Patrick B. Lough, CFS, CLTC, ChFC

Charter Financial Planning

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 become available when you take a proactive approach to your personal financial situation.

This Web site was created to help you gain a better understanding of the financial concepts behind insurance, investing, retirement, estate planning and wealth preservation.  Most importantly, we hope you see the value of working with a skilled professional to pursue your financial goals.

We're here to help educate you about the basic concepts of financial planning, to help you learn more about who we are, and to give you fast, easy access to market performance and data.

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Mortgage Refinancing

Determine whether you should consider refinancing your mortgage.

Lease Payment

How much would your monthly lease payment be?

IRA Eligibility

Use this calculator to determine whether you qualify for the different types of IRAs.

More Calculators →

Phased Retirement Can Help Smooth the Transition

The article explains why a phased retirement program can be a positive experience for employees, employers, and customers.

Is Tip Fatigue Wearing You Out?

Tipping culture is changing, and consumers are feeling uneasy about where, when, and how much to tip.

FAFSA for 2025-2026 School Year Opens December 1

Following a disastrous rollout last year, this article provides tips for submitting the redesigned Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) for the 2025–2026 school year.

Traditional or Roth Contributions? Think It Through for Future You

When a workplace retirement plan offers both Traditional and Roth accounts, it may help to understand their key features and distinctions.

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Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck
Check the background of this financial professional on FINRA's BrokerCheck