The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, providing extraordinary estate planning opportunities, was signed into law by the President on December 22, 2017. The new Act…
3 Ways to Prepare for a Bear Market
While stock market records are exhilarating, we all know that can’t last forever. Put a plan in place now and you won’t have to worry…
5 Ways to Plan Ahead for Rising Health Care Costs
The latest numbers are sobering: The average couple retiring at 65 will need $275,000 to cover medical expenses through retirement. If you’re not confident you’re…
10 Top S&P 500 Stocks in 2017
In 2017, it was a very good year. / It was a very good year for tech stocks / And renewable fuels / Builders rose with the tide.…
5 Buffett-Owned Dividend Stocks Yielding 3% or More
Warren Buffett isn’t known as a dividend investor, and regular quarterly payouts aren’t one of his preconditions for making an investment in a stock. But…
2018 Stock Market Holidays and Bond Market Holidays
Is the market open today? Here’s a look at what holidays the stock markets and bond markets take off in 2018.
5 Best Stock Picks for 2018
A top fund manager reveals his favorite stocks for the new year. Hint: Think small.
5 Bargain Vacation Destinations Off the Beaten Path
Hordes of tourists swarming the world’s most popular destinations can make travel unpleasant. For example, Barcelona and Venice are so crowded that disgruntled residents have…
Personal Finance Columnist Kim Lankford's Best Money-Saving Lessons of 2017
How to lower medical costs, support hurricane victims and protect homes from disaster are among the issues readers asked me about most during the past…
IRS Issues Taxpayer Advisory on Prepayment of 2018 Property Taxes
The IRS announced yesterday, in IR 2017-210 (the “Advisory”), that state property taxes must be “assessed” in 2017 in order for such taxes to be…
Tax Reform Advisory: Exempt Organizations
On December 22, 2017, the President signed into law H.R. 1, informally known as the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act” (the “Act”), implementing sweeping changes…
5 Ways to Help Control Your Taxes in Retirement
Taxes aren’t something retirees can deal with once a year. They are something you need to plan for all year, every year. Here’s an overview…
Investors: Keep Your Guard up and Be Ready for a Bear Market
The good times have been rolling for so long that it’s easy to forget the sting a downturn can deliver. Those close to retirement can…
Will a Credit Freeze Boost Car Insurance Premiums?
In a few states, you may need to thaw frozen credit reports before buying or renewing insurance policies.
Can Your Adult Child Contribute to a Health Savings Account?
Even if your son is on your family’s insurance policy, he may be eligible to contribute to a HSA.
7 Common Money Conflicts in Marriage and How to Solve Them
You and your spouse probably have different approaches to finances, but you can still live financially happy ever after.
Start Investing Now? Uh, Yeah
Take advantage of one of your greatest assets: time.
Relief for Western Union Fraud Victims
You have until Feb. 12 to file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission and get some of your money back if you got hit…
Is It Time to Try Investing in Japan Again?
If you’re ready, you need to employ a cautious strategy.
5 Questions About Net Neutrality
New rules could change the way you use the internet, and you may pay more.
Why You're Paying More for Car Insurance Now
One big reason: Advanced safety features cost more to repair or replace.
How to Make Your Encore Career Count
Your second act can give you a chance to use your talents and expertise for good.
How to Know It's Time to Retire
The decision to retire is a personal one that’s as much psychological as financial.
5 Energy Stocks to Watch in 2018
This past year has been a roller coaster ride to say the least. But for energy stocks and crude oil, the roller coaster has been…
How to Stop Getting Robo Calls
Technology has made those annoying recorded calls ubiquitous, and technology can help you fight back.
It Might Be Time for a New Driver's License
Make sure your ID meets requirements for air travel.
6 Best Vanguard Index Funds for 2018 and Beyond
You can build a well-balanced portfolio with just six mutual funds–but which six and how much should you invest in each?
How Well Do You Really Understand Bitcoin?
