LifePlan Group values sharing financial information across local and national platforms to help you prepare for and enjoy retirement.

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Fall Money Moves | WRAL

There is still time left to turn a new leaf and see your finances flourish before 2025 is over!  Alex joined WRAL to talk about finishing 2025 on a high financial note. |  Watch the Interview

Stock Market Myths | WRAL

Does investing your hard-earned money feel like a roll of the dice? Alex Sutherland met with WRAL-TV to break down the difference between investing and gambling and clear up the biggest myths that keep people on the sidelines. |  Watch the Interview

Saving on Summer Plans | WRAL

As the temperature rises, don’t let your spending do the same! Alex Sutherland talked with WRAL-TV about how to avoid straining your budget before heading out to have some fun in the sun. | Access the Spending Plan Worksheet | Watch the Interview

No-Buy July | WRAL

No-Buy July is all about saving money and ditching poor spending habits. Alex Sutherland talked with WRAL-TV about the growing trend and other ways to get your finances back on track. | Watch the Interview

Financial Independence | WRAL

As you celebrate your personal freedoms this Fourth of July, set yourself up for financial independence as well! Financial professional Alex Sutherland joined WRAL with four tips to help you achieve your money goals. | Watch the Interview

Stagflation | WRAL

Stagflation happens when the economy slows down, inflation rises and unemployment increases all at the same time. Financial professional Alex Sutherland talked with WRAL about whether the economy is experiencing stagflation now and how you can prepare for a potential economic slowdown. | Watch the Interview

Financial Scams | WRAL

Seniors are vulnerable to scams and lose billions of dollars each year. Alex Sutherland spoke with WRAL about the most common scams targeting older Americans and how to spot them. | Watch the Interview

Using Your Tax Refund Wisely | WRAL

Receiving a tax refund can feel like winning the lottery, but what should you do with that windfall from Uncle Sam? Financial professional Alex Sutherland spoke to WRAL with tips on how to make the most of your tax refund. | IRS withholding calculator | Watch the Interview

Liberation Day Tariffs | Spectrum News

Additional tariffs have caused volatility on Wall Street and left many wondering where the economy is headed. Alex Sutherland spoke with Spectrum News 1 about the potential economic impacts and what you can do to protect yourself if a downfall comes. |   Watch the Interview

Stock Market Volatility | WRAL

Wall Street has been volatile in the wake of new tariffs. Alex Sutherland joined WRAL to share how economic uncertainty can impact stocks and what investors can do to take advantage of market downturns. | Watch the Interview

Tax Changes | WRAL

Before you file your tax return, it’s important to note several changes that could impact what you owe. Alex Sutherland shared more with WRAL and offered tips to help you prepare for tax season all year long. | Watch the Interview

Holiday Debt | WRAL

It’s easy to go overboard on your holiday spending, but it’s important to pay off your debt as soon as possible! Financial professional Alex Sutherland met with WRAL to share tips for getting your finances on track in the new year. | Access the Debt Worksheet |   Watch the Interview

Financial Planning Month | WRAL

October is Financial Planning Month, the perfect time to put a plan in place to reach your money goals. Financial professional Alex Sutherland joined WRAL to discuss the importance of financial planning and share what goes into a comprehensive plan. | Access the Spending Plan Worksheet |  Watch the Interview

Sports Betting & Investing | WRAL

Sports gambling is quickly growing in popularity, but it’s important to understand the difference between investing and gambling. Financial professional Alex Sutherland talked with WRAL about what to consider before placing your next bet. |  Watch the Interview

Teaching Kids About Money | WRAL

Financial literacy among children and young adults is very low. That can lead to a lifetime of stress, money problems, crushing debt and the inability to retire on time or at all. Financial professional Alex Sutherland spoke with WRAL about ways you can teach your child financial concepts at every age. | Access the Teen Budget |  Watch the Interview

Ways to Use Your Tax Refund | WRAL

It can be tempting to spend your tax refund right away, but there are several ways you can use that money to better your financial future. Alex Sutherland met with WRAL to share how you can put your tax refund to good use. | Witholding Calculator | Watch the Interview

