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Financial Horizons Your Connection for Wealth, Lifestyle & Legacy
March/April 2026
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THE HEART BEHIND OUR NEWEST HIRE
we introduced in the last edition, someone we loved as well, and who brought more work experience. In the end, we realized we couldn’t choose between them … we didn’t want to. So, we extended offers to both! The very day we made our job offer to Nathan, he had just received another one. The position offered more money and was fully remote. It would have allowed him to live with his parents, save money and spend every day with his Meet Nathan Sandon
Hiring the right person isn’t always about who looks strongest on paper. Sometimes, it’s about pausing long enough to question your first instinct. When Nathan Sandon’s resume first crossed my desk, we almost passed it by. He was one of dozens of applicants, and compared to others, he had less experience. Within seconds, we had mentally moved on … but then a LinkedIn contact we were chatting with said something that stopped us in our tracks: That if he were hiring, he would absolutely consider his former roommate, Nathan. Still skeptical, but now curious, we decided Nathan at least deserved a phone call. On the call, what we heard was honesty without pretense, determination without ego, and a confidence that couldn’t be taught. Nathan didn’t try to oversell himself. Instead, he spoke clearly about his work ethic, his values, and his willingness to earn the opportunity. By the end of the conversation, we knew our initial reaction had to be re-evaluated. He deserved at least the opportunity for an interview! From there, the underdog story only grew stronger. Nathan became one of our final two candidates. We were drawn to his intelligence, ethics, and the undeniable connection we felt with him. He promised that, if given the chance, he would work as hard as it took to prove himself, and, knowing the discipline required to run marathons (which Nathan often does), we believed him.
working behind the scenes or communicating directly with clients, every task is approached with care and intention. He also has a strong aptitude for technology, which is an asset in the technical aspects of his role. What excites Nathan most about this profession is the impact. Being able to connect the work he does each day to the people it serves is what makes this career fulfilling for him, and that passion comes through in every interaction.
beloved husky, Togo. On paper, it looked like the easier choice.
Outside of the office, Nathan brings that same discipline and energy to life. He’s an avid runner who recently
But Nathan was looking for something the other company couldn’t offer. He saw the culture we’ve built at McBeath
completed his second marathon, missing Boston Marathon
Financial Group. He saw the vision, the people, and the opportunity to grow alongside and learn from those he believed were the best in the profession. He recognized this as his chance to become not just a financial planner, but the best advisor he could be and to be part of something meaningful. He chose long-term growth over short-term comfort, believing that the sacrifices would be worth it. Nathan currently serves as a Financial Planning Assistant, having earned his degree in Finance from Illinois State University with a minor in Financial Planning. From day one, he fit seamlessly into our team. He brings a calm presence, a strong work ethic, and a sincerity that’s impossible to miss. Whether he’s
qualification by just two seconds. He’s a dog dad to his husky, Togo, and spends much of his free time staying active by taking long walks, playing basketball with friends, or visiting his parents and their three huskies. I’m proud to have Nathan Sandon as part of our team. The sacrifices he made to be here, and the way he’s shown up from day one, are already evident in his growth and in why we see him as an important part of our future. I’m looking forward to our clients getting to know Nathan and understanding why he’s become such a valued part of our team. –Krista McBeath
What made the decision even more difficult was that the other finalist was Ian, whom
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Retiring Outside of Illinois
After a long Illinois winter, it’s natural to start imagining life somewhere warmer. Many of our clients have already retired out of state, and others are thinking about whether a change of scenery could make sense for their own retirement. You probably know someone who has made that move, and maybe you’ve wondered what it might look like for you. Weather may spark the conversation, but it’s rarely the whole story. Rising expenses, higher taxes, and the general cost of living in Illinois often prompt people to explore other options. When someone brings up the idea of relocating, the discussion becomes much bigger than geography. It’s about lifestyle, family, community, and what they want the next chapter to feel like. Finances are only one part of that decision, but understanding how a move might impact a retirement plan can provide the clarity people need to make an informed choice. Here are several key factors to consider when evaluating whether relocating can support your retirement goals. MOVING COSTS A long-distance move can easily cost $10,000 or more. These expenses reduce retirement savings and the growth those dollars could have earned. It’s important to account for these costs when evaluating long-term income planning. REALTOR AND CLOSING FEES Selling a home typically involves a 6% realtor commission, reducing the amount available to purchase a new home out of state. Closing costs vary widely, and if a mortgage is needed, interest rates may result in higher monthly expenses than expected. PROPERTY VALUES AND COST OF LIVING Housing affordability depends on your destination. Many people relocating to Tennessee are surprised at how much home and land they can purchase, while those dreaming of Florida beachfront or coastal condos find that prices and association fees can be significantly higher.
