A discussion of giving too much away might initially seem strange. But, if you’re not careful, you might inadvertently end up with a tax bill on funds you give away. This is called the gift tax and the IRS expects you to know it. After all, they’ve generously listed it on their website for you to read! So, how does it work?
An introduction to Socially Responsible Investing and how you can choose an approach that aligns your values and resources.
The Mega Backdoor Roth 401(k) has typically been reserved for select Fortune 500 companies. Here's how you - the Solopreneur - can access this little known strategy!
Why is my portfolio underperforming the S&P 500? Do I need to make a change? These questions are on the minds of many investors when a primary index like S&P 500 rallies ahead of many others. As one of the most widely recognized benchmarks, it's common to compare your strategy against it – but should you?
A first meeting – or “first date” – with a professional like a financial advisor can be uncomfortable. Believe it or not, it can feel just as uncomfortable for the professional. But it doesn't have to be! Our Alterra Fit Interview creates an open, comfortable, productive first discussion and enables us to discover together if we're a good fit and your best next steps - whether with or without us!
There’s no getting around it – recessions are stressful. The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic is just the most recent reminder. Recessions bring volatility, uncertainty, anxiety and the urge to act – do something, anything, to make sure I’m safe. This is often where people make mistakes. Here are a few common ones we see and how to avoid them so you’re ready the next time around.
Turning 65? Medicare can be a daunting topic, but this guide should help understand your options and build your plan to successfully enroll!
“Why are you throwing away money on rent when you could own?” Have you ever heard this? Its core assertion is that renting a home is an expense while owning a home is an investment. For most homeowners, however, this is unlikely to be the case.
We don’t see this as the next Great Depression. Why? Well, historically, major economic downturns have different causes, but one common thread separates the Great Depression from each subsequent recession and recovery.
Microsoft led the way in a rarely utilized benefit within their 401(k) plan – the after-tax Roth conversion. And, slowly but surely, other companies are adopting this plan feature. So, how does it work, what other companies offer it and is it worth it?
The CARES Act provides a wide range of support to struggling small businesses. But which program is right for you? Here’s a guide to help navigate your options.
With so many feeling the effects of the COVID-19 quarantine, federal and state governments are moving to help. Here are a few of the notable tax deadline changes and stimulus efforts in the recent Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Tax deadlines, IRA & RMD changes, stimulus efforts, small business relief options and more.
Hello from the entire Alterra team! We’ll use this page to provide a few updates from us and resources we hope help you holistically while staying home!
Roth IRAs are one of the few ways to build tax-free retirement income. And with a long retirement time frame, they can build quite the snowball. But, if you make too much income, the IRS won’t let you contribute. Fortunately, for many, the Backdoor Roth IRA can help...so is it worth the extra effort?
When you think of charity, what comes to mind? Do you think of non-profits – organizations taking on major challenges and trying to make a difference? True! Many charitable contributions aim to give from your resources to fund groups who seek to meet the needs of others – and, as an incentive, you usually get a tax deduction for your contribution! But what if we simply define charity as giving to those in need? This opens a new world of philanthropy many find brings deep fulfillment and makes a difference. We call it Person-to-Person Charity.