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Some estate-planning strategies require action before the end of the year — and clients may want to consider taking advantage of them before they lose the opportunity. Chris Hennessey explains some end-of-the-year gifting and estate-planning advantages. Gift tax exclusion — use it or lose it An individual can gift up to $14,000 per year without
While some lawmakers are honing the agenda for the new Republican-controlled Congress in January, the current lame-duck session will likely act on several bills before the end of the year. In a reversal of power, Republicans seized the control of the Senate in the mid-term elections, winning eight seats for a majority of 53. Seats
This year, nearly 5 million taxpayers could be subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT). Chris Hennessey explains the AMT and offers some strategies to reduce the liability. The AMT was established in 1970, creating two parallel tax systems. Taxpayers calculate income tax under both systems and pay the higher amount. There are some tax
With tax bills among clients’ top concerns, year-end planning offers an opportune time to take advantage of tax-smart strategies and meet 2014 deadlines. Here are five year-end planning ideas that require action by December 31, 2014, that could help you identify ways to build your business. 1. Review required minimum distributions (RMDs). Many investors take
Before taxpayers select year-end planning strategies, it’s important to first calculate their individual tax bracket. The marginal tax bracket will determine which strategies could be beneficial and drive all other financial planning decisions. Chris Hennessey discusses the importance of understanding income levels, while highlighting some ideas for clients in different tax brackets. Consider different strategies:
As investors review their investments in the coming weeks, retirement planning is a priority, especially those strategies that involve year-end deadlines. Chris Hennessey identifies several areas that require action before December 31. Retirees age 70½ or older must take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from individual retirement accounts or 401(k) plans by December 31. The Internal
A provision to make tax-free donations to charity from an IRA, tax deductions for certain college expenses, and dozens of other tax breaks known as “tax extenders” could be renewed if Congress acts before the end of the current session. In the next few weeks, Congress must decide whether to restore some or all of
In addition to health-care reform, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) will have an impact on clients’ investments, as they plan to cover health costs and prepare for the possibility of new tax liabilities. Chris Hennessey reviews the top concerns about the ACA for all types of clients. Surtax may hit high earners The ACA established
The end of year is a critical time for financial planning — with many strategies having a December 31 deadline. Chris Hennessey explains why urgency about financial planning moves may be specific to the final quarter of the year, including: required minimum distributions, gifting, funding a 529 college savings plan, or reviewing asset allocations. Investors
Mid-term elections, tort reform, and other policy pressures may alter the way the Affordable Care Act delivers on the promise of health-care reform in the future, but the law will likely remain largely intact. Chris Hennessey discusses several changes that some advocates are proposing. Letting the consumer decide what to buy. The law now requires