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Some feel a philanthropic tug on their heartstrings from time to time, while others make charitable donations an integral part of their financial plan. Whether you fall into one category or the other, the qualified charitable distribution rules can help you leverage your donation—and minimize your taxation. The qualified charitable distribution rules have, in previous […]

If you’ve ever experienced the process of building a custom home, you know that there are seemingly endless options for how you can finish your ceilings, trim your walls, and install cabinets in your kitchen. Consulting with a professional home designer prior to beginning the custom building process helps you to not only narrow down the […]

Gifting is a well-known strategy for passing the legacy of your wealth to the individuals and nonprofit organizations close to your heart. But there are a number of different factors that must be considered as you explore the possibility of charitable gifting, primarily the current lifetime gift tax exemption. Our clients routinely inquire about charitable […]

Estate planning is no small feat; in fact, for most individuals, it’s an ongoing process. Even with the guidance of a team of financial and tax advisors, estate planning experts, and specialists in life insurance, annuities, and other investment alternatives, you may be shocked to learn how much of your estate could be lost to […]

“There are only two guarantees in this life, death and taxes.” This popular saying is usually attributed to Benjamin Franklin circa the 1780’s but has certainly come into much wider use since the establishment of the IRS in 1862. It is also a favorite of most financial advisors focused on retirement income planning for obvious […]

Do you remember the days when you could walk across the stage at your high school graduation and, the very next day, walk from local business to local business and count on finding a solid job that would offer you insurance and benefits, including a pension plan? Do you remember when you could put in […]

“The market always bounces back.” “Own your age in bonds.” “Only risk what you’re willing to lose.” These are all common investment sayings you may have heard, possibly even from your own financial advisor. However, you may not have heard your advisor quote this one before: “Buy term and invest the rest.”   This phrase, […]

Non-qualified annuities—that is, annuities that are not part of an IRA or other tax-qualified retirement plan—can serve as a valuable component of your financial and estate plan. However, there are some potential snags that you may encounter along the way. It’s imperative to understand and make accommodations for these prospective issues well before they arise. […]

Annuities are a popular investment option, particularly for individuals who are seeking a source of consistent income. As there are many types of annuities, it is crucial to select the best annuity for your needs—both today and in the future. The risk of finding yourself in a situation where you outlive your wealth is simply […]