National Healthcare Decision Day | Spectrum News

It can be difficult to discuss end-of-life plans, but it’s important to think through your potential medical and financial needs. Alex Sutherland met with Spectrum News to discuss what goes into an advance healthcare plan and share tips to get the conversation started with your loved ones. Watch the Interview

Women & Finance | WRAL

Financial planning is important for everyone, but for many women, who face unique challenges like the gender pay gap and a longer life expectancy, it's even more critical. Alex Sutherland joined WRAL with strategies to help women feel more confident in their financial future. | See the Study | Watch the Interview

Loud Budgeting | WRAL

“Loud budgeting” is a financial trend that’s quickly gaining momentum on social media. Alex Sutherland joined WRAL to share what it is and how a budget can help you reach your financial goals. | Access the Spending Plan Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Inflation Concerns 2024 | WRAL

December’s inflation numbers came in higher than expected, so will the Federal Reserve’s plan to start cutting rates be put on hold? Alex Sutherland weighed in on the possibility and shared helpful budgeting tips with WRAL. | Watch the Interview

Charitable Giving | WRAL

It can be hard to donate when our budgets feel tight, but giving strategically can help! Alex Sutherland spoke to WRAL about how you can work charitable donations into your spending plan, and why you may want to consider giving before the new year. | Watch the Interview

Holiday Checkup 2024 | WRAL

Talking about money with family can feel awkward, but it’s important to make sure everyone is on the same page. Alex Sutherland joined WRAL with key topics to discuss as a family, especially while everyone is together for the holidays! | Access the Holiday Budget Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Holiday Budgeting | WRAL

Planning ahead can help you stick to your holiday budget and avoid racking up credit card debt. Alex Sutherland joined WRAL with money-saving tips as you prepare to check off all the items on your holiday shopping list. | Click here for a holiday budget worksheet | Watch the Interview

Online Shopping & Giving Tuesday | WRAL

From Cyber Monday to #GivingTuesday, the holidays can be an expensive time of the year. Alex Sutherland joined WRAL with budgeting tips to keep in mind while shopping, as well as donation strategies to help maximize your giving during the holidays. |  Resources to investigate charities: CharityWatch | Charity Navigator | Guidestar | BBB Wise Giving Alliance | Watch the Interview

September Is Life Insurance Awareness Month! | WRAL

Having a plan to protect your loved ones after you pass away is an important part of financial planning. For National Life Insurance Month, Alex Sutherland spoke with WRAL about the benefits life insurance can provide. |  Click here for a life insurance calculator Watch the Interview

Saving for College with Rising Tuition | Spectrum News

Saving early and often can help parents and students afford the rising cost of higher education. Financial professional Alex Sutherland met with Spectrum News to share savings strategies for families and tips to help borrowers pay down their student loans. | Access the Student Loan Calculator | Student Loan Repayment Options | Watch the Interview

Christmas in July | WRAL

Planning ahead is important, especially when it comes to your finances. Alex Sutherland spoke with WRAL about how you can prepare for the holidays by saving money now, rather than waiting until the last minute. | Watch the Interview

Student Loan Repayment | WRAL

Just like with any other type of debt, it’s important to have a plan to pay off student loans efficiently. Alex Sutherland joined WRAL to share tips to help borrowers tackle their debt when the payment freeze ends this fall. | Watch the Interview

Summer Stock Market | WRAL

Wall Street is in bull market territory, but can this good news last? Alex Sutherland joined WRAL to share the latest on Wall Street and some key strategies to help investors protect their money this summer. | Watch the Interview

Summer Vacation Budget | WRAL

Looking to get away this summer? Financial professional Alex Sutherland joined WRAL with tips that can help you enjoy your summer vacation without breaking the bank. | Access the Vacation Budget Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Financial Literacy | WRAL

April is Financial Literacy Month and a good time to highlight the importance of good money management skills. Financial professional Alex Sutherland joined WRAL with lessons to help people take control of their finances and secure a better financial future. | Take the Financial Literacy Quiz | Watch the Interview

