For most taxpayers, getting a big refund feels good. According to the IRS, the average American received a refund of $2,860 in 2016. Awesome! That should cover the summer vacation or make a down payment on a vehicle. But wait, why you are getting this nice windfall? It’s because you gave the government an interest-free loan the previous year! Your paycheck
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Michael Cook, President of NGB Financial, was recently invited to share his habits for professional success in Inc. Magazine’s “Success Today” feature. San Antonio, TX – Michael Cook helps his clients secure their financial freedom by helping them change the way they save and invest. He was recently chosen to appear in Inc. Magazine by the National Association of Experts, Writers,
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Michael Cook, President of NGB Financial, was chosen to be featured in The Wall Street Journal to showcase his industry expertise as a “Master of Success”. San Antonio, TX – July **, 2017 – Michael Cook uses his 20+ years of financial services experience to create financial solutions to assist his clients with growing and protecting their wealth. He was recently
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With June designated as “Annuity Awareness Month” one can argue that many Americans are aware of the word “annuity” but may not understand how annuities actually work. In fact, the annuity concept has been traced back to the Roman Empire. In return for their service, soldiers and their beneficiaries would receive annual payments for life known as “annuas,” the basis for
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It’s May, which, along with June and September, is considered a peak month when it comes to weddings. Just like everything else, high demand means high cost. The venue, or location, is one of the most expensive aspects of a wedding, particularly during the peak months, with an average cost of $16,107 in 2016. (For just this reason, another expensive month
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Michael L. Cook, President of NGB Financial, was recently featured in NewsWeek as a forecaster of “The Next Big Thing” in his industry. San Antonio, TX – February 21, 2017 – Michael L. Cook, who seeks to help his clients secure their financial freedom, was recently recognized in “The Next Big Thing” feature in NewsWeek by the National Association of Experts,
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When you see technicolor Peeps lining the grocery store shelves, you know that Spring is near and families will soon be gathering to celebrate the season. Whether you are gathered around an Easter feast or beaming with pride at a grandchild’s graduation, you may start thinking about the long-term legacy you are leaving for your loved ones. Legacy gifts can take many
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Michael L. Cook was recently featured in the Weekend Edition of USA Today as a “GameChanger™” San Antonio, Texas – October 24, 2016 – Michael L. Cook, President of NGB Financial, was recently featured in USA Today with other leading professionals from across the nation. The piece ran in a Weekend Edition of the USA Today from August 26th – 28th.
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When it comes to estate planning, most of us are at least familiar with the terms “will” and “trust.” However, it’s important to understand how they work. One difference is that a will goes into effect after death while a trust can be used to distribute property before or after death.
Time for you to gather with loved ones, eat more than you planned and watch football until you fall asleep. When you have your family gathered in one place, consider carving out time to have a candid conversation with your loved ones about your retirement plan and your legacy. This way you can get their input…and buy-in…on your plan. And everyone
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