Insights for Your Journey
Latest News & Articles
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?
Person to Person Charity – What Is It and Why Should You Consider It?
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.
Correction, Bear Market, Recession…What Do They All Mean?
When the market is up, terms like bull market and economic expansion pass by without concern. But when the market turns down, terms like correction, bear market and recession add confusion to uncertainty and increase anxiety. But, what do these terms actually mean?
Time in the Market Is Better Than Timing the Market
In days, weeks and months of sharp declines, the first thought is often to sell stocks and “wait for things to stabilize”. Unfortunately, this usually means watching the market rebound and missing the upswing. Why do many advisors say you should ride it out? Because sharp market declines are usually followed by equally sharp recoveries.
Coronavirus and the Market
News of the coronavirus is front and center in the headlines. Health organizations around the world are actively assessing the situation, learning about this new virus and attempting to build containment and treatment plans as they observe and respond to the spread and impact on those affected. Uncertainty about how the virus will impact business both in the US and around the world has also catalyzed a decline in financial markets since hitting all time highs in mid-February. We wanted to provide our perspective on a few questions you might be asking yourselves and what history has to say about these kinds of events.
Turning Taxes Into Opportunities
Can taxes really be turned into opportunities? We discuss a few strategies!
Free E-Book
Download the free E-Book on 5 Strategies to Reduce Your Estate Taxes in Washington State.