Year-end tax planning

As the end of the year approaches, it's time to consider strategies that can help you reduce your tax bill. But most tax tips, suggestions, and... Read the full article

Tax planning for annuities

Favorable tax treatment is one of the main reasons for buying an annuity. But what exactly are the tax benefits? And are there any drawbacks? It's... Read the full article

Taxation of investments

It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you... Read the full article

Tax planning for income

The goal of income tax planning is to minimize your federal income tax liability. You can achieve this in different ways. Typically, though, you'd... Read the full article

Education tax credits

It's tax time, and your kitchen table is littered with papers and forms. As if this isn't bad enough, you recently paid your child's college semester... Read the full article

Teaching your college-age child about money

When your child first started school, you doled out the change for milk and a snack on a daily basis. But now that your kindergartner has grown up,... Read the full article

Teaching your child about money

Ask your five-year old where money comes from, and the answer you'll probably get is "From a machine!" Even though children don't always understand... Read the full article

Getting started: establishing a financial safety net

In times of crisis, you don't want to be shaking pennies out of a piggy bank. Having a financial safety net in place can ensure that you're protected... Read the full article