Cash Value Life Insurance, also known as permanent life insurance, combines a death benefit with an investment component called the cash value. In a cash value life insurance policy, part of each premium you pay is allocated towards insuring your life, while the remaining portion is dedicated to building up a cash value. The cash value portion of your policy grows tax-deferred, and if structured properly,…

Navigating the Alternative Minimum Tax Changes: The landscape of taxation is complex, and it becomes even more intricate when it comes to high income earners. One such complexity is the Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT), a tax system designed to ensure that wealthier taxpayers pay a minimum amount of tax, regardless of the deductions and credits they may claim. With the changes brought about by the Tax…

Understanding Premium Financing Premium Financing represents a sophisticated financial strategy that involves the procurement of a bank loan to pay for insurance premiums. This approach is particularly advantageous for high-net-worth individuals seeking to preserve their use of capital in other areas, while securing desired life insurance coverage for liquidity planning. The Mechanics of Premium Financing Premium…

Understanding Tax-Loss Harvesting: Tax-loss harvesting is a sophisticated investment strategy that involves the selling of securities at a loss to offset a corresponding gain. When applied effectively, this technique can reduce the taxable income and enhance the tax-efficiency of an investment portfolio. The essence of tax-loss harvesting lies in its capacity to lower the investor's current year's…

The Power of a Holistic Approach to Public and Private Equity Markets for Accredited Investors When it comes to growing and preserving wealth, accredited investors have a unique advantage in harnessing the often-underestimated synergy between public and private equity markets. By utilizing a comprehensive strategy that integrates both markets, investors can optimize their returns and build a robust…

In the intricate realm of financial and estate planning, an additional layer of complexity arises when dealing with high-net-worth individuals who have blended families. The challenge lies in striking a delicate balance between the financial needs and goals of each family member, while also ensuring that wealth is strategically managed and preserved for future generations. This blog post aims to illuminate…

Navigating Complex Tax Regulations for High-Net-Worth Individuals When it comes to tax planning, high net worth families must pay adequate attention to three distinct taxes on their wealth: income tax, capital gains tax, and estate tax. Understanding and managing these taxes effectively is not only a requirement but also a strategic move to safeguard wealth and ensure future financial health. This…

Is Social Security income taxable? As we approach tax season, many individuals are wondering if their Social Security income will be subject to taxation by the IRS. This is a common concern among retirees and those nearing retirement age. The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors. In this blog, we will explore the topic of Social Security income and its…

The Dynamic Partnership of Estate Planning Attorneys & Wealth Advisors Co-Author – Amy R. Koontz, Attorney at Malouf Nakos Jackson & Swinson, P.C. As American retirees prepare to transfer a staggering $36 trillion over the next 30 years to families, friends, and charitable organizations upon death1, it’s critical to understand that a seamless transfer of wealth requires more than just a will.…