Welcome to our Learning Center
Browse our latest or list by category:
September 2023 The War on Investors’ Minds
Past Wars and Long-Term Market Performance Since the dawn of time, war and conflict have been with us throughout history, bringing with them their own horrors and uncertainty. Stock markets do not like uncertainty, and when war and conflict strike, stock markets will exhibit bouts of short-term volatility. Wars and conflict can and have led… Read More Read More
August 2023 Participant Memo: Risk-proofing Your Future: Personal Protection Strategies
Are you prepared for a secure financial future? Discover some key aspects of a comprehensive risk management strategy. Disability Income Protection: Protect your income by obtaining disability income protection. Purchase it when you are young and healthy, considering factors like occupational specialty coverage, ensuring future income increases, and prioritizing individual plans over group coverage. Property… Read More Read More
July 2023 Participant memo: Build a Bright Retirement Future
Clear, achievable, and meaningful goals can lay the foundation for success. Vague aspirations may have limited worth without a well-defined plan. Depending solely on past performance or arbitrary investment rules may carry risks when striving to achieve your financial goals. Time is a critical factor in goal setting that can shape your financial objectives. With… Read More Read More
June 2023 Participant memo: How Much is Enough?
There are many formulas for figuring out how much money you need to retire. While thinking seriously about retirement finances is useful, for most people, these formulas may not come close to what your retirement actually looks like. Taking Stock To truly get comfortable with your retirement plan, the first thing you should do is… Read More Read More
May 2023 Participant memo: The Advantage of Saving early
The early bird really could get the worm! In the chart below you will find no secret tips or tricks to investing that cite prior market events: just plain old math. The amount of your total nest egg is exponentially influenced by the duration of time it has to compound. In other words, the earlier… Read More Read More
April 2023 Participant memo: Need a Tax Break?
You may be eligible for a valuable incentive, which could reduce your federal income tax liability, for contributing to your company’s 401(k) or 403(b) plan. If you qualify, you may receive a Tax Saver’s Credit of up to $1,000 ($2,000 for married couples filing jointly) if you made eligible contributions to an employer sponsored retirement… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack Named to List of Nation’s Top DC Advisor Teams
Sapers & Wallack has been named to the National Association of Plan Advisors’ list of the nation’s top defined contribution (DC) Advisor Teams with Assets under Advisement over $100 Million. Unlike other lists, this focuses on individual firms, or what may, in a wirehouse environment, be referred to as a team, or office, and the… Read More Read More
March 2023 Participant memo: Planning Financial Futures
Do you spend more time planning your annual vacation than you do thinking about your personal finances? If so, you’re not alone. A lot of people put off financial planning or avoid it altogether. Personal financial planning is an ongoing, lifelong process. If we break it down into small, achievable tasks, it’s a lot less… Read More Read More
February 2023 Participant memo: The Importance of naming a Beneficiary
Do you know what will happen to your retirement savings if you were to pass away? Here are some things you should know about naming beneficiaries that could save your loved ones’ time, money and frustration. Facts about beneficiary designations 48% of people don’t have a named beneficiary.1 Generally, if you are married, your retirement… Read More Read More
January 2023 Participant memo: Financial Wellness 101: The Real Cost of Takeout
Financial Impact Think back to your last DoorDash order. How much did it cost you? How much food did you actually get for the money you were paying? Did you feel like you got a good deal? To those of us who order out consistently, a $35 tab on a DoorDash order might seem normal.… Read More Read More
December 2022 Participant memo: ‘Tis the Season for Investing
During the holidays, we think about spending time and reconnecting with family and friends, cozying up by the fireplace, enjoying each other’s company. We also tend to spend quite a bit of money this time of year, on everything from gifts to new year’s resolutions (think gym memberships). In a typical holiday season, we don’t… Read More Read More
November 2022 Participant memo: Are You Thankful for Your Health?
