Fraud Alert

Sep 5, 2024 | #Cornerstone Community

Who can place a fraud alert?

Anyone who suspects you have been, or are about to be, a victim of identity theft or fraud can place a fraud alert on their credit report. Appropriate if your wallet has been stolen or if you’ve been taken in by a phishing scam.

What does a fraud alert do?

A fraud alert will make it harder for someone to open a new credit account in your name. Potential creditors must use what the law refers to as “reasonable policies and procedures” to verify your identity before issuing credit in your name. Basically, a business must verify your identity before it issues new credit in your name. The steps potential creditors take to verify your identity may not always alert them that the applicant is not you.

When you place a fraud alert on your credit report, you can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus.

Duration: A fraud alert stays on your credit report for at least 90 days and up to one year. After a year, you can renew it.

Cost: Free

How to place a fraud alert: Contact any one of the three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You will need to provide appropriate proof of your identity, which includes your Social Security number, name, address and other personal information that the credit bureau requests. You don’t have to contact all three. The credit bureau you contact must tell the other two to place a fraud alert on your credit report.

Extended Fraud Alert

Who can place an extended fraud alert?

An extended fraud alert is only available to people who have had their identity stolen and completed an FTC identity theft report at IdentityTheft.gov or filed a police report.

What does an extended fraud alert do?

Like a fraud alert, an extended fraud alert will make it harder for someone to open a new credit account in your name. A business must contact you before it issues new credit in your name.

When you place an extended fraud alert on your credit report, you can get a free copy of your credit report from each of the three credit bureaus twice within one year from when you place the alert, which means you could review your credit report six times in a year.

In addition, the credit bureaus will take you off their marketing lists for unsolicited credit and insurance offers for five years, unless you ask them not to.

Duration: An extended fraud alert lasts seven years.

Cost: Free

How to place an extended fraud alert: Contact any one of the three credit bureaus — Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. You will need to provide appropriate proof of your identity, which includes your Social Security number, name, address and other personal information that the credit bureau requests. You don’t have to contact all three. The credit bureau you contact must tell the other two to place an extended fraud alert on your credit report.

What Doesn’t A Fraud Alert Do?

While a fraud alert can help keep an identity thief from opening new accounts in your name, it will not:

  • Protect you from an identity thief using your existing credit cards or other accounts.
  • Protect you from an identity thief opening new accounts in your name that do not require a credit check – such as a telephone, wireless or bank account.

And, the fraud alert alone won’t stop any identity theft that is already under way.

Sources:

https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-know-about-credit-freezes-and-fraud-alerts#alerts

https://www.raymondjames.com/privacy-security-and-account-protection/credit-report-fraud-alerts

 

CSP #576097 Exp. 8.20.25

What Should You Do if You Suspect Identity Theft?

Aug 20, 2024 | #Cornerstone Community

If you think you may be the victim of identity theft, you should immediately take the following steps:

1. Contact the Federal Trade Commission at 877-438-4338 or access its online complaint form.

For more information on recognizing and dealing with identity theft, visit the FTC’s identity theft site.

2. Contact one of the three major credit bureaus, report the problem and request a fraud alert and/or credit freeze on your credit reports.

Equifax
equifax.com
800-525-6285 (fraud hotline)
800-685-1111 (Order report)
P.O. Box 740250
Atlanta, GA 30374

Experian
experian.com
888-397-3742 (fraud hotline)
888-397-3742 (Order report)
P.O. Box 9556
Allen, TX 75013

TransUnion
transunion.com
800-680-7289 (fraud hotline)
800-916-8800 (Order report)
P.O. Box 6790
Fullerton, CA 92634

You only need to call one of the three bureaus – the company you call is required to contact the other two, and within 24 hours all three of the bureaus will be on alert. In addition, on request the company you call will provide you with a free copy of your credit report. This can help you identify any new accounts that may have been opened. Pay particular attention to the section of the report that lists inquiries from new companies. Contact these companies immediately and have them remove any pending or new accounts from their system.

3.File a Police Report – Retain a copy of the report or the report number as proof of the crime. While most police departments throughout the country are increasingly aware of the dramatic impact of identity theft, some local authorities may be reluctant to take your report. If this happens, ask to file a “Miscellaneous Incidents” report. You can also try another jurisdiction, such as the state police, or contact your state Attorney General’s office to find out if state law requires the police to take reports for identity theft.

