Shira Ridge Wealth Management

Think your tax deductions are creative? 🎷

In 1962, a parent successfully deducted the cost of clarinet lessons for their child. Why? An orthodontist argued that playing the instrument would help correct the child’s overbite.

The IRS actually agreed, classifying it as a legitimate medical expense. Now that is music to our ears. 🎶

The tax deadline is inching closer—are you sure you’ve found all your "outside the box" savings?

Will vs. Trust: Do you know the difference? 🤔

Many people assume a Will is a "set it and forget it" solution. But in states like California, relying on a Will alone can trap your family in the long, expensive headache of probate, a Living Trust can help avoid it.

Here’s the breakdown:

• Living Trusts: The gold standard for keeping your assets out of court and ensuring they go exactly where you intended.
• Beneficiary Designations: Did you know your IRA, 401(k), and brokerage accounts can bypass probate entirely? By naming beneficiaries directly, these assets supersede your Will.

Don't leave your estate to chance (or the courts). If you aren't sure where you stand, let's talk.

Your Will Doesn't Control Who Gets Most of Your Money. This Does The dramatic reading of the will in a wood-paneled office has long been a staple of television dramas. Who's in the will (and who isn't) is a go-to motive for murder whodunnits, and there's good reason the premise lands: Many Americans believe the will has the final say over their legacy.

We love a good longevity story - 100 years young and still hitting the pool! 🏊‍♀️🍷

Meet Joan Eichner. She just celebrated her 100th birthday at her favorite place: the YMCA pool. While she credits her longevity to water aerobics and fresh veggies, her real secrets are much more relatable:

✨ Staying social wherever she finds herself
✨ Keeping the brain sharp with daily crosswords
✨ Never saying no to wine and chocolate 🍫

Joan proves that age is just a number when you stay curious and connected. Check out her full list of tips for a long, happy life at the link below!

Woman, 100, Who Loves Water Aerobics and Lives Alone, Shares Her Simple Longevity Tips Joan Eichner recently celebrated her 100th birthday. She credits an active lifestyle and lots of friends for her good health.

Leadership is not defined by the title we have, but by the influence we have on those around us. The most impactful leaders are the ones who inspire others to dream bigger, push further, and grow into their fullest potential.

This month, lead with encouragement, act with purpose, and watch the difference it makes. In this time, the right kind of leadership is needed more than ever.