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What’s going on at TruPlan Financial Advisors? You can read about it in our blog! Whether it’s ideas from the industry, emerging trends, or just to keep you in the loop on what's going on at TruPlan, you can read about it here. And once in a while, we may throw in some behind-the-scenes office amusement, a movie review or some other surprise. So keep checking in. We’re glad to have you reading along!

Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Business owners have a number of options to save toward retirement, and many opt for a Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Account (SEP IRA). However, a Solo 401(k) can often maximize savings and offer greater tax...

Wednesday, March 11, 2026

With Spring Break in the air and summer on the horizon, many Americans are saving toward family vacations. The status of international conflict might prompt you to stay closer to home, but even domestic vacations can carry a sizable...

Monday, February 23, 2026

The IRS has officially opened the 2026 tax season and is beginning to accept federal income tax returns for 2025. With a countdown to the April 15 deadline now underway, here are four things you can do to ensure you’re ready for a...

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

With the start of a new year comes new rules—and opportunities—for your financial situation. Several important changes take effect in 2026 that could have implications for your tax-efficient, retirement-savings strategy. Here’s a recap...

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Most business owners are familiar with the term ‘Qualified Business Income’. QBI is the pass-through profit—excluding owner’s W-2 wages—that an S corporation or business partnership reports on its K-1 federal tax form. In recent years,...

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Thursday, December 4, 2025

Your peak earning years bring with them a powerful opportunity: the chance to build real financial momentum. But that momentum doesn’t come from income alone. It also comes from planning, strategic guidance, and informed decision...

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

Why sell shares when you can gift them? If you have appreciated stocks in your portfolio, you might want to consider donating those shares to charity rather than selling them. Donating appreciated securities to a tax-qualified charity...

Tuesday, November 25, 2025

Beginning this year, non-spousal beneficiaries of individual retirement accounts must take required minimum distributions annually or may incur a penalty of up to 25 percent of the missed amount. This situation most often applies to...

Monday, September 22, 2025

Liz Scafa, Dave Scafa and the financial planning team formerly known as Scafa Financial Services, LLC has merged with and rebranded as TruPlan Financial Advisors. The two firms have been respected peers and longtime friends through...

Thursday, September 4, 2025

Hardly a day goes by that someone doesn’t say to me, “I’m putting off a decision until the Fed changes interest rates.” But I’m quick to remind people that the “rate dominoes” don’t always fall as you may expect. Here’s what could...

Wednesday, September 3, 2025

The last two weeks of July were about as action-packed as it gets for investors. Here’s a quick recap of the highlights: The U.S. economy. Gross domestic product grew at a 3 percent rate in Q2, better than the 2.3 percent forecast....

Thursday, July 17, 2025

Just before the July 4th holiday, Congress passed a domestic policy bill that extended the 2017 tax cuts that were set to expire this year while making some of the 2017 rules permanent. The bill also created several new tax laws for...

Monday, May 26, 2025

At TruPlan Financial Advisors (formerly MRK Financial Solutions), our mission goes beyond financial planning— we’re a group of people who care deeply about the holistic well-being of our clients, families, and community. That’s why we...

Thursday, May 22, 2025

Changing jobs? Don’t leave your retirement assets behind. From rollovers to lump sums, learn the pros, cons, and tax implications of your options—and why working with a financial advisor can help you make the smartest move for your future.

Monday, April 21, 2025

We are proud to announce the launch of our new brand, TruPlan Financial Advisors! Since the firm began as MRK Financial Solutions more than 35 years ago, we have expanded to serve our community, clients and business owners across the...

Monday, April 7, 2025

Market ups and downs are normal but stressful. Control what you can: stay invested, optimize spending, and keep a long-term perspective.

Thursday, January 9, 2025

Investors enjoyed another year of strong returns across a broad range of asset classes. Global stocks started the year strong as the economy continued to expand at a healthy pace alongside falling inflation and a healthy labor market.

Thursday, December 5, 2024

As retirement nears, many people find themselves with adult or nearly grown children who are navigating their own financial journeys. It can feel tempting to avoid adding to their stress by introducing discussions about your financial...