services) varies from state to state and can meaningfully impact a retirement budget.
• Bloomington (2026):
• General sales tax: 9.75% • Food & beverage tax: 2.0% • Combined restaurant tax: 11.75%
PROPERTY TAXES Property taxes remain one of the biggest reasons Illinois residents consider relocating. Illinois consistently ranks among the highest property tax states in the country, often first or second. Locally, homeowners in Bloomington-Normal have seen their property tax bills rise rapidly in recent years. Much of this increase is driven by higher assessed home values, which can raise tax bills even when tax rates stay the same. For homeowners who do not qualify for special exemptions, these increases can create meaningful pressure on retirement cash flow. Illinois does offer the Senior Citizens Assessment Freeze Homestead Exemption (SCAFHE), which helps protect income- qualified seniors by freezing the assessed value of their primary residence. For the 2025 tax year (paid in 2026), the income limit is $65,000, increasing to $75,000 starting with the 2026 tax year, with future adjustments tied to inflation. This exemption provides meaningful relief for seniors who meet the income criteria, but many retirees earn above the threshold and therefore continue to face rising property taxes as assessments increase.
• Normal (2026):
• General sales tax: 9.75% • Food & beverage tax: 2.25% beginning April 2026 • Combined restaurant tax: 12% When property taxes, income taxes, sales taxes, fuel taxes, fees, and local taxes are combined, Illinois is consistently ranked among the highest overall tax burdens in the country, often first or second. PROPERTY INSURANCE Illinois generally maintains moderate homeowners’ insurance costs, though premiums have increased in recent years. States with elevated hurricane or coastal risk, like Florida, tend to have significantly higher insurance expenses, which should be factored into relocation planning. HEALTH CARE ACCESS Health care availability and cost vary greatly between states. It is wise to review hospital systems, specialists, Medicare options, and long-term care resources when evaluating a potential new location. Many long-term care facilities recommend beginning research 10 years or more before the anticipated need. SO … DOES MOVING MAKE SENSE? There is no universal answer. Some retirees find that moving provides financial breathing room and a lifestyle they enjoy. Others discover they prefer staying close to family, familiar routines, and community connections. The key is to understand the financial implications before making the decision. If relocating is part of your retirement vision, beginning the planning process 2–3 years in advance can help ensure a smoother transition. And whether you stay in Illinois or move across the country, maintaining continuity in your financial planning can help support a retirement built around your goals.
