Category: Financial Planning

What’s in this article: New eligible expenses in 529 plans OBBBA introduction of 530A accounts (or “Trump Accounts”) for children Changes to gift tax exclusion and estate tax exemption New deduction and catch-up contributions for seniors State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction changes New exemptions from income tax   You may be surprised to learn that Benjamin [...]

What’s in this article? The Importance of Finding a Good Fit What does a relationship with you look like? What’s your investment philosophy? How are you compensated? What are your qualifications? What sort of digital access do you provide clients? Finding the Right Advisor for You People choose to work with financial advisors for a [...]

What’s in this article? State tax considerations for Oregon and Washington residents Taking advantage of the annual and lifetime gift tax exclusion Making direct payments for education and healthcare Gifting to 529 Plans Using custodial accounts and trust structures as a tool for gifting to grandkids   Many of the grandparents that I work with [...]

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was passed by Congress and signed into law on July 4th, 2025. This new tax law is set to reshape charitable giving rules beginning in 2026. While many of the changes appear subtle, their impact could be significant—especially for families who regularly donate to charity. With just weeks [...]

In this article (read below or download here): Getting started with a multi-generational philanthropy tradition How donor-advised funds (DAF) offer both flexibility and tax advantages Building a legacy with a family foundation How Charitable Lead Trusts (CLTs) can play a role in family giving The most significant thing we can pass on to the next [...]

As we near the end of the year, it’s time to wrap up year-end charitable giving. To ensure that your gift donations are processed by year-end, please follow the deadline guidelines below provided by Schwab and Fidelity for your brokerage accounts. Schwab Year-End Gifting Deadlines Type of gift/contribution Deadline requirement for 2025 tax deduction Mutual [...]

Google provides an extensive range of benefits that can enhance your wealth, manage risk, and secure your future. By integrating Google’s compensation, retirement, and health benefits into your financial plan, you can better align these offerings with your long-term goals. Equity Awards Google’s stock units (GSUs) can be a powerful tool for achieving financial objectives. [...]

You can read and/or download our 2025 Year-End Tax Planning Checklist here: [...]

For the past two years, I’ve been the primary caregiver for my 94-year-old mom.  The experience has been both challenging and—unexpectedly—rewarding. Everyone’s journey looks different, but there are common threads. Caring for aging parents requires planning, flexibility, compassion, and a strong support system. Here are a few lessons that I’ve learned that may help guide [...]