Many Americans have a retirement account such as a 401(k), 403(b) or IRA during their lifetime to supplement income in retirement. As with all traditional pre-tax accounts, most know that withdrawals will be taxable as income and mandatory distributions are required starting at age 70.5. We do get a lot... read more →
As we enter a new era with the recently enacted tax law, our firm is constantly reviewing the tax code and formulating new tax planning strategies for our clients. On its surface, the tax reform offers reduced tax rates and wider brackets. For many Americans, that will translate to a... read more →
As we approach April 15th, the fact that the sun is setting on a tax code we have known for several decades is becoming very real. After we complete our annual filing to our friends at the IRS, I suspect we will all give a bit more thought as to... read more →
Oftentimes, the terms estate planning and legacy planning are used interchangeably. While both are important, they are very different. Estate planning utilizes wealth transfer strategies, beneficiary designations, and legal documents such as a Will or a trust to efficiently guide the transfer of assets upon death. Legacy planning considers how... read more →
Another year is in the record books, and we are fresh into 2018. So before we go too far, let’s take a brief look back over the past couple of years. 2016 started off with what was termed “the worst first six weeks in the equity market’s history.” The S&P... read more →
On December 22, the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" became law. This new law is the largest reform to the tax code since the Tax Reform Act of 1986. This new law has been widely discussed for the significant cuts to the corporate tax rates. Below, however, we will summarize... read more →
Saving for retirement just got a little bit easier. According to a recent article in Kiplinger, "2018 Retirement Contribution Limits for 401(k)s and IRAs," retirement contribution limits are increasing next year. 401(k)s: The annual contribution limit in 2018 will be increased from $18,000 to $18,500. This jump also applies to 403(b) and... read more →
As we turn the pages on our calendars and approach another fall season, I am reminded yet again of the importance of planning. It seems as each year passes the pages of the calendar turn faster and faster. Our good friend Benjamin Franklin once put it very simply: "By failing... read more →
Life in your 60s may just be the best decade of your life (for tax planning); you have retirement in mind and plans to spend time doing the things you have worked so hard for over your career. Whether your goals include traveling around the world, spending time with grandkids,... read more →