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

The third quarter brought another round of strong returns for both stock and bond investors, notwithstanding a few speed bumps along the way.

Monday, September 30, 2024

We recently hosted an educational seminar with Franklin Templeton to explore the 2024 election outlook, including the latest developments in our nation’s capitol and financial planning considerations around retirement, taxes, and...

Friday, August 16, 2024

Ensuring you’re financially prepared for the future includes planning for unexpected situations. As part of our financial planning process, our advisors help identify gaps in your insurance coverage, and, as appropriate, we will...

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

“I am unable to think of any critical, complex human activity that could be safely reduced to a simple summary equation.” – Jerome Powell Second Quarter Insights: U.S. Stocks Continue to Shine The second quarter of 2024 brought another...

Wednesday, June 26, 2024

As a financial advisor, one of the most frequently asked questions I encounter is about the potential impacts of presidential elections on financial markets. Every few years, clients naturally tend to worry about the volatility and...

Wednesday, May 22, 2024

Every spring, as high school and college graduations take place and our social media feeds are full of young adults launching into their next phase of life, parents and caregivers of younger children give even more thought to saving...

Thursday, April 11, 2024

First Quarter Insights: Looking Back, Looking Forward The first quarter of 2024 came and went with few surprises for investors. Volatility remains well below historical averages, and several global equity markets continued to reach new...

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

In the realm of finance, a monumental shift is underway: the Great Transfer of Wealth. As the baby boomer generation ages, their wealth is transferred to younger generations, with a substantial portion going to women.

Friday, February 16, 2024

When it comes to investing, it’s important to adopt a proactive wealth management approach to navigate the ever-changing financial markets. One strategy in particular, tax loss harvesting, is a powerful investment tool.

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

2023 - Fourth-Quarter Rally Lifts Stocks & Bonds The past year rewarded both stock and bond investors alike as the global economy continued to expand in the wake of higher interest rates. At this time last year, most economists were...

Monday, December 4, 2023

With the end of the year approaching, it’s time to make sure you have taken the correct amount of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from your retirement accounts. RMDs begin the year you turn 73[1] (a change due to...

Thursday, November 16, 2023

The hustle and bustle of year-end makes it easy to forget about financial planning for next year. In reality, it’s essential to work with our team of financial professionals before the end of the year to prepare for a solid start to 2024.

Wednesday, October 25, 2023

After posting impressive gains through the first half of the year, the third quarter of 2023 proved challenging for both stock and bond investors alike. Heading into July, markets were optimistic, and for very good reason.

Thursday, July 20, 2023

With the uncertainty of the debt ceiling in the rearview mirror, investors shifted their attention back to the Federal Reserve, earnings, and the economy. Despite the rapid rise in interest rates over the past year, the economy...

Monday, June 5, 2023

As you approach retirement, one crucial aspect that deserves careful consideration is tax efficiency. Tax efficiency is a crucial aspect of retirement planning that should not be overlooked.

Tuesday, March 21, 2023

Cultivating lasting wealth that benefits future generations hinges on strategic asset management and planning. Despite cultural sayings warning of wealth dissipating within three generations, a well-crafted approach – one that...

Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Congress passed a new set of retirement rules designed to make it easier to contribute to retirement plans and access those funds earmarked for retirement, SECURE 2.0. Read about the major provisions.

Thursday, November 17, 2022

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has released new limits for certain retirement accounts for 2023. These cost-of-living-based adjustments have reached near-record levels due to months of high inflation and financial uncertainty.

Thursday, November 17, 2022

If you're looking for a tax-saving strategy and you like helping others, consider a qualified charitable distribution (QCD.) A QCD lets you directly transfer tax-deferred retirement savings to a charity tax-free.

Tuesday, November 1, 2022

Months of stock market ups and downs coupled with rising interest rates and inflation have many Americans feeling fearful as we head into November. However, a quick look at history should do much to calm your nerves.

Monday, September 26, 2022

If you own a business, then you know your personal financial picture is closely related to your professional success. Whether you are a small or large business owner – it’s essential to collaborate with a holistic financial...

Friday, July 29, 2022

Have you considered a career change, early retirement, or a job shift due to recent events in your life or the world? If so, you might be part of the group of Americans roped into the “The Great Resignation.” If you...

