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Another Busy Season in the Books!
6/9/2023
If you haven’t noticed, we call ourselves the “Saltmarsh Family” because we value time outside of our daily work routines to get together, build camaraderie and take time to unwind together as a firm.
Dimensional Wins ETF Issuer of the Year and Best New Active ETF at 2023 ETF.com Awards
6/8/2023
Dimensional Fund Advisors was recently honored at the 2023 ETF.com Awards, winning ETF Issuer of the Year and more.
Managing Risk: Fraud Deterrence Is Always a Priority
6/1/2023
As we inch closer to marking a quarter of the way through the 21st century, one thing has become very apparent: the 21st century is anything but stable. In 22 years, the world and its economies have endured the threat of international terrorism, a global banking crisis, a worldwide health pandemic, high inflation here in the US, and overseas, the largest European conflict since World War II. Each incident presented unique challenges to consumers and businesses alike, but one thing remained constant: fraud.
The U.S. Debt Ceiling
5/24/2023
Sometime around June 1, 2023, the United States is expected to reach its debt ceiling. In recent years this topic has caused turmoil in the financial market and impacted thousands in both the public and private sectors. So, what exactly is the debt ceiling?
Building Confidence: A Woman-Focused Event Series
5/23/2023
Over the next couple of months, Saltmarsh Financial Advisors will host a 4-part woman-focused series centered on building confidence and community around the unique financial situations individuals may face in their lives. Each session will focus on the central themes of navigating loss, divorce, caregiving or philanthropic giving.
The Stock Market vs. Stocks in the MarketA Perspectives Blog from Dimensional Fund Advisors
5/10/2023
The collapse of First Republic Bank is a harsh reminder that any stock can go to zero, no matter how established a company is, or how loyal and wealthy its customers are.
The Value of Discipline in Value InvestingA Quick Take from Dimensional Fund Advisors
5/3/2023
Value stocks have gone through periods of both extreme over- and underperformance in recent years — a reminder that even reliable premiums can be volatile over shorter periods.
The Stuff They Didn't Teach You in SchoolAn Introduction to Financial Literacy
4/24/2023
These topics center around the broader category of financial literacy, which is generally not taught in the public school system. And if you feel unsure about your financial knowledge, you’re not alone.
8 Tips to Kickstart Your Savings & Investment Strategy
4/12/2023
Saving money is a critical component of a successful financial plan. If you don’t know how to begin managing your money, setting up a savings plan is a great way to start. Here are eight tips to kickstart your saving strategy!
Webinar on Demand: Getting to Know FedNow, Now
4/10/2023
The Financial Institutions practice group at Saltmarsh brings you The Payments Professor to discuss operational and other issues financial institutions should know for FedNOW implementation. Access the webinar on demand!
Navigating LossHighlights from our Building Confidence Part 1 Event
4/7/2023
Our Saltmarsh Financial Advisors hosted a discussion on Navigating Loss and the spectrum of challenges heirs can encounter. The panel included professionals in financial planning, estate planning, tax, hospice and mental health, all offering a different perspective on the topic. A few central themes emerged during the conversation that we wanted to share for those who were unable to attend.
Silicon Valley Bank Collapse Explained
4/6/2023
Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) was founded in 1983 in Northern California with the specific purpose of banking the up-and-coming technology sector. Over the next few decades, it grew into one of the 15 largest banks in the nation. In March 2023, financial regulators stepped in to remove management and control deposits, as the bank experienced a run on deposits. Though the dust has yet to settle, it’s important to understand the problems that lead to the bank’s downfall.
How to Build a Budget to Boost Your Savings
4/3/2023
October 12th is National Savings Day – a day to celebrate savings across the nation and reflect on the importance of maintaining healthy financial habits. A disciplined savings strategy is the foundation for building wealth, and often, the impact of saving a small amount consistently over time is underestimated.
Banking Artificial IntelligenceChatGPT Version
3/31/2023
It seems that the newest thing in technology is Artificial Intelligence, or AI. ChatGPT, while only one of many projects underway, has seemingly caught everyone’s attention. In honor of that, we thought it would be interesting to let the tool write our blog this quarter - an AI edition of sorts. With some prompting, the software very quickly produced this quarter's content.
