For parents seeking tax-advantaged strategies for transferring funds to their minor children—whether as a way to save for college or simply to give their kids a financial head start when they become adults—a popular type of custodial account called a UTMA account may provide a solution. However, understanding the tax implications of UTMA accounts is
Investors are often concerned about minimizing transaction costs that can eat into their gains, without realizing that taxes can take an even bigger bite out of returns. Tax-aware investment management offers some protection. This is an active investment approach that aims to maximize after-tax returns. It relies on careful construction of a portfolio and proactive
There are endless ways to invest, with vehicles and opportunities to suit different needs, time horizons, and risk tolerances. As you explore the various options available, it’s wise to consider the tax consequences of your investments. Frequent, active trading with a goal of chasing profits can bolster your income nicely—but taxes can eat into your
If you are fortunate enough to be eligible to receive a pension from your employer when you retire, one of the main decisions you will face is whether to accept a lump-sum distribution or lifetime monthly payments. As you approach your retirement date, it’s important to think carefully about this decision, since it is usually
Investors looking for an easy way to buy a diversified portfolio used to opt for mutual funds. Today, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) are an increasingly popular option offering several benefits. Both vehicles invest shareholders’ combined money in a broad set of assets, which provides the safety of diversification without the stress of buying and selling individual
When you reach age 62, you are eligible to begin taking the Social Security benefits that you have paid into throughout your working life. While this is an exciting milestone and you may be eager to start receiving your share, you will be entitled to a greater benefit for each year that you defer taking
Now that the presidential election is just days away, what do we know about the leading candidates’ current tax plans? The top line takeaway is that former Vice President Joe Biden has pledged not to raise taxes on anyone earning less than $400,000, while President Trump has floated more tax cuts with few specifics. Trump’s
It’s a sad fact of the tax code that the more money you make, the more you owe to the tax man. That’s especially true if you’re self-employed and paying the entire 15.3% Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) tax for Social Security and Medicare yourself. Investing in real estate, however, can bring in extra income
If you are age 72 or older, you generally must take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from your traditional IRA or employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k) or 403(b), each year. These amounts are included in your taxable income, and if you fail to take your RMD by the annual deadline, the amount not withdrawn
Congratulations on that big promotion! You’re financially comfortable with a nice nest egg and now you have some extra cash coming in. So, what do you do with it? Pay down your mortgage, or invest for the long term? The thought of getting rid of debt feels good and will pay off in the interest