This Newsletter was so full of tax related information, especially reach back to last year NOW savings ideas, that we published and sent paper copies early in the Quarter to beat the regular tax filing deadline.
Welcome to our Video and Audio Podcast Review of our Q 2 2018 Newsletter. For those on the road or just unable to grab the time to read, our podcast type review gives you the behind the scenes insight to our thoughts, observations and deep views of the entire Newsletter.
Click here for direct link to an electronic version (an early peek-good ole fashion paper versions are on their way to you shortly) and here for our Newsletter page
In likely the last year of this deduction due to changing tax laws, this deduction is given to most in a standard amount, but can be further enhanced under the appropriate situations.
If you had a big ticket item of any type that had sales tax, you likely will be above the standard given amount. Think back of when you purchased that car or other item. If it was last year, add all of your sales tax up as there is no limit to this deduction. (Phase outs may limit)
Note: Those in state income tax states are likely not a user of this deduction.
Forgotten frequently, we reminded recently in this post of the Medical Expense Deduction. In our Newsletter we really roll up the sleeves and attempt to remind everyone of the possible Medical Expenses you may have forgotten.
Publication 502, located here at the IRS website does a fantastic job of numbering the various deductions.
Home Improvements
Transportation
Television
Telephone
These are our favorite possibly forgotten Medical Expense Related Deductions.
If you are in doubt be sure to check the link to Publication 502 as we really can’t emphasize enough just how comprehensive their list is.
VIX and the XIV
In our detailed article in the Newsletter, we gest of the silliness of too aggressive investments.
When you pick up Penny’s in front of a giant steam roller … When the giant awakens …
Oops … it looks like this!
Much of the Volatility in the Capital Markets were sturred up by this event.
It may take some time to clear this completely. Patience!
Roth Versus IRA – AKA Pre-tax or After Tax
This is a super article that speaks to those who wonder if it is better to do a Roth or another type of Pre-Tax plan such as a 401k, IRA or SEP.
The answer to this question as mentioned in great detail in the Newsletter article is actually not that complicated.
The vast majority of people are in a higher tax bracket while working and lower while retired. If you are one of those people, Pre-Tax is better.
If you find yourself in a low income year/early earning, and expect your income to be higher in the future, a Roth might be better.
On word of caution that is included in our Newsletter .. Roth’s are often overused, so be careful.
Hope you enjoyed this slightly longer than normal summary and detailed review of our Newsletter – Podcast – Video, Review !
Welcome to our Video and Audio Podcast Review of our Q 1 2018 Newsletter. For those on the road or just unable to grab the time to read, our podcast type review gives you the behind the scenes insight to our thoughts, observations and deep views of the entire Newsletter.
Click here for direct link to an electronic version (an early peek-good ole fashion paper versions are on their way to you shortly) and here for our Newsletter page
In this long overdue article we dig deep into the background of Medicare and the means testing of recent years. IRMAA, Income Related Monthly Adjustment Amount – AKA higher premiums thresh holds are analyzed and presented for 2018.
In the best part of this article we discuss what to do in order to lower your higher means testing Medicare Premiums.
Have We Already Had a Bear Market?
A Bear Market is generally defined as a drop of 20% or greater. In late 2015 – 2016 almost every asset category except the most popular dropped by 20%. In this article we discuss why this may be good news for the future of the current market.
VIX – A Fear Gauge Goes to Sleep
VIX a volatility (fear measure) rises when fear is rampant and slowly drifts lower when fear is absent. Over the last 26 years the VIX index has closed below 10 a total of 9 times. In 2017 this fear index closed below this level 52 times. We warn not to take these placid seas for granted.
First Time Personal Reflections
In this off the cuff article, we give thanks for all the wonderful things we have, what good things have come during the year and a general Thanks To All of YOU our clients and friends.
Welcome to our Video and Audio Podcast Review of our Q 4 2017 Newsletter. For those on the road or just unable to grab the time to read, our podcast type review gives you the behind the scenes insight to our thoughts, observations and deep views of the entire Newsletter.
