General Planning
Understanding FDIC in light of the Silicon Valley Bank failure
What any bank depositor should know about Silicon Valley Bank and their own FDIC coverage.
March 13, 2023
No Comments
About Me
Quentara Costa, CFP®
Quentara Costa helps the sandwich generation prioritize kids, self, and aging parents. For years Quentara was the primary caregiver for her father who was diagnosed with Alzheimer's at the age of 70. Since his passing, she’s become a mother of three. Professionally she received a master’s degree in Personal Financial Planning from Bentley University and has held the CFP® designation since 2010. Community involvement includes hosting the Merrimack Valley Senior and Caregiver Group and volunteering for Budget Buddies.
General Planning
From Layoff to Takeoff: How to be Prepared for your Next Adventure
There are SO many articles about layoffs and jobs being left unfilled. It makes you think about your own preparedness in the event of job loss. Here’s my game plan for helping you go from layoff to takeoff.
March 1, 2023
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Elder Care Planning
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) can be tax-deductible! Find out how to save on taxes.
Read how you may be able to save a bit on taxes if considering a CCRC. You may potentially be able to deduct a portion of the initial buy-in and ongoing rent.
March 1, 2023
No Comments
General Planning
The History and Business of Valentine’s Day
About half of U.S. adults plan to celebrate Valentine’s Day this year, spending a total of $25.9 billion!
February 14, 2023
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Children
Are your kids stressed about family finances? Psychologists weigh in.
What’s the best way to discuss financial limits as a family without stressing out children? How can parents support children’s well-being while taking care of their own?
February 6, 2023
No Comments
Retirement
The SECURE 2.0 Act – For Retirees (or soon-to-be)
SECURE 2.0 has 90+ new or updated retirement provisions. For retirees, this means expanded catch-up contributions, charitable gifting options, and changes to RMDs.
January 30, 2023
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General Planning
The SECURE 2.0 Act – For Workers
SECURE 2.0 is primarily meant to strengthen Americans’ ability to retire by enhancing savings options. For workers, this means automatic enrollment in retirement plans, enhanced matching, and flexibility to use savings for emergencies.
January 30, 2023
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Travel Insurance for Senior Citizens
Determine what existing travel coverage you have first, and whether additional travel insurance is a good idea.
January 4, 2023
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Investing
Understanding the History of the January Effect
Many studies confirm “The January Effect” exists, so will the monthly performance for January predict how 2023 will pan out?
January 4, 2023
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Gift Ideas for Seniors 2022
Is it right to be giving more “stuff” to someone who is planning to or has already downsized? Maybe a different approach should be considered when gifting to seniors.
December 10, 2022
No Comments
General Planning
Ahhh it’s Year-End! What do I need to do before 12/31?
It’s time to make sure you’re financially accounted for before the new year rolls around. It may be maxing out HSA and retirement plans, settling debt, or holding realistic assumptions about your spending habits. Here is a full list to consider tackling.
December 7, 2022
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
A Refresher on Medicare Plans for 2023
Open enrollment is here, so as I offer every year, here is my latest recap that goes over the different Medicare Part/Plan options and their costs for 2023.
November 1, 2022
No Comments
General Planning
All you need to know about 2023 Tax-Related Adjustments to Premiums, COLAs, Brackets and Thresholds
There have been so many recent announcements related to 2023 adjustments, let’s just tackle them all together!
October 27, 2022
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
The Best Way to Choose a Plan During Medicare Open Enrollment Season
Open enrollment for Medicare is here (October 15 – December 7), and POWWOW encourages clients aged 65+ to work with a trusted resource to ensure existing coverage is still suitable.
October 26, 2022
3 Comments
General Planning
Is a Roth IRA Right for You?
Do Roth IRAs make sense from a tax perspective? The first question may not be whether it’s “right” for you, but whether you’re eligible to even open one at all. That’s where Roth Conversions come into play.
October 5, 2022
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
How to Choose a Nursing Home
There are big differences in the quality of nursing homes and the care they provide. 2 Sisters Senior Living Advisors help us identify and prioritize criteria for this difficult decision.
October 3, 2022
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Children
College is an Investment – Treat it like one!
Calculate a school’s return on investment to determine whether it is a good investment or not.
