Category: Latest Posts

After more than 30 years guiding clients at Neasham Insurance Agency, I’ve seen just how important it is to understand your retirement options. A 401(k) is an employer-sponsored plan where your pre-tax contributions can grow tax-deferred, helping you build for the future. For 2026, the contribution limit is $24,500, with additional catch-up contributions available if you’re 50 or older. Keep in mind, early withdrawals come with penalties, and if you have a traditional 401(k), required minimum distributions begin at age 73. Knowing how these details fit into your overall retirement picture is key—just as I do with annuities and universal life, making sure each piece works together for your long-term security.

Thinking about retirement and wondering if a Roth IRA conversion still makes sense? Even if you're nearing retirement, it's not too late to consider this move. Converting pre-tax funds to a Roth IRA means you'll pay taxes as ordinary income for that year, but the long-term benefits can be significant: tax-free growth, tax-free withdrawals, no required minimum distributions, and more control over your tax bracket. If you do convert, remember that the five-year rule applies for each conversion. With over 30 years helping clients navigate retirement strategies—especially around annuities and universal life—I know how important it is to understand your options.

Spice up your calendar with an all-day Chili Cookoff at Wild Diamond Vineyards in Hidden Valley Lake, California, on Saturday, September 26th. Whether you are entering your famous recipe or simply arriving hungry, everyone is welcome to come as they are. Bring the whole family for a relaxed day of flavorful competition, local community, and vineyard hospitality. Gather your friends, prepare your best chili, and make plans to enjoy a memorable event at Wild Diamond Vineyards.

Get ready for a flavorful day at Wild Diamond Vineyards! On September 26, 2026, Hidden Valley Lake, California, will welcome families and food lovers for an all-day chili cookoff. Bring the whole family to enjoy creative chili, friendly competition, vineyard atmosphere, and quality time with the community. Use this event as your reason to gather loved ones, plan a memorable outing, and celebrate great food together. Mark your calendar, share the invitation, and make plans to join the fun at Wild Diamond Vineyards.

For savers comparing bank CDs, stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, an annuity may offer a different approach to long-term accumulation. Depending on the contract, a fixed annuity can provide guaranteed interest, tax-deferred growth, and a death benefit for named beneficiaries. Some contracts may offer rates above traditional CDs, but results vary and guarantees depend on the issuing insurer’s claims-paying ability. Annuities can also include surrender charges, tax considerations, and limited liquidity. Review the contract carefully and compare options with a qualified financial professional to determine whether the strategy fits your goals.

A five-year fixed annuity offering 6.15% may appeal to people seeking predictable growth and tax-deferred accumulation. Unlike a bank deposit, an annuity is an insurance product, so guarantees depend on the issuing insurer’s claims-paying ability and applicable state guaranty association rules—not FDIC insurance. Interest rates, surrender charges, withdrawal limits, renewal terms, and tax treatment all matter. Compare the contract with CDs, savings accounts, and money market options, and consult a licensed financial or tax professional before making a decision. Product availability and protections vary by state.

A 25% premium bonus may sound compelling, especially when paired with guaranteed monthly income options and market-linked growth potential. However, the details matter: bonuses can involve vesting schedules, surrender periods, fees, participation limits, caps, spreads, and contract-specific conditions. Insurance guarantees depend on the issuing carrier’s financial strength, while “no downside risk” generally applies only under defined contract terms and does not mean every outcome is risk-free. Before acting, compare highly rated carriers, review the complete policy, and discuss your goals with Glenn Neasham, a fiduciary advisor, to determine whether the strategy suits your retirement plan.

Retirement planning requires more than focusing on a bonus or a “no-risk” message. Some fixed indexed annuities may provide an upfront premium bonus, tax-deferred growth potential, lifetime-income options, and limited annual withdrawals. However, guarantees depend on the issuing insurer’s financial strength, and contracts may include surrender charges, fees, participation limits, market-value adjustments, tax considerations, and restrictions on bonuses or withdrawals. Before making a decision, compare alternatives and ask a fiduciary to explain how the strategy supports your income needs, liquidity, legacy goals, and risk tolerance. Always review the complete contract and disclosures.