BankTech Bytes: Banking Artificial IntelligenceChatGPT Version
3/24/2023
It seems that the newest thing in technology is Artificial Intelligence or AI. ChatGPT, while only one of many projects underway, has seemingly caught everyone’s attention. In honor of that, we thought it would be interesting to let the tool write our blog this quarter - an AI edition of sorts. With some prompting, the software very quickly produced this quarter's content.
“AI is a technology which is staggering. We're already using it to do risk, fraud, marketing, prospecting — and it's the tip of the iceberg. To me this is extraordinary.” - Jamie Dimon, CEO | Chase Bank
How to Get Stuff Done
3/20/2023
Businesses are facing disruption on multiple fronts, and many are struggling to simply get things done. Leaders must contend with the pandemic’s aftermath and the challenges of managing a remote or hybrid workforce, as well as economic uncertainty, ongoing supply chain disruptions, demand shifts, resource constraints and more, all while devising critical plans for the road ahead.
Dimensional Ranked #1 in Barron's Best Fund Families of 2022
3/15/2023
Saltmarsh Financial Advisors is thrilled to share that our investment partner, Dimensional Fund Advisors, has been recognized as Barron's No. 1 "Best Fund Families of 2022!"
Christina Doss Receives "Woman in Business" Award
3/13/2023
We are proud to announce that Christina Doss, AAMS®, Investment Advisory Services Shareholder and Managing Director of Saltmarsh Financial Advisors, LLC, was honored as recipient of the Woman in Business, For-Profit Award at the Junior League of Pensacola’s Women’s Empowerment Awards on Wednesday, March 8th.
Saltmarsh Siren: Upcoming Reporting Deadlines for HRSA Provider Relief Fund & American Rescue Plan Rural Distributions
3/8/2023
As a reminder, the PRF Reporting Period 4 opened on January 1, 2023, and will remain open through March 31, 2023. Reporting Period 4 covers PRF payments received between July 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021. Providers who received aggregated PRF payments of more than $10,000 should be prepared to report on their use of these funds. The Reporting Period 4 Period of Availability runs from January 1, 2020, through December 31, 2022.
Are you Prepared For Changes to Estate Tax Exemptions?
3/1/2023
Did you know that the current estate tax exemption will be reduced by more than 50% beginning January 1, 2026?
Nacha's 2023 Rules Updates: Are You Affected?
3/1/2023
Are you a Bank, Credit Union or Third-Party Sender that originates Micro-Entries on behalf of your customers? With Micro-Entries (Phase 2), risk management requirements will be applied to all Originators of ACH Micro-Entries. Enforcement of this requirement begins March 17, 2023.
Two Steps Forward, One Step Back for InvestorsA Perspectives Blog from Dimensional Fund Advisors
2/22/2023
Consider everything investors have been through in recent years: a global pandemic, rapid inflation, war in Europe, and volatile stock and bond markets. It’s reasonable to feel uneasy in the face of so much uncertainty.
SECURE Act 2.0What You Need to Know
2/13/2023
As the final days of 2022 drew to a close, US lawmakers passed an omnibus spending bill authorizing $1.7 trillion in government spending. Included within the bill was a retirement-focused bill dubbed SECURE Act 2.0. The name references the original SECURE Act, which was passed almost three years ago to the day.
Saltmarsh Awarded 2023 Best of Accounting®
1/26/2023
We are pleased to announce our newest recognition as the Best of Accounting for providing superior service to our clients.
Which Country Will Outperform? Here's Why It Shouldn't Matter.A Perspectives Blog from Dimensional Fund Advisors
1/26/2023
Investors can benefit from understanding that they don’t need to predict which countries will deliver the best returns during the next quarter, next year, or next five years. Why?
2022: A Year to Forget?
1/17/2023
At the end of each year, we like to reflect on what transpired in the previous 12 months. The general tenet of last year’s article was that it was a year to remember for investors as stocks soared again. In contrast, this year was one many investors would like to forget. While we recognize the challenges this year brought, we feel it’s important to look back at what made this year so historic.
