The Hidden Weight of Adjusted Gross Income in the OBBBA Era
The tax landscape for individuals has shifted once again with the passage of OBBBA. While
the legislation includes enhanced deductions and targeted tax relief, it also introduces several new income-based limitations that subtly yet significantly reshape tax efficiency.
The Ever-Evolving Landscape of Smart Charitable Giving
The tax act, adopted on July 4 of this year, extended or made permanent many personal income tax provisions and included significant changes for optimizing charitable giving strategies. The key changes to charitable income tax deductions for individuals that become effective in 2026 are highlighted below but must be considered in the broader context of other tax opportunities.
Wrapping 2025: Practical Steps for Year-End Financial Planning
As we enter the final stretch of the year, it’s a great time to set aside a few hours to review your financial picture and position yourself for a confident start to the new year.
Changes to Charitable Giving Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
The passage of the SECURE Act in 2019 and SECURE 2.0 Act in 2022 ushered in sweeping changes for taxpayers regarding retirement account distributions. These changes, including a significant modification to how certain designated beneficiaries must distribute inherited retirement accounts, are crucial for anyone possessing or inheriting a retirement account to understand.
IRS Continues to Move Toward Phasing Out Paper Checks
As part of the modernization of the federal government and with a goal of improving efficiency and reducing fraud, the president signed an executive order on March 25 to phase out the use of paper checks by the U.S. government.
Umbrella Insurance: Common Mistakes
Umbrella insurance is one of the most commonly misunderstood and overlooked types of insurance coverage available. This form of liability coverage sits on top of your existing auto, homeowners or watercraft policies and is designed as an additional layer of protection from large claims that exceed your standard policy limits.
Wealth Management Insights Video Third Quarter 2025
In this quarter’s Wealth Management Insights video, "Navigating the Retirement Shift," Samantha Pahlow, CTFA, AWMA®, discusses the multifaceted journey of retirement and highlights the need for thoughtful preparation to ensure a fulfilling retirement.
Important Tax Update: New Legislation Signed into Law
Congress recently approved, and the President signed, new legislation affecting taxes, spending cuts and other policy changes that are particularly relevant to financial planning.
Serve with Confidence: Fortifying Your Personal Protections on a Nonprofit Board
For many people, serving on a nonprofit board is a rewarding experience. It’s a chance to lend expertise, guide strategy and contribute meaningfully to a cause they believe in.
Outlook and Insight Third Quarter 2025
Preparing for Fire Season and Other Potential Risks
What are the chances that two employees at Ferguson Wellman have parents who lost their homes in wildfires?
Why Clear Financial Goals Matter in Retirement Planning
Retirement represents the achievement of financial stability and being able to choose whether or not to work, a goal many of us share.
Navigating the Retirement Shift
Retirement is a milestone most people spend decades planning for, ensuring they have a strong financial foundation to support their ideal retirement lifestyle.
Estate Tax Considerations
Estate tax has been a highly debated topic in Congress for years. With the passing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2017, and the ongoing discussions on extending certain provisions, estate tax is again on the short list for debate.
Securing Your Legacy
In an ever-changing world, one thing remains constant: life’s unpredictability. As such, it is never too early to begin establishing your estate plan.
Wealth Management Insights Video Second Quarter 2025
Estate planning is critical for protecting your wealth and ensuring your wishes are followed during your life and beyond. This quarter's Wealth Management Insights video explores key components of an effective estate plan and how to incorporate flexibility when needed.
Understanding the Backdoor and Mega Backdoor Roth IRA
The Roth IRA has earned its popularity with retirement savers—and for good reason. Funded with after-tax dollars, it offers the rare advantage of tax-free withdrawals in retirement, provided you’re at least 59½ and have held the account for five years.
Outlook and Insights Second Quarter 2025
To Gift or Not to Gift and Other Questions
According to the latest report by Cerulli & Associates, $124 trillion is expected to change hands by 2048. Just under 15% is expected to be given to charity and the remaining balance will go to heirs.