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Today’s self-described “Progressives” seem to have adopted the universal answer, “Tax the Rich.” It doesn’t matter what the question might be; the answer lies in a burning desire to punish successful Americans through taxation, in the name of solving societal problems. Constantly tilting at the windmills of increased government revenue, these people live in a […]

In last week’s Blog, we identified certain topics in Elder Care that play a large role in our comprehensive personal financial planning practice. Today’s topics are no less serious and pertain to a wide variety of our clients, radio listeners, and community residents. Keep in mind that these are areas of practice for Elder Law […]

On a recent broadcast of the Van Wie Financial Hour radio program, we featured a Board-Certified Elder Law Attorney. Having spoken with her in the past, we knew that some of what she had to say would pleasantly surprise many of our listeners. As non-attorneys ourselves, we are passing along some fundamental clarifications regarding misunderstood […]

With each incoming new year comes a new set of guidelines on contributions to Qualified Retirement Plans, both company-sponsored and individual. Changes are ostensibly made to reflect inflation over the prior year, although the increases are generally much smaller than increases in the actual cost of living. Up to the limits specified by the IRS, […]

We reported last week in this Blog how Americans are focused on improving their own personal finances in 2024, and we applaud their efforts. Now comes the difficult follow-through. With resolutions, whether formal or casual, time is the enemy of conviction. The time to start is now. The time to relax is, well, never. Change […]

In a sure sign of the times, Americans are concentrating on improving their personal finances in 2024. According to a recent Allianz Life study, recent financial difficulties have caused Americans to rethink their own situations. Unfortunately, the conditions that caused our difficulties also hinders relief. On top of already astronomical prices for necessities, inflation (while […]

With only 9 trading sessions left (as I write this), 2023 appears to be ending on a financial high note. The Dow-Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) closed last week with three consecutive new all-time highs. Meanwhile, the S&P500 Index also reached a new high, this one on a total-return basis, which includes dividends throughout the year. […]

Insatiable governments are constantly searching for new sources of revenue, and the 118th Congress is no different. Sticking to the mantra of “tax the rich,” a handful of elected officials are constantly seeking new and creative ways to separate successful people from more of their assets. Unable to satisfy their spending appetites with a large […]

Once again, I am driven to perform my annual exercise in futility by itemizing my Wish List from the current (118th) Congress, which meets from October 1, 2023, through the end of 2024. As always, there are many unresolved tax questions, expired (but important) tax provisions, and inconsistencies within the rules for Qualified Retirement Accounts. […]