Credit Card Crisis | WRAL

Nearly half of credit card users are carrying a balance, which can lead to a cycle of debt. Alex Sutherland joined WRAL to share strategies for paying off debt. | Access the Debt Organizer | Watch the Interview

Silicon Valley Bank Collapse | WRAL

The news of Silicon Valley Bank’s collapse stirred up plenty of fear, but Alex Sutherland joined WRAL to explain why most savers and investors need not panic. He also shared steps you can take to ensure your money is protected. | Watch the Interview

Women & Finances | Spectrum

In a recent survey, nearly 60% of women said that they do not feel comfortable with their current financial situation. But it doesn’t have to be this way! Alex Sutherland spoke to Spectrum News with tips to help women feel more confident about their money. | Watch the Interview

Women & Finances | WRAL

March marks Women’s History Month, celebrating the accomplishments and advancements of women. Alex talked with WRAL about how women can take control of their finances and their future. | Watch the Interview

Couple & Money | WRAL

The month of love is drawing to a close, but talking about money with your sweetie should be a year-round habit. Alex Sutherland met with WRAL to share the common money mistakes couples make and how clear communication can ease financial stress between partners.  Watch the Interview

Couples & Money | Spectrum News

Discussing your finances might not seem like a fun date-night activity, but talking about money with your partner is extremely beneficial. Alex shared why with Spectrum News and offered a few important financial questions every couple should be asking. | Watch the Interview

Budgeting Feaure | Spectrum News 1

We believe it’s important to build personal relationships with our clients as we create their financial plan, because money decisions can shape the future for an entire family. From investing to grocery shopping, it all makes a difference! Alex and his family joined Sarah Rudlang from Spectrum News to share how they have been planning for their financial future amidst rising inflation. | Watch the Interview

Secure Act 2.0 | WRAL

A $1.7 trillion dollar spending bill was signed into law shortly before New Year’s. A number of provisions from the Secure Act 2.0 are included in the bill. Alex spoke with WRAL about how these changes could affect retirees and savers. | Watch the Interview

Interest Rate Hikes 2022 | WRAL

The Federal Reserve announced another interest rate hike in December, the seventh one this year. Alex met with WRAL to share how you can protect your finances as rates continue to climb.  Watch the Interview

Holiday Budgeting | WRAL

The holiday shopping season is right around the corner! Alex chatted with WRAL about how inflation is changing the way we shop and why preparing early will help save you in the long run. | View Holiday Shipping Schedule | Watch the Interview

Holiday Budget Tips | Spectrum News

It’s the season of giving! As people look for ways to spread holiday cheer to family and friends, it’s important to stay on budget. Alex joined Spectrum News with tips to keep your spending in check this holiday season. | Access the Holiday Budget Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Black Friday Shopping & Inflation | WRAL

Don’t let Black Friday bargains bust your budget! Alex talked with WRAL to share four tips for financially navigating the holiday gift-giving season. | Access the Holiday Budget Worksheet | Watch the Interview

COLA Increase on Social Security | Spectrum News

Social Security recipients will see an 8.7% increase in their monthly benefits in 2023. Alex met with Spectrum News to discuss the latest cost-of-living adjustment and offer strategies to maximize your Social Security benefits. | Access the Future Benefits Calculator | Access the Benefits Planner at Full Retirement Age | Watch the Interview

Dealing with Rising Inflation | Spectrum News

Inflation is still high, and many people worry about keeping their finances on track as costs continue to rise. Alex spoke with Spectrum News about money-saving strategies to help combat inflation. | Access the Spending Plan Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Ongoing Inflation Issues | WRAL

Inflation remains high, leaving many wondering how to cope with rising prices. Alex met with WRAL to discuss the current economy and share strategies to better deal with inflation. | Access the Spending Plan Worksheet |  Watch the Interview

