Personal financial planning news and resources

TOPICS

January 20, 2026

Cost-of-living increases could hurt 2026 financial goals, poll says

The Harris Poll, conducted on behalf of the AICPA, found that most Americans have financial goals, with saving money as the top one.

January 1, 2026

Tax-efficient drawdown strategies in retirement

Follow these tips to help clients draw down their retirement funds in a tax-efficient manner and avoid common mistakes.

December 15, 2025

Big changes hit federal student loan program

Learn about the complex shifts in federal student aid since the passage of H.R. 1, including new loan caps and repayment plans.

December 5, 2025

Government withdraws defense of retirement fiduciary rule

The Justice Department dropped its appeal in a case challenging a Biden-era regulation, leaving financial advisers free from new fiduciary duties for now.

December 4, 2025

Where CPAs stand on economic sentiment, what’s next for the JofA podcast

This episode summarizes results of a recent quarterly survey on economic and business sentiment, mentions IRS news, and previews future content. Listen to the episode or read the transcript.

December 3, 2025

IRS outlines details for Trump accounts

The IRS released initial details on Trump accounts, a new type of IRA for some children. Also, a billionaire business executive pledged $6.25 billion to provide 25 million children with a $250 contribution to a Trump account.

December 2, 2025

JofA branded podcast: Investment management at the intersection of tax and wealth services

In this Journal of Accountancy branded podcast episode, Clint Costa, CPA, J.D., LL.M., a senior wealth strategist at Choreo, talks with Matt Gotlin, Choreo’s chief investment officer, on trends in investment management and tips for CPAs to advise clients.

November 14, 2025

Going into debt for holiday spending? You’re not alone

Nearly half of over 2,000 adults surveyed on behalf of the AICPA said they expect to go into debt for holiday gifts or travel.

November 13, 2025

Inflation adjustments to retirement account limits issued for 2026

The IRS announced inflation-adjusted limits on benefits and contributions for various retirement accounts on Thursday, including maximum contribution amounts for 401(k) plans and traditional and Roth IRAs.

November 6, 2025

Real estate tax changes that advisers need to understand

A firm partner and AICPA conference speaker breaks down rule changes related to bonus depreciation and opportunity zone investment. Listen to the podcast episode or read the Q&A.

October 31, 2025

How OBBBA alters charitable deduction strategies for 2025 and 2026

New rules could shrink an individual’s tax benefit from charitable contributions starting next year, prompting many to accelerate donations into this year. Here’s what donors and advisers need to know.

October 27, 2025

How to rewrite 3 ‘money scripts’ hurting personal finances

When it comes to clients implementing the action steps needed to move toward their financial and life goals, more is at play than just needing the knowledge and resources to take action. Whether or not we know it, we all run “money scripts” in the background, basing decisions both small

September 15, 2025

3 new financial planning opportunities after OBBBA

Help clients navigate a few of the legislation’s broadly applicable tax changes.

September 8, 2025

Financial planning for a pet’s future care

Pets need to be considered in financial plans because they are part of the family and may outlive their owners.

September 1, 2025

Calming nervous clients nearing retirement

Experts in personal financial services recommend helping clients keep economic shocks in perspective, simplify their finances, and try out aspects of retirement life.

August 13, 2025

The No. 1 risk to retirement – and one way to guard against it

Retirees are living longer than ever, increasing the challenge facing financial advisers charged with the responsibility of making sure they don’t run out of funds.

August 8, 2025

No 2025 information return or withholding table changes under OBBBA

The IRS announced Thursday that it is delaying changes to certain information returns, withholding tables, and reporting and withholding procedures until tax year 2026 “to avoid disruptions.”

July 24, 2025

Dealing with natural disasters: IRS relief efforts leave some wanting

How can the IRS best assist victims of natural disasters? The AICPA asked victims how long they had to wait for assistance and asked CPAs the best courses of action.

July 21, 2025

Dealing with natural disasters: Prepare by taking these steps today

Nearly one-third of adults have done nothing to prepare financially for the possibility of a natural disaster. An AICPA news release offers advice for individuals and businesses.

July 21, 2025

Helping clients communicate their estate planning intentions

Clients need to communicate thoughtfully and clearly to avoid misunderstandings and implement the plan.

FROM THIS MONTH'S ISSUE

Tax season quick guide

Get ready for tax season with the JofA’s annual filing season quick guide, an easy-to-use compilation of dollar thresholds, tax tables, standard amounts, credits, and deductions. Download and print for quick reference this tax season.