Financial/ Retirement/ Estate Planning Strategies/ Annuities
Welcome to our Web site, where you'll find a wealth of information in the form of newsletter articles, calculators, and research reports.
We hope your visit will help you understand the opportunities and potential rewards that are available when you take a proactive approach to your personal financial situation. We have created this Web site to help you gain a better understanding of the financial concepts behind insurance, investing*, retirement, estate planning strategies, and wealth preservation. Most importantly, we hope you see the value of working with skilled professionals to pursue your financial goals.
We're here to help educate you about the basic concepts of financial management; to help you learn more about who we are; and to give you fast, easy access to market performance data. We hope you take advantage of this resource and visit us often. Be sure to add our site to your list of "favorites" in your Internet browser. We frequently update our information, and we wouldn't want you to miss any developments in the area of personal finance.
*Eric McDowell is a Registered Representative and Investment Adviser Representative of Equity Services, Inc. Securities and investment advisory services are offered solely through registered representatives and investment adviser representatives of Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, Broker/Dealer and Registered Investment Adviser, One National Life Dr. Montpelier, VT 05604. The Coup Agency and all other entities and individuals referenced are independent of Equity Services, Inc. unless otherwise noted.
Newsletters
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Key Retirement and Tax Numbers for 2026
This article provides 2026 contribution limits for retirement plans and various tax deduction, exclusion, exemption, and threshold amounts.
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Q&A on RMDs
Here are answers to some key questions about required minimum distributions.
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Don’t Take the Bait: Top Tax Scams in 2025
As tax filing season approaches, the IRS warns taxpayers to watch for scams that can cause identity theft, financial loss, or criminal penalties.
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HOT TOPIC: Pressure at the Pump: Will High Gas Prices Shake the U.S. Economy?
This article looks at why gas is so expensive, what it might take to stop the upward trend, and the potential effect of high gas prices on consumers and the broader economy.
Calculators
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Mortgage Refinancing
Determine whether you should consider refinancing your mortgage.
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Life Expectancy
Knowing your likely life expectancy is an important factor in making long-term financial plans.
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Lease Payment
How much would your monthly lease payment be?
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College Funding
Use this calculator to estimate the cost of your child’s education, based on the variables you input.