Federal Loan Forgiveness | Spectrum News

President Joe Biden has announced his student loan forgiveness plan. Alex talked with Spectrum News about what this means for borrowers and shared tips for paying off student loans. | Access the Federal Student Aid Website | Watch the Interview

Summer Spending Spree Recovery | WRAL

Summertime is expensive! When all the summer fun winds down, you may be in for some sticker shock. Alex talked with WRAL about how to recover from overspending. | See the Spending Plan Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Ways to Combat Inflation | WRAL

Inflation rose yet again in the latest CPI report, leaving many wondering how to cope with high prices. Alex met with WRAL to discuss the current economy and share strategies to better deal with inflation. | Access the Budget Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Staying on Budget for Back-to-School | Spectrum News

With inflation driving the price of supplies up, back-to-school shopping could get expensive. Alex talked with Spectrum News about the strategies families can use to stay within budget. | Watch the Interview

Summer Spending Spree | Spectrum News

The busy summer months could lead to out-of-control spending habits. Alex talked with Spectrum News about ways to stay on track while still having fun this summer. | Access the Retirement Calculator | Watch the Interview

Financial Independence | WRAL

This Fourth of July, start prioritizing your financial independence by taking control of your finances. Alex joined WRAL with four tips to achieve financial freedom. | Access the Budget Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Un-Retirement | Spectrum News

“Un-retirement” has become a growing trend as retirees rejoin the workforce to take advantage of increased pay and benefits. Alex spoke with Spectrum News about what to keep in mind before going back to work. Watch the Interview

Why Some Retirees Are Getting Back in the Game | Spectrum News

It's being called the Great Resignation, a time when many are being forced or are choosing to quit their jobs. And as employers seek new hires to fill those empty positions, some retirees are answering the call. Alex weighed in with Caroline Blair. Read the Full Article

Creative Ways to Save for College | Spectrum News

The cost of college is on the rise. If you have kids, it’s important to start planning for it now! Alex talked to Spectrum News with strategies for helping your child afford college without either of you being saddled with enormous debt. | Access the Student Aid Website | Watch the Interview

Social Security Scams | WRAL

Watch out! Social Security scammers are out to steal from retirees. Alex spoke with WRAL about the scams people should be aware of and shared tips for protecting personal information. Watch the Interview

Last Minute Tax Tips | Spectrum News

Heads up! The deadline for filing taxes is April 18th. Alex joined Spectrum News to share advice for last-minute filers looking to avoid costly mistakes. Watch the Interview

Dealing with Inflation | Spectrum News

As the economy recovers post-pandemic, many are concerned about the rate of inflation. Alex talked with Spectrum News about tips to help you worry less about the impact of inflation on your wallet. | Acccess the Emergency Fund Calculator | Watch the Interview

The Ukraine-Russia Conflict & the Stock Market | WRAL

Conflict between Russia and Ukraine is undoubtedly affecting the stock market, but you don’t want to start making emotional trades or decisions. Alex shared some advice with WRAL to help you navigate market volatility and protect your investments. | Watch the Interview

Tax Changes 2022 | Spectrum News

Tax season is here, and there’s some important changes to be mindful of. Alex spoke with Spectrum News about the new tax changes that might affect your returns. | Watch the Interview

Financial Compatibility | Spectrum News

Tax season is here, and there’s some important changes to be mindful of. Alex spoke with Spectrum News about the new tax changes that might affect your returns. | Watch the Interview

Financial Compatibility | FOX 50

On Monday, February 7th Alex will be on FOX 50 talking about Financial Compatability in relationships.  Take the Financial Compatability Quiz to see where you and your partner stand! | Take the Financial Compatability Quiz | Watch the Interview

New Year, New Rules | Spectrum News

Making financial resolutions is easy - sticking to them is the hard part. Alex spoke with Spectrum News 1 about how you can stay on track and achieve your money goals in 2022. | Access the Goal Setting Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Financial Plan 2021 | FOX 50

Before the ball drops on 2021, there are a few year-end money moves you can make. Alex recently joined FOX 50 to make sure you don’t drop the ball on your finances. | Watch the Interview