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/quiz/investing/T015-S001-how-well-do-you-really-understand-bitcoin/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 28, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017: Year- End Planning for Individuals
On December 22, 2017, the tax reform bill, commonly referred to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (the Act), was signed into…
Delaware Contractarian Principles Prevail in Appeal Over Deceased Ace Hotel Founder’s LLC Interest
The sudden death of Alexander Calderwood, the brilliant but troubled co-founder of the Ace brand of hotels, resulted in some fierce litigation between Calderwood’s estate…
Private Client & Trust Tax Reform Advisory
On December 22, 2017, the President signed into law H.R. 1, informally known as the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act” (the “Act”), implementing sweeping changes…
5 Quick Steps to Improve Your Finances in 2018
Here are a few New Year’s resolutions to shoot for with healthy payoffs.
How to Leverage a Backdoor Roth IRA
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/article/retirement/T046-C032-S014-how-to-leverage-a-backdoor-roth-ira.html URL of source article. Date — December 27, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Winners and Losers in the New Tax Law (Including #MeToo)
When dissecting who will benefit and who will pay more under the new tax law, it’s enlightening to look beyond the obvious.
10 Hot IPOs That You Could Buy in 2018
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/investing/T052-S015-10-hot-ipos-that-you-could-buy-in-2018/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 27, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Tax Reform 101 – Estate Planning For High Net Worth Individuals
The new tax bill passed by Congress and signed into law by the President today has increased the amount individuals can transfer free of Gift,…
Tax Reform Impact On Estate Taxes
This is the sixth issue in a planned series of alerts designed to provide an in-depth analysis on topics related to tax reform. Like all…
5 Hidden Risks to Your Retirement Security
If you’re focusing only on your investment portfolio as you prepare for retirement, you may be distracting yourself from what’s most important for a good…
An Easier Path to Real Estate Investing: 1031 Delaware Statutory Trusts
Being a landlord isn’t for everyone, but getting out of the biz could trigger capital gains taxes. There’s another way to stay in real estate,…
10 Biggest Stock Market Successes of 2017
Though it’s not over yet, barring an unexpected catastrophe, 2017 will be remembered as a great year for the market. As of the latest look,…
Small-Business Owners Win Big in New Tax Law With 20%-Off Deal
While small businesses don’t get as hefty a tax break as corporations do, they do get a 20% reduction of taxable business income. Here’s how…
New Estate, Gift and GST Tax Provisions in Tax Reform Legislation
Congress has passed a major tax reform bill and it is expected to be signed into law in the next few days. This bill doubles…
Court Held That Will Contestant Expressly Waived Right To Appeal From Bench Trial
In Estate of Crawford, after the first day of a will contest, the parties’ attorneys announced on the record that they agreed that neither party…
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Impact and Planning
On December 20, 2017, Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (the “Act”) instituting sweeping changes to the Internal Revenue Code. By now, many…
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: House and Senate Pass Tax Reform Bill
On December 19, 2017, the Senate passed the “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017” (H.R. 1) (the “Bill”). The House of Representatives passed the…
Congress Passes Historic New Tax Law
Congress has passed a major overhaul of the US tax system. The measure passed 224 to 201 in the House and 51-48 in the Senate,…
Interview Of Stuart Sherman, Licensed Professional Fiduciary At ConservaTrust Fiduciary Services, Inc.
For this post, we are fortunate to be joined by Stuart C. Sherman, a California Licensed Professional Fiduciary with ConservaTrust Fiduciary Services, Inc. in Los…
Colleges With Lowest Average Graduating Debt, 2018
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/college/T014-S002-colleges-with-lowest-average-graduating-debt-2018/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 22, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Great Colleges That Won't Make Students Take Loans, 2018
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/college/T014-S003-great-colleges-that-won-t-make-students-take-loans/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 22, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Best Values in Public Colleges, 2018
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/college/T014-S003-best-values-in-public-colleges-2018/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 22, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Best College Values, 2018
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/college/T014-S003-best-college-values-2018/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 22, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Kiplinger's Best College Values, 2018
We name 300 standout public and private schools, based on quality and affordability. This year, Princeton, Davidson and the University of North Carolina at Chapel…
Best College Value Snapshot: Davidson College
This liberal arts school is the total package.
The 15 Best CEOs of the Bull Market
The Standard & Poor’s 500-stock index has gone a long way since hitting bottom in March 2009. The index has raced from a low of…
How We Rank the Best College Values
Our rankings reflect academic quality, as well as cost and financial-aid measures.