STATE INCOME TAXES Illinois continues to have a flat 4.95%
income tax. The proposed progressive tax structure was rejected in 2020. Although discussions about future tax changes continue, retirement income remains exempt as of 2026. This includes 401(k) and IRA withdrawals, as well as pension and Social Security benefits. Other income, such as wages, dividends, rental income, or business income, is still taxable at the state level. Several states offer different tax advantages, and nine states have no income tax at all, though other types of taxes may be higher. SALES TAXES AND EVERYDAY SPENDING Sales tax plays a major role in your cost of living:
Beyond housing, the general cost of living (groceries, utilities, insurance, and
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Whether you’re married, dating, or still single, you’re about to read dating advice that could change your life. No, this isn’t a romantic advice column; this is an inside look at “money dates.” What are those? Well, if you’re constantly stressed about your money to the point where you’re tracking your accounts multiple times a day, the following may give a fresh perspective on your finances … and free you from the cycle of budgetary burnout. DON’T LET YOUR MIND DRAIN YOUR MONEY. If you anxiously follow every penny you spend throughout the day and jump to attention whenever you receive a banking notification on your phone, it may surprise you to learn that these habits can harm your bottom line more than help it. A University of Chicago study revealed that tracking one’s spending too frequently can actually overwhelm people emotionally, to the point they’re more likely to make careless financial choices. Similar to how an obsessed dieter may become discouraged and descend into binge eating if they don’t see sufficient weight loss, constantly worrying about bank balances could lead you to burn your bridges to greater wealth before they’re even fully built. Break Away From Budget Burnout ‘Money Dates’ for Calmer Days
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USE YOUR CALENDAR TO ORGANIZE YOUR CASH. Instead of putting your mood to the test through compulsive cash check-ins, select a monthly “money date” to review your overall financial standing and plan for your future. By picking a specific date to review your numbers, you can gain a more accurate and comprehensive understanding of your regular spending habits and identify unnecessary expenses that can be adjusted to achieve greater flexibility. For example, seeing that you spend $80 a month on coffee may be jarring at first, but viewing the bigger picture may help you develop a more reasonable budget for caffeine than worrying every time you grab a $4 cup on your way to work. Income, expenses, debts, and positive/negative purchasing patterns are all things to explore on your “money date.”
Just like other kinds of dates, timing is everything. Choose a date and time when you (and your spouse) are typically relaxed and distraction-free before diving in! You may be surprised by how these “money dates” can help reduce your overall frustration, anxiety, and perceived need to let money overdraw your mental health.
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INSIDE
1
Welcoming Nathan Sandon to McBeath Financial
2
Considering a Move in Retirement? Taxes, Costs, and Lifestyle Matter
3
A Formula for Financial Freedom
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Brides Who Wore Parachutes
Advisory services are offered through Landmark Wealth Management Inc, dba McBeath Financial Group, an SEC Registered Investment Advisor firm. Insurance products and services are offered through McBeath Tax and Financial Services, LLC. McBeath Financial Group and McBeath Tax and Financial Services, LLC are affiliated. All content of this newsletter is for informational purposes only. Opinions expressed herein are solely those of McBeath Financial Group and our editorial staff. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representations as to its accuracy or completeness. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual financial professional prior to implementation. © 2026 McBeath Financial Group.
DRESSES FROM THE SKY Parachutes Turned Into Wedding Gowns
Most wedding dresses come from boutiques or family closets. But in the 1940s, some came from the sky. During and after World War II, brides across the U.S. and parts of Europe walked down the aisle in gowns made from
Another bride, Carolyn Martin, made her own parachute dress after her fiancé, Chuck, survived a training flight crash. Carolyn transformed his parachute into a wedding dress using the sewing skills she had picked up in eighth grade. It is now part of the San Diego Air and Space Museum’s collection. A far more elaborate dress is stored at the National Museum of the United States Air Force. It originally belonged to an Air Force family and was pieced together from nine parachutes used in combat. One of the most meaningful parachute dresses, though, came from a displaced persons camp in Germany. Two Holocaust survivors, Ludwig Friedman and Lilly Lax, married at the camp in 1946. To make the wedding dress, Ludwig bought a parachute from Allied troops, and Lilly hired a seamstress using cigarette rations. Two more brides at other camps borrowed their dress before it was preserved at the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. Parachute nylon was never meant to be heirloom fabric. But during a time of shortages and uncertainty, that’s what it became.
parachutes. Equal parts scarcity and sentiment contributed to the development of this tradition.
At the time, budgets were tight. Brides-to-be faced fabric rationing, and the military got most of the nylon. A parachute offered yards of strong, clean material, making it valuable. But for some couples, the biggest draw wasn’t the fabric. It was the story tied to it. One of the most famous examples is that of Major Claude Hensinger, who was forced to parachute out of a burning bomber. The chute delivered him safely to the ground and served as his bedding while he waited for rescue. He proposed to his girlfriend, Ruth, after returning home and suggested she use that same parachute for her gown. She hired a seamstress to construct the bodice and gathered the skirt herself using parachute cords. The finished dress, inspired by one from “Gone With the Wind,” now sits in the Smithsonian.
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