Click here for direct link to an electronic version (an early peek-good ole fashion paper versions are on their way to you shortly) and here for our Newsletter page
In a quest for value, it may be appearing overseas with our friends across the pond. Our core article of the newsletter discusses P/E Price Earnings along with the more smoothed CAPE or cyclically adjusted price earnings which is just a 10 year average ratio. With multiple looks at a long awaited possible long term positive trend, the next 3-5 years may be in the corner of our overseas friends.
Tripit our App of the Quarter
After stumbling upon a neat app from a dear friend, “Tripit” makes our app of the quarter. Bet you have no idea just how many different reward programs you are involved … after loading them into our app of the quarter, your life will be easier. Constant price reviews after the purchase along with multiple handy reminders may make this a fun – non financial review and item for you to try out this quarter.
Equifax Update and To Do’s
Our most popular posts on street-cents.com our blog, was the discussion of the Equifax breach. Our theme “Chillax” if our information had not been comprised before, it will eventually. The best defense in this case is an offensive preparation, BEFORE the next breach.
Break In: Yahoo announce after our discussion much more information had been compromised than originally thought …
Not IF, but WHEN our information is compromised …
1 Minute Video Reviews and Screen Shots
With tons of fun and compliments, our half dozen set of 1 minute video’s also make the Newsletter. If you like to talk like I do, full appreciation for just how hard it is to make a 1 Minute video… haha
Here is a link to our 1 Minute Video Page on our Website
Shhhh, we have a secret that we want to tell, but are forbidden for a couple of more weeks. We will only say it is an honor!
Watch for a reminder of our hopefully awesome Saturday Before Thanksgiving-Early November 18 Holiday Party at the Dallas Arboretum from 1-3 pm and free reign of the park until 5! Fun times !!!
Welcome to our Video and Audio Podcast Review of our Q 3 2017 Newsletter. For those on the road or just unable to grab the time to read, our podcast type review gives you the behind the scenes insight to our thoughts, observations and deep views of the entire Newsletter.
Click here for direct link to an electronic version (an early peek-good ole fashion paper versions are on their way to you shortly)
Let’s get going!
Residential Housing Price Analysis
Sometimes the best article ideas turn into more than we ever think. In our Q 3 2017 newsletter, we set out to review Residential Housing Prices over the last half century. Seven graphs later we come up with more observations than conclusions. We think you will enjoy the journey– be sure to listen or watch the Video as it gives great details of our frustrations and discoveries.
What we are doing this Summer
Our editor insists and we always receive nice comments back on our Summer plans- with more focus on you and the world, it is hard for us to talk about ourselves, but this is our annual print coverage to do so … we hope you enjoy the pictures as well as our sharing of our summer plans.
Fitbit App of the Quarter
While not really an “App” we review the app that goes with our Fitbit finding and speak on the surprising changes in behavior this unassuming device has had, as well as a few family tussles, all in good spirit.
Parting Thoughts
Watch for a reminder of our hopefully awesome Saturday Before-Early November 18 Holiday Party as we learn how to use all our new technology that we have deployed this summer.
Our editor is finishing up our regular Quarterly newsletter. This Newsletter offers some very timely topics, including some that are hitting the headlines right now.
Sentiment Rises
In an article titled “Everybody is Happy” we discuss various readings from the University of Michigan Consumer Surveys that show sentiment rising in multiple areas. Just by chance the following poll, from Gallup was just released… totally different poll…same result…
An all time high for this poll!
Russia- Putin
In one of our more lengthy articles, former Prime Minister of UK, David Cameron speaks candidly about Russia and Putin. With activity over the weekend occurring in Russia, another timely topic! Cameron’s interesting takes on Putin and his actions were very insightful.
Travel Tips
We offer three travel tips that may save you time, angst and money over the coming months as many of us non-regular travelers (present party included) hit the road.
The first tip, on how to help protect yourself when renting a car is from a recent and still pending situation earlier this year. Always glad to use personal experiences to warn and help others !
So we have teased the Newsletter enough, we will get it to the presses and publish it here soon along with our Video/Podcast review!
Here are just a few of the topics discussed in our new Podcast, Audio Video review. Due to the podcast format it is longer, but we think well worth the listen/view !