FAQs on Our Best College Values Rankings
Here are the answers to your questions about how we pick the schools on the list.
Past Years' Rankings of Best College Values
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/article/college/T014-C000-S002-past-years-rankings-of-top-college-values.html URL of source article. Date — December 22, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Past Years' Rankings of Top Public College Values
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/article/college/T014-C000-S002-past-years-rankings-of-top-public-college-values.html URL of source article. Date — December 22, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Past Years' Rankings of Top Private College Values
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/article/college/T014-C000-S002-past-years-rankings-of-top-private-college-values.html URL of source article. Date — December 22, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Smart Ways to Spend Down Your Flexible Spending Account
Some employers allow workers to carry over up to $500 in a flexible spending account from one year to the next, while others offer a…
Gifts That Keep on Giving
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/credit/T065-S001-15-gifts-that-keep-on-giving/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 22, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Talking to Older Parents About Their Plans for the Future
When families are gathered for the holidays is a good time for adult children to broach the subject of their parents’ housing and health care…
Impact of US tax reform on estate taxes
The major estate and gift tax change in the Conference Committee version of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 is a doubling of…
The Fine Print – Winter 2017 – Family Law & Estate Planning
The Winter 2017 issue of The Fine Print focuses on family law and estate planning and features articles on prenuptial agreements, what to know if…
How to Perform the Duties of Executor of an Estate
If you have been named executor in a will, you have quite a bit of work ahead of you. Here is how probate works, plus…
A Charitable Strategy for Residents of High-Tax States
If you live in high-tax state, you may be asking what can you do to save after the new tax overhaul? Doubling up on your…
This Tax Overhaul Will Be Final Straw for Many Californians
Get ready to see a lot of moving vans headed out of high-tax states, like California, New Jersey and Maryland. But for people in high-tax…
New Jersey Enacts Uniform Fiduciary Access To Digital Assets Act
New Jersey recently enacted the Uniform Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act (the “Act”). In general, the Act provides executors, trustees, guardians, and power of…
An Update On A Fiduciary’s Access To The Digital Records Of A Decedent
A recent post to this blog titled You’ve Got (E-)Mail! Can Your Survivors Access It After Your Death?, discussed New York’s recently-enacted digital assets legislation,…
The $10,000 Question: How to Cover Child Care
Creative solutions are out there to cut the high price parents pay to make sure their little ones are cared for while they’re hard at…
10 Super Safe Growth Stocks to Buy for Long-Lasting Dividends
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/investing/T052-S015-safe-growth-stocks-to-buy-for-lasting-dividends/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 20, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Smart Retirees Eventually Realize They Need a Professional Plan
I’ve seen people with $1 million, even $2 million, run out of money because they didn’t have a plan. You can only wing it for…
Post Tax Vote: What Every Taxpayer Should Do Today
Now that Congress has passed its tax overhaul plan, all taxpayers should do a simple math equation to determine whether they’re likely to itemize in…
5 Best Things to Buy at Aldi for the Holidays
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/spending/T050-S001-5-best-things-to-buy-at-aldi-for-the-holidays/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 20, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
What the New Tax Overhaul Means for You
Here are some important changes that it could pay to anticipate.
Tax Change is Here: Here's How to Plan for It
The dust is still settling, but here are the first impressions of our nation’s new tax structure. Some of the changes will mean opportunities for…
Your 2018 New Year's Resolution: Learn How to Invest
You work hard. Make your money work hard, too.
Top Ten Reasons to Avoid Planning for Your Estate… Yes, You Read That Correctly
It’s the holiday season and while New Year’s resolutions are still several days away, it’s never too early to start planning for the procrastinators among…
The Role of the Commissioner of Accounts in Virginia Estate and Trust Administration
People typically picture the probate process going something like this: a person dies, you find their will, you take the will to the courthouse, the…
Wealth Management Update – December 2017
December Interest Rates for GRATs, Sales to Defective Grantor Trusts, Intra-Family Loans and Split Interest Charitable Trusts – The December § 7520 rate for use…
Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: The Conference Committee’s Bill
The House-Senate Conference Committee released the revised “Tax Cuts and Jobs Act” on Dec. 15, 2017. This compromise bill made major changes to the separate…
End the Year Right: 6 Financial Tips for Retirees
How time flies. As the year quickly winds down, it’s time to check a few items off your to-do list.
