Jason Friedman

When searching for a financial advisor as a senior, prioritize specialists in retirement income, Medicare coordination, and wealth preservation rather than aggressive growth. Look for credentials like CFP, RICP, or CRPC, and confirm fiduciary status.

A dividend stock pays out a portion of company profits to shareholders, typically quarterly. Not all companies pay dividends. Companies that do are often mature, cash-flow-positive businesses (utilities, consumer staples, large financial firms). Dividends are taxable in the year received, even if reinvested.

A fiduciary advisor is legally required to put your interests first. Many advisors hold a fiduciary license for some products and a separate license for others (annuities, insurance). 'Are you a fiduciary on every recommendation?' is a more useful question than 'are you a fiduciary?'

The 'sandwich generation' refers to adults (typically 35-60) financially supporting both children and aging parents at the same time. Common pressures: paused retirement savings, college funding, and care-coordination costs. Eldercare planning specialists often save these households thousands per year.