W-2 Employee vs. 1099 Independent Contractor: Understanding the Key Differences

As careers become more flexible and non-traditional, many professionals find themselves choosing between working as a W-2 employee or a 1099 independent contractor. Each structure comes with distinct advantages, trade-offs, and planning considerations. There is no universally “better” option. The right choice depends on income stability, benefits, lifestyle preferences, risk tolerance, and long-term goals. Understanding… Read More W-2 Employee vs. 1099 Independent Contractor: Understanding the Key Differences

Tax Questions We Hear Most from Clients

Taxes are one of the most common sources of uncertainty in personal finance. Even highly successful, well-organized families often wonder whether they’re missing something—or making decisions without seeing the full picture. Over time, we tend to hear the same thoughtful questions from clients. While every situation is unique, these questions often signal the right instincts:… Read More Tax Questions We Hear Most from Clients

The Best Tax Shelters

The best tax-sheltered investment vehicles depend on your financial goals, income level, and tax situation. Here are some of the most effective options: Retirement Accounts (Tax-Deferred or Tax-Free Growth) Health & Education Accounts Insurance-Based Vehicles Real Estate & Alternative Investments Business & Trust Structures Each of these vehicles has specific rules, contribution limits, and tax… Read More The Best Tax Shelters

5 Year-End Tax Planning Strategies for High Income Earners

1. Review Realized Gains & Income to Date Understanding your earnings from work is usually straightforward, but tracking what’s happening in your investment portfolio can be more complex, especially for busy professionals. Ideally, it’s wise to monitor your portfolio throughout the year to stay on top of potential tax liabilities and determine if estimated taxes… Read More 5 Year-End Tax Planning Strategies for High Income Earners

Top 5 Things Business Owners Should Know About a SEP IRA

As a small business owner, you care about the future well-being of your employees. And just as you keep them safe in the workplace, you want to be sure you’re helping protect their future retirement as well. In doing so, it’s likely you’ve searched for effective avenues in helping employees (and yourself) contribute to their… Read More Top 5 Things Business Owners Should Know About a SEP IRA

Exercise Caution When Exercising Incentive Stock Options

Compared with other forms of compensation, incentive stock options (ISOs) can provide executives and other employees with substantial tax breaks. If held for a certain period of time, shares purchased as ISOs may escape all taxes other than the relatively low long-term gains rate of 15%. But as many “paper millionaires” discovered during the most… Read More Exercise Caution When Exercising Incentive Stock Options