Holiday Movie Lessons 2021 | Spectrum News

Holiday films like Christmas Vacation & The Grinch are on repeat this time of year. Alex spoke with Spectrum News 1 about the money lessons we can learn from some of our favorite movies. | Watch the Interview

Turkey Talk 2021 | FOX 50

Discussing the financial needs of aging parents can be a difficult conversation to get started. Alex spoke with FOX 50 about why Thanksgiving can be one of the best times to discuss your family estate plan. | Watch the Interview

The Great Resignation 2021- Financially Preparing for a Job Transition | Spectrum News 1

Americans are leaving the workforce in record numbers. Alex spoke with Spectrum News 1 about how to financially prepare for a job transition. | Watch the Interview

Financial Planning for College 2021 | FOX 50

Applying to college can be an overwhelming and complex process. Alex spoke with FOX 50 and shared helpful tips about saving and paying for college. Watch the Interview

Inflation Concerns | Spectrum News

Rising prices are starting to generate more headlines – and more worries. Alex spoke with Spectrum News about how to protect your money from rising costs. Access the Emergency Fund Calculator | Watch the Interview

Preparing for Inflation | FOX 50

Rising inflation is not good for investors. Alex spoke with FOX 50 about the steps you can take to protect your finances. Access the Emergency Fund Calculator | Watch the Interview

How to Save Money During Summer Vacation | FOX 50

Many of us haven’t had a summer vacation since 2019, so we’re ready to travel! Alex spoke with FOX 50 about ways to protect your finances so you can focus on creating lasting memories.  Watch the Interview

Last Minute Tax Tips | WRAL

Tax day has been extended to May 17th. Alex joined FOX 50 to discuss the upcoming deadline and how last-minute deductions can help us save for retirement.  Watch the Interview

COVID Crash Anniversary | FOX 50

When the pandemic hit last spring, stocks fell. Recently, we’ve seen record highs. Alex spoke with FOX50 about what we can do with our money moving forward. Watch the Interview

Anniversary of COVID Market Crash | News 14

March marks one year since the coronavirus stock market crash. Alex joined News 14 to share what we can learn from the 2020 Coronavirus crash and how we can prioritize our retirement savings. Access the Retirement Calculator | Watch the Interview

Debt-Free New Year | FOX 50

Many people are starting the year off still struggling to manage their debt due to the pandemic.  Alex spoke with FOX 50 about ways to become debt-free in 2021! Access the Debt Worksheet | Access the Budget Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Marking Financial Dates on Your Calendar | FOX 50

From anniversaries to vacations, we all have certain dates we like circling on our calendars. Alex talked with FOX 50 about four key dates to pay attention to in 2021. Access the IRS Required Minimum Distribution Sheet | Watch the Interview

Financial Resolution Reboot | FOX 50

How are your New Year’s resolutions going?  Alex joined FOX 50 to discuss the mistakes we make when setting money resolutions and how to create an action plan to stay on track. Access the Goal Setting Worksheet | Watch the Interview

When Can You Expect Your 2nd Stimulus Check? | FOX 50

Many Americans are still waiting for their second stimulus check. Alex talked with FOX 50 about when you can expect to receive your check. Access the Stimulus Check Locator | Watch the Interview

Spending Your Stimulus Check | WRAL

A second round of stimulus checks is on the way to millions of Americans. Alex joined WRAL  to share how you can spend this money wisely. Access the Retirement Calculator | Watch the Interview

Spending Your Stimulus Check | News 14

After months of negotiations, lawmakers have agreed on a second COVID-19 relief bill. Alex talked with News 14 about what the measure entails and who will be getting another stimulus check. Access the Retirement Calculator | Watch the Interview

Coronavirus Vaccines & the Stock Market

Hopes of a COVID-19 vaccine are boosting stocks. Alex joined Spectrum News to discuss how the markets impact the economy and why a plan is key to making your dreams a reality. Watch the Interview

College COVID Checklist | Spectrum News

College can be a stressful time.  Alex joined News 14 with a financial checklist for students and parents to prepare for the school year. Watch the Interview