The holidays are upon us! Staying healthy just might make you wealthy. With small lifestyle changes and healthy choices (especially with all the shared yummy foods), you may reduce your annual healthcare costs and increase your income. These lifestyle changes can be as simple as limiting your salt intake or taking your prescribed medication regularly.… Read More Read More
October 2022 Participant memo: Market Trick and Treats
With the recent market volatility, it’s understandable that you may be concerned about your investments. Don’t let the market volatility spook you! Consider the following tips: Review your safe route. It is ok if your investment portfolio isn’t performing as you expected, but as you age closer towards your retirement, check out different investment options… Read More Read More
September 2022 Participant memo: Retirement Readiness: How will you Prepare?
Much has been made of the current state of the American worker as it pertains to their retirement savings. According to a recent study by the General Accountability Office, 29% of Americans 55 and older do not have any retirement savings or pension plan and those who have saved are woefully behind with 55-64 years… Read More Read More
July 2022 Participant memo: Beneficiary Designations Who will get your money?
We know you are ready for summer! But how’s your retirement plan doing? Summer can serve as a preview of your retirement — long days in the sun and spending time with your loved ones! So, what better time to do a routine check-up on your retirement plan! Protect your loved ones and ensure… Read More Read More
June 2022 Participant memo: Beneficiary Designations Who will get your money?
Although not a pleasant topic, it is an important one – Who is the named beneficiary of your retirement account should you pass away? When you enrolled in your retirement plan, you were asked to select a beneficiary to receive your retirement plan assets in the event of your death. This step may be more… Read More Read More
May 2022 Participant memo: Millennials – The Time to Start Saving is Now!
Typically, younger people don’t make retirement savings a priority. Living expenses, student debt, rent or house payments, and other day-to-day expenses mean that retirement savings take a back seat. In fact, research from National Institute on Retirement Security says that 66 percent of millennials haven’t saved any money for retirement, and 66 percent haven’t started… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack Named to List of Nation’s Top DC Advisor Teams
ARLINGTON, VA — Sapers & Wallack has been named to the National Association of Plan Advisors’ list of the nation’s top defined contribution (DC) Advisor Teams with Assets under Advisement of $100 Million . Unlike other lists, this focuses on individual firms, or what may, in a wirehouse environment, be referred to as a team,… Read More Read More
DOL Issues 2022 Adjusted Penalty Amounts
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has announced the 2022 annual adjustments to the maximum civil penalties employers face for violating a variety of federal laws that fall under their enforcement purview. Penalties may be assessed on employers for violations of a wide range of laws, including ERISA and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Employee… Read More Read More
April 2022 Participant memo: Tax Saver’s Credit: Get the “Credit” You Deserve!
Tax Saver’s Credit: Get the “Credit” You Deserve! You may be eligible for a valuable incentive, which could reduce your federal income tax liability, for contributing to your company’s 401(k) or 403(b) plan. If you qualify, you may receive a Tax Saver’s Credit of up to $1,000 ($2,000 for married couples filing jointly) if you… Read More Read More
Womenology: Managing the Financial Trifecta Caregiver Checklist
Managing the Financial Trifecta Your Retirement, Your Parents & Your Kids! Presented by Aviva Sapers & Holly Knight May 20, 2021 Caring for Older Parents: To get a complete picture of what may be coming your way as far as your parents’ needs are concerned this checklist will help you get started. Read More
Womenology: Managing the Financial Trifecta Resource Sheet
Managing the Financial Trifecta Your Retirement, Your Parents & Your Kids! Presented by Aviva Sapers & Holly Knight May 20, 2021 Here is a useful sheet you can download showing the “Parent Caregiving” resources and the “Raising Kids who Launch” resources. Read More
Womenology: Financial Wellness Activity
Make Money not Excuses. A discussion for women to gain control over their finances. Presented by Aviva Sapers, Holly Knight of Sapers and Wallack February 25, 2021 Here is a pdf document of the Womenology Financial Wellness “Your Money Why” Activity Sheet Read More