October 3, 2022
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Children
Biden Finds Out You Can’t Please Them All after Announcing Student Loan Forgiveness
Feelings have run amok after Biden outlines his executive action for student loan forgiveness. Read about the program and my own thoughts.
September 5, 2022
1 Comment
General Planning
How to Capitalize on the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
Solar panels, corporate taxes, and Medicare prescription drugs – oh my! Read the highlights of Biden’s latest bill.
September 5, 2022
2 Comments
Tax
How to Minimize Taxes During Market Downturns
Market downturns, like the one through the first half of 2022, could be a good time to adjust your fund portfolio to minimize the tax bite. Here’s how to calculate the best ways to do that – now and in the future.
August 24, 2022
2 Comments
Elder Care Planning
Tips for the Fast Growing Sandwich Generation
Adult children often find themselves unprepared in the position of primary caregiver for their parents. Finances (and even more importantly TIME allocated toward supporting family) can be very dicey for members of the Sandwich Generation.
August 18, 2022
No Comments
Children
Will Biden Continue to Defer Student Loan Repayment?
From one of our favorite local attorneys, Adam Minsky discusses the likelihood of Biden offering additional forgiveness and deferment on student loans, despite Republicans submitting a bill to resume payments.
August 11, 2022
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Investing
Where to keep your cash now that interest rates are high(er)
Raising rates may be throwing the market into turmoil… but it’s finally an opportunity to make some money on cash!
August 11, 2022
1 Comment
Children
Direct PLUS Loans
Direct PLUS loans have become very popular in college planning. This post by Student Aid should answer all your major questions. It also goes into good detail on how to start repaying them after graduation vs at disbursement.
July 19, 2022
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
What to Expect for Paperwork When Moving to a Retirement Community
When agreeing to move forward at a retirement community, be prepared for the paperwork so you don’t encounter delays.
July 15, 2022
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General Planning
Are Solar Panels a Worthwhile Investment?
With the cost of gas and electricity skyrocketing in the past year, many households are looking to clean energy alternatives.
June 13, 2022
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
North Andover Conference on Aging
June 24 & 25. Programs are free and open to the public. To register for sessions and/or keynote speakers please call the senior center or register online
June 9, 2022
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Children
College Planning Timeline
Although the college application process begins in earnest during your senior year, there are things you can be doing along the way to ensure you’re ready to put your best foot forward.
May 3, 2022
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General Planning
Does increasing mortgage rates make the prospect of buying a home better or worse?
The housing market has been frustrating for buyers, but there are signs that those frustrations might be easing.
May 3, 2022
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Should I Adjust My LTC Policy? The Latest Premium Hike Is 95%!
If you’ve owned a LTC policy for 10+ years you’ve likely received a premium increase. Should you accept it or adjust coverage instead?
May 3, 2022
No Comments
Retirement
A satisfying retirement is more about how you will spend your time, not your money.
Questions about retirement often center around the financial logistics, but how your time will be spent should also be considered.
April 19, 2022
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Children
Student Loan Repayments are Extended… AGAIN!
Is there an end game to the student loan repayment extensions? (Redirect to Nerd Wallet)
April 6, 2022
No Comments
General Planning
Set to Jet? 5 Useful Tips Before Packing Your Bags.
Wondering how to prepare for travel apart from packing a bag? Here is the shortlist of what I did to ensure myself, family, and clients would be taken care of in case of an emergency.
April 6, 2022
1 Comment
Retirement
What’s the Best Age to Start Social Security?
One of the most common questions for anyone planning for retirement is: “What’s the best age to start taking Social Security benefits?” Read how the program works, how it’s changed, and what to consider.
February 28, 2022
No Comments
General Planning
How to have a financial conversation with your partner
Despite it being no secret that money can cause a breakup, being on the same page about finances is not usually considered at the start of a relationship.
February 3, 2022
5 Comments
Children
Time’s Up! Paying for College
Lately, I’ve had a number of clients and prospects ask how to pay for college. Not in the future – but RIGHT NOW. They’re past
January 31, 2022
5 Comments
General Planning
New Year, New Me – Financial Resolutions
Cleaning up personal finances remains one of the top resolutions every New Year. But we all know what happens to most such self-promises, so here’s a month-by-month to-do list to cultivate better financial health.
January 4, 2022
No Comments
Budgeting
We Could See a Student Loan Pandemic in 2022
With the CARES Act expiring in January 2022, many will be asked to resume student loan payments – but can they afford to pay?