Our 33 Saltmarsh Way Fundamental AwardsJanuary 2023
1/12/2023
We recently hosted our third Saltmarsh Fundamental Awards Ceremony! This celebration recognizes individuals who live our 33 "Saltmarsh Way" Fundamentals to the fullest and practice the high-performing behaviors that continue building a sustainable and uplifting culture throughout our firm.
Woman of the Year: Katherine Creel
1/11/2023
We recently received news that Katherine Creel was recognized as a 2023 Woman of the Year! She received this recognition as the Volunteer Woman of the Year by Scarlett Magazine for all the philanthropic and volunteer work she does in her community.
Saltmarsh Announces Internal Promotions of 2023
1/9/2023
We're proud to announce the following internal promotions as of January 1, 2023!
2022 Lookback
12/27/2022
2022 was a great and busy year for Saltmarsh! Every year flies by, especially when we’re busy out in the community, recruiting the best of the best, enjoying team-building events and exceptionally serving our clients. Come look back at our 2022 accomplishments with us!
Saltmarsh Recognized as One of America's Best Tax and Accounting Firms by Forbes
12/20/2022
Saltmarsh, Cleaveland & Gund is thrilled to announce that the firm has been recognized as one of America’s Best Tax and Accounting Firms in 2023 by Forbes.
What Happened with FTX?
12/20/2022
Recently, my wife was scrolling through an online news site and asked me: “What happened to bitcoin?” She showed me a headline that read, “Crypto exchange FTX files for bankruptcy.” I told her that the bankruptcy of FTX ultimately amounted to a simple explanation: FRAUD.
Saltmarsh Siren: Reporting Updates for HRSA Provider Relief Fund & American Rescue Plan Rural Distribution
12/15/2022
Get ready, PRF Reporting Period 4 opens January 1, 2023, and will remain open through March 31, 2023. Reporting Period 4 covers PRF payments received between July 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021. Check out the latest Saltmarsh Siren to learn more about this reporting update and upcoming deadlines!
Do I Need an ACH Audit?
12/14/2022
We often get the question. “Do I need an ACH audit?” The general requirement per the Nacha Operating Rules is that a bank or credit union (DFI) must conduct, or have conducted, an audit of its compliance with these Rules annually. However, other parties involved in processing ACH transactions need an ACH audit, too.
BankTech Bytes: Honest Abe's Lessons on Resiliency
12/13/2022
This BankTech Bytes Newsletter discusses thoughts on resiliency. In a joint issuance to large banks on the subject in 2020, the OCC, FDIC and FED defined operational resilience as, “The ability to deliver operations, including critical operations and core business lines, through a disruption from any hazard.”
Webinar Recording: Top 8 ACH Audit Findings You Should Be Aware Of
12/5/2022
In this webinar, Senior Financial Institutions Consultant, Sallie O’Brien, AAP, APRP, will discuss today’s top audit findings and best practices to stay in compliance with Nacha Operating Rules for financial institutions. Access webinar materials here!
Achieving Mindful Communication in the Workplace
12/1/2022
Communication is a powerful tool that can have a significant impact on the success of a company. Effective communication can increase employee engagement, boost productivity and drive business growth, whereas poor communication can have the complete opposite effect. In this blog, you will learn why communication matters and how to incorporate mindful tips into your everyday correspondence.
Lessons Learned: Losing a Loved One
11/21/2022
This might sound dark, but there is no greater certainty in life than death. As financial advisors, part of our jobs is to help families create a plan for the future. This role often means having difficult conversations about a topic most of us would prefer not to discuss: death.
A Primer on Medicare
11/14/2022
Healthcare is one of the most important expenses to consider as individuals approach retirement. In the U.S., any citizen over the age of 65 is eligible to receive Medicare benefits. Just like Social Security, Medicare funding happens directly through your paycheck. Though most of us have been contributing to Medicare since our first job, it’s not a program we think much about until we approach retirement.
Saltmarsh Ranked #4 in Nation for Best Firms for Young Accountants by Accounting Today
11/10/2022
We are thrilled to share that we've ranked #4 in Accounting Today’s 2022 list of Best Firms for Young Accountants!
