Should we worry about interest rates? Research shows that changes in interest rates and bond prices are largely unpredictable. So an investment strategy based on attempting to exploit these sorts of changes isn’t likely going to be fruitful. Despite the unpredictable nature of interest rate changes, you may still be curious about what might happen to stocks if interest rates…
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Do You Need a Will?
A will is often the cornerstone of an estate plan, and in most cases, yes, you should have one. A will can enable you to leave your property to anyone you choose – be it your partner or spouse, a child, other relatives, friends, a trust, or a charity – as well as make clear your intentions for healthcare and…
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Year-End Tax Strategies
The House and the Senate have passed their versions of a tax reform bill and there are many similarities, including the limiting of itemized deductions to mortgage interest, charitable contributions, and property taxes, as well as the doubling of the estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer tax exemptions from $5.6 million to $11.2 million in 2018. It’s possible, but not certain, that…
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A Primer on Charitable Giving
Charitable giving can play an important role in many estate plans, although this may change with upcoming tax law changes. Philanthropy’s true reward is deep personal satisfaction, but it can also give an income tax deduction, let you avoid capital gains tax, and reduce the amount of taxes your estate may owe when you die. There are many ways to…
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Divorce and Social Security
By Matt Carey How does divorce affect Social Security benefits? Some people don’t realize that after a divorce, you can choose whether to claim retirement benefits based on your own earnings record or on your ex-spouse’s earnings record. Of course, that’s provided certain requirements are met. What requirements must be met? You could qualify to take benefits based on your…
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