Blog tagged as Tax Planning

Debt After Death: Protecting Your Estate and Heirs

10/07/2021 08:14 AM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

When it comes to our inevitable death, chances are we’re all going to have at least a little bit of debt. Creditors are entitled to payment of these debts, regardless of someone passing or not.

How to Avoid Common Estate Planning Mistakes

10/06/2021 12:37 PM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

Your legacy is important for both you and your family, so don't wait until the last minute to strategize. Here are 6 ways to avoid common estate planning mistakes.

9 Questions to Ask Yourself During the Estate Planning Process

10/05/2021 02:36 PM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

You want to check off all the boxes when it comes to making an estate planning strategy. But it can be hard to see what you may still be missing. As you work with your financial professional, start by reviewing these 9 questions.

Tax Planning in Turbulent Times Part 3: Tax-Wise Financial Planning

09/02/2021 11:15 AM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

Tax planning isn’t just for your investments. Life happens. Often, we cannot predict its next moves, but it's possible to weave each event into the tax-planning fabric of your financial life.

Tax Planning in Turbulent Times Part 2: Tax-Wise Investment Techniques

09/01/2021 11:11 AM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

The same paintbrush can create a valuable work of art, or a clashing mess on canvas. It all depends on how you use the brush. In other words, your tax-planning techniques matter at least as much as the tools.

Tax Planning in Turbulent Times Part 1: The Tools of the Tax-Planning Trade

08/31/2021 11:05 AM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

The particulars may evolve, but it seems there are always an array of tax breaks to encourage us to save toward our major life goals—such as retirement, healthcare, education, emergency spending, charitable giving, and wealth transfer.

What Is a Robo-Advisor? 6 Of Your Top Questions Answered

08/25/2021 10:21 AM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

You've heard of robo-advisors before, but have you considered whether or not they're right for you? Escient Financial can help you answer that question.

5 Ways a Financial Advisor Can Bring Value to Your Post-COVID Life

08/19/2021 10:08 PM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

If your financial standings were impacted by the pandemic, here are 5 ways a financial advisor can help get things back on track.

Are Higher Ed Expenses Tax Deductible? A Quick Reminder for Parents

08/18/2021 10:06 AM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

Sending your kid off to college comes with a hefty price tag. Here's a quick overview of what expenses may qualify for a reduction in your taxes plus 3 tax-focused savings strategies.

How to Conduct a Financial Checkup Before End-of-Year

08/11/2021 09:37 AM By Mike Halper, CFP®, MPAS®, SE-AWMA®, CDAA, CBDA - Comment(s)

Here are six things you can do right away to make sure your goals are being met and your finances are in good shape as we continue through second half of 2021.