There are many reasons why we choose to give to charity.  At the forefront for most is the satisfaction of knowing it is making a difference in the lives of others.  The U.S. gave an estimated $358.4 billion to charity in 2014, which surpassed the peak giving level seen before the Great Recession, according to […]

Most Americans create their first will when they have children or after they have accumulated some assets, typically no later than the age of 40.  Sadly, many people forget about it thereafter. Some think that updating estate plans will be too time-consuming or costly.   Others just don’t want to think about death or procrastinate […]

Although tax season is behind us (phew!), it reminded me of this very common question. Let’s say it’s back in April and you’re figuring out how much tax you owe the federal government.  At some point you are told “you are subject to AMT.” That stands for “Alternative Minimum Tax.”  But what does that mean? […]