Dear Mr. Market:
Your whole world is about investing and the stock market. Stick to what you’re good at and leave things like repairing your car, fixing that leaky faucet, or doing your taxes to someone else-
(1) Don’t take investment advice from a CPA and vice versa.
Notice how we practice what we preach. Our first “tax tip” will be to let you know that for specific tax advice you should NOT go to your investment advisor. We’re not CPA’s and even though we understand a great deal about taxation (specifically with regard to investments) our job is to manage investments, not tax codes.
Why is it then that we see so many accountants, tax preparers, CPA’s, and even “enrolled agents” dole out investment advice around this time of year? Investors naturally gravitate to the professional that sees the majority of their financial house and by default it’s typically a CPA. We’re not bashing CPA’s but allow us to be crystal clear on this point: A CPA has no formal training nor better understanding of investments or the portfolio strategy you or your financial advisor has put together.
Look to Tip #2 on what your CPA should know about your investment situation:
(2) If the introduction hasn’t been made yet…Make it happen!
In the case of investments and taxes one old adage couldn’t be more true: ”The right hand should always know what the left hand is doing.”
If your investment advisor has not met or interacted with your CPA an introduction needs to be made. They don’t have to become best friends but your overall financial situation will be enhanced when key professionals that help you know each other.
(3) What type of tax professional do you need?
Do you simply need Continue reading →
Dear Mr. Market: 