law. Like previous tax laws, some new rules are scheduled to expire, while others are permanent. Here’s a look at changes expected to impact most tax filers shortly.

Sources:
CNBC.com, July 3, 2025.
Congress.gov, August 21, 2025.

02/27/2026

Homeownership can bring added considerations during tax season.

As the IRS begins accepting 2026 tax returns, homeowners may be reviewing whether to itemize deductions or take the standard deduction. Depending on individual circumstances, certain expenses tied to owning a home may still be eligible for tax treatment under current rules, including mortgage interest and property-related costs.

Because tax situations vary, it may be helpful to review what applies to you before filing.

If you have questions about how these items show up in your overall financial picture, feel free to reach out. For specific tax guidance, it’s best to connect directly with your qualified tax professional. I’m happy to coordinate with them to ensure your financial strategy is aligned.



Source:

It will mostly be business as usual for homeowners this tax season. However, new changes introduced under the "big, beautiful bill" may affect how they file.