Insurance for Two Could Benefit Your Heirs

Survivorship life insurance offers a way to help a couple's heirs pay estate taxes, probate costs, and other final expenses — and could be especially important after 2012 when the federal estate tax is scheduled to be significantly higher. Even if the estate tax doesn't apply to an estate, the insurance proceeds could benefit heirs or a favorite charity.

Tax-Efficient Investments for the Tax-Averse

Raising taxes is one of many ideas that have been proposed to help reduce mounting federal budget deficits. Readers who are concerned about the prospect of higher taxes in the future may want to consider the tax advantages associated with municipal bonds and tax-exempt mutual funds.

Favorable Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rates Extended—for Now

The 2010 Tax Relief Act extended the 15% maximum tax rates on qualified dividends and long-term capital gains through December 31, 2012. But without further legislation, dividends will be taxed at ordinary income tax rates and capital gains tax rates will return to 20% (23.8% for investors in the two highest tax brackets) in 2013.

Tips for Surviving the Estate Tax

The federal estate tax was reinstated retroactively to January 1, 2010, by the 2010 Tax Relief Act. However, the favorable provisions are scheduled to expire at the end of 2012, when estates exceeding $1 million could be subject to the federal levy.

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Life Expectancy

Knowing your likely life expectancy is an important factor in making long-term financial plans.

Tax-Deferred Savings

Compare the potential future value of tax-deferred investments to that of taxable investments.

Cost of Retirement

Use this calculator to estimate how much income and savings you may need in retirement.

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