529 Plans: Advanced Questions

The cost of higher education and the burden of education loans upon recent graduates continues to be a recurring theme. Families with higher incomes have addressed these costs by contributing to tax-preferred savings vehicles, such as the 529 plan (named for a section of the tax code). We’re reasonably confident that 529 plans are here […]

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ABA WEALTH MANAGEMENT AND TRUST CONFERENCE

LEARNING NEVER ENDS With dynamics affecting the wealth management and trust industry, our advisors make constant efforts to stay on top of all changes. Our continued education helps us put you in the best possible position to grow your wealth and protect your legacy. This month, Chairman & CEO Stephen English and Vice President & […]

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ASK A TRUST OFFICER: LIVING TRUSTS

Dear Trust Officer: My parents are retired, living in another state. They have a sizeable investment portfolio and are financially comfortable. However, as they are getting older, they are having trouble keeping up with their paperwork. Last year they were late in making tax payments, very unlike them. I would help them, but I just […]

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WHEN GOOD FORTUNE COMES YOUR WAY.

Whether expected or not, an inheritance, divorce settlement, severance package or pension payout, proceeds from the sale of a business, life insurance, legal judgments, or even lottery winnings—all can put in your hands the equivalent of several years of earnings. NOW YOU’RE AT A CROSSROADS — suddenly called upon to switch from wealth-building mode to […]

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Q & A : IRA ROLLOVERS

A recent report from the GAO suggests that IRAs are becoming an increasingly important element of retirement security. An estimated 43 million taxpayers have IRAs, worth an estimated $5.2 trillion. Some 42.3 million of these IRAs are worth less than $1 million each, and 800,000 are worth more. 314 taxpayers have IRAs worth $25 million […]

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I NEED PROTECTION FOR MY 401(K) DISTRIBUTION

Dear Employee Benefit Officer: When I retire in about a year, I’m expecting a six-figure distribution from my employer’s 401(k) plan. The success of my retirement turns on what I do with this money, and I’m more than a little unsettled by the prospect. What should I do to keep my all my options open? […]

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ARE YOU A LIVING TRUST CANDIDATE?

Any comprehensive review of an older person’s financial planning is likely to touch upon the value of a revocable living trust for investment management. THE TRUST APPROACH provides a great tool for delegating investment responsibility into experienced hands without giving up control of assets. Anyone with a substantial portfolio should consider a trust and the […]

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Year-End Tax Tips

Porches and doorsteps are still decorated with pumpkins and mums, but the new year is creeping up once again. Prepare now for the best outlook come tax time.

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