Taxes, Tax Deadlines, New Tax Dates, Tax Savings Ideas, Possible New Tax Rates
Economic Cycle Length
Interest Rates
Two cool Apps of the Quarter
2016 Review
Managing your 401k, contribution reminders and matching stategies
The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, please consult your financial advisor prior to investing!
Background
The is the vocal portion of J.K. Financial, Inc. a Dallas Texas Based Fee Only Total Wealth Financial Planning Firm. Founded by John Kvale, a Dallas Texas Fee only Financial Planner and Total Wealth Manager.
Q 2 2018 Newsletter (Early Release) Video Audio Podcast Review By John Kvale
Early Release Special Q 2 2018 Newsletter
Welcome to our Video and Audio Podcast Review of our Q 2 2018 Newsletter. For those on the road or just unable to grab the time to read, our podcast type review gives you the behind the scenes insight to our thoughts, observations and deep views of the entire Newsletter.
Click here for direct link to an electronic version (an early peek-good ole fashion paper versions are on their way to you shortly) and here for our Newsletter page
Let’s get going!
Q 2 2018 Newsletter
And here is your review!
Five Reach Back NOW Tax Savings Techniques
In this hugely in depth article was originally run in abbreviated form, her on street-cents.com
HSA – The Health Savings Account
In this part of the Newsletter Article we discuss why we like the HSA so much. Here are a few…
Here is the concise post, here on street-cents.
SEP – The Simplified Employee Pension Plan
Here are the high points to this portion of the Newsletter Article …
Here is the post, again specific to just to the SEP.
IRA – Vintage original retirement program, but still a goodie
Often forgotten, the good ole IRA makes up the third of our five tax savings techniques.
Here is our post specific to the IRA.
Sales Tax Deduction
In likely the last year of this deduction due to changing tax laws, this deduction is given to most in a standard amount, but can be further enhanced under the appropriate situations.
If you had a big ticket item of any type that had sales tax, you likely will be above the standard given amount. Think back of when you purchased that car or other item. If it was last year, add all of your sales tax up as there is no limit to this deduction. (Phase outs may limit)
Note: Those in state income tax states are likely not a user of this deduction.
Here is the specific post.
Medical Expense Deduction
Forgotten frequently, we reminded recently in this post of the Medical Expense Deduction. In our Newsletter we really roll up the sleeves and attempt to remind everyone of the possible Medical Expenses you may have forgotten.
Publication 502, located here at the IRS website does a fantastic job of numbering the various deductions.
These are our favorite possibly forgotten Medical Expense Related Deductions.
If you are in doubt be sure to check the link to Publication 502 as we really can’t emphasize enough just how comprehensive their list is.
VIX and the XIV
In our detailed article in the Newsletter, we gest of the silliness of too aggressive investments.
When you pick up Penny’s in front of a giant steam roller … When the giant awakens …
Oops … it looks like this!
Much of the Volatility in the Capital Markets were sturred up by this event.
It may take some time to clear this completely. Patience!
Roth Versus IRA – AKA Pre-tax or After Tax
This is a super article that speaks to those who wonder if it is better to do a Roth or another type of Pre-Tax plan such as a 401k, IRA or SEP.
The answer to this question as mentioned in great detail in the Newsletter article is actually not that complicated.
The vast majority of people are in a higher tax bracket while working and lower while retired. If you are one of those people, Pre-Tax is better.
If you find yourself in a low income year/early earning, and expect your income to be higher in the future, a Roth might be better.
On word of caution that is included in our Newsletter .. Roth’s are often overused, so be careful.
Hope you enjoyed this slightly longer than normal summary and detailed review of our Newsletter – Podcast – Video, Review !
See Ya next Quarter!
John A. Kvale CFA, CFP
Founder of J.K. Financial, Inc.
A Dallas Texas based fee only
Financial Planning Total Wealth
Management firm.
www.jkfinancialinc.com
www.street-cents.com
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Posted in Audio, Investing/Financial Planning, Market Comments, Newsletters, Tax Related, Video
Tagged Reach Back Tax Savings, Tax Savings, VIX, XIV