Insights for Your Journey
Latest News & Articles
Recessions – How Bad Are They & How Long Do They Last?
Turn on the TV or scroll through a news feed in uncertain times and you’re sure to see that nasty “R” word – Recession. “How bad will this be?” “How long will this last?” It’s not uncommon to hear, “This one is different!” or “We’ve never seen this problem before!” So, what does history have to tell us about this topic?
Medicare – The What, When & How when Turning 65
Turning 65? Medicare can be a daunting topic, but this guide should help understand your options and build your plan to successfully enroll!
Breaking the Isolation Cycle with Random Acts of Kindness
Feeling the quarantine blues? This one habit has helped pull me out of my isolation cycle.
Is Your Home an Investment?
“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.
Between Two Quarantine Camps
Many of us have lived with the philosophy that “time is money”. Until recently, every unproductive moment was wasted time and, therefore, wasted money. And we constantly fought for the mythical work-life balance.
Why This Isn’t the Next Great Depression
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.
The Mega Backdoor Roth – A Hidden 401(k) Benefit
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?
4-29-2020 webinar
Thanks to all who attended our webinar on 4/29! We were glad to host Paul Single, a Senior Portfolio Manager at City National Rochdale, to discuss the coronavirus impacts on the market and economy and Q&A from many of you. For anyone who wasn’t able to participate, we’ve made this replay available. We hope you find it helpful!
You Can Skip Your 2020 RMD…But Should You?
The recently passed CARES Act allows you to skip your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from all retirement accounts this year. These distributions, required for retirement account owners over age 72 (increased from age 70½ by the SECURE Act), are taxed as income,...
Can Losses Increase My Investment Return?
No one likes a seeing their investments lose value. But, as advisors, we ask what opportunities exist in any situation, including market downturns. One such opportunity is called tax-loss harvesting. We discuss what it is, how it can help and when you might consider using it.
What Would You Do if Every Day was a Saturday?
What would you do if you didn’t have to work? At first, you’d probably celebrate your newfound freedom – sleep in late, go out more, travel. You’d partake of the pleasures you didn’t have time for before. Maybe you’d even tackle all those home projects you’ve been putting off for years. But after the excitement wears off, what then?
PPP vs EIDL – Which CARES Act Program is Right for Me?
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.
CARES Act and Tax Deadlines – 6 Coronavirus-Related Changes to Know
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.
Tips to Stay Informed, Healthy and Balanced During the COVID-19 Quarantine
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!
Backdoor Roth IRAs – What Are They and Are They Worth It?
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?
Free E-Book
Download the free E-Book on 5 Strategies to Reduce Your Estate Taxes in Washington State.