Tuesday, July 26, 2022

If you own a business, then you know your personal financial picture is closely related to your professional success. Whether you are a small or large business owner – it’s essential to collaborate with a holistic financial...

Wednesday, June 15, 2022

Warren Buffett has taught us the benefits of being fearful when others are greedy and to be greedy when others are fearful.  This is especially important during times of increased volatility.  Deploying the investment...

Thursday, April 14, 2022

If you’re expecting a tax refund this year, you might be pondering, with the recent inflation spikes and gas prices increasing, how much this money is needed and want to spend it right away. Before you do that, I suggest...

Thursday, April 14, 2022

Last week, the yield curve inverted for the first time since August 2019 (as a refresher, a yield curve inversion means that long-term interest rates have dropped below short-term rates). The most important takeaway from these recent...

Thursday, March 10, 2022

Have you ever had one of those months? The water heater stops heating, the dishwasher stops washing, and your family ends up with the nurse at urgent care on a first-name basis. Then, as you're driving to work, you see smoke coming...

Thursday, February 24, 2022

Interest rates, trade talks, inflation fears, political events, and international developments all can influence stock prices. Volatile market activity can be unnerving, but our team is keeping a close eye on all fluctuations.  On...

Wednesday, February 16, 2022

MRK Financial Solutions has been recognized as one of the top affiliates of Avantax Wealth Management®, a leader in tax-advantaged financial planning. Only a handful of Avantax’s more than 3,000 affiliates is invited to...

Monday, February 14, 2022

This Valentine’s Day, whether you’re treating your significant other to a romantic dinner, staying in with your kids, or buying some last-minute chocolates – I encourage you to use this holiday focused on love to show...

Tuesday, February 1, 2022

As a business owner, offering retirement plans to your employees has many benefits for both parties. But where do you start? Finding the right plan and partner that meet your company’s specific needs is what we specialize in at...

Friday, January 14, 2022

The start of a new year is the optimal time to review your current financial situation so you can check your spending habits and investments and evaluate any past or new debt you’ve taken on. January has been deemed Financial...

Friday, January 7, 2022

There’s a lot of concern among industry experts about whether the popular 4% withdrawal rule can provide enough income during retirement, but little discussion on the important role taxes play in how much cash you will actually...

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

Estate planning can be a tough conversation to navigate with yourself and your family. Some avoid the topic altogether. Having the conversation about what happens after you pass can be even more difficult to navigate alone....

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Life insurance and long-term care insurance (Medicare and Medicaid) ensure that you can protect yourself and your family if your life circumstances change and as you grow older. If you have done proper planning, you are giving yourself...

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

Everyone has financial questions, and it seems everyone has answers – friends, family, the internet, social media and more. At MRK Financial Solutions, we aim to cut through the noise and provide you with a financial partner who...

Wednesday, October 6, 2021

With a new school year being kicked off, it’s an optimal time to think about saving and paying for your children’s college. The cost of higher education can exceed $100,000 per child in some cases. If your kids are...

Wednesday, August 11, 2021

With July officially behind us, here is your reminder that we’re headed toward the second half of 2021. While there’s still time to enjoy the warm weather as summer comes to an end, we encourage you to slow down and check...

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

MRK Financial Solutions invites the community to sign up and register for their Inaugural Swing Against Cancer Golf Tournament event on Thursday, September 16, 2021, at Dellwood Country Club. The tournament will begin with a shotgun...

Tuesday, July 6, 2021

MRK Financial Solutions has recently brought on Brad Mentzer as a financial advisor at its Palmyra office – one of four Pennsylvania locations for the firm. Mentzer is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with more nearly 30 years...

Thursday, June 10, 2021

In March 2021, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which is aimed to help with the effects of the recent pandemic in an effort to rebuild economic recovery. The plan’s goal is to help reduce families living in...

Tuesday, June 1, 2021

Please join us in extending best wishes to Kathy Peterson, who is retiring from MRK Financial Solutions today. Kathy has been a respected client service specialist for more than 10 years, and she will be deeply missed by not only our...