Womenology: Financial Wellness Handouts
Make Money not Excuses. A discussion for women to gain control over their finances. Presented by Aviva Sapers, Holly Knight of Sapers and Wallack February 25, 2021 Here is a pdf document of the Womenology Financial Wellness Women and Investing Retirement Options Handouts. Read More
Womenology: Financial Wellness Budgeting Worksheet
Make Money not Excuses. A discussion for women to gain control over their finances. Presented by Aviva Sapers, Holly Knight of Sapers and Wallack February 25, 2021 Here is a pdf document showing the Womenology Financial Wellness Monthly Budgeting Sheet. Read More
Womenology: Financial Wellness Resource Links
Make Money not Excuses. A discussion for women to gain control over their finances. Presented by Aviva Sapers, Holly Knight of Sapers and Wallack February 25, 2021 Here is a pdf document showing the Womenology Financial Wellness Resource Links. Read More
Retirement Times January 2021: 3(38) Advisory Services
The January issue of Retirement Times asks whether fiduciaries should outsource retirement plan investment responsibility, and discusses whether you should adopt a plan committee charter. This month’s Participant Memo discusses your financial wellness 101 – how much do you know about your retirement plan? Read the whole issue here. Read More
Retirement Times December 2020: Post Election Investment Commentary
The December issue of Retirement Times gives us a post-election investment commentary as well as an article about cyber security issues for plan sponsors. This month’s Participant Memo covers the 10% Savings Goal, start small and grow. Read the whole issue here. Read More
Retirement Times November 2020
The November issue of Retirement Times gives us information about the Volatility of Investments in this Election Year; the results of a Retirement Income survey and an Auditor’s Perspective of an Annual Plan Audit. This month’s Participant Memo covers Retirement Plan Basics – 10 things to know about your employer’s retirement plan. Read the whole… Read More Read More
Scott Tuxbury Named to 2020 Financial Times 401 Top Retirement Advisers
Sapers & Wallack is pleased to announce that Scott Tuxbury has been named to the 2020 edition of the Financial Times 401 Top Retirement Advisers. The list recognizes the top financial advisers who specialize in serving defined contribution (DC) retirement plans across the U.S. This is the sixth annual FT 401 list, produced independently by… Read More Read More
AALU: Defined Value Clauses: An Important Tool for Turbulent Times.
The purchase of life insurance products and their implementation into a client’s broader legacy planning strategy requires clients to navigate through a complex web of financial and cashflow management strategies, transfer tax considerations, and tax reporting obligations that must be approached differently on a client by client basis. Failure on the part of advisors to work… Read More Read More
Retirement Times August 2020
The August issue of Retirement Times focuses Collective Investment Trusts — The Fastest Growing Investment Vehicle Within 401(k) Plans – and also Allowable Plan Expenses. This month’s Participant Memo shares a Retirement Plan Check-Up. Read the whole issue here. Read More
Retirement Times May 2020
The May issue of Retirement Times focuses on if you are ready for an audit; if your company should implement a student loan assistance plan: complying with ERISA 404(c). This month’s Participant Memo shares Four Basic Steps for a Successful Retirement Read the whole issue here. Read More
Retirement Expenses memo
How Can you Prepare for Healthcare Expenses in Retirement? Rising healthcare costs are on everyone’s mind, even for affluent people. In fact, 69 percent of affluent pre-retirees cite rising healthcare costs as one of their top fears in retirement, according to a survey from the Nationwide Retirement Institute. In fact, 63 percent of these affluent… Read More Read More
Impact of Low Interest Rates and Stock Market Volatility on Life Insurance Policy Performance
Coronavirus has rocked the markets and global economy. The first quarter 2020 saw unprecedented stock market volatility and a Federal Funds rate cut to near zero. Market volatility and interest rates can significantly impact the performance of life insurance policies. Lion Street has authored a new white paper on this topic which covers the… Read More Read More
Retirement Times April 2020