January 4, 2022
No Comments
General Planning
Will my cash app and marketplace transactions be reported to the IRS?
Will cash app and marketplace transactions be reported to the IRS? For many more than ever before – yes!
January 3, 2022
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Effectively Gifting to the Next Generation at any Net Worth
Effectively benefiting the next generation comes in all shapes and sizes, learn about your options to gift relative to your net worth.
December 9, 2021
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Gift Ideas for Seniors
It’s the holiday season and we’re in shopping mode. Kids and significant others may be relatively easy to navigate, but what about our parents? What
December 8, 2021
2 Comments
Children
Build Your Own Turkey
Keep the kids busy this Thanksgiving! Enjoy this coloring page that can decorate your table.
November 15, 2021
No Comments
General Planning
Is the Roth 401(k) an Option for You?
Have you seen a Roth option available in your 401(k)? Read on to help determine if it’s the right option for you.
November 15, 2021
2 Comments
Retirement
Social Security Gets Massive 5.9% Raise in 2022
Social Security benefits for millions of Americans will increase 5.9% in 2022. Taxable wage maximum for SS tax increases to $147k.
November 3, 2021
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
A Refresher on Medicare Plans for 2022
Open enrollment is here, so as I offer every year, here is my latest recap that goes over the different Medicare Part/Plan options and their
October 17, 2021
3 Comments
General Planning
Will all my transactions soon be reported to the IRS?
Will cash deposits above $600 soon be reported to the IRS? Technically no, but for some effectively yes.
October 17, 2021
1 Comment
Budgeting
Halloween Tips from a CFP® (Post-COVID)!
Read how COVID factors into Halloween along with financial savvy tips.
October 17, 2021
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Medicare Enrollment: October 15 – December 7
Medicare enrollment is happening NOW! Connect with a Medicare enrollment expert to review your Supplement, Part D or Advantage plan. Even if your health and
October 15, 2021
No Comments
Retirement
What you need to know about Securing a Strong Retirement Act of 2021
SECURE Act 2.0 focuses on incentivizing people to save more for retirement. But will it be passed?
September 17, 2021
2 Comments
Elder Care Planning
Understanding Medicare IRMAA Brackets and How to Plan Early
Planning ahead for IRMAA surcharges has become more important as the bracket tiers narrow and Medicare premiums increase.
September 14, 2021
1 Comment
General Planning
Can insurance companies charge the unvaccinated higher premiums?
Given the average cost of a COVID-19 hospitalization in 2020 ran about $42,200 per patient, will the unvaccinated be asked to bear more of the cost of treatment, in terms of insurance, as well?
August 21, 2021
No Comments
Children
Back to School Planning is More Expensive This Year
While the checklists grow and the kids soak in the last few minutes of summer break, it’s important to remember college planning and back-to-school shopping.
August 21, 2021
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Children
Securing childcare when you head back to the office
Your office may be reopening and you’re in a position to secure and afford child care. The Balance does a great job explaining care options.
July 20, 2021
No Comments
General Planning
What charitable deductions look like in 2021
Charitable donations create charitable deductions which dollar-for-dollar reduce your taxable income. Special legislation in 2020 and 2021 benefits even those taking a Standard Deduction.
July 20, 2021
1 Comment
Elder Care Planning
Three Considerations When Moving to Assisted Living
POWWOW, LLC was recently featured by Linda Lecomte, REALTOR® in her new Andover-area inspired website and newsletter Shop Dine the Andovers.
July 20, 2021
No Comments
Children
July 3, 2021
No Comments
Investing
Should Cryptocurrencies Be A New Asset Class?
Ask yourself three questions before you use actual dollars to buy cryptos In very simple terms, there are three main asset classes: equities (stocks), fixed-income
June 14, 2021
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Elder Care Planning
When you need to consider estimated tax payments
Passive income can unintentionally cause tax penalties for late or underpayments. This is avoidable by making estimated tax payments.
May 25, 2021
No Comments
Children
Federal Student Loan Pause may extend beyond September 30, 2021
Federal student loan payments and collections are set to resume in October 2021. There is a chance that the pause may be extended or a ramp-up plan will be put in place.
May 13, 2021
No Comments
Investing
Why does rising inflation make stock prices fall?
