Michael Kitces

Sure, these trusts are intended to shelter a beneficiary, but a non-grantor one presents numerous tax-liability issues.

Given retirees’ unease about the future, spending down principal can prove a curious challenge.

These planning strategies can prevent beneficiaries from biting off too much — or too little.

Knowing how and when to withdraw can save clients big in their golden years.

Their low or no upfront costs can bite down hard on an adviser’s future profits.

Now that the tax-free distribution is back on the books, here's how advisers can take full advantage.

Your clients’ generous intentions can actually work against them. How to help navigate a thorny but navigable issue.

Whether clients are making 529 plan distributions, a direct tuition payment or an in-kind gift, for grandparents, timing is everything.

The goal is to own investments that can withstand risk, even if it means some sacrifices.

One used to be enough, but planners keen to move up the ladder need to develop their arsenal — and quickly. Just as importantly, however, these skills can provide a roadmap for where the firm should invest.

A NING trust can provide significant savings and help clients avoid gift tax ramifications.

How a lifetime annuity can be the solution to one of the toughest challenges.

A new model of holistic financial advice is coming on the scene.

Those still accumulating for retirement can also be affected but there are some important caveats, explains Michael Kitces.

Risk protection requires holding some investments that underperform when stocks rise, such as government bonds. But the payoff can come when the tide turns.

Analysis: Arguably the greatest adjustment pressure will be on annuity companies and broker-dealer and insurance firms that will not likely qualify for the level-fee fiduciary exception.

If advisers fall short, “required disclosures will provide a roadmap to the plaintiff’s attorney to pursue."

The clock is ticking for the onset of an incredibly far-reaching new fiduciary rule. Here’s who it helps — and hurts.

Advisors in today’s crowded field must stand out in order to grow their business. Here’s how to build a digital platform that will attract clients.