Retirement Income Defined: Knowing What it is Helps You Achieve Your Goals
There are several types of income, but they’re not all created equal. Some are clearly more stable and reliable than others. The key to your…
You Can Give Away More Tax Free in 2018
After staying the same for five years, the amount you can give away to any one individual in a particular year without reporting the gift…
3 Ways to Make Money in Company Stock
If your company offers you the opportunity to invest in its stock, it could come with some significant tax benefits and growth prospects.
8 Dow Jones Stocks That Could Thrive in 2018
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/investing/T052-S001-8-dow-jones-stocks-that-could-thrive-in-2018/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 18, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
7 Year-End Strategies to Save You Money On Taxes
Some extra saving, some stock moves, some charitable giving … these strategies all can add up to tax savings for many people. But the clock…
3 Best Costco Kirkland Products for the Holidays
‘Tis the season for the warehouse club’s affordable Kirkland Signature batteries, wines and Belgian chocolates.
3 Best Things to Buy at Lidl for the Holidays
The discount retailer from Germany rolls out the bargains on groceries and more as it grows its U.S. store footprint.
What’s in the Tax Bill, and How It Will Affect You
Several expected changes made the final cut, including a big increase in the standard deduction and a reduction in state and local income tax breaks.
Three Reasons Why Giving Your House to Your Children Isn't the Best Way to Protect It From Medicaid
You may be afraid of losing your home if you have to enter a nursing home and apply for Medicaid. While this fear is well-founded,…
Charitable Giving Can Begin at Home with a Donor-Advised Fund
Parents and grandparents can launch the next generation of philanthropists by allowing kids to help decide where to donate money from a donor-advised fund.
Even Responsible Savers Make Retirement Mistakes
You’ve already done the hard work to stash away a nice nest egg for retirement. Don’t blow it now. Here are four common missteps that…
House Hunters: Learn from My Rookie Mistakes
When I bought my first home in my 20s, I had worked hard and saved for a down payment. But I didn’t do all the…
Will Disney (DIS) Ride Star Wars, Fox to All-Time Highs?
Disney stock looks like a promising buy on the back of Star Wars success, blockbuster deal to fold in Fox’s entertainment assets.
10 High-Yield Stocks That Won't Cut Their Dividends in 2018
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/investing/T052-S015-10-high-yield-stocks-that-won-t-cut-their-dividend/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 15, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Recent Pennsylvania Superior Court Case Addresses the Messy Business of Divorce, Postnuptial Agreements and Death
A woman who dropped divorce proceedings three days after her husband died is entitled to the proceeds from his insurance policy but cannot claim his…
9 Personal Finance Lessons to Learn From Star Wars
December 15, 2017 marks the release of the eighth official movie in the Star Wars saga, The Last Jedi. We will finally see what Luke…
How Much Are Those Old Baseball Cards Worth?
Depending on the year, condition and, of course, the player, some baseball cards could be worth thousands of dollars.
10 Things Boomers Must Know About RMDs From IRAs
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/retirement/T045-S001-8-things-boomers-must-know-about-rmds-from-iras/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 14, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Naughty or Nice: A Guide for Giving to Charity
Doing the most good with your donation starts with following your heart, and then doing your due diligence.
Is the 'Buy-And-Hold' Strategy Still Alive and Well?
It’s a rule that investors have stood by forever. But if you’re near retirement, it might not be right for you now. And the “4%…
Court Holds That Lender Did Not Have Standing To Sue An Estate For A Deficiency After Electing That Its Claim Is A Preferred Debt And Lien
In In re Estate of Chapman, Peoples Bank (the Bank) conducted a non-judicial foreclosure sale of secured real estate owned by an estate and then…
Estate Tax Changes Past, Present, and Future
I. INTRODUCTION – This outline is a selective and evolving review of the history of the modern federal estate tax. It originated during the attempts…
10 Preferred Stock Funds for Safe, Substantial Yields
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/investing/T018-S001-10-preferred-stock-funds-safe-substantial-yields/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 13, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
3 Tax-Planning Mistakes Retirees Too Often Make
Tax-cutting strategies change once you retire, and some ideas that helped while you were working no longer apply once you start taking Social Security and…
Adobe Systems (ADBE) May Keep Soaring in 2018
Adobe reports earnings after the market closes Thursday, and analysts expect the red-hot software company to maintain its winning ways.
