Death and Taxes

Benjamin Franklin once said, "Nothing in life is certain except death and taxes." Although this statement is completely true and affects everyone on the planet, it's staggering to know the number of people who don't plan at all for either one. Both are significant, and regardless of past experience, there are many ways to significantly and efficiently plan for both certainties.

Take a look around you. How recent was the last funeral you attended? Look closer at those you love and those you are responsible for. Planning does NOT take the pain and grief away from death. Life insurance does however, provide for those you love when death happens and may benefit you very much while you are living.

Recently, my personal awareness has been heightened by the passing of several people. These four have particular meaning to me:

• My 85-year-old father passed away. While this was anticipated and was ultimately a blessing for him, the personal effects have been magnified.
• A colleague's 15-year-old son was killed instantly in an ATV accident. He was an experienced rider who was properly equipped and prepared. This was completely unexpected and tragic in every way.
• A close friend of mine had a 42-year-old wife who passed away from brain cancer. My friend and his 4-year-old son are now grieving and adjusting to life without a spouse and a mother.
• I attended a board meeting for an organization which supports parents who have had infants pass away, as my wife and I did over 17 years ago.

So, regardless of age, when someone close to you passes away, your perspective may be slightly different that day than it is right this moment. My perspective has certainly changed. The closer that person is to you, the more that death will affect you.

Wherever you are today, and in conjunction with your future goals, please review your current life insurance coverage. Make certain all information is up to date, including beneficiaries. If adjustments need to be made or implemented, take action today.

"Get busy living, or get busy dying." ―Morgan Freeman, The Shawshank Redemption

Living is best when you have a plan in place for both death & taxes.

Taxation is required by law. Reducing taxation by following the law is NOT required, but certainly AVAILABLE by implementing, electing, adjusting, structuring, exchanging, purchasing, donating or even selling. Each of these verbs is related to specific ACTION opportunities for those willing to learn and act at the appropriate time.

Wherever you are today, and in conjunction with your future goals, please review your current tax situation with your tax professional. Make certain all information is up to date, and look forward. If adjustments need to be made or implemented, take action today.

Those who properly plan for both death and taxes properly take ACTION and live securely in the process.

Your Link to Security!