Articles and Publications

A library of topical publications and articles written by CCM team members specifically for our clients.

Not Your Grandmother’s Life Insurance

Cindy Carlson, AALU, FMLI
Underwriting Manager, ViaForte
Published December 2, 2019

Women are increasingly recognized as primary financial decision makers and stewards of wealth. One of the ways to protect financial assets is through life insurance. As women continue to earn and manage more wealth, the dependency of others on women as providers for their families and businesses continues to grow. The economic influence and impact of women in the United States is increasing: 42% of businesses are women-owned. 1 Women are the primary breadwinners in 40% of ... [Continue Reading]

New Laws Impact Estate Plans

Dan Edwards, CPA
Director of Estate Planning
Published November 5, 2019

Estate tax laws continually change, making it important to review your estate plan periodically. Working alongside a Carlson Capital Management tax professional will help you understand how the new laws will impact your estate and its beneficiaries, as well as your financial position today. Federal Level: Higher Exemptions and PortabilityConsider the new, higher lifetime estate exemptions: Only individuals with taxable estates greater than $11,400,000 and estates of married couples greater ... [Continue Reading]

Roth IRAs: Is Now the Ideal Time to Consider a Conversion?

Kevin Koski, CPA
Principal Tax Advisor
Published November 1, 2019

Carlson Capital Management works with many clients each year to implement a Roth IRA conversion strategy in which a portion of their tax deferred accounts (i.e. 401(k), IRA) are converted to a Roth IRA. Generally speaking, the long-term benefits of a conversion strategy are measured by comparing the amount of taxes paid today upon conversion versus the taxes avoided in the future on all of the investment earnings and growth accruing after the conversion. Many will avoid paying the taxes today on ... [Continue Reading]

The Index Bogeyman

Adam Hoffmann, CFP^®, AIF^®
Chief Investment Officer
Published October 30, 2019

Index funds are receiving increased attention, mostly centered on the virtues of low-cost and broadly diversified vehicles for accessing stock and bond markets. In a competition in which one side’s success is another side’s loss, it’s not surprising to hear active managers railing against passive investing. Some claim that increased usage of index funds is distorting market prices. The Carlson Capital Management team firmly believes that markets continue to work and investors can still rely on ... [Continue Reading]

Financial Checklist for Young Adults: Essential Tips for College Students

Valerie Thomas, CTFA
Senior Integrated Wealth Advisor
Published September 16, 2019

One of the most meaningful gifts a young person can receive as they strike out on their own after high school is wise counsel on financial matters. As a new school year begins, we wanted to share the following guidelines and important actions to help young adults in our clients' lives to build a strong foundation and get a sound start on their financial journey. Avoid Consumer Debt and Be Careful With Student Loans The fastest way to financial success is to avoid debt, because not having ... [Continue Reading]