Financial Planning for Life

Welcome to my Web site -- an information resource designed to help you learn more about personal finance. Click around and you'll find a variety of financial tools. There are financial calculators that can help you get a clearer picture of where you stand and where you're headed. There is a research library and newsletter articles on a wide range of financial topics. You can even request a quote for an insurance or investment product. And check back often, because I'm constantly adding new material. If you have a specific question or want more information, click on Contact Us, drop us an e-mail message at michael@nixonfinancial.com or call me at 707-894-9882 I'm ready to help.

 
Calculators

Cost of Retirement

Use this calculator to estimate how much income and savings you may need in retirement.

Lease Payment

How much would your monthly lease payment be?

IRA Eligibility

Use this calculator to determine whether you qualify for the different types of IRAs.

Federal Income Tax

This calculator can help you estimate your annual federal income tax liability.

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Newsletters

HOT TOPIC: Breaking Down the Debt-Ceiling Compromise

The Budget Control Act of 2011 raised the federal debt ceiling, mandated modest but significant caps on discretionary spending over the next ten years, and left the details of larger deficit reduction to a 12 member, bipartisan “super committee.” The main provisions of the law include the assumption that higher tax rates will return in 2013.

Favorable Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rates Extended—for Now

The 2010 Tax Relief Act extended the 15% maximum tax rates on qualified dividends and long-term capital gains through December 31, 2012. But without further legislation, dividends will be taxed at ordinary income tax rates and capital gains tax rates will return to 20% (23.8% for investors in the two highest tax brackets) in 2013.

HOT TOPIC: Why Watch the Employment Situation

Labor reports showed some signs of improvement in the second half of 2011. This article takes a closer look at the official reports that track employment, factors that held back job creation after the recession officially ended, and whether recent gains are enough to spark more robust growth.

Put It in Writing

A high level of job satisfaction is fairly typical of business owners, but it can also be a hindrance if it keeps them from thinking about a planned exit strategy. A written exit plan could help you avoid surprises.

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