Enhanced Unemployment Benefits & A Possible 2nd Stimulus Check | News 14

The coronavirus pandemic is leaving many households with financial uncertainty, and a budget is more important than ever. Alex will talk with News 14 about how to plan for the unexpected. Access our budget worksheet | Watch the Interview

Easing Your Tax Burden for 2020 & Beyond | News 14

Tax season is over but our work isn’t done!  Alex spoke with News 14 about tax planning tips for the future on July 20! Access the IRS Witholding Calculator | Watch the Interview

College Financial Crisis | News 14

Planning for the cost of college isn’t always easy, and it’s especially difficult during a pandemic. Alex spoke with News 14 about ways parents and students can prepare for the semester ahead. Watch the Interview

The US Economy & Coronavirus | News 14

Many consumers are nervous about their financial future as the Coronavirus continues to pose a serious threat to the community.  Alex talked with News 14 about how the economy is impacting our finances and what steps we can take to protect our money. Watch the Interview

Credit Card Debt & Stimulus Checks | News 14

Stimulus checks are hitting the bank accounts of millions of Americans. Alex chatted with Caroline Blair at News 14 about four ways you can use this money wisely during the coronavirus pandemic.  Access the credit card calculator here | Watch the Interview

Coronavirus Stimulus Checks | FOX 50

Millions of Americans are receiving their stimulus checks. Alex talked with FOX 50 about what you need to know and how to protect your money.  Click here to calculate your stimulus check. Watch the Interview

Coronavirus Impact on Retirement Plans | FOX 50

The Coronavirus could impact your retirement plans. Alex spoke with FOX 50 about how to take the first step toward a secure financial future. Watch the Interview

Stock Market Drop & Coronavirus | News 14

With all of the volatility we've seen on Wall Street, emotions are driving the market.  Alex talked with News 14 about why a plan can ease fear and greed. Watch the Interview

Money Summit | News 14

It’s crucial for couples to be on the same page when it comes to money. Alex talked with News 14 about how to get the conversation started and what important topics you should be discussing. | Watch the Interview

Couples & Money | FOX 50

Love and money go hand-in-hand. Alex stopped by FOX 50 to discuss how couples can find common ground when discussing their finances. | Access the Goal Setting Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Stock Market Investing | ABC 11

Investing in the stock market doesn’t have to be complicated. Alex shared some helpful tips with ABC 11 about how to start investing and why it’s important for your financial future. Watch the Interview

Important Financial Dates | WRAL

Four important financial dates could put more cash in your pocket! Alex stopped by WRAL to share which days to pencil in and how they impact your finances! Access the IRS Minimum Distribution Worksheets | Watch the Interview

Money Mindset 2020 | ABC 11

What’s your money mindset for 2020? Alex talked with ABC 11 about how you can shift your thinking and improve your finances! Check Out Mint.com | Watch the Interview

Holiday Headaches | News 14

If you got carried away with your holiday shopping, now is the time to get back on track. Alex sat down with News 14 to discuss how to tackle debt. | Access the Budget Worksheet | Watch the Interview

Financial Lessons From Our Favorite Holiday Films | FOX 50

Our favorite holiday films provide more than entertainment - We can also learn lessons about our finances! Alex talked with FOX 50 about four money lessons we can learn from some of the most popular holiday flicks! Check out the budget worksheet to stay on top of your holiday finances! | Access the Budget Worksheet |     Watch the Video

How Social Security & Medicare Work Together | US News & World Report

Alex was recently quoted in an article about how Social Security and Medicare work together on US News and World Report. Check it out! | Read the Article

Turkey Talk | FOX 50

Many families are uncomfortable talking about money. Alex sat down with FOX 50 to share ways to get the conversation started and what topics families should be discussing. Watch the Interview

The Nickel Challenge | ABC 11

A new year gives us new opportunities to improve our financial situation. Alex sat down with ABC 11 to discuss how you can achieve financial growth with the "Nickel Challenge." Watch the Interview
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