Meet Kenneth Hawkes, Client Relationship Manager at U-Vest® Tallahassee, FL!
This month, we are excited to spotlight Kenny Hawkes, one of the newest members of the U-Vest® Financial team. With a unique career journey that spans entrepreneurial innovation and corporate management, Kenny brings a fresh perspective to financial advising.
Here’s more about his story:
- Career Journey: Kenny began his career in his family’s businesses, including working on an exciting invention in the golf industry called the Golf Bike. After starting a family, he transitioned to the corporate world, managing operations and two large buildings for the Florida League of Cities in Tallahassee and Orlando. Kenny is now embarking on a new adventure in the financial world with U-Vest, leveraging his diverse experience to serve clients effectively.
- Certifications: Kenny graduated from Flagler College with a degree in Business Administration and holds the RPA (Real Property Administrator) designation from BOMA, specializing in Property Management and Administration.
- Community Engagement: Kenny has been a coach for his kids’ sports teams and has supported initiatives like Tee for Tots and local charity fundraisers.
- Family Focus: Kenny and his high school sweetheart have been married for 20 years and have two children, Brandon and Morgan. Brandon is a successful golfer on his high school team, while Morgan adores horses and dreams of owning one someday. The family enjoys spending time at Mexico Beach or Lake Eufaula and shares their adventures with their two dogs, Lacy and Jack.
- Hobbies: Kenny is an avid golfer, a passionate Miami Dolphins fan, and loves spending time on the water fishing with his family.
We are thrilled to have Kenny as part of the U-Vest® family and look forward to seeing the positive impact he will make.
Financial Wellness Month: Goal-Setting and Planning for the New Year
January is Financial Wellness Month, a perfect time to evaluate your financial goals and set a plan for success. Here are three steps to help you get started:
- Assess Your Financial Health: Review your 2024 spending and saving habits to identify areas for improvement.
- Set SMART Goals: Make your financial goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For example, saving an additional $5,000 by December 2025.
- Schedule a Check-In: Meet with your U-Vest® advisor to create or adjust your financial plan.
Remember, financial wellness is a journey. Let’s make 2025 your best financial year yet!
2025 Tax Prep Checklist
Tax season will be here before you know it! Use this checklist to get organized:
- Collect Key Documents: Gather W-2s, 1099s, and records of other income.
- Review Deductions: Charitable donations, medical expenses, and childcare costs may qualify.
- Maximize Contributions: Make 2024 IRA or HSA contributions by April 15, 2025.
- Verify Dependents and Credits: Ensure accuracy for child tax credits or education deductions.
- Check Last Year’s Return: Use it as a guide for this year’s preparation.
Reach out to your U-Vest® advisor for help navigating the process.
Special Dates Coming Up in February:
- February 1 — Deadline to file 1099-NEC forms with the IRS for non-employee compensation.
- February 15 — Deadline for financial institutions to send out 1099-B, 1099-DIV, and 1099-INT forms for investment income.
- February 16 — Quarterly Estimated Tax Payment Deadline for Farmers and Fishermen.
- February 29 — Last day to contribute to a 401(k) to qualify for employer matches from the previous year (for some employers).
Thank you for choosing U-Vest® Financial. Wishing you a prosperous and fulfilling New Year!