Do I Need a Professional Valuation Every Year?
A common question investors ask is whether they need to pay for a professional valuation or appraisal every single year. In most cases, the answer is no. The IRS does not require a formal appraisal annually for every asset. Instead, it requires a reasonable, good...
How Fair Market Value Impacts RMDs and Inherited IRAs
Fair Market Value plays a direct role in how Required Minimum Distributions and inherited retirement accounts are administered. While FMV itself does not create taxes, it provides the foundation for important calculations that affect compliance. Understanding this...
If You Suffered A Disaster, You May Be Eligible For A Casualty Loss Tax Deduction
Every year, severe storms, flooding, wildfires and other disasters affect millions of taxpayers. Many experience casualty losses from damage to their homes or personal property. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), signed into law last year, generally made...
The 2026 Self Directed IRA Landscape
What Actually Changed and Why Investors Need to Pay Attention Introduction January brings noise. Investors want clarity. Each new year arrives with a flood of headlines, summaries, and last minute posts breaking down what changed and what did not. By the time most...
Important 2026 Tax Figures For Businesses
A new year brings many new tax-related figures for businesses. Here’s an overview of key figures for 2026. Be aware that exceptions or additional rules or limits may apply. Depreciation-Related Tax Breaks Bonus depreciation: 100% Section 179 expensing limit: $2.56...
How to Plan for 2026: Setting Up Your IRA Contributions Strategically for the Year Ahead
As the year winds down, it is helpful to shift your focus toward what you can set in motion for 2026. A new year brings new contribution limits, new goals, and new opportunities to strengthen your retirement strategy. Planning ahead now allows you to start January...
More individuals With Disabilities Will Be Eligible For Tax-Advantaged ABLE Accounts in 2026
Did you know there’s a tax-advantaged way to save for the expenses of a person with a disability that’s similar to saving for college expenses with a Section 529 plan? Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts can help fund qualified disability expenses for...
2025 in Review: The Biggest Lessons for Self Directed Investors
As 2025 comes to a close, it is worth taking a step back to look at what this year taught self directed investors. The past twelve months brought a mix of market volatility, notable tax updates, and continued growth in the alternative investment space. Through it all,...
Changes To Charitable Donation Deductions Are On The Horizon
Beginning in 2026, individuals who itemize deductions and donate to charity will face a new limit on their charitable deductions. And in some cases, they’ll face two new limits. But there’s some good news for non-itemizing individuals who make charitable donations....
The Difference Between a Traditional and Roth IRA and How to Decide Before Tax Season
As tax season approaches, many investors begin reviewing their retirement accounts and asking a familiar question: should I contribute to a Traditional IRA or a Roth IRA this year. The choice matters more than most people realize. The type of IRA you choose can...