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Tag Archives: Personal Finance

Protecting Child Performers’ Earnings

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Making it big at an early age is a dream that comes true for a small number of performers and their parents. Careful planning can boost the chances that these child stars will be among the even smaller group who remain successful into adulthood.
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GRAT Planning Strategies

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A grantor retained annuity trust, commonly called a GRAT, allows a grantor to pass assets to a beneficiary while minimizing his or her federal gift and estate tax burden. While GRATs do offer some undeniable advantages, like any estate planning technique, they are not right for everyone.
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Giving After Disaster Strikes

Natural disasters can make humans feel powerless. The impulse to help in their wake is both natural and admirable. But while there is no such thing as “bad generosity,” some gifts are more valuable than others.
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When Should You Borrow From Your 401(k)?

Sometimes the money in your retirement account can do more good in the present than in the future. While you should never raid your 401(k) for a new flat-screen TV or a vacation, under certain circumstances borrowing from your retirement plan can serve as a responsible financial planning solution.
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How Does Getting Married Affect Student Loan Payments?

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Many people imagine the discussions that lead up to a marriage as romantic tete-a-tetes with the occasional choice of invitation pattern thrown in. But those conversations also can, and should, include more mundane and even potentially painful topics. One common example: the state of your student loans.
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Deathbed Financial Planning Tips

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A terminal diagnosis for you or a loved one can make it seem as though your world is falling apart. While there may be nothing you can do about the illness, you may find solace in addressing issues that you can control.
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How Much Liability Insurance Do You Need?

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When most people consider their insurance needs, certain types of coverage typically come to mind. Personal liability insurance, frequently called an “umbrella” policy, seldom makes this list. But when a rainy day – or an expensive lawsuit – turns up, sometimes nothing but an umbrella will do.
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Maritime Taxes: Saving Money On The Water

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The siren call of boat ownership is easy to understand, here in South Florida. On a hot summer day, or even a crisp winter afternoon, getting out on the water for some sailing, fishing, snorkeling or water skiing can seem like the perfect reason to take the plunge. If you are ready to invest in a boat of your own, whether a modest fishing boat or a high-end yacht, it is worthwhile to pause and consider the tax implications.
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