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More Lowdown on Roth IRA Conversions

November 1, 2009

The Roth IRA conversion opportunity is getting closer. Last month we discussed the basics of the opportunity and who should consider taking advantage of it. We continue the discussion in this visit with more details about the rules and ways you can enhance the benefits.  To review from last month, next year the income limit […]

Updating Medicare Advantage

November 1, 2009

Earlier this year we told you to expect changes in Medicare Advantage plans, because Congress was reducing reimbursements to insurers and making other changes. The plan offerings for 2010 are in, and you do indeed face changes in Advantage plans. Almost all Medicare beneficiaries have an Advantage plan available to them. But about 7% of […]

Taking Advantage of the 0% Tax Rate

November 1, 2009

There still is time to take advantage of the 0% tax rate. This special tax benefit was put in effect for select taxpayers in 2008, 2009, and 2010 for their long-term capital gains and qualified dividends. Even if you are a higher-bracket taxpayer, you may be able to benefit from the 0% rate. The 0% […]

Returning Unwanted 2009 RMDs

November 1, 2009

Late in 2008, Congress suspended required minimum distributions for IRAs for 2009. If you are over age 70½, you don’t have to take an RMD for 2009. Some people did not receive word of the suspension before they took their RMDs in early 2009. Others had periodic distributions scheduled, and the distributions could not be […]

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Taxing Gains on Gold ETFs

November 1, 2009

The IRS continues to issue positions on exchange-traded funds that hold gold and other precious metals. Previously we reported good news for investors who owned gold ETFs in IRAs and other retirement accounts. The standard rules are retirement accounts are not allowed to purchase collectibles, and precious metals are collectibles. But the IRS ruled privately […]

How to Climb the Estate Planning Ladder – An Estate Planning Checklist

November 1, 2009

Estate Planning overwhelms many people. Planners use their own language. As estate owner you have to choose from many strategies. The complications lead to procrastination and unfinished plans. One way to break the procrastination and creates a plan is to use an estate planning ladder. The ladder starts with a basic estate plan. You move […]

Giving Gifts and a Lecture

October 1, 2009

Grandparents are filling only half their roles these days. They are providing financial help to their grand-children. In fact, they increased their financial aid as the economy worsened. Unfortunately, they are offering gifts and providing financial aid without much advice. About 63% of grandparents say they provided some form of financial assistance to their grandchildren […]

Preparing for the Roth IRA Opportunity

October 1, 2009

In 2010 all taxpayers will have the opportunity to create a tax-free stream of retirement income by converting traditional IRAs into Roth IRAs – and can receive a tax incentive to convert. Most Baby Boomers aren’t even aware of the upcoming conversion opportunity, and only a minority plan to convert, according to recent surveys. That’s […]

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