The April issue of Retirement Times focuses on Closing the Retirement Gender Gap: How Retirement Plan Advisors Can Help, along with Another Way to Save: New Tax Credit for Plan Participants. This month’s Participant Memo shares Five Key Decisions for a Successful Retirement. Read the whole issue here. Read More
Retirement Times Feb 2020
This month our Retirement Times asks the question: Too Many Choices: How Many Investment Options Should You Offer? It also discusses the was you can use Plan Analytics to evaluate your retirement plan. February’s Retirement Times contains so much useful & interesting information. Read More
Retirement Times Jan 2020
The Sapers & Wallack / Hilb Group of New England team are pleased to share the January edition of our new Retirement Times. This issue covers why CFOs should consider partnering with a Retirement Plan advisor and the importance of keeping beneficiary information updated. Read More
Considerations for Tax-Advantaged Accounts in Response to COVID-19
The evolving COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact businesses and their employee benefit plans in unexpected ways. Here, we outline recent changes to tax-advantaged accounts like FSAs, HSAs, and HRAs, as well as areas where employers have some flexibility to respond to the current emergency. View the article here. Read More
Families First Coronavirus response Act: What Employers Need to Know
On Wednesday April 1st, following a 363-40 vote in the House and a 90-8 vote in the Senate, President Trump signed a multi-billion dollar emergency economic relief bill – H.R. 6201, the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (the “Act”) – into law to help combat the COVID-19 pandemic which ensures free testing, provides paid sick… Read More Read More
AALU: Better Together – The Importance of Collaboration Among Client Advisors When Acquiring Life Insurance (With Case Study)
The purchase of life insurance products and their implementation into a client’s broader legacy planning strategy requires clients to navigate through a complex web of financial and cashflow management strategies, transfer tax considerations, and tax reporting obligations that must be approached differently on a client by client basis. Failure on the part of advisors to work… Read More Read More
AALU: Watch Your Step: Fiduciary Pitfalls for Trustees of Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts.
A trustee’s job in administering a trust can be unexpectedly treacherous, especially in the context of an ILIT and the management of its life insurance portfolio. Clients frequently turn to family and friends to fill this important role, since many financial institutions will not serve as trustees of an ILIT only funded with life insurance. … Read More Read More
Retirement Times July 2019
The July issue of Retirement Times lets Fiduciaries know what their summer homework is! Hey Joel! – a recovering former practicing ERISA attorney answers this question: One of my current employees recently received a notice from Social Security saying that they might be entitled to a retirement benefit. Is it my responsibility to track this… Read More Read More
AALU: Out with the old, in with the new – revitalizing or unwinding existing ILITs.
With recent changes in federal gift and estate tax exemptions, many clients may want to take a new look at their old irrevocable life insurance trusts (“ILITs”). In trust planning, irrevocable no longer means inflexible. Keeping this in mind, clients and advisors should review existing ILITs and weigh the trust’s potential practical benefits against… Read More Read More
Retirement News April 2019
The April issue of Retirement Times sees Michael Viljak discussing 10 reasons to roll over into your plan, versus an IRA. There is also a section on Loss Aversion and Fighting Fear. Joel Shapiro takes part in a Q&A about whether we should consider life insurance in our retirement plans. Read the entire April issue… Read More Read More
AALU: Spousal Lifetime Access Trusts (SLATs) and Divorce – what you don’t know …
SLATs have become increasing popular in legacy planning for married couples but may have unanticipated consequences if the marriage ends. Per Notice 2018-37, the IRS plans to issue future guidance that could impact the income taxation of SLATs post-divorce. Regardless, clients and advisors should be proactive in addressing these issues when planning with SLATs. New SLATs… Read More Read More
Retirement Times March 2019
The March issue of Retirement Times contains information about the Dept. of Labor’s Relief Guidance for Victims of California Wildfires, with specific guidance in the areas of loans & distributions and participant contributions and loan repayments. Joel Shapiro takes part in a Q&A about conducting an RFP for an ERISA attorney. Read the whole issue… Read More Read More
