Tax

Thematic ETFs have proliferated as funds started in the last six months looking to trade on political agendas, such as tax reform and infrastructure spending.

Many of the president's "core principles" were similar to promises he made on the campaign trail, including a reduction to 15% in the rate for businesses.

Advisers with their own practices would see their tax rates cut to 15% under the new proposal.

The plan would be paid for partly with the elimination of deductions and loopholes for the wealthy, raising fears over tax-exemption.

The proposal includes cuts that would benefit businesses, the middle class and certain high-earning individuals but left unanswered questions about whether the plan would be paid for, or how.

Many are unaware that fostering a pet or installing a swimming pool can help them qualify for a deduction.

Section 1031 of the IRS Code may seem arcane, but using it can be highly beneficial to certain clients.

Delayed retirement credits only accrue to age 70, but there still may be tax issues to consider.

Bequests, endowments and other gifts demand expertise beyond traditional tax and estate help.

Clients can claim airfare, lodging fees and half the cost of their meals as long as they can prove the trip is for work.

The accounting method can deliver attractive savings, along with protecting nature or farmland.

A couple who expects to earn a bigger income in the future is advised to convert part of their IRA into a Roth now while they are in a lower tax bracket.

Dependent care flex spending accounts can help clients mitigate child care costs, but also reduce tax credits otherwise available.

If your clients pay the alternative minimum tax, these funds can help lower their tax liability.

If shares of companies such as Wal-Mart start to falter, that'd be a clue that measures such as the border adjustment tax are gaining traction.

There are risks to this approach, however.

Here’s how to decide whether your client should select the traditional or Roth IRA to put away for retirement and boost their savings.

It's possible to use these distributions to preserve clients' savings well past their anticipated lifespan.

Medicare costs count as a deductible medical expense, but only if they exceed 7.5% of adjusted gross income.