Don’t Miss the Boat on Gifting and Estate Tax Exemptions

July 20, 2020 In December 2017, Congress passed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), creating a significant but temporary opportunity for high-net-worth individuals to transfer a portion of their wealth to heirs free of gift and estate tax. The act included a provision to increase the federal gift and estate tax exclusion from $5.45M … Continued

Charity Begins at Home

Earmarking the family home — or some portion of it — to fund a Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT) can satisfy philanthropic intent, reduce personal taxes, and generate long-term income. For those with certain needs and desires — coupled with the right set of circumstances and capabilities — this approach could be a better alternative than … Continued

The Art of Gifting UP

In today’s world of innovation, where one idea could turn a young entrepreneur into an overnight million(billion)aire, it is becoming increasingly common for a financially successful individual to accumulate far more wealth than their living parents ever could. It is in this group of high net worth investors where a unique wealth transfer strategy may … Continued

Benefitting from Your Life Insurance While You’re Alive

There’s a time for buying life insurance and for many people it is when their first child is born.  Along the way, you may have increased your insurance coverage as more children and a larger mortgage became a part of life. If those babies are now adults, your mortgage is paid off and your investment … Continued

Tax Consequences: Think Twice Before Gifting with Cash

It has become a common practice to take advantage of the charitable deduction when gifting highly appreciated stock to qualified non-profits and charities. What is unknown to many (and now a permanent option thanks to the American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012), is that gifting appreciated stock to individuals who qualify for the 0% Federal … Continued

To Give or Not to Give is Only Part of the Question

We are humbled by the philanthropic nature of our clients and community. In 2012, (the most recent year statistics are available), charitable contributions from American individuals, corporations and foundations increased for a third straight year, reaching $316.23 billion in total giving.  Of the top 50 philanthropists of 2012, 20 of them live in California with … Continued

Mark Your Calendar

The beginning of any new year is a time for resolutions, like eating well, exercising, and flossing regularly. It is also a good time to think strategically about your financial life and, if necessary, resolve to implement a seasonal planning process that could make you “financially fit” by year end. A good place to start … Continued

Year-End Financial Check Up

Much like the annual visit to the doctor’s office, year end is a good time to review the state of your financial health. Here at Sand Hill Global Advisors, we regularly discuss these topics with clients, as they are important reminders to keep you financially fit. • Year End Tax Planning. Consult your CPA or tax advisor … Continued