Retirement Times Feb 2019
This month our Retirement Times looks at repaying student loans or saving in a retirement plan – or both! And our Q&A section with Joel Shapiro focuses on the risks for late 5500 filings. February’s Retirement Times contains so much useful & interesting information. Read More
Retirement Times Jan 2019
The Sapers & Wallack / Hilb Group of New England team have developed a great new way of sharing information with you – we are happy to share the January edition of our new Retirement Times. This issue covers cyber fraud and safety as well as a Q&A section from Joel Shapiro – a former… Read More Read More
AALU: Select Insights from the 2019 Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning
Presenters at the 2019 Heckerling Institute on Estate Planning highlighted the continuing ripple effect of the TCJA on planning, including the release of several regulations designed to implement TCJA provisions (including pass-through entity taxation and estate tax “claw back”), the allocation of the higher generation skipping transfer (GST) tax exemption to pre-TCJA transfers, and the… Read More Read More
IRS Contribution Limits 2015-2019
The Sapers & Wallack Retirement Team has developed an IRS Contribution Limits one pager to assist with any questions you might have. This is a great resource tool for you to keep on file in the event you or someone from your firm has questions about not only what the limits are in 2019 but… Read More Read More
Aviva Sapers shared her insights about board memberships at Bentley University
Aviva Sapers shared her insights about board memberships at Bentley University Our CEO Aviva Sapers provided her extensive experience in the area of board memberships as a panelist in Bentley University’s Executive Education program. Together with panelist Roberta Sydney, she discussed how she got on the boards she currently serves on, what the benefits of… Read More Read More
Aviva Sapers discusses most important lessons for women in leadership
Aviva Sapers discusses most important lessons for women in leadership Our CEO Aviva Sapers is cited in a new piece by Webster Bank, discussing ‘What Successful Women Already Know – 6 Hard-Won Lessons from Leading Women in Business’. Her number one takeaway, success is always rooted in collaboration: ‘I’m more consensus-driven than dictatorial. Being collaborative helps get… Read More Read More
We did it again! Sapers & Wallack wins The FBA Family Business of the Year Award
We did it again! Sapers & Wallack wins The FBA Family Business of the Year Award We are proud and honored to announce the win of another prestigious award in the family-business space. Sapers & Wallack has been recognized as the 2017 Family Business Association’s Family Business of the Year in the Small Business Category! In addition,… Read More Read More
Aviva Sapers will discuss family business issues at this year’s FBA conference
Our president and CEO Aviva Sapers will provide guidance and insights to family-owned businesses as a speaker on 2 panels of this year’s Family Business Association’s Conference. She will discuss “Management Issues & Transitioning Family Businesses: Governance, Organization, Pay and Other Key Aspects for the Next Leaders” and ‘How Advisors Will Guide You Through the… Read More Read More
Aviva Sapers speaks at Boston Chamber of Commerce’s Thrive conference for small businesses
Aviva Sapers speaks at Boston Chamber of Commerce’s ‘Thrive’ conference for small businesses The Boston Chamber is passionate about the advancement of small businesses and hosts ‘Thrive’, the conference for small businesses in Boston on Oct. 26th. Our principal and CEO, Aviva Sapers, was invited to share her expertise and experience about the best ways… Read More Read More
S&W team members volunteered at Tufts Health Plan 10K for Women
S&W team members volunteered at Tufts Health Plan 10K for Women 4 of our team members spent their Monday morning assisting hundreds of runners before and after their run, supporting the motto of this year’s run “Start Strong, Finish Stronger”. Our partner Tufts Health Plan organized this amazing event for the 41st time, bringing together more than… Read More Read More
Big win for the S&W Retirement Plan Consulting team – chosen as Top DC Advisor firm 2017
