What is the Perfect Retirement Age? (VIDEO)
Alhambra's Bob Williams has a list of considerations to help you determine your perfect retirement age.
The Sunny Side of Inflation – Maybe
It may not be public enemy number one, but inflation is certainly near the top of the list. Since the beginning of 2021, prices of almost everything have gone into orbit. Energy prices are up an average of 56%. Airline tickets are up almost 25%. Used car prices have jumped more than 45%. And it seems there’s no slowdown in [...]
Paying More Taxes Because Your Spouse Dies
It’s one of the most obscure taxes in the IRS code, but it can be one of the most devastating at a time when you can least afford it. It’s called the Widow’s Penalty Tax—a stealth tax you never see coming—that can cause a widow or widower to struggle financially. When one spouse dies, the surviving spouse is now responsible [...]
Ask Bob: Social Security Timing
Alhambra's Bob Williams explains whether the timing of taking a Social Security benefit will affect the amount received by their spouse.
Common vs Solemn Probate
Alhambra's Bob Williams describes the difference between Common and Solemn Probate and the pros and cons of each.
Ask Bob: Social Security Survivor Benefit
Alhambra's Bob Williams answers a question about collecting a Social Security Survivor Benefit on an ex-spouse's work history if you've been remarried after the divorce.
Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts—a Treasure Chest for Married Couples
There’s an old axiom that says, “All good things must come to an end.” And unless Congress makes some changes, that’s what will happen to the current level of the federal estate tax exemption. As it stands now, every individual can give away $11.7 million of their estate free of inheritance and gift taxes. Married couples have a combined exemption [...]
Common vs Solemn Probate
Probate is a term most people have heard. It’s the court process required to settle an estate when a Will was used as the estate planning tool. What most people don’t know is that there are two types of probate—Common and Solemn. The executor chooses the one that is most appropriate. Common probate is used most often. It’s the easiest. [...]
Ask Bob: Should a Trust be Your IRA Beneficiary?
Alhambra's Bob Williams discusses whether a trust should be your IRA beneficiary rather than an individual.
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