“Saltmarsh is a great place to work and a positive environment that helps you grow. There is always a new challenge to tackle, and always a supportive team to help you do it." - Jess Schultz, Staff Auditor
Digital Assets and 21st Century Estate Planning
11/7/2022
Today, more than ever, our daily routines are intertwined with a digital world that didn’t exist that long ago. Collectively, we wake up and check our phones. “For missed calls”, you ask? No, for every reason except actual phone calls. Maybe you want to look at last night’s photos, or check your emails, or check out your crypto wallet or just check in on social media. Whatever the reason, your phone has become the gateway to your life. Welcome to the 21st century! But what happens to your digital life when you’re no longer physically alive? The answer has a lot to do with the preparations you’ve made before you pass.
Saltmarsh in the City
11/3/2022
We believe in making connections – not only with our current and future clients but also with movers and shakers in our communities and surrounding areas. That’s why we encourage our Saltmarsh family members to network, get involved in organizations and invest in relationships! It is Fundamental #29 from our 33 Fundamentals, after all.
4 Painless Ways to Achieve Financial Security
10/31/2022
We all know that it's never too early to start planning for retirement or to start building a nest egg for future expenses. Financial security is a goal that we all have in mind, but are you taking advantage of the easy opportunities that can help you accelerate the process? Other than utilizing sensible spending habits, here are some quick strategies to help you reach financial security sooner than you think.
Think CECL Is Only for Banks? Not So Fast!
10/27/2022
As we’ve previously noted, most of the CECL-related focus has been on loans receivable, and to a lesser extent, debt securities. Are there any other financial assets that fall under the CECL guidance? The answer might surprise you.
IRS Announces 2023 Contribution Limits for Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
10/26/2022
On October 18, 2022, the IRS announced 2023 contribution limits for medical flexible spending accounts (FSAs), as part of Revenue Procedure 2022-38. Limits are adjusted annually to reflect inflation.
Watch Out for Those Hackers - It's Cybersecurity Awareness Month!
10/17/2022
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a global effort to help everyone stay safe and protected when using technology whenever and however you connect. Cybersecurity has become one of the biggest hot topics both inside and outside of technology circles over the last two years.
The Social WorkplaceTips from an SHRM
10/17/2022
Focus areas like employee engagement, workplace relationships, employer branding, employee recognition and retention, and employee learning can all be affected by social media. However, as social media is increasingly becoming the norm in the workplace, companies are faced with tough decisions and “what if” and “why not” debates.
Webinar Recording: Foundations of Financial Stability
10/12/2022
When you hear the words financial goals, what comes to mind? Perhaps you’re thinking about big goals like buying a home or paying off student loans. While it’s important to have financial goals, it’s more important to have a solid foundation and plan for achieving them. Access webinar materials here!
Saltmarsh Siren: Florida's New Minimum Wage Requirements for Medicaid Providers
10/5/2022
As a reminder, Florida’s new $15/hour minimum wage requirement for providers participating in the Medicaid program went into effect on October 1, 2022. The new Florida Medicaid Fee-For-Service Schedules reflecting the increases related to the mandatory $15/hour minimum wage have been published and are available on AHCA’s website.
WEBINAR: Horror Stories in Employee Safety/Risk Management
10/5/2022
There’s nothing scarier than when an OSHA inspector shows up at your door. It’s even scarier when your organization isn’t in compliance… and we’ve all heard horror stories about the organizations that aren’t. Join us for a webinar to share tips on how to mitigate risk and keep your people and organization safe.
Saltmarsh Names Jen Mostert Chief Financial Officer
10/4/2022
We're excited to announce that Jen Mostert, CPA, has been named Chief Financial Officer of Saltmarsh, effective October 6, 2022. As CFO, Mostert will oversee all areas of the accounting and finance functions of the firm, including managing budgeting, reporting and financial analysis.
Manufacturing Month 2022
10/4/2022
Celebrate Manufacturing Month with us! The goal of Manufacturing Month in Florida is to bring awareness to the manufacturing industry nationwide. We have amazing manufacturing clients at Saltmarsh, so what better time to celebrate them than a month that is dedicated to their industry?
Recruiting the Best for the Best
10/3/2022
Steve Jobs once said, “The secret of my success is that we have gone to exceptional lengths to hire the best people in the world.”
