Beyond Bulls & Bears

Category: Wealth Planning

By the numbers: Changes set for Social Security and Medicare in 2025
Wealth Planning

By the numbers: Changes set for Social Security and Medicare in 2025

In 2025, Social Security will see a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment. At the same time, Medicare Part B premiums and the annual deductible will increase. Our Bill Cass explains the key changes planned for Medicare and Social Security.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Act before year-end to manage your tax bill
Wealth Planning

Act before year-end to manage your tax bill

Before the year 2024 comes to a close, it's time to optimize your tax strategy. Our Bill Cass shares some tips including timing deductions and harvesting losses.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Turning after-tax plan contributions into tax-free retirement income
Wealth Planning

Turning after-tax plan contributions into tax-free retirement income

Retirement plan savers looking to mitigate the risk of higher taxes in the future may benefit from making after-tax contributions to employer plans, which may be transferred to Roth accounts. Our Bill Cass details a “mega backdoor” Roth strategy.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Get a jumpstart on year-end planning with this useful checklist
Wealth Planning

Get a jumpstart on year-end planning with this useful checklist

Year-end can be an opportune time to review finances, rebalance portfolios, and possibly reduce taxes. Our Bill Cass shares some highlights from a year-end planning checklist.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Medicare open enrollment presents opportunity to change existing plans
Wealth Planning

Medicare open enrollment presents opportunity to change existing plans

Medicare open enrollment, held from October 15 to December 7, allows individuals to change or sign up for plans, and potentially save money and improve coverage. Our Bill Cass shares the key things you need to know.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Surviving disaster: Key considerations for moving ahead
Wealth Planning

Surviving disaster: Key considerations for moving ahead

Surviving a disaster involves securing safety, accessing help from agencies, and documenting damages for insurance claims. Our Bill Cass highlights numerous resources for financial relief, including accessing emergency funds, insurance and tax considerations.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
US elections: How the presidential candidates stand on taxes
Wealth Planning

US elections: How the presidential candidates stand on taxes

Taxes are top of mind for many. See what the US presidential candidates stand on tax policy as we enter the final weeks before the election. Our Bill Cass compares their plans.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
How the expiring TCJA could impact your tax bill
Wealth Planning

How the expiring TCJA could impact your tax bill

The expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2025 could mean a tax increase for many taxpayers. But the impact varies widely based on income, location, and personal circumstances. Our Bill Cass shares the details.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Five observations on the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)
Wealth Planning

Five observations on the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA)

The TCJA is set to expire at the end of 2025, bringing unprecedented uncertainty. From potential tax rate hikes to changes in deductions, our Bill Cass highlights what you need to know to plan ahead.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Age milestones can trigger financial planning actions
Wealth Planning

Age milestones can trigger financial planning actions

Many financial planning actions are linked to age milestones. Our Bill Cass highlights what key birthdays and other dates could mean for your financial plan.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Unwinding the 10-year rule for inherited retirement accounts
Wealth Planning

Unwinding the 10-year rule for inherited retirement accounts

Determining the age when retirement account owners need to begin taking distributions is key for heirs to understand how to implement the 10-year rule for inherited accounts. Our Bill Cass explains what beneficiaries need to know.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |
Navigating financial aid: New FAFSA rules and tips for families
College Savings

Navigating financial aid: New FAFSA rules and tips for families

Recent changes to the FAFSA form and process include a simpler form, fewer questions and a revised eligibility formula. Our Bill Cass highlights what you need to know to apply for federal financial aid for college.

Bill Cass, CFP®, CPWA® |