4.Contact Creditors’ Fraud Departments

  • Close any affected accounts.
  • Speak with someone in the security or fraud department of each creditor and describe what has occurred.
  • Follow up in writing with a letter or affidavit as well as copies (not originals) of any supporting documents.
  • Contact the following check-verification companies if your checks have been lost or stolen:
    • TeleCheck: 800-710-9898 or 1-800-927-0188
    • Certegy, Inc.: 800-437-5120
    • International Check Services: 800-631-9656
    • CheckRite: 800-766-2748
    • Chexsystems: 800-428-9623
    • CheckCenter/CrossCheck: 800-843-0760

5.Keep Good Records

  • Maintain complete, accurate records of all the steps you take in reporting identity theft.
  • When you notify various businesses and agencies, do so both by phone and in writing. Record the date you send any correspondence and how you send it. It’s a good idea to send all correspondence by certified mail, return receipt requested.
  • Keep a date/time log of phone calls, including the names of people with whom you speak and what they tell you.
  • Keep copies of any correspondence, along with the names, phone numbers and addresses of anyone you contact. This will be extremely important if you have to prepare a case to recover damages.

Other Steps:

  • If your Social Security card has been stolen, contact the Social Security Administration for a replacement card.
  • If the theft involves your mail, contact the Postal Inspection Service, the primary law-enforcement arm of the U.S. Postal Service.
  • If your driver’s license has been stolen, contact the issuing office to cancel it and obtain a replacement.

Not a Cornerstone Client?

With over 140 years combined team experience and 30 years in business, we are well-equipped to help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning and the financial industry. Contact us today at 605-351-8553 or cfsteam@mycfsgroup.com if you’d like to learn more about the unparalleled service you can expect from the Cornerstone team.

CSP #576097 Exp. 8/20/25

We Invest in People – World Hope International

Jul 26, 2024 | #Cornerstone Community, We Invest In People

In a world filled with challenges, we firmly believe in the power of taking action and making a transformative difference. One guiding principle remains close to our hearts: “Invest in People.” This belief isn’t merely a sentiment but a driving force that inspires us to establish deep connections and foster a positive impact.

Our collaboration with World Hope and our involvement with the Enable the Children program in Sierra Leone stands as a testament to this belief. Investing in people, especially those in vulnerable situations, can genuinely change lives. World Hope’s mission to alleviate poverty, deliver healthcare, and empower communities aligns perfectly with our core values. It’s not just about financial aid but joining hands to help create a better tomorrow.

Discover how “Invest in People” and our collaboration with World Hope International transforms lives through physical and occupational therapy for children with disabilities in Sierra Leone. 

Sierra Leone grapples with enormous challenges, especially in providing healthcare and support for children with disabilities. Recognizing this, we chose to step in. We are privileged and honored to fund physical and occupational therapy services for these children. Such services not only amplify their physical well-being but also enhance their overall quality of life. With proper support, they can become active community members, gain independence, and chase their aspirations.

But the ripple effect of our collaboration goes further. When children with disabilities receive the tools and assistance they require, they defy odds and redefine potentials. They become beacons of hope, challenging preconceived notions, and demonstrating that abilities are not constrained by disabilities.

Our work with World Hope and Enable the Children underlines the profound belief that uplifting individuals, especially those in vulnerable situations, paves the way for a brighter, more inclusive future. By dedicating our resources and expertise to children with disabilities in Sierra Leone, we are sowing the seeds of enduring change.

In these challenging times, our alliance with World Hope, Enable the Children, and the wider community shines brightly, illustrating the remarkable outcomes achieved when like-minded entities unite with shared values. Our dedication to uplifting others goes beyond mere words; it’s a relentless pursuit to make the world better, one individual at a time.

As we progress in our mission to empower children with disabilities in Sierra Leone, we hope to motivate others to discover ways to uplift and inspire. Our work serves as a reminder of hope’s potency and the transformative power of collective action. We believe that by investing in people, we can shape a future filled with light, hope, and endless possibilities.

Raymond James is not affiliated with the above charitable organizations.

CSP #338792 exp 11.24.24

Honoring All on Mother’s Day

May 12, 2024 | #Cornerstone Community

Honoring All on Mother's Day

On behalf of everyone at Cornerstone Financial Solutions, happy Mother’s Day! It’s not uncommon to hear people describe their mom as “The Best Mom Ever” and proudly present her with a personalized coffee cup or trophy. But Mother’s Day can also be a difficult day for some people, and we want to try to honor all the ways this complicated day affects people.

If this is your first Mother’s Day without your mom – our hearts are with you as you find new traditions to continue celebrating her. Whether you plant flowers in her honor, enjoy brunch at her favorite restaurant, or spend an afternoon on her favorite lake, we know she is in your thoughts on this day.

If you have little ones and think some quiet time alone would be a great gift, we see you. We know you’re exhausted and have probably run out of ideas about what to cook for dinner. Your capacity for love inspires us, and our fingers are crossed that you get the nap you so greatly deserve.