In accounting, clients trust us to get the job done – and done exceptionally. Saltmarsh has been around since 1944, which says a lot about our reputation and strength throughout the rollercoaster of recessions, inflations and pandemics.
NIL (Name, Image, Likeness): Income Tax Considerations for Student-Athletes
9/27/2022
Student-athletes can now enter into name, image and likeness (NIL) contracts for compensation. NIL contracts have major federal and state tax implications, including income tax responsibilities, state nexus and reporting obligations.
Student Loan Debt Cancelation
9/26/2022
On August 24, 2022, President Joe Biden announced his administration’s plan to reduce student loan debt for millions of Americans. The plan consists of three parts: Targeted debt repayment relief, improving the loan system for current and future borrowers and reducing the cost of college by holding schools accountable for rate hikes. While all three parts are relevant, I am going to focus on targeted debt repayment relief – or said more clearly: Student Loan Debt Cancelation.
Natural Disaster Casualty Losses
9/26/2022
Did you know that losses of property due to natural disasters are deductible as personal casualty losses on your tax return? This means if you suffered damage from Hurricane Sally that resulted in your property losing value, you might be entitled to a tax deduction for that loss.
A Few Reasons Why I Love HR
9/26/2022
"I can't believe you like HR." "I could never do what you do." "Please don't ever quit because I would never want to do your job." These are all statements or questions that I have heard many times over from my work colleagues, my friends, my family, and yes....even one of my former bosses. Allow me to take you on a journey of what HR means to me.
Webinar Materials: Healthcare Hot Topics: Florida's New Minimum Wage Requirements for Medicaid Providers
9/14/2022
Florida’s budget for Fiscal Year 2022-2023 is providing more than $600 million in new funding for the sole purpose of increasing the minimum wage for employees of Medicaid providers to at least $15 an hour. This new funding, which goes into effect on October 1, 2022, comes with significant new compliance risks, including new requirements for participation in the Medicaid program and a new civil cause of action for non-compliance.
Inflation Reduction Act of 2022
9/2/2022
President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act into law at a White House ceremony on August 16, finalizing legislation intended to address inflation by paying down the national debt, lowering consumer energy costs, providing incentives to the production of clean energy and reducing healthcare costs. The Act contains several credits that would be of interest to individuals and businesses.
Saltmarsh Hosts 17th Annual Community BankTalk Event
8/31/2022
For the past 17 years, the Saltmarsh Bank Advisors have brought hundreds of financial institution professionals together for community banking events, BankTalk, to learn about advancements in the industry, regulatory updates and much more. With the turn to virtual after 2020, the team hosted the last three annual events virtually – but that didn’t stop them from getting an insightful lineup of speakers and content!
Client Benefits to Working with a Smaller CPA Firm
8/25/2022
When considering a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) firm for all your financial needs, whether that be audit and assurance, tax, financial advisory, business consulting, information technology, or a combination of services, there are several benefits to consider if you are teetering between a larger firm like a “Big Four” or a small but mighty firm like Saltmarsh.
Don't Become the Next Victim of a Social Engineering Attack
8/23/2022
When it relates to information security, social engineering is the use of deception to manipulate individuals into divulging confidential or personal information that may be used for fraudulent purposes - and it can come in many different forms.
Preparing for $500 Million in Assets
8/17/2022
Is your bank approaching $500 million in assets? Have you already crossed that threshold recently? As your bank continues to grow, your reporting needs may change due to FDICIA regulations. Saltmarsh is here to help ensure you remain compliant and that your bank has the resources, time and expertise to meet regulatory requirements.
Pierce Broscious Earns Certified Financial Planner™ Designation
8/17/2022
We are excited to announce that Pierce Broscious has officially been designated as a Certified Financial Planner™. Pierce’s diligence has paid off as he has completed and passed the seven-course curriculum and final exam to earn the CFP® designation!
The Difference Between a Forecast, a Wish and a WorryA Perspectives Blog from Dimensional Fund Advisors
8/16/2022
After decades of cable news and nonstop digital postings, I see more opinions these days than news. That’s not a bad thing. But when it comes to investing, it’s crucial to remember the difference between news and opinion, and how they are sometimes used to forecast the future.
