Allegiant Financial Planning, LLC

Back-to-school season is bringing higher costs for many families.

A new analysis found that a typical basket of school items, including notebooks, lunch boxes, and index cards, is up nearly 8% compared with last year.

School lunches are also more expensive, with the cost of a typical packed lunch up 11%.

The analysis estimates families may spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, including about $175 on school items and $3,800 on packed lunches.

Some items have seen especially sharp increases. Lunch boxes are up 27%, one-subject notebooks are up 23%, and index cards are up 22%.

Higher tariffs, imported school supplies, food prices, and energy costs are all contributing to the increase.

For families, back-to-school shopping is a reminder that seasonal expenses can add up quickly, especially when everyday costs are already stretching household budgets.


Source:

Families face higher costs as back-to-school season nears U.S. households will spend roughly $4,000 per student on school supplies and lunches this year, a new analysis found.

What is it about August?

Tax reminder! Your second-quarter estimated income tax payment is due on June 16, 2026.

If you're self-employed or earn income that isn't subject to withholding, now is the time to make sure your payment is on track. Don't wait until the last minute—a missed or underpaid estimated tax payment can mean penalties come filing season.

Not sure how much to pay? A good rule of thumb is to pay at least 90% of what you'll owe this year, or 100% of last year's tax liability—whichever is smaller. If you want more specific information, check with your tax, legal, or accounting professional.

I started Allegiant because of the people I met during some of the hardest seasons of their lives.

Early in my career, I worked with many clients navigating divorce. I saw firsthand how isolating major life transitions can feel and how important it is to have someone in your corner when everything else seems uncertain.

That's where the name Allegiant came from.

To me, being allegiant means showing up. It means being loyal, committed, and present when others may not be. It means standing beside people through life's challenges, celebrations, and everything in between.

At Allegiant, our mission has always been bigger than financial planning. It's about building relationships rooted in trust, respect, and genuine care for the people we serve.

No matter your background, your beliefs, your family structure, or your story, you deserve to be treated with dignity, kindness, and respect.

This Pride Month—and every month—we remain committed to creating an environment where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and supported.

All are welcome.
All are respected.
All belong.

❤️ The Allegiant Team

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Plan to Keep Your Small Business Running After a Disaster A disaster such a blizzard, tornado or wildfire can derail your small business. To get back to business as quickly as possible, put a plan in place.

https://www.allegiantfp.com/resources/ive-saved-about-1-million-im-hoping-to-retire-in-the-next-23-years-am-i-actually-ready

Am I ready to retire? — Allegiant Financial Planning, LLC It’s one of the most common questions I hear: “I’ve saved about $1 million. I’m hoping to retire in the next 2–3 years… am I actually ready?”

How did the Iran crisis affect markets? 5-minute read. Here's what savvy investors took away from Q1

Not all investment gains are taxed the same.

The difference between short-term and long-term capital gains can significantly impact your tax bill — especially for high earners or those selling appreciated assets.

If you’re considering selling investments this year, a quick review beforehand can help you keep more of what you’ve built.

What's a 1099: You may receive more than one type of 1099 — especially if you have investments, retirement accounts, or side income.

Each form reports a different type of income, and each is taxed differently.

If you're unsure how a 1099 impacts your return, don’t guess. A quick conversation can make a big difference.

It's tax time.

Pro Tip
Create one digital folder and drop documents in as they arrive.
Future you will be very grateful.

Not sure what applies to you?
That’s normal. A quick check-in now can save time and money later.