There is so much chatter about inflation impacting the stock market – not to mention gas, lumber and chlorine skyrocketing in price, what’s the deal? Here’s a primer.
May 12, 2021
4 Comments
Elder Care Planning
Why I Love Health Savings Accounts
Health Savings Accounts are a tax-trifecta savings vehicle that are often overlooked due to bias against the less popular Flex Savings Accounts.
April 20, 2021
No Comments
General Planning
6 Tips to Spring Clean Your Finances
It’s officially Spring, and your closet may not be the only thing that needs a good clean-out. What about your financial habits? Watch my video on how to fix up your finances.
April 2, 2021
1 Comment
Children
How to ask for more Financial Aid, and hopefully get it!
Acceptance letters are rolling in and it’s time to make a decision on college. If your top pick is more expensive than the rest… ask for more aid. Here’s how from Student Loan Hero…
April 2, 2021
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Event: The Affordability of Elder Care
On April 13, Quentara will review what to consider financially when assessing care options and how to increase your chances of retaining independence. Via Zoom. RSVP here.
April 2, 2021
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Visting Aging Family Members After COVID
65% of people with long-term care needs rely exclusively on family and friends to provide assistance. What’s your plan in the event aging loved ones didn’t fair well during COVID?
March 14, 2021
No Comments
General Planning
What’s In The $1.9 Trillion Stimulus Package?
President Biden’s $1.9 trillion stimulus package cleared its final hurdle in Congress on Wednesday despite no Republicans voting in favor of it. The plan contains a range of measures such as a further direct round of payments to most Americans, amounting to more than $400 billion.
March 14, 2021
No Comments
Budgeting
2 Pieces of Savings Advice to Reconsider
We can get tunnel vision when it comes to following “Rules of Thumb.” I dare you to push back when it comes to maxing out 529 Plans and 401(k)s.
February 4, 2021
No Comments
Children
Preparing for College: Tips and Tricks
There is a ton to consider as you decide on the right college. Make sure you’ve considered all your options and resources.
February 4, 2021
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Second Opinions: When to Call a Doctor vs a Medical Advocate
When receiving treatment options for a diagnosis, learn when you may want to reach out to a doctor vs a health advocate.
January 20, 2021
No Comments
Children
Finding Financial Aid for Private Schools
With COVID-19 forcing remote and hybrid learning models, many families are considering private school options. Read about how K-12 schools may offer financial aid.
January 12, 2021
1 Comment
General Planning
What Can the Best/Worst Stocks of 2020 Tell us?
The 2020 performance for the major U.S. indices was nothing short of impressive, especially given the headwinds of COVID-19 and the drama surrounding the presidential election.
January 12, 2021
No Comments
General Planning
New Year, New Me – Financial Resolutions
News Years Resolutions – In bite size pieces Cleaning up personal finances remains one of the top resolutions every New Year. But we all know what
January 1, 2021
1 Comment
Children
Keeping the Holidays Happy During COVID-19
The holidays are here as we struggle to find a balance between safe and sane during COVID-19, all while our children are watching. Here is some great tips from pediatricians on how to keep calm and carry-on.
December 9, 2020
No Comments
General Planning
Elder Care and College Planning Can Create a Sticky Situation for The Sandwich Generation
Commonplace strategies for helping an aging parent can blow up in your face if you have a college-bound child. Read how.
December 9, 2020
1 Comment
Children
Preparing your kids for the holidays during COVID-19
The holidays are here as we struggle to find balance between safe and sane during COVID-19. Your children are likely looking forward to the normalcy of holiday tradition,
November 10, 2020
No Comments
General Planning
How tax planning may be impacted after the election
Read about how tax planning opportunities could change in the coming years due to the upcoming election.
November 3, 2020
No Comments
Budgeting
Halloween Tips from a CFP®!
