retirement planning

The Lebenthal Report Episode #146: 2025 Estate Planning Playbook

On our first episode of 2025, Michael and Dominick welcomed back a client favorite, Harold A. Bollaci, esteemed attorney specializing in estate planning, elder law, and asset protection strategies. The episode dives into critical financial and legal topics, including updates to state tax laws, market performance in 2024, and the potential impact of a new administration's policies. The discussion emphasized the importance of regularly reviewing and updating estate planning documents, such as wills, trusts, healthcare proxies, and beneficiary designations, to reflect current wishes and circumstances. Strategies for mitigating estate taxes were explored, including annual gifting and the use of trusts, with a focus on special needs trusts for beneficiaries with specific requirements. The team also delved into the distinctions between revocable and irrevocable trusts, Medicaid implications, and asset protection strategies to avoid government clawbacks. The episode concluded with actionable advice for listeners and plans for future collaboration with legal experts.

For more information, please contact Harold Bollaci, P.C. at (516) 538-9700.

The Lebenthal Report Episode #135: RMDs Explained

Catch up on the latest episode of The Lebenthal Report, where Michael and Dominick welcome back Jeff Atwell, Senior VP of FiduciaryxChange. Together, they discuss the latest tax law changes, the impact on employee benefit plans, and significant developments in retirement plans, including the implementation of the Secure Act 2.0. They also explain the intricacies of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and how new regulations could affect retirees. Tune in for expert insights on how these changes could impact your financial planning and retirement strategy!

The Lebenthal Report Episode #114: Demystifying Social Security

This week on The Lebenthal Report, Michael and returning guest co-host David Walker welcome special guest Michael Lynch. Lynch is the Managing Director of Applied Insights for Hartford Funds, and in his current capacity, plays a pivotal role in enlightening financial professionals and their clients about the ever-evolving landscape of opportunities within the financial services sector. These opportunities encompass a spectrum of strategic areas, including retirement-income planning, investment planning, charitable planning, and the strategic readiness for long-term demographic and lifestyle shifts.

This episode is a thought-provoking discussion on the crucial topic of social security and should help answer your questions on the topic.