Alberta Marx - Financial Advisor

09/22/2026

Life insurance is often framed as something you only think about "just in case."

But for many people, it can be part of a broader financial foundation—supporting both current flexibility and future considerations.

From how coverage works to what employer benefits actually provide, understanding the basics can make it easier to decide what fits your situation.

Several factors affect the cost and availability of life insurance. And any guarantees associated with a policy depend on the issuing insurance company's ability to continue making claim payments.

09/17/2026

If you’ve recently been laid off or impacted by workforce reductions, you’re not alone.

One area that often gets overlooked is your 401(k). You have options—and the right choice depends on your goals and situation. If you’d like a simple, no-pressure conversation to review what makes sense for you, feel free to reach out.

09/03/2026

When it comes to retirement planning, the process can feel overwhelming. With so many options available, each carrying long-term implications, making the right decisions is critical. Choosing a strategy that aligns with your goals can have a lasting impact on both your financial future and your family's well-being.

So, how do you know which retirement option is right for you? The answer depends on several factors. Because every individual and family has unique goals, circumstances, and financial needs, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. A good place to start is by determining how much income you will need each month during retirement to maintain the lifestyle you want. Understanding your income needs can help guide many of the important decisions you'll make along the way.

08/31/2026

Back-to-school season is bringing higher costs for many families.

A new analysis found that a typical basket of school items, including notebooks, lunch boxes, and index cards, is up nearly 8% compared with last year.

School lunches are also more expensive, with the cost of a typical packed lunch up 11%.

The analysis estimates families may spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, including about $175 on school items and $3,800 on packed lunches.

Some items have seen especially sharp increases. Lunch boxes are up 27%, one-subject notebooks are up 23%, and index cards are up 22%.

Higher tariffs, imported school supplies, food prices, and energy costs are all contributing to the increase.

For families, back-to-school shopping is a reminder that seasonal expenses can add up quickly, especially when everyday costs are already stretching household budgets.


Source:

U.S. households will spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, a new analysis found.

06/05/2026

Client Conversation: I recently spoke with someone who is at the age of retirement. When we got to the point of his retirement account and it's accumulation, they looked at me and said "I'm embarrassed" I looked that client straight in the eyes and told them; “Many people nearing retirement feel uncertain or discouraged about their savings. You don’t have to feel ashamed—there are steps you can take and professionals who can help you understand your options.”

I think that too many times we people compare ourselves to others who have not lived our story. Individually we face many unpleasant circumstances, trials in life and accomplishments all while we are preparing for the retirement phase of life. Some people have to stop contributing for a while, take loans against their retirements and some people don't even understand their employer sponsored retirement plans. Someone recently told me that they didn't understand their retirement plan. And unfortunately, they didn't seek professional help.

I would like to encourage someone. In whatever stage of your retirement planning you find yourself, seek the help of a professional. Some questions—especially those requiring individualized financial guidance—may be beyond what HR can address. Your retirement plan sponsor may not be able to provide individualized advice tailored to your full financial situation. A financial advisor can be that middle person who bridges the gap and brings understanding. I specialize in doing just that for VRS participants.

By the end of the meeting, I was able to help this client put a plan in place that will fill in the gaps. That same person who was "embarrassed" coming into the meeting, left feeling more confident of what their retirement future holds for them.

My approach is to be genuine, honest, and focused on helping my clients make confident decisions.

You don't have to travel the road to retirement alone. I offer free one-on-one sessions. We can meet virtually or in-person.

Alberta M. Marx
Plan well, Build well, Retire with Confidence!

05/18/2026

Life Insurance Policy Review/Has your monthly payment significantly increased?: As a Financial Advisor, I review life insurance policies that my clients have taken prior to meeting with me. Sometimes the policy is good and the client, their families, and their assets are protected. Other times, the policy is no longer the best fit for the client because their needs have changed.

I recently had a conversation with a client who had a policy he took out when he was in his early thirties. He had just gotten married, had a brand new baby girl and was renting a small apartment. The insurance salesman told him that the policy would last until he was 95 years old. My client bought the policy thinking this policy would be sufficient for the rest of his life. Since then, the client has not seen the salesman nor has he returned any of the client's calls.

It is somewhat true, that the client can keep the policy until they are 95 years old. However, the premium (monthly payment) often jump significantly once the (10, 15, 20, or 30 year) term ends. Some clients are completely shocked to know that the premium would more that quadruple in the next few months. Which often times is not ideal for clients since they will be older, may have adult children, higher income and a mortgage. Insurance can be a powerful tool if properly applied.

It is a common practice for term policies to have a level premium payment for the duration of the stated term. Once the term is over the premium may increase, without further notice, when you are later in life. Please be mindful of that.

In this case, I was able to help my client find a new policy that works better for his current needs. He is in a much better position now and his family and assets are sufficiently protected.

If you have a life insurance policy that you would like to have someone sit down one-on-one to review with you. Please feel free to reach out to me. I would be happy to review your coverage options with you, to ensure that if you need it, you and your family will be protected. Please note that coverage is subject to underwriting approval and policy terms; benefits are payable per contract provisions. Don't get to the end of your term only to find out that you now have a policy that you no longer can afford.

04/23/2026

Attention: VRS Participants - Register now for May 6th Retirement Workshop
Get your questions answered. Retire with confidence!

I’ve built a career dedicated to serving clients with integrity, insight, and adaptability.  I thrive in dynamic environments, with solutions-oriented mindset to high-pressure situations. Either navigating complex challenges or building lasting relationships, I focus on delivering value and clari...

04/03/2026

Get ready for an amazing summer! Now's the perfect time to plan out your summer spending and saving goals. Set a budget for all your fun activities and make sure to prioritize saving for your long-term dreams. Contact me and I can help you make this summer unforgettable without financial worries!

03/17/2026

Attn: All VRS Participants - This Wednesday @4 P.M. Free Seminar

Come get your questions answered.

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I’ve built a career dedicated to serving clients with integrity, insight, and adaptability.  I thrive in dynamic environments, with solutions-oriented mindset to high-pressure situations. Either navigating complex challenges or building lasting relationships, I focus on delivering value and clari...

03/09/2026

Your financial legacy is more than just dollars and cents. It's a reflection of the lasting impact you have on your loved ones. By preparing now, you can shape a legacy that embodies your values and aspirations. Don't delay! Begin crafting your legacy today for a brighter and fulfilling tomorrow. Let's work together to develop a plan that brings your goals to life.