New rules make saving for retirement easier

New rules will make saving for retirement easier. Make sure you’re setting your future self up for success.

SECURE 2.0, retirement income and litigation risk lead the menu for 2025

Hear from the experts, including Francis’ President, Michael Francis, on the key retirement plan trends for 2025.

Bonds need to be a key part of retirement savings strategy

Explore why bonds need to be a key part of your retirement savings strategy.

Pre-65 Retiree Health Insurance

Twice a week, I have a conversation about retiring before age 65 and what to do about health insurance. Under an employer’s group health insurance plan, the employee generally only pays about 20% of the monthly premium costs. However, when purchasing insurance on your own, you should expect to pay 100% of that cost. That […]

The Pros and cons of Refinancing Your Mortgage

This article explores the pros and cons of refinancing your mortgage in light of the recent 50 basis points rate cut by the Federal Reserve.

Top 5 Ways Plan Sponsors Can Empower the Financial Wellness of Latino and Hispanic Employees

Explore the Top 5 ways plan sponsors can empower their Latino and Hispanic employees through building inclusive retirement plan and financial wellness benefits.

Financial Wellness for Public Sector Employees

Help public sector employees recognize the great value in their retirement benefits with these recommendations from one of Francis’ expert Financial Planners.

Planning for Retirement? Here’s how to find a quality financial advisor.

Tips for finding a quality financial advisor

Understanding ERISA’s Duty to Diversify

Advice to retirement committees: Make sure you are following ERISA’s duty to diversify in your plan.

Financial Planning Considerations for People with Disabilities and Their Loved Ones

People with disabilities and their loved ones can face unique obstacles in financial planning and saving for retirement. Check out these 5 financial planning considerations that can help you prepare for the future and be financially well.

Reducing your Air Conditioning Costs | Francis LLC.

Reducing your Air Conditioning Costs

When the dog days of summer hit, keeping cool can be a challenge, but there are a bunch of easy tricks to save some cash while you chill out at home. Here are some tips straight from the pros:

Programmable Thermostat: Invest in a programmable thermostat. You can set it to bump up the temperature when you’re not home and cool things down just before you return. It’s like having a smart home assistant dedicated to your comfort!

Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans are lifesavers. They don’t cool the air but they make you feel cooler by moving the air around. Make sure your fans are spinning counterclockwise in the summer for a wind-chill effect.

Close Curtains and Blinds: On those blazing hot days, keep your curtains or blinds closed to block out the sun’s heat. You’d be surprised how much this can cool down your space.

Cook Outside: If you can, use the grill instead of the stove or oven. Cooking outside keeps the extra heat out of your house.

AC Maintenance: Keep your air conditioner in top shape by cleaning or replacing filters regularly. Dirty filters make your AC work harder, which means more energy and higher bills.

Seal Leaks: Check for any leaks around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them up. This keeps the cool air inside and the hot air out.

Remember, these small changes can make a big difference in staying cool and keeping your wallet happy during the hottest days of the year.

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