Big Win for the S&W Retirement Plan Consulting Team – Chosen as Top DC Advisor Firm 2017 Our Retirement Plan Consulting Team is celebrating a prestigious industry recognition, being named one of the top retirement advisors in the country by the National Association of Plan Advisors (NAPA). “Since their inception, NAPA’s various industry lists have… Read More Read More
AALU: Breathing New Life into Old Trusts
Trust decanting allows a trustee to transfer assets from an existing irrevocable trust to a different irrevocable trust and may be used to address a wide array of issues, including correcting drafting errors, changing distributions standards or beneficiary powers of appointment, amending administrative provisions, and updating fiduciaries and their powers. In years past, irrevocable trust… Read More Read More
AALU: Gift Disclosure Memo
In Office of Chief Counsel Memorandum FAA 20172807F, the IRS Chief Counsel stated that the three-year limitations period for gift tax assessment remained open indefinitely for a donor’s gifts where the donor (i) failed to file federal gift tax returns disclosing gifts made in each of six different tax years and (ii) filed a gift… Read More Read More
AALU: Changing the Situs of an Irrevocable Trust
Careful navigation is required while changing a trust’s situs As states vie for trust business by offering more exclusive benefits, new life can be given to old trusts by moving to a jurisdiction with more robust trust laws (a so-called “situs change”). Long-term irrevocable (dynasty) trusts can become inefficient over time. Moving the trust to… Read More Read More
AALU: Avoiding 5 Common Mistakes in Life Insurance Planning
Avoiding 5 Common Mistakes in Life Insurance Planning As estate planning involving personal life insurance becomes commoditized, so does the chance that a minor oversight will have a major tax impact. According to experts, some of the most common mistakes in life insurance planning include: (1) failure to qualify gifts to irrevocable life insurance trust… Read More Read More
AALU: The Risk of Proprietary Life Insurance Products
The Risk of Proprietary Life Insurance Products – For Clients, Distributor and Insurer While some producer groups tout the benefits of “proprietary products” in their marketing and sales process, these products are certainly not a case of tails I win, heads you lose. With the focus in today’s world on customization and bespoke products, proprietary… Read More Read More
AALU: Estate Freeze Series – Installment Sales to Grantor Trusts
It’s Déjà Vu: Planning (Again) in the Face of Uncertainty – Estate Freeze Series: Installment Sales to Grantor Trusts. With low interest rates and uncertainty persisting, estate freeze techniques, like installment sales to grantor trusts (ISGTs), continue to play a key role in legacy planning. The ISGT transfers appreciating assets to the next generation without… Read More Read More
AALU: Estate Freeze Series – Zeroed-Out GRATs
It’s Déjà Vu: Planning (Again) in the Face of Uncertainty – Estate Freeze Series: Zeroed-Out GRATs Zero-gift planning techniques, like zeroed-out grantor retained annuity trusts (GRATs), have taken on renewed importance in legacy planning as a way to remove assets from the estate and preserve the federal unified credit for later income tax (basis) planning,… Read More Read More
AALU: Change Life Insurance Beneficiaries Post-Divorce
Forget Something? Make Sure to Change Life Insurance Beneficiaries Post-Divorce. It is very commonplace for life insurance beneficiary designations to be overlooked or even forgotten. Proper legacy management requires updating life insurance beneficiary designations following divorce. Typically, after divorce, individuals no longer want their former spouses to receive life insurance death benefits. In many cases,… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack merges its group benefits firm into Hilb Group
Sapers & Wallack merges its group benefits firm into Hilb Group Sapers & Wallack’s merged its group benefits division into the Hilb Group, LLC, effective February 1, 2017. As part of the transaction, the group benefits division with all of its current employees will join THG’s New England employee benefits operations, led by Rob Calise. Tom… Read More Read More
Understanding Recent COI Increases
COI Charges have historically been an uncommon, or even untouched, element that life insurance carriers have adjusted in response to financial pressures. While there have been limited instances of increases in the past 30 years, in 2015 and 2016 several carriers applied increases to COI Charges of certain blocks of in-force policies, mostly consisting of… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack participates in the ‘Be InspiRED’ campaign to promote the National Go RED for Women Day!
