Congress Passes Additional COVID-19 Relief

On Monday, December 21, 2020, Congress passed an additional COVID-19 package that contains $900 billion worth of economic relief for numerous government programs across the US, loans for small businesses, vaccine distribution, and a second round of stimulus checks. The bill is pending the President’s signature and may result in further negotiations and modified terms; we will communicate additional details as they are available. For now, click HERE for a brief overview of key provisions within the (5,500+ page) package approved by Congress earlier this week.

A Blue Wave?

The COVID-19 crisis has resulted in the deepest downturn in global economic activity in the post-war era, but almost certainly the shortest recession. US stocks have rebounded over 50% since the March 23rd lows and the S&P 500 is now up over 5% through three quarters. Historically, the 4th quarter is the strongest quarter of the year, but there are some potential headwinds going into year-end. The largest concerns that we are hearing from clients surround the election and what it will mean for their investments. Please click here to continue reading our 3rd Quarter Newsletter.

Election 2020: Estate Planning Opportunities

In 2018, as part of the Tax Cuts & Jobs Act, the gift and estate tax exemption doubled to historic levels – from $5.6 million to $11.2 million. After indexing for inflation, this year the exemption is $11.58 million, $23.16 million for a married couple, and it is currently scheduled to remain at this level through 2025.
Whether it’s due to the $4 trillion of COVID-19-fueled fiscal challenges, or a Blue Wave in November that will give Biden the power to pass sweeping tax reform, many high net worth individuals are cautious that a reduction in the exemption could be coming sooner than 2025 resulting in significant estate tax exposure for their family. Click here to read more and for a chart comparison of the major tax policy differences between the two candidates.