Tools for Building a Financial Future, from the Ground Up (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798994328316)

Do you want to build a strong financial future without gimmicks, hype, or risky shortcuts?

Tools for Building a Financial Future, From the Ground Up is a clear, practical guide for anyone who wants to understand money, make smarter financial decisions, and avoid costly mistakes before they happen.

This book is not about getting rich overnight. Instead, it focuses on building real financial knowledge step by step-the kind of knowledge most people were never taught in school.

Written for everyday readers, the book begins by explaining essential tax topics, including income tax, estate tax, trust taxation, the alternative minimum tax, and how Social Security and Medicare benefits are taxed. It also highlights common deductions and credits that can help you take advantage of available tax savings. All information is updated for the 2026 tax year, including changes incorporated under the One Big Beautiful Bill.

From there, the book walks through common investment options such as stocks, certificates of deposit (CDs), exchange-traded funds (ETFs), and mutual funds, while also providing in-depth explanations of bonds and U.S. Treasuries.

Additional chapters explore important financial planning topics including Medicaid planning, special needs planning, annuities, college funding strategies, retirement accounts, and life insurance. Nearly every major investment vehicle-and its tax implications-is explained to help you build a financial plan that works for you.

Whether you are planning for college, preparing for retirement, or simply trying to manage money more effectively today, this book provides practical tools and knowledge for every stage of the financial journey.