Estate Planning with a Revocable Trust: A Case Study
8/15/2022
Clients often ask about how a revocable living trust operates during their lifetime, when it becomes irrevocable, how it interacts with their last will and testament and the benefits of creating a revocable living trust.
Secure Exchange of Standardized Letters of IndemnityNow in Nacha's Risk Management Portal
8/11/2022
Many financial institutions require a written indemnification agreement to be completed in connection with requested ACH returns. This is especially the case when the return of funds cannot be completed using an ACH return entry (i.e., an R06 Return Reason Code) or funds are returned outside the ACH Network (i.e., via wire or check).
Best Practice Suggestions for Back-Testing Asset-Liability Management (ALM) Models for Accuracy
8/10/2022
Back-testing has been challenging during this COVID period due to large volume variances and asset yield variances caused by high loan and deposit growth coupled with forecasts not incorporating PPP loan-related fees.
Saltmarsh Financial Advisors Client Portal Tutorial
8/9/2022
Saltmarsh Financial Advisors is pleased to present our Client Portal Tutorial video!
Saltmarsh Named Among Accounting Today's 2022 Best Firms to Work For
8/2/2022
We are proud to share that we have been named one of Accounting Today’s 2022 Best Firms to Work For!
Flexible Practices in Bond TradingA Video from Dimensional Fund Advisors
7/29/2022
Being selective about when to buy and sell securities can lead to better execution prices - and better returns for investors.
Words to Live By
7/25/2022
When I was asked to repurpose a blog I wrote almost 10 years ago, at first, I thought it would be hypocritical of me. I had written four recommendations to help my business clients achieve peace and strength during a time of unprecedented change, and unfortunately, I had not been practicing my own recommended behaviors, despite being bombarded with changes!
Webinar Materials: The New ACH Rules on Micro-Entries
7/21/2022
In this webinar, Financial Institutions Senior Consultant Janice Weisz, AAP, will provide a high-level overview of upcoming rules associated with Micro-Entries.
A Nonprofit's Guide to Cost Allocations
7/19/2022
Cost allocation for nonprofits is the practice of grouping all costs together in a manner that helps the user determine the actual cost of operating its programs and/or locations. To effectively develop and operate sustainable programs, nonprofit organizations should ensure that they are tracking and planning for the actual cost of each program.
Bonds 101What Are Bonds?
7/19/2022
In the past six months, there have been many discussions about the bond market. The classic portfolio is made up of 60% equities and 40% fixed income and cash, and for the first time in decades, stocks and bonds are both down at the same time. Why is that?
Saltmarsh is Always Up for a ChallengeOur 4th Annual Summer BD Challenge Results Are In!
7/15/2022
Last month was a special month at Saltmarsh – it was our 4th annual Level Up Summer Business Development Challenge. We are all competitive at Saltmarsh, so what better way to encourage growth than with a month-long contest? Every year, we split up into teams and keep track of points for internal and external outreach, industry activities, social media interaction, training leading and participation and client relationship building.
Your Provider Relief Fund Checklist
7/14/2022
If you received any funding from the Provider Relief Fund (PRF), chances are, you’ve already had to report your use of funds in either reporting period one or two, and you know how complicated the process can be. In fact, according to the 2022 BDO Healthcare CFO Outlook Survey, 35% of the respondents identified CARES Act/PRF reporting as a regulatory concern.
Nacha Micro Entry-Rule
7/12/2022
Micro-Entries are a generally accepted method in the marketplace for an ACH originator to test the validity of a receiver’s account. Although originators have used this low-cost option for quite some time, Micro-Entries are not defined within the Nacha Operating Rules.
State and Local Tax: Basics to Consider
7/8/2022
As the growth plans of a business include expanding into new states, there are numerous tax, licensing and permitting issues to consider. Even if your business already operates in more than one state, you should be aware that in recent years many states have become more and more aggressive in enforcing tax and licensing requirements.
Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period 3 Is Now Open
7/7/2022
HHS Provider Relief Fund Reporting Period 3 opened on Friday, July 1st, and will remain open through Friday, September 30th, at 11:59 PM (EST).
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