This is my final list of upcoming programs. I have had the great privilege of teaching classes at many libraries over the past 33 years, but it is time to wrap up this phase of my professional life. I will no longer be presenting live in-person programs or webinars that are scheduled well in advance like this. However, I’m not leaving financial education. Sign up on the Contact Karen page to learn what’s coming next.
However, I intend to continue to learn about personal finance and I intend to keep sharing what I learn. I’ll probably do that via one or more social media platforms. I’m still figuring out the details. If you’d like to know where you can find my future posts or videos or whatever I end up doing, you can sign up via this website. If you’re already on my email list, there ‘s no need to sign up again.
10 Tips for Getting the Most from Your Retirement Savings
The right strategy can help you get the most from your IRA, 401(k), or other retirement plan. Rollovers, qualified charitable distributions, Roth conversions, and other tools can help you manage income taxes, streamline (or even avoid) distributions, and simplify your life. Learn about required minimum distributions, when it makes sense to take money out before you reach age 73, how to choose the right beneficiary, and what you can and can’t do when you inherit an account.
Wednesday, August 26, 2:00 to 3:30 pm In person
Mount Prospect Public Library
10 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect, IL
Register at https://mppl.libnet.info/events. Registration should open a month before the event.
Financial Strategies for Uncertain Times
Whether you’re already suffering financial hardship or you are afraid that hardship is ahead, join us to learn:
- Tips for reducing expenses and setting up a budget.
- Do’s and don’ts when you can’t pay all your bills.
- Who qualifies and how to apply for assistance programs including unemployment, SNAP aka Food Stamps, Medicaid, and more.
- Why tapping your retirement account should be your last resort.
- Investment strategies for managing risk.
Monday, September 21, 7:00 to 8:30 pm In-person
Lake Villa Public Library
140 N Munn Rd., Lindenhurst, IL
Register at https://lvdl.libnet.info/events
Thursday, October 8, 6:00 to 7:00 pm In-person
Morton Grove Public Library
6140 Lincoln Avenue, Morton Grove, IL Register at https://www.mgpl.org/events/month. Registration will open approximately Sept. 10.
Understanding Medicare Choices
Whether you’re signing up for the first time or wondering if you should make a change, this class will help you make a more informed decision about Medicare. We will break down the different types of medical expenses and compare how traditional Medicare (A/B/D) and Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) cover – or don’t cover – those expenses. We’ll talk about when you should sign up, when you can change from one plan to another and the barriers to doing that..
Wednesday, September 9, 7:00 to 8:30 pm Webinar
Wilmette Public Library
Register at https://wilmette.libnet.info/events
Tuesday, October 6, 6:30 to 8:00 pm In person
St. Charles Public Library
1 S. 6th Ave, St. Charles
Register at https://scpld.libnet.info/events Registration open Sept. 1.
Monday, October 12, 7:00 to 8:30 pm In person
Mount Prospect Public Library
10 S. Emerson St., Mount Prospect, IL
Register at https://mppl.libnet.info/events. Registration should open a month before the event.
DIY Financial Planning
“If I could do the calculations, I’d know what to do.” If you’ve ever felt that way about a financial decision, this class is for you. It will introduce you to free and affordable tools to help with questions like, Should I convert my retirement account to a Roth? Should I save this money or pay down debt? When should I claim Social Security? Am I withholding enough for taxes this year?
Monday, September 14 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm – webinar
Elk Grove Public Library
Register at https://egvpl.libnet.info/events. Registration should open a month before the event.
Financial Checkup for Retirees
You probably see your dentist and your doctor regularly. But how long has it been since you had a financial checkup? This class will show you how to do your own review, using checklists you can personalize to fit your situation. Knowing that your financial house is in order will give you peace of mind, and make life easier for you and others who may assist you when the time comes.
Wednesday, October 14 from 7:00 to 8:30 pm – webinar
Elk Grove Public Library
Register at https://egvpl.libnet.info/events. Registration should open a month before the event.