Halloween is my favorite time of year because it offers certain qualities other holidays lack: It’s an opportunity to be creative and try a new
October 7, 2020
No Comments
Budgeting
Effective Options to Reduce Credit Card Debts without Hurting your Credit
Effective options to reduce credit card debts without hurting your credit If you have a lot of credit card debts on your shoulder, consolidating them
September 23, 2020
No Comments
Children
Budget Basics for College Students
One extracurricular activity that every student can master while in college is personal money management. Typically, a student’s daily spending is done on an improvised
September 20, 2020
No Comments
General Planning
How the S&P500 fairs after an Election Year
Everyone is asking – how will my goals be impacted by the upcoming election? When it comes to the stock market, elections matter less than
September 20, 2020
1 Comment
Elder Care Planning
Downsizing Your Home Without Upsizing Your Stress: Tips for Seniors
If you’re worried about downsizing your home, you really shouldn’t be. While finding the right home for your budget and planning a move can feel
September 1, 2020
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Should I be paid for my caregiving efforts?
Even if you’re not providing hands-on physical care for an aging parent, you’re still likely spending a ton of time in a project management role.
July 12, 2020
No Comments
Children
4 Ways College Admissions Will Change Next Year
The coronavirus is bringing waves of changes to how we approach everyday tasks and traditions. The same will be true for college admissions. While colleges
May 9, 2020
No Comments
General Planning
Where to put your next dollar
Your checking account is at an all time high and you’re eager to do something more with your money. Anything has to be better than
May 8, 2020
2 Comments
Budgeting
Is Consolidating Credit Card Debt Your Best Bet?
I’ve recently had some questions about consolidating credit card debt. These questions usually come from clients who have 5+ cards or consumer loans with outstanding
April 23, 2020
1 Comment
General Planning
Hidden Gems inside the CARES Act
Apart from stimulus checks, small business loans, and expanded unemployment, there are a few “hidden gems” sprinkled throughout the CARES Act that are worth noting.
April 20, 2020
5 Comments
Tax
Tax Deadlines Extended until July 15!
The U.S. Department of the Treasury is delaying the April 15th deadline to file and pay taxes by 90 days, giving individuals and businesses another
April 7, 2020
No Comments
Children
Before You Refinance Student Loans, Read This
Student loan debt presents a serious financial burden for countless graduates. Even the XY Generation (you?) is struggling to earn enough money to take care
April 7, 2020
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
How to care for the elderly during Coronavirus mania
If you’re related to a loved one in the hospital, rehab or living in a retirement community, you may have received a message by now
March 14, 2020
No Comments
General Planning
The Markets and Coronavirus
What’s happening? The last couple weeks have certainly been rough on everyone. Stock markets across the world have been on a downward spiral with bouts
March 13, 2020
2 Comments
Elder Care Planning
3 Factors cause almost a 100% chance of seniors falling
I recently read Being Mortal by Atul Gawande, MD. His insight perfectly blends medicine and emotion when it comes to the inevitable challenges of aging.
February 4, 2020
1 Comment
Budgeting
401(k) Loans: Pros and Cons
You might be considering taking out a loan from your 401(k). But before you do, you should know the rules and weigh the risks against
February 4, 2020
5 Comments
Children
Everything Child-Related to the new “SECURE Act”
The SECURE Act was signed into law on December 20, 2019. Many changes were made that will materially impact retirees, 401(k) plans, and families. So
January 13, 2020
4 Comments
Elder Care Planning
Vets, Don’t Miss Out on “Hidden Benefits”
As a veteran you may feel like you’re participating in an Easter egg hunt to find all your benefits. This may be because most state
January 9, 2020
1 Comment
General Planning
Think S.M.A.R.T
A fellow blogger liked my approach to personal finance by making S.M.A.R.T goals. Read how she implemented this into her life and own blog! https://doingthingsdifferent.net/saving-money-think-s-m-a-r-t/
November 18, 2019
No Comments
Children
The 2020-21 FAFSA is now available
The deadline for the 2019-2020 FAFSA is midnight, June 30, 2020. The earlier you file, the more grant money you are likely to receive (up to
October 2, 2019
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
September 13, 2019
No Comments
General Planning
Hindsight on Real Estate
My husband and I have had the fortune (or maybe misfortune?) of being involved in a number of personal real estate transactions. From inherited, residential,
July 19, 2019
No Comments
Elder Care Planning
Can I Afford Elder Care?
As a Certified Financial Planner™ specializing in elder care I am asked this question daily. Unfortunately, all too often the family’s immediate reaction is that
June 20, 2019
No Comments
Budgeting
What to know before taking out a Home Equity Line of Credit
It’s important to understand the fine print of your home equity line of credit (HELOC). Make sure not to get swept up in your plans
June 10, 2019
3 Comments
