Mesirow Wealth Advisor Noah Bloch Shares the "Five Spookiest Financial Mistakes" to Avoid this Fall

• Smart budgeting, debt control, and estate planning can help investors keep their finances from turning frightening.
• Early saving can potentially build lasting financial security.
• Regular plan reviews can support a sound strategy in any market.

CHICAGO, Oct. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a recent "Mesirow Monday" segment on WGN's Your Money Matters with Jon Hansen, Noah Bloch, Wealth Advisor at Mesirow Wealth Management, shared the "five spookiest things" people can do with their finances—and practical ways to avoid them.

"Whether markets are up or down, our goal is to help clients sleep well at night," Bloch said. "Avoiding these 'spooky' habits this fall season can make a big difference over time."

1. Not Tracking Spending
   Failing to follow a budget can leave investors guessing where their money goes. "Tracking expenses—especially big-ticket and recurring items—helps ensure you're saving intentionally, not accidentally overspending," Bloch explained.
2. Carrying High-Interest Debt
   Credit card debt and personal loans with double-digit interest rates can undermine financial progress. "Anything above 10% is too high," Bloch cautioned. "Paying those balances down often has a greater return than investing."
3. Delaying Retirement Saving
   Waiting even a decade to start saving can dramatically reduce long-term growth. "Time and compounding are your greatest allies," Bloch said. "Even modest, consistent contributions can grow substantially over 30 years."
4. Neglecting Insurance Coverage
   From life insurance to disability and umbrella policies, coverage gaps can expose families to unnecessary risk. "People often avoid thinking about insurance because it's uncomfortable," Bloch noted. "But ensuring proper protection is a critical part of every plan."
5. Skipping an Estate Plan
   Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy. Without a clear plan, assets can become tied up and families divided. "We've seen how lack of preparation can create conflict," Bloch said. "A thoughtful estate plan ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected."

Personalized Planning for Every Season 
Bloch emphasized that comprehensive financial planning should be customized to each client's goals and life stage. "The market doesn't define your financial health—your plan does," he said.

Mesirow Wealth Management is the firm's founding capability, connecting clients to what matters today and across generations. The firm's Wealth Advisors are differentiated by their personal, comprehensive wealth planning, expert investment selection and exceptional service. We invite you to learn more at mesirow.com/wealth.

About Mesirow
Mesirow is an independent, employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937. Headquartered in Chicago, with offices around the world, we serve clients through a personal, custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good. With capabilities spanning Private Capital & Currency, Capital Markets & Investment Banking, and Advisory Services, we invest in what matters: our clients, our communities and our culture.

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