Jeffrey Settle, CFP

Jeffrey Settle, CFP District Financial Planning helps busy professionals make clear decisions about retirement, investing, taxes, and spending.

Founded by Jeff Settle, CFP®, our virtual practice combines candid advice with practical follow-through. Please see www.DistrictFinancialPlanning.com for important disclosures.

If you couldn't manage your finances tomorrow, who could step in?A spouse or family member may not automatically have ac...
10/06/2026

If you couldn't manage your finances tomorrow, who could step in?

A spouse or family member may not automatically have access to every account.

Here a few things to review:

▪️Your power of attorney
▪️Account ownership and beneficiaries
▪️Who has access to your online financial accounts

A little preparation now can make things easier for someone who may need to step in later.

Should you pay off your mortgage before retirement?For many people, entering retirement without a mortgage sounds appeal...
09/29/2026

Should you pay off your mortgage before retirement?

For many people, entering retirement without a mortgage sounds appealing. But paying it off isn't automatically the right move.

A few things to consider:
🔹What interest rate are you paying?
🔹Where would the payoff money come from?
🔹How would it affect your retirement income?
🔹How much cash would you have left for other expenses?

The goal is to look at the mortgage as part of your overall financial picture.

The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by 0.25% last week, bringing its target range to 3.75%–4%. What d...
09/22/2026

The Federal Reserve raised its benchmark interest rate by 0.25% last week, bringing its target range to 3.75%–4%. What does that mean for you? Higher rates can make some borrowing more expensive, while potentially increasing what you earn on savings accounts, money market accounts and CDs.

It’s also worth remembering that a Fed rate change doesn’t automatically mean you need to change your investments, move your cash or pay off debt differently.

A good place to start: take a look at what you’re currently paying to borrow and what you’re earning on your cash.

Open enrollment season is coming — and the right moves depend on where you are in life. If you're still working, take a ...
09/15/2026

Open enrollment season is coming — and the right moves depend on where you are in life.

If you're still working, take a fresh look at your health plan fit, HSA/FSA contributions, employer retirement match, and beneficiary designations.

If you're retired, focus on your Medicare Advantage/Part D elections (the Annual Election Period runs Oct 15–Dec 7), your Required Minimum Distributions, how year-end income moves might affect future Medicare premiums (IRMAA), and beneficiary designations.

A few minutes of review now can save real money and headaches later. Don't let the deadline sneak up on you. Reach out if you'd like to discuss.

Money in retirement may come from several different sources. Social Security, pensions, traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and i...
09/09/2026

Money in retirement may come from several different sources. Social Security, pensions, traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and investment accounts can all have different tax implications, and the timing and combination of those income sources can affect your overall tax picture. If you’re planning to retire soon, don't wait until your first retirement withdrawal to think about taxes.

As Labor Day approaches, we're taking a moment to appreciate the work, effort, and dedication that go into building the ...
09/03/2026

As Labor Day approaches, we're taking a moment to appreciate the work, effort, and dedication that go into building the lives we enjoy—and the importance of making time for the people and experiences that make it all worthwhile. Wishing you a safe and relaxing Labor Day weekend.

Summer is winding down, making this a good time to take a step back and check in on your financial picture.Before headin...
08/25/2026

Summer is winding down, making this a good time to take a step back and check in on your financial picture.

Before heading into fall, consider:
🔹Has anything significant changed in your income, family, housing, or plans?
🔹Are your financial priorities still the same?
🔹Are there decisions you should address before year-end?
🔹Does your investment strategy still fit your current situation?
🔹Is there anything you've been meaning to revisit, such as estate planning, insurance, or retirement income?
If something has changed this year—or there's an area of your financial plan you've been meaning to revisit—now is a good time to take a look.

We make financial decisions all the time, often without giving them much thought. Saving a little more when your income ...
08/18/2026

We make financial decisions all the time, often without giving them much thought. Saving a little more when your income increases. Automating a good financial habit. Giving unexpected money a purpose. Taking a moment before making a large purchase. None of these decisions may seem significant on their own, but small choices repeated over time can add up.

What does financial confidence actually feel like? It isn't always tied to a certain account balance or the latest marke...
08/11/2026

What does financial confidence actually feel like? It isn't always tied to a certain account balance or the latest market performance. More often, confidence comes from knowing you have a plan and understanding how today's decisions support your long-term goals.

Ask yourself: What would make you feel more financially confident a year from now?

The answer is different for everyone, but identifying it is a great place to start.

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8403 Colesville Road, Suite 1100
Silver Spring, MD
20910

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