9 IRS Audit Red Flags for Retirees
In 2016, the Internal Revenue Service audited only 0.70% of all individual tax returns. So the odds are generally pretty low that your return will…
The Wealthy's Best-Kept Secret to Financial Success
The marathon-long path to wealth isn’t a glamorous one, and your success hinges on one simple word.
10 Losers That Will Be 2018's Best Stocks to Buy
2017 has been a good year for stocks as a whole, although not every stock has participated in the gains. Broad market indices are at…
Gift Cards You Can Buy at a 10% Discount (or More)
Why pay full price for popular gift cards when warehouse clubs and discount websites sell them well below face value.
6 Dividend Growth Stocks to Stay Ahead of Rising Interest Rates
For years, America’s low-interest-rate environment has pushed income hunters out of bonds and into other cash-producing investments – namely, dividend stocks. However, the Federal Reserve…
Surrogate’s Court Sets Aside Fraudulent Conveyance Violative of Contract to Make a Testamentary Disposition
A person who executes a valid agreement to make a testamentary disposition as to a specific item of property is precluded from making an alternative…
Overcoming The Misconceptions Of Dynamic Equity
Matt Rossetti is an entrepreneur, licensed attorney and the founder of Sentient Law, Ltd., and blogs at entreprelawyer.com. StockSnap.io These days, most startup attorneys I meet have at least heard of the slicing pie model for equity distribution, but many have yet to use it. There are a few common misconceptions that cause them to steer […]
Self-Employed? Avoid These Audit Red Flags on Your Tax Return
Being in business for yourself can be exciting, lucrative – and a great way to draw the attention of the Internal Revenue Service’s audit division.…
4 Telltale Signs You're Ready to Quit the Rat Race
How do you know when it’s time for a change and that you’re prepared to leave your comfort zone for a new outlook on life?…
7 Ways to Travel More in Retirement
Take advantage of one of the most valuable things that almost every retiree has in their arsenal: flexibility.
7 Year-End Strategies to Help You Save On Taxes
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/taxes/T055-S014-7-year-end-strategies-to-help-you-save-on-taxes/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 12, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Best Holiday Deals at Dollar Stores
You can pick up gifts, wrapping paper, holiday decor and other seasonal items on the cheap at dollar stores.
37 States That Won't Tax Your Social Security Benefits
Only 13 states will levy taxes on your monthly Social Security checks.
After a Loved One Passes: Six Important Steps to Know
The days, weeks, and months after the death of a loved one can be emotional and stressful, especially if you are named the executor of…
8 Best Cheap Stocks to Buy Now Under $10
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/investing/T052-S015-8-best-cheap-stocks-to-buy-now-under-10/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 11, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
10 Top Stock Picks for the Next Decade
Permalink — https://www.kiplinger.com/slideshow/investing/T052-S001-the-10-best-stocks-for-the-next-decade/index.html URL of source article. Date — December 11, 2017 5:00 am Publish date of source article. Source — http://www.kiplinger.com/about/rss/kiplinger.rss URL of RSS feed.
Battle the Big 4 Retirement Risks With a Solid Income Plan
Putting your money in the right places and being smart about how you’ll draw it down are the keys to defeating the top four retirement…
Iconic Estate Failures: What Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston and Prince Did Wrong
Even the biggest stars with the best legal help available have made some major mistakes. Here’s what the rest of us can learn about our…
More Scrutiny of Donor Advised Funds
Notice 2017-73, released on December 4, 2017, describes potential approaches that may be taken to address issues raised regarding the use of donor advised funds…
Review Your Portfolio in 3 Easy Steps
The New Year is the perfect time to make sure your investments are on the right track.