Q&A Time: Small Cap Stocks, Marsh & McLennan and Hershey
The “Money Talks” hosts address questions on why the market is up, Marsh & McLennan and Hershey.
Should I Buy My “Dream Home” Today?
Bil Lako, CFP®, and Dr. Gene Henssler weigh in on whether you should take advantage of the low interest rates and home prices to buy a dream home for retirement today.
Increased MAGI Today May Equal Increased Medicare Premiums Tomorrow
Bil Lako, CFP® highlights how your modified adjusted gross income affects your Medicare Part B and prescription drug coverage premiums.
Increased MAGI in Present May Hurt in the Future
What you thought was smart tax planning today could require you to pay an increased Medicare premium in 2014. We explain in today’s Marietta Daily Journal.
In the News: Charitable Giving
Giving to charity this holiday season? Ensure your generosity goes far by checking out your charity first. We explain in this Marietta Daily Journal blog post.
What health-care provisions are effective in 2013?
2013 will be a significant year for health care. We highlight some of the provisions that may affect you in this Insurance Tip.
Reap the Tax Benefits of Education Planning
The tax code includes a number of incentives that can provide tax benefits when obtaining a higher education. Learn more in this Tax Tip.
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
If you are interested in the income of a real estate investment without becoming a landlord, you may consider a REIT. Learn more in this Financial Tip.
Sequestration Threatens Direct-Payment Bond Subsidies for Issuers
Local governments that have issued direct-pay bonds, such as Build America Bonds, should be aware that their subsidies from the federal government on those bonds are potentially subject to the budget cuts mandated as part of the so-called “fiscal cliff.” Those subsidy payments cover 35% of the interest costs on direct-pay bonds. Should the scheduled sequestration take effect, subsidies on direct-pay bonds would be cut an average of 7.6%, according to the Office of Management and Budget.* Issuers would typically be responsible for making all interest payments on their own. Build America Bonds have not been issued since 2010.
Change in FDIC Deposit Insurance
Noninterest-bearing transaction accounts, used by many small businesses, local governments, and nonprofit organizations, have had unlimited deposit insurance from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation since the 2008 financial crisis. However, that program is scheduled to expire as of December 31, 2012. The previous limit of $250,000 on a single account will be reinstated unless new…