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Top of mind questions and ideas to consider

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has us all on high alert. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the people of Ukraine as this humanitarian crisis persists and we continue to hope for peace. These questions may be top of mind.


How Will Ukraine Impact the Markets?

Chances are, you are worried about what the conflict will do to the markets. Take a look at this chart from J.P. Morgan Asset Management that indicates short-lived volatility around geopolitical events.





We are monitoring the situation and keeping a close eye on your portfolio and how it may impact your financial plan.


Should We Expect Cyber Attacks?

Cyber criminals feast in times of geopolitical uncertainty. Hacks, phishing scams, and misinformation are to be expected. If you are worried that an email or a phone call is fishy, it probably is. If something seems off, don’t hesitate to call the office before sharing any sensitive information.

Some simple tips:

  • Use a strong, unpredictable password that is at least 12 to 15 characters long

  • Update your antivirus software

  • Only use trusted WiFi

When there are things happening that are out of our control we find it helpful to focus on things we can control. Here are some considerations for tax season.



Yes, it's tax season and regardless of your age and life stage, this time of year can be stressful. Though the April 18 deadline (for most taxpayers) is almost upon us, there is still time to consider these ideas and strategies:


FOR RETIREMENT SAVERS


Now is the time to go all out on retirement savings. If you didn't max out your IRA contribution limits last year, make sure to do so this year. The IRS allows contributions to an IRA for 2021 to be made until April 18 of this year.


Do you need assistance determining whether a Roth or traditional contribution makes more sense? Let's review this together. Reply to this email to schedule a time to meet.




FOR BUSINESS OWNERS


Many private businesses that made it successfully through the uncertainty of the pandemic ended up with record financial outcomes last year. The CARES Act allows business owners to implement qualified defined benefit plans into their businesses and reduce their tax burden for 2021 until their tax filing deadline.


Does a qualified defined benefit plan make sense for your business? Reply to this email and together we can find out.



FOR SAVERS AND RETIREES


Roth conversions (transfer of retirement assets from a 401(k) or Traditional, SEP or SIMPLE IRA into a Roth IRA) tend to be a great tool for young savers who expect their incomes to increase, and retirees whose tax bills could rise when they start taking Required Minimum Distributions.


Does a Roth conversion make sense? Request a conversion report so together we can determine if this strategy works for you.




FOR HIGH-INCOME EARNERS


You may have concerns about capital gains this time of year. Capital gain income is subject to different tax rules than ordinary income and requires special attention.


Should you spread losses (and gains) across multiple years? Let’s review your current situation to see if you would benefit from this strategy.




FOR FAMILIES


Should you skip filing your taxes if you were out of work as a result of the pandemic last year? The answer is no. Individuals and families can get expanded tax benefits, even if they have little or no income from a job or other sources, according to the IRS. The American Rescue Plan can help boost refunds for many people, including Child Tax Credits and other rebates.


Click here for more details!


Know that you are not alone, we are here to help! If you have concerns about the current geopolitical climate or any of these strategies, simply reply to this email or call the office to schedule a time to discuss.




The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. All performance referenced is historical and is no guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.

The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful.

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.


Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a required minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA.


No strategy assures success or protects against loss.



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