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

MRK Financial Solutions has hired Jill Hasson as a financial advisor at its Palmyra office – one of four Pennsylvania locations for the firm. For the past 14 years, Hasson has worked in regulatory compliance roles at a...

Monday, April 26, 2021

Creating a budget is simple once you know a few basic categories and best practices. It’s sticking to a budget that’s tough, but writing one down is an important first step. After all, it’s much less likely...

Monday, April 19, 2021

Warm weather motivates many of us to tackle long-overdue projects. Yard work or a new fitness routine might top your list, but as we head into spring, there’s one more thing that requires annual cleaning: your finances. Financial...

Tuesday, April 13, 2021

In March 2021, President Joe Biden signed the American Rescue Plan into law as a way to help individuals and businesses impacted by COVID-19. This $1.9 trillion aid package included payments directly to American households to help...

Wednesday, October 21, 2020

LANCASTER, Pa. (Oct. 20, 2020) – Local tax and accounting firm Witmer Tax and Financial Services announced today its partnership with MRK Financial Solutions to deliver broader financial planning and investment advisory services....

Wednesday, October 14, 2020

If there’s one thing we’ve come to expect from 2020, it’s the unexpected. Since COVID19 altered our daily lives in early March, there have been high highs and very low lows, and more volatility should be anticipated...

Thursday, October 8, 2020

PLYMOUTH, Minn. (Oct. 8, 2020) – Local financial planning firm MRK Financial Solutions announced today a merger with Pennsylvania-based True North Wealth Management and the opening of a new office in Amery, Wis., accelerating the...

Wednesday, August 12, 2020

PLYMOUTH, Minn. (Aug. 11, 2020) – MRK Financial Solutions has hired Sarah Kyles as a financial advisor at its corporate headquarters in Plymouth – one of two Minnesota locations for the firm, which recently expanded into...

Tuesday, July 7, 2020

There is a massive amount of information to process these days. Every time you turn on the TV or scroll through Twitter, ‘experts’ from various industries are reporting new information we must process. At MRK Financial...

Thursday, May 28, 2020

PLYMOUTH, Minn. (June 1, 2020) – MRK Financial Solutions advisor Michael Callanan has earned his Certified Financial PlannerTM certification through the CFP Board of Standards. The designation requires participants to meet...

Thursday, May 7, 2020

Over the past month, news headlines have produced confusion about the correlation between the stock market and the economy. Many Americans are questioning whether the market has separated itself from reality or if it is ignoring...

Monday, April 13, 2020

Without question, the financial markets saw a volatile first quarter of 2020 – with sharp drops from late February through March due to the spread of the coronavirus. However, the global health pandemic has not been the only...

Monday, April 6, 2020

The coronavirus has had significant economic consequences for businesses in a variety of industries. Your financial situation likely looks much different today than expected, but there are proactive ways to adjust business plans or...

Monday, April 6, 2020

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act passed the House and Senate last month. The act provides financial assistance for many American households. Below are a few important items to note in the CARES Act. Direct cash...

Friday, March 27, 2020

It’s natural to be confused by the chaos of the markets lately. It's been more than a decade since we experienced this type of volatility. The equity market, in particular, has seen tremendous intraday upswings and downswings...

Friday, March 20, 2020

We know the headlines regarding COVID-19 are overwhelming. Its impact on the market might be concerning, and as we all navigate the uncertain months ahead, rest assured that your health and wellbeing are our top priority – today...

Wednesday, March 18, 2020

In light of the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic, we are taking proactive steps to address a number of business concerns. First and foremost, we care about our MRK family. We encourage the adoption of practices to protect the health of...

Thursday, March 12, 2020

With the latest news and increasing concern regarding the COVID-19 coronavirus, MRK Financial Solutions is monitoring the developing situation closely. We are poised to provide you continued service in any situation while protecting...

Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Given recent headlines related to the coronavirus, we thought the below article would be helpful and informative. In it, Martin Landry, Director of the Portfolio Management Group at Avantax, outlines key things investors should keep in...

Monday, February 10, 2020

Clear Lake-based accounting firm Overby Financial Services will open a third Wisconsin office in Amery this summer through a partnership with MRK Financial Solutions. The firms share a core philosophy that tax implications accompany...