If you’re celebrating via Zoom because your kids live too far away to give you a hug in person, we are ready and waiting to help! We’d love to hear about your children and deliver the hug they aren’t able to give you in person. Stop at the office and say hello.

For foster moms and adoptive moms who are making a difference in the most tangible way imaginable, we are in awe of your willingness to open your hearts and homes.

For the women who thought they’d be a mom by now, but that isn’t how life has played out, you are not forgotten. Give yourself the self-care you need today, in whatever form that may be.

 To the mommas whose babies are waiting for you in Heaven – you are in our thoughts and hearts more than ever on this day. We can’t even begin to imagine the pain you have endured.

 And for those of you for whom this day evokes painful memories, we wish you nurturing relationships to help heal and mend your heart.

 Wherever your heart is this Mother’s Day, we are grateful for you. We are here if you need a shoulder to cry on or an ear to speak to, and look forward to many years of celebrating life’s triumphs and heartaches with you as friends.

     

    CSP #487144 Exp 2025.05.06 

    Follow us on Facebook

    Apr 1, 2024 | #Cornerstone Community

    Facebook - like or follow?

     

    HAVE YOU EVER WONDERED WHETHER IT’S BETTER TO FOLLOW OR LIKE A FACEBOOK PAGE?

    Our team uses Facebook to share insights on financial planning, keep you updated on what’s happening in the Sioux Falls and Huron offices, announce upcoming events, remind you of office closings, and more. If you’ve already hit the “like” button on Cornerstone’s page, thank you! It’s a fantastic way to connect with the #CornerstoneCommunity.

    So what’s the difference between following a page and liking a page?

    When you like our page, Facebook simply notes your interest and may display our posts in your news feed. Facebook also utilizes this data to tailor the advertisements you see.

    When you follow our page, you tell Facebook you want to see our posts and page updates – not just that you’re interested in the topic.

    You can also see more of our posts by liking, sharing, or commenting on content.

    You can configure your Facebook account settings to organize posts based on posting time and day. But where a post shows up in your feed is also influenced by the level of engagement it garners. Posts with higher likes, comments and shares get priority, while those with less engagement may be pushed lower down the feed.

    We appreciate the Facebook platform as a way to connect and cultivate the #CornerstoneCommunity because helping you build a retirement plan as distinctive as your life story is about more than just financial insights. It’s about shared values, decisions that connect with your bigger life goals, and tailored planning that can benefit your family for generations.

    Follow our Facebook page to keep up with what’s happening in Cornerstone’s Huron and Sioux Falls offices. facebook.com/CornerstoneFinancialSolutionsInc/

      HOW TO FOLLOW A COMPANY’S BUSINESS PAGE AND INVITE YOUR FRIENDS!

      Go to the page

      • Click on the three dots on the right side of the page near the top, under Like and Search
      • Choose “Follow”

      OR – Invite your friends to follow a company’s business page

      • Click on the three dots
      • Choose Invite Friends
      • Click the box next to the friends you want to invite or choose “Select All”

      NOT A CORNERSTONE CLIENT?

      If you have questions about your financial plan please contact us today to schedule a complimentary, no obligation review with one of our advisors. Call 605.357.8553 or email cfsteam@mycfsgroup.com.

      CSP #451049 Exp 2025.03.27. 

      Ulvestad Family Welcomes Baby Theo!

      Nov 9, 2023 | #Cornerstone Community

      "I know you are scared."

      Thankful to work with the best professionals in the area and introduce baby Theo! 

      Your unique aspirations are the heart of the Cornerstone Experience®, a personalized journey to craft a clear vision and help you tailor a strategic financial plan to dream, build, and lead your life. As your trusted partner we are dedicated to cultivating an extraordinary relationship with you. Transparency, trust, mutual respect, and open communication helps ensure you understand the value you’re receiving every step of the way.

      As I approach my five-year work anniversary, my work family and our team’s dedication to delivering lasting value means more than ever. Our diverse and talented team continues to advance our comprehensive systems and processes, leaving nothing to chance as we help you navigate complex financial situations and pursue your financial goals. Our internal Investment Committee, backed by data and meticulous planning, helps ensure a high level of conviction in our strategies.

      Cornerstone requires wealth advisors to hold the CFP® (Certified Financial Planner) designation or to be working to complete the rigorous certification process. The CFP® designation is considered the standard of excellence in financial planning. Gordon (Wollman) earned his CFP® certification in 2000, Jill (Mollner) in 2006, and I am currently working to complete the CFP® testing, a process that typically takes 18-24 months.

      Forbes recognized our team on their Best in State Wealth Management Teams list earlier this year, a testament to our exceptional service and commitment to you. Gordon has been recognized in prestigious publications such as the Barron’s Top 1200 Advisor list and Forbes Best in State Wealth Advisor list, underscoring his expertise and leadership in the wealth management industry. You can find details of these and other recognitions here.

