Who hasn’t heard the old cliché that the only two things in life you can’t escape are death and taxes? If you have never questioned this statement, then you have accepted the fact that you are going to be taxed to death. Well at least I can help you avoid one of the two.
When I recently met with a husband and wife tax client with a special-needs child, we reviewed their past five years of tax returns. It appeared that from 2004 to 2009 the effective tax rate (the percent they actually pay) went up from 8.0 to 12.32. That means that they experienced more than a 50-percent increase in the taxes they paid to Uncle Scam.

So what can you do if We The People can’t stop Congress from increasing our tax rates ever so slightly each year so that we don’t really see or feel the increase? Well there are many solutions which may include products like options, annuities, life insurance or other investments that can protect and preserve your future and save you from a shake down by the government in the form of taxes.

I have seen many people run and buy one of these financial products from their so-called trusted adviser, brother-in-law, cousin or some unknown bank person. This product purchase might benefit you, but you should question why that sales person recommend that specific product. Of course it was the commission or fee, but they will give you a long list of industry jargon identifying advantages and disadvantages. However, ask them why they recommended it and how it saves you taxes. You will quickly discover that they really have no idea and even hide behind a common disclaimer on everything they present to you: “We do not provide tax advice. Please consult your tax adviser.”

Having the ability and knowledge to help you avoid taxes, your largest expense during your life time, is how I differentiate myself from all other financial advisers. They talk sales jargon and think commission. I talk strategy and think solutions to help you protect your money and keep you from giving it to the government foolishly.

Which approach seems more practical, buying a product or buying into a solution that involves the right product for your situation?

I urge you and your spouse to join the ranks of the prepared and call me today.

The simple truth is the less you plan, the more you pay!

Charles has master’s degrees in Taxation, Accounting and Education. Charles can be reached at 954-559-8556 or at charles@cehow.com.