Estate planning

From Roth conversions to QHFDs: The coronavirus pandemic is forcing difficult questions, and clients rightfully are looking for answers that advisors are uniquely suited to provide.

A revocable living trust is one way to reduce their estate taxes, however the law requires clients to sign the document in the presence of the notary.

The Secure Act eliminated a popular retirement planning feature. Here are strategies to help clients mitigate the tax hit.

Convenience accounts, power of attorney, trusts: The benefits and drawbacks are legion. Here's a guide.

Filing at the wrong age and failing to take advantage of programs like spousal and survivor benefits are just a few common mistakes seniors make.

Why do advisors focus so heavily on planning for a lifestyle change that may never happen?

Advisors can protect clients’ estate planning goals post-Secure Act but the vehicle will have to change.

Many pre-retirees leave the workforce sooner than anticipated as a result of various factors, such as job loss and illness.

The Secure Act was designed to expand retirement savers’ options but it has subsequently all-but-eliminated the stretch IRA for beneficiaries. It's on advisors to make clients aware of the major change.

To help individuals and businesses prepare for filing season, Grant Thornton has released a collection of year-end tax tips.

In 90% of families, wealth disappears by the end of the third generation.

Clients who own a business may be eligible for a 20% deduction as a result of tax overhaul. For those who don’t qualify, there are other savvy strategies

The funds may be gaining traction among older investors with significant assets, but rarely live up to their billing.

When his dad passed away, my client would have to probate 60 different stocks and a New York property, plus handle charitable contributions. At the same time, 13 grandchildren would breathe down his neck for their inherited shares.

Without the marital deduction, a certain category of married clients will have challenges inheriting property outright.

Clients adding investments other than target-date funds to their 401(k) or 403(b) could potentially hurt their bottom line.

Do your clients have their ducks in a row?

An advisor finds himself thrust into a role he did not anticipate when his married clients die unexpectedly, leaving two sons who need advice and support.

In some ways, their investments are a microcosm of trends sweeping the wider market.

Severe declines provide the opportunity to review their portfolios and ensure their current plans support their short- and long-term goals.