Higher tax rates and limits on itemized deductions are two of several provisions in President Obama’s proposed budget that would have an impact on high-income taxpayers. The FY 2013 budget proposal, released in mid February, includes a series of tax … Continue reading
Dynamic tax landscape creates opportunity for tax-planning discussion
The extension of the Bush-era tax rates into 2012 gave investors more clarity, but the ongoing debate about federal deficit reduction proposals is adding to uncertainty about tax policy beyond this year. Given the dynamic tax landscape, it may be … Continue reading
Tax rates and key changes for 2012
Though there were no major changes in broad tax rates for 2012, there are some tax- and retirement-related changes from 2011 levels taxpayers should be aware of: Of these key changes, the reductions in the AMT exemption amount will have … Continue reading
Estate planning considerations for 2012
Next year the federal estate tax environment will change dramatically unless legislation is passed in Washington. In fact, according to the Tax Policy Center, the number of estates subject to tax will increase by over ten times (roughly 3,600 taxable … Continue reading
Payroll tax cut extended for two months
Just days prior to the expiration of a payroll tax-cut provision, the U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate agreed to extend the cut into 2012. Congress also agreed to negotiate for a one-year extension. The provision, which went into … Continue reading
Capitol Hill: What To Watch For In 2012
2011 was an eventful year with respect to overall awareness of the nation’s debt crisis. Though dialogue around reducing the federal budget deficit emerged in 2010 through the work of a couple of well-known commissions (Bowles-Simpson, Rivlin-Domenici), the overall crisis … Continue reading
Income tax planning considerations for 2012
Unless legislative action occurs, 2012 marks the last year of a historically low tax environment. Beginning in 2013, income taxes are scheduled to increase – for some taxpayers in higher tax brackets that increase will be substantial: Tax item 2012* … Continue reading
Do your clients know about the AMT?
The Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) will affect an additional 27 million taxpayers in 2012 if Congress fails to act and amend the income guidelines by the end of the year. Asking your clients if they have consulted with a tax … Continue reading
This season, make your giving go further with smart tax strategies
As clients prepare for tax season, it is an opportune time to talk about the rules for gifting assets to family members as well as giving to charities. There are several strategies clients may want to consider to make the … Continue reading
Make the most of tax deductions now
As year-end approaches, it can be beneficial for clients to connect with their tax professionals to get a better sense of their personal status and discuss potential strategies to minimize their tax bite. One specific area to consider is tax … Continue reading
Tax smart opportunities for 2012
Resources to help you navigate your planning conversations with clients
Latest videos
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The outlook for the federal budget deficit and entitlement programs
How federal entitlement programs impact the national debt and why the current federal budget is unsustainable.
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Income tax strategies and opportunities for investorsA number of income tax strategies may help investors take advantage of the advantageous tax rates in 2012.
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Estate tax strategies and opportunities for investorsPotential estate tax planning opportunities for 2012.
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Roth IRA Conversion Evaluator
Is a Roth conversion right for your clients?Putnam's Roth IRA Conversion Evaluator is a quick and visual way to see if your client can benefit from a Roth conversion.