      My wife, Tara, and I have reflected on a few of these principles since her 20-week ultrasound for our baby a few months ago. At that appointment we learned the baby was healthy, but Tara was battling a serious condition that could cause premature labor. Forgive me for not going into detail, the talk of anything medical makes me queasy!

      The doctor, knowing how worried we were, put her hand on Tara’s and said “I know you are scared. I want you to know that I am one of the few doctors in the state who specializes in these cases.” That single sentence gave us confidence we were working with the right person.

      On September 2nd, during Tara’s second extended stay in the hospital, the doctor told us waiting to deliver was simply too high-risk. So, despite Tara being only 32 weeks along, things were set in motion for us to have a baby the following day. We met with specialists from multiple departments and learned that Tara would be put to sleep to have the baby via C-section, immediately followed by a major surgery. I’m somewhat embarrassed to say I passed out during this discussion. Did I say medical talk makes me queasy? Hospital staff had to bring me water and a cold wet towel. Thankfully, my wife is stronger than I am!

      We met again with the doctor from Tara’s ultrasound. She told us they’d lined up the very best people in each department and assured us we’d be getting the best care possible. Everything would be focused on Tara since no other major surgeries were planned.

      At 6:30am the next morning I walked with Tara to the testing required before surgery. When she and I hugged goodbye, we didn’t know if we’d ever see each other again. I wasn’t allowed in the operating room because of the number of people involved in the surgery, so staff walked me to a waiting room and explained I’d get updates via text message. I didn’t know what to expect over the next couple of hours.

      At 7:32am I got the first text message – the operation had begun. At that point, I had already covered a mile, anxiously pacing the waiting room. Being early Sunday morning, it was just me and a staff member working at a computer.

      About 5 minutes later I received another text that the operation was going well. Then, no news for over an hour. What had happened? I hadn’t asked what text updates I would get if things didn’t go well! The staff member at the computer hadn’t heard anything either and went to find someone in the operating room. They came back to announce we had a healthy baby boy at 7:46am (September 3rd). I was able to see a sleeping Baby Theo in the NICU. Wow, I was one proud dad! It was another six hours before I was finally able to talk with Tara, who also ended up doing amazing. 

      Theo and Tara are both doing awesome. All of your thoughts and prayers are so appreciated!

      In sharing the full story I’m being a little more vulnerable than normal. But, I felt it was important. If you’ve seen my commercial online or on TV, I talk about how important it is to work with a professional in all aspects of life, including financial planning. I’m thankful that my family and I were able to work with the best professionals in the area when it came to Theo’s birth and Tara’s surgery.

      The awards and education I mentioned earlier don’t define the Cornerstone Team of professionals, but I’m thankful to be part of a company that expects each team member to continue to grow in knowledge and seek excellence. Just like the doctors who helped us at the hospital, we too can sit down with you, put our hand on yours and say “We’ve done this before. And we are one of the experts in this subject matter.” Our desire is to take care of you the best we possibly can.

      At the hospital, I was amazed how multiple departments and specialists worked together to take care of us and our baby. On the day of the surgery, we were comforted when our doctor said, “You are our number one priority. Each department, from anesthesiologists to nurses, urologists to the NICU staff and more, will all be focused on you.” The same is true at Cornerstone. We have a big team and our number one priority is YOU. If your primary advisor is out like I have been, another advisor is there
      to help and give the same guidance and advice.

      We meet with you during regularly scheduled review appointments, host events, provide weekly updates via email, and check-in regularly through phone calls. But, between updates you may be a little like me in that waiting room – concerned and pacing anxiously. The market can make us all feel a little anxious sometimes. In the waiting room I trusted and relied on the doctors in the operating room. I trusted their expertise and desire to do what was best for my family.

      We at Cornerstone don’t take YOUR trust for granted. I hope you understand how much we care and want to do what is best for you. Thank you for your continued trust.

      NOT A CORNERSTONE CLIENT?

      Call 605.357.8553 or email cfsteam@mycfsgroup.com today to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation appointment with one of our wealth advisors.

      Any opinions are those of Andrew Ulvestad and not necessarily those of Raymond James. This content is for general information only and is not intended to provide specific advice, an endorsement, or recommendations for any individual. Raymond James Financial Advisors do not render advice on tax or legal matters. You should discuss tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional.Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. Holding stocks for the long-term does not insure a profitable outcome. Investing in stocks always involves risk, including the possibility of losing one’s entire investment. No strategy assures success or protects against loss. To determine what is appropriate for you, consult a qualified professional. Excerpted from Newsletter_Insights October Issue 4 2023.10.27 #313959

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