As we begin fourth quarter, now is a good time to review our year-end financial planning checklist for items that may need attention before December 31. Whether you are currently saving for retirement or are in distribution mode, this checklist can help identify opportunities to avoid missed … [Read more...]
Tax benefits from charitable giving in 2024
Yes! You can still get tax benefits from charitable giving in 2024. With the higher standard deduction, you may have seen your charitable efforts have a reduced or no benefit on your taxes in recent years. However, it's still possible for your generosity to save money on taxes. It just may require a … [Read more...]
Fall 2023 Financial Planning Newsletter
The fall 2023 financial planning newsletter is now available. We cover an update on the investment markets along with year-end planning reminders. Plus, we cover how to give to charities and your heirs most tax efficiently if you have charitable intent with your estate planning. In addition, we have … [Read more...]
Can You Benefit from Qualified Charitable Distributions?
Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are a great way to reduce tax liability for those who are charitably inclined. Qualified Charitable Distributions are distributions from an IRA that are donated directly to a qualified charity. The account holder must be over age 70 ½ and the distribution … [Read more...]
Is a Donor Advised Fund Right for You?
Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) are a great tax planning tool for those who are charitably inclined. They are especially compelling when you have highly appreciated stock in a brokerage account or if your income is significantly higher than usual in any given year. Understanding the Tax … [Read more...]
November/December Personal Finance Newsletter
The November/December Personal Finance Newsletter is now available. It includes information on the 2013 retirement plan limits and an update on investment market performance. There are also two articles relevant to the fiscal cliff negotiations -- a review of the considerations in harvesting long … [Read more...]
How to Give to Charity Wisely and Well
Giving to charity has never been easier. You can donate the old-fashioned way--by mail--but you can also donate online, by text, or through social networking sites. According to the National Center for Charitable Statistics, over 1.4 million nonprofit organizations are registered with the IRS. With … [Read more...]
March Personal Finance Newsletter
The March personal financial planning newsletter is now available. It includes an update on the investment market, tips on cutting discretionary spending to build your cash reserve, planned charitable giving, and social security survivors benefit. There's also a special guest column from attorney … [Read more...]
Charitable Giving as Part of Your Estate Plan
As the holidays approach, it’s a good time to consider charitable giving as a potential part of your estate plan. Giving provides a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can be beneficial from a financial planning perspective. If you’re one of the 2% of Americans currently subject to the … [Read more...]