Blog Posts and Insights for Women Navigating Wealth & Life

We share bi-monthly guidance and essential insights on financial planning, investing, retirement planning, money mindset, and career and life transitions.

How to Calculate Your Retirement Readiness

By Hazel Secco, CFP® CDFA® | Align Financial Solutions Key Points You may have a solid salary, strong…

The 90-Day Financial Roadmap After a Tech Layoff

Author: Hazel Secco, CFP®, CDFA® Meta is announcing layoffs this Wednesday. If you’re one of the people who…

What Is a QCD — and Why It May Be the Smartest Charitable Move in Your Retirement Plan

By Hazel Secco, CFP® CDFA® | Align Financial Solutions If you have an IRA and you give to…

Not Ready to Fully Retire? How to Plan a Phased Retirement on Your Terms

Written by Hazel Secco, CFP®, CDFA® If you’re in your late 40s or 50s and you’ve been building…

What Happens to Your Equity When Your Company Goes Public?

Written by Hazel Secco, CFP® CDFA® If your company is heading toward an Initial Public Offering (IPO), it’s…

Tax Planning Vs. Tax Filing

Navigating the world of income taxes can be daunting. For many, the terms “tax planning” and “tax filing”…

How to Pay State Estimated Taxes: A Guide for Women Leaders with Equity Compensation

State taxes on equity compensation can create unexpected tax bills, especially in high-tax states or if you’ve moved…

Roth vs Traditional 401k: Which is the Best Choice for Your Retirement?

Author: Hazel Secco, CFP®, CDFA® Feeling a bit confused about whether to choose Roth 401k or 401k? You’re…

Asian American Financial Advisors for Asian Americans Building Wealth

Author: Hazel Secco, CFP®, CDFA® Money is rarely just about math; it is often about the silent expectations…

How to Pay Estimated Federal Taxes: A Guide for Women Leaders with Equity Compensation

Key Points Equity compensation like restricted stock units (RSUs) and stock options can create large bursts of taxable…

Steps to Rebuild Your Finances Post-Divorce

Author: Hazel Secco, CFP®, CDFA® The paperwork is signed, the boxes are moved, and for the first time…

Here’s Why Asking “Dumb” Money Questions Is Okay (Even If You’re the Breadwinner)

Author: Hazel Secco, CFP®, CDFA® Key Points: Being a woman comes with a lot of pressure. We’re expected…