In 2017, with much fanfare, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed into law. It provided Americans with lower federal income tax rates, a higher threshold for estate taxes and other changes to the tax code. In order to meet budgetary requirements, Congress was able to enact the lower rates but only through December 31, 2025. After that date, marginal income tax rates are scheduled to revert to their original, higher rates.1
Is it time for you to get a new car or truck? Getting a new vehicle can be exciting, but have you considered how you will pay for it? If you have not saved enough cash to buy the vehicle outright, you must decide whether to lease it or buy it. Both are valid financing options. While leasing could offer more affordable monthly payments, the cost savings may not be enough to justify the downsides of leasing, thus making purchasing a car the better choice. Deciding whether to lease or buy is based on three primary factors:
Understanding the Appeal Process While some highly selective colleges may have strict policies, most colleges treat the appeals process as a negotiation, even if they don’t label it as such. Students should approach it as an appeal or request for reconsideration rather than a negotiation to avoid negative connotations. Recognizing that it is, in essence, a negotiation can empower students to better navigate the process.
Your investment strategy may need to change, too. No longer are you saving for a date that is many years away. Now you are going to need to begin drawing on your assets to replace your income and that may have to continue for many years before Social Security benefits begins to kick in. Long term drawdowns of this type can increase the risk that your investments may not recover as easily if you keep an aggressive investment approach.
Are you ready for retirement? You may hear this question often as you enter your late 50’s and early 60’s. It is a loaded question with many elements to consider: the conclusion of your career; where/how you will live; your emotional readiness to face this milestone; your health status; changes in family dynamics and work social connections; opportunity for more leisure time and travel; and last but not least, financial readiness. This blog focuses on financial readiness and how you can be financially better prepared to retire.
A Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) can be an attractive option for homeowners looking for short-term financing. However, it’s important to understand that a HELOC isn't suitable for everyone. Years ago, I spoke with a man that had a good size 1st mortgage as well as a HELOC. The HELOC was used to buy two cars and to travel. Not ideal.