What Annuity Problem? Let’s use an example to explain. Clara and Thomas have conservatively purchased a fixed annuity with a flat rate of return. Over the years, they have watched their initial investment of $2 million grow to a sizable $5 million. A fixed annuity is tax-deferred, and the principal and interest are guaranteed. Sounds… Read more »
In Saving Private Ryan, Tom Hanks played an army captain for a band of men whose mission was to find Private Ryan and escort him safely home (because his 3 brothers had already lost their lives in World War II). Though your qualified retirement plan is not a matter of life and death, it may… Read more »
The recent tax reform has left some people wondering whether estate planning is still necessary. It is (we discuss this in detail here). If you die after 2026, the estate tax exemption goes back to 2017 limits (around $5 million or so). Above that, your children will see 40% of your wealth go to the federal… Read more »
If you’re thinking about estate planning, chances are you already own life insurance. If so, good job! Life insurance proceeds are generally not taxable, and you are taking steps to protect your wealth for future generations. But before you pat yourself on the back and go for another round of golf, you need to know… Read more »
What if you could make a significant difference for a cause that you really care about, without reducing your assets (or those of the next generation)? What if you could actually give money away and save money at the same time? Well, if you qualify for more permanent life insurance than you need, you can.… Read more »
What better way to show your love than to make sure that you have an estate plan that covers and protects your spouse, while at the same time maximizing wealth transfer to your children (and grandchildren)? Protection can come in the form of reducing the taxes that will be owed on your estate, or reducing… Read more »
When It is Time to Trash a Policy It was worthless. Well at least that is what Mr. Greene* said. He had obtained a life insurance policy as part of his compensation package while at his previous firm. The $5 million death benefit was meant to insure his salary (for his wife’s benefit), and the… Read more »
While we may or may not agree with President Donald Trump’s policies, the recent tax reform does allow for an increase of wealth transfer to the next generation for the next 8 years. The estate tax exemption limit has increased from around $5 million to about $11.2 million (the IRS website notes that the adjustment… Read more »
By now, you have heard that the estate tax exemption doubled from about $5 million per individual ($10 million or so per couple) in 2017 to $11.2 million per individual in 2018, and now $11.4 million in 2019 (or $22.8 million per couple). Time to get rid of the all the plans you have to… Read more »
It’s never too late to start making better choices. Each New Year offers an opportunity for a bit of healthy introspection, a chance to do something differently. Here is why creating a Family Legacy Trust should be at the top of the New Year’s Resolution list this year: New tax reform laws effective as of… Read more »
