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While the House this week approved a budget plan for FY 2014, the Senate continues to debate a starkly different proposal. As the budget process progresses, neither plan is likely to garner bipartisan approval, but the proposals illustrate the differences between the two political parties. Not surprisingly, long-term deficit reduction is a priority in both
While clients who own businesses may be focused on day-to-day business activity, they may not be planning for retirement. In fact, the Small Business Administration reported in 2012 that more than 9 million self-employed individuals lacked retirement plan coverage, and that only 19.5% of workers in firms with less than 100 employees participated in a
2013 Tax rates, schedules, and contribution limits from Putnam Investments
The deadline for making a contribution to an individual retirement account (IRA) for last year is April 15, 2013. As clients seek ways to reduce taxable income, it is an opportune time to talk about IRAs. Consider offering your clients an IRA checkup to determine what they own and how it supports their retirement savings
While the new federal tax law brought good news for most taxpayers, there may be confusion for others trying to determine when certain tax provisions apply. The tax reform items are linked to income thresholds with different definitions of “income.” It is important for clients to understand the impact of the legislation on their 2013
With marginal tax rates rising for higher income levels, the reduction of some tax preference items, and a new Medicare investment income surtax, income tax planning should be a priority. Here are five strategies that clients can use to mitigate tax obligations today. 1. Invest in municipal bonds for tax-free income Municipal bonds become more
The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 extends or leaves intact provisions that may benefit families saving for and funding a college education. 529 plans unchanged The new law did not affect 529 college savings plans, which offer some of the most meaningful tax benefits to savers. Account owners pay no federal income tax on
The current budget debate on Capitol Hill is being shaped by several events in the next few months including raising the debt ceiling, the debate on sequestration, and the expiration of a continuing resolution to fund the government. March 1 A March 1, 2013 deadline is set for action on $1.2 trillion in automatic spending
The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 made several estate tax provisions permanent, creating planning opportunities that advisors may review with clients seeking to lessen the tax impact. 1. New exemption amount affects all clients The now-permanent $5 million exemption may have unintended consequences for clients at lower wealth levels who feel they do not
The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 made permanent changes to the federal estate tax law, including establishing a $5 million exemption, indexed for inflation. The new exemption amount means approximately 4,000 estates could still cross the threshold and be subject to estate tax, according to the Tax Policy Center. This number is fewer than