Tax strategies

Tax columnists George Jones and Mark Luscombe of Wolters Kluwer put together a list of important changes from this year that will carry over into the next.

These products are meant for short- and intermediate-term investing and should carry enough risk to grow and meet the goals over time.

Avoiding these mistakes with a small business is essential.

There's no point in waiting on new policy to initiate preparation that is protective and vital, no matter what the ultimate law may be.

How IRA conversions can come at a steep price for clients. Plus, ways to dodge a surprise bill from the IRS.

Just in case clients are looking to cut few corners, here are some of the most common tax frauds that the agency is ready to pounce upon.

When a tax-deferred account is part of an estate, failure to follow the tax rules correctly can result in a financial disaster.

How a couple wrote off cat food and other breaks that boosted refunds. Plus, how charity counts toward an IRA withdrawal.

Clients can fully deduct their IRA contributions if they have no access to a workplace retirement plan.

Clients who make these prohibited transactions can face devastating penalties.

There are ways around having to pay as much as a 50% penalty. Plus, inheriting Roth IRAs and designing more efficient retirement portfolios.

Moving investments into these accounts may optimize returns and boost savings. Plus, know your IRAs and the impact of Trump's proposals on income brackets.

One suggestion planners say they are offering bullish clients: Don't be extreme.

Gap in coverage concerns older clients; planners are also taking a closer look at HSAs.

Your late clients' surviving spouses or children are entitled to a $255 lump-sum death benefit, as long as they meet these requirements.

Why it's a good time to invest even small amounts into 401(k) and Roth IRA accounts. Plus, avoiding the capital gains hit.

The amount a client gets back from the government can go right into an IRA for added benefits now and in the future. Plus, keep a parent's savings alive, even if they're not.

Policy owners who take out loans may need a rescue — but not all life preservers are created equal.

Here's how clients can get around income limits and continue making contributions. Plus, tips for updating a client's financial plan now and dramatically increasing wealth after the IRS gets paid.