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Ethical Investing in Retirement: Aligning Values with Financial Goals
Retirement often brings with it an opportunity to reassess not only one’s lifestyle choices, but also one’s financial strategies. At the heart of these decisions is the concept of ethical investing.
How The “Big Beautiful Bill” Affects Long-Term Financial Planning
The recent tax legislation, known as the ‘Big Beautiful Bill,’ introduces a number of changes that may affect various aspects of personal finance. This reform impacts various aspects of personal finance, from income tax rates and brackets to modifications in deductions and exemptions. Here’s what investors need to know about the “Big Beautiful Bill,” which is now law.
Changes in tax brackets
One of the most significant changes under the “Big Beautiful Bill” is the restructuring of the federal income tax brackets. While there were previously seven tax brackets, the new system also maintains seven, but at different rates.
For many taxpayers, these lower rates may result in reduced tax liability, depending on their individual circumstances. This could potentially free up funds that might be redirected toward other financial priorities.
Standard deduction and personal exemptions
Another critical aspect of the tax reform is the changes to standard deductions and personal exemptions. The “Big Beautiful Bill” has now nearly doubled the standard deduction.
However, it eliminates personal exemptions. For individuals who traditionally itemize deductions, this means reassessing whether it’s beneficial to continue doing so. In some cases, taking the increased standard deduction could lead to more significant tax savings.
Changes to estate and gift taxes
The reform has implications for estate planning, too. The “Big Beautiful Bill” has effectively doubled the federal estate and gift tax exemptions.
This change increases the amount of wealth that may be transferred free of federal estate or gift tax, which could influence estate planning strategies for some individuals.
Financial and tax professionals can provide guidance regarding how estate and gift tax changes may impact your estate and gift tax situation.
Impact on the mortgage interest deduction
The bill includes changes to the mortgage interest deduction, including a reduction in the cap from $1 million to $750,000 for new mortgages.
Social Security taxes
The Big Beautiful Bill temporarily increases the standard deduction of up to $4,000 for individuals 65 and over, from 2025 to 2028.
Child tax credit
The current $2,000 child tax credit, set to return to the pre-2017 level of $1,000 in 2026, now permanently increases to $2,200 under the bill.
Working with financial and tax professionals can help you navigate this landscape and work toward your goals under the new tax environment.
SWG4708884-0825a This information is provided as general information and is not intended to be specific financial guidance. Before you make any decisions regarding your personal financial situation, you should consult a financial or tax professional to discuss your individual circumstances and objectives. The sources used to prepare this material are believed to be true, accurate and reliable, but are not guaranteed.
At The JG McHugh Group our team goes through thorough training to live up to this commitment. Our approach is careful and well-organized. We gather important details from clients and advisors. Then we create a plan tailored to your Visionscape Financial Blueprint. Contact us today to begin your blueprint.
Seven-Generation Thinking: How Indigenous Planning Principles Can Help Transform ‘Retirement Thinking’
One of the values embedded in many Indigenous cultures worldwide is something known as Seven Generation Thinking. This philosophy invites individuals to consider the impact of today’s decisions far into the future—potentially offering a complementary perspective to traditional retirement planning models.
Financial Wellness in the Digital Age
As the world advances at a rapid pace, our lives are becoming increasingly digitized. The digital age has seen remarkable advancements that have intrinsically changed how we navigate our daily lives, especially in financial matters. Financial wellness now extends beyond balancing checkbooks- it involves understanding and utilizing digital tools to manage, save, and invest for goals.
The Rise of Roth IRA Conversions
In the realm of retirement planning, one strategy is Roth IRA conversions, which can offer tax-free distributions in retirement. As with any financial strategy, it’s essential to understand how Roth IRA conversions work, their benefits and tax implications, and overall suitability before making any decisions.
Alternatives to Traditional Long-Term Care Insurance
Purchasing long-term care insurance (LTCI) is one method to help prepare for future healthcare needs. However, the costs of premiums can be high, and not everyone qualifies for this type of insurance. Therefore, understanding alternatives to LTCI that may be suitable and offer similar benefits may be essential.
Holistic and Collaborative Planning: The New Standard in Wealth Management
Over the last few years, the financial services landscape has shifted to a more personalized, proactive, and comprehensive approach. The traditional model of standalone services is giving way to a new standard of wealth management: holistic and collaborative planning. This method emphasizes a thorough understanding of a client’s financial status, lifestyle, and aspirations.
Annuity Riders: Which Ones Are Suitable for You?
Annuities are a contract with an insurance company that provides a steady stream of income to the insured. Annuities are potentially for life. They can be an important part of retirement income planning for many individuals.
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October 13, 2025