February is American Heart Month, and Sapers & Wallack will take part in the National Go RED for Women Day on February 3rd. The Go RED for Women Day helps to raise awareness about the women’s heart disease epidemic while promoting education and essential lifestyle choices to reduce risk factors. The Sapers & Wallack… Read More Read More
AALU: Trust Advisor Powers
Who’s Who – Are Trust Advisors Fiduciaries? Does It Matter? Clients are hearing much more about terms like trust protectors, investment advisors, and business directors. As the sophistication of irrevocable trusts increases, so too does the use of these so-called “Trust Advisors,” who have the authority to direct the trustee’s actions. As more clients decide… Read More Read More
Case Study: Oxfam – Customized Executive Benefit Solution
OXFAM AMERICA is a global nonprofit organization that works throughout 90 countries in an effort “to create lasting solutions to poverty, hunger, and social justice.” In March 2012, Oxfam implemented the Executive Benefit Restoration Allowance plan to make the executive retirement benefits competitive. The prior plan design provided 2 annuity options geared towards retirement but… Read More Read More
AALU: Malpractice Suit Against Trustees
Malpractice Suit Against Trustees Who Failed to Inform Beneficiaries of Potential Policy Lapse The successor trustees and beneficiaries of a family trust sued a Michigan lawyer for malpractice in her handling of a policy owned by the trust when she was the trustee. The lawyer sought coverage from her malpractice insurer, but it denied her… Read More Read More
Group Term Life Insurance Table 1 Costs
The end of the 2016 tax year is an appropriate time to review the procedures to determine imputed income on group term life insurance. Many employers provide group term life insurance plans at no premium cost to employees. The value of the first $50,000 of employer-provided benefit is excluded from the gross income of… Read More Read More
Aviva Sapers and Jude Sydney to be honored at JCHE gala for their outstanding support
Giving back to her community has always been important to our CEO Aviva Sapers and her family. She is involved with many non-profits and has made charitable giving an important part of our company culture. Sapers & Wallack donates 1% of its revenue at a minimum of $100,000 per year to charities such as the… Read More Read More
Webinar: Long Term Care
New Webinar: Long Term Care Long Term Care is one of the most important topics when it comes to your personal financial planning. It takes just one unforeseen accident or illness to put your family’s financial future at risk. Watch our latest webinar to make sure you’re covered when the unforeseen hits you. Read More
Sapers & Wallack’s Karen Van Voorhis quoted in Bob Veres ‘Inside Information’
Sapers & Wallack’s Karen Van Voorhis quoted in Bob Veres ‘Inside Information‘ Karen Van Voorhis, Vice President of Wealth Management was recently quoted in the September 2016 of Bob Seger’s Inside Information newsletter. When discussing the process of simplifying household finances, Karen takes on the role of household CFO for her clients, and that requires… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack hosted Financial Wellness Webinar
Sapers & Wallack hosted Financial Wellness Webinar: Commonly Overlooked Financial Details in Today’s Households Karen Van Voorhis, CFP, Vice President of Wealth Management hosted a webinar to help you avoid the common pitfall of not being engaged with your overall financial picture! She shared 15 “nuggets” to shore up your… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack Wins Family Business of the Year Award!
We Won! We are thrilled and honored to announce that SAPERS & WALLACK has been recognized as the 2016 Northeastern University’s Massachusetts Family Business of the Year in the Small Firms Category! Congratulations to our whole team for helping to elevate our firm for over 80 years of service in a holistic approach to financial… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack: Finalist in 2016 MA Family Business of the Year Awards!
Congratulations to our team here at Sapers & Wallack on being chosen as a finalist in the Northeastern University 2016 Massachusetts Family Business of the Year Awards! Being chosen as a finalist says something special about our family business and we are honored to be recognized at this stage of the competition. The winners will… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack is on the Move!
Our Office is Moving, May 1st! Same Building, First Floor, Suite 110 Sapers & Wallack is excited to announce that our offices will be relocated on May 1st! We will still be found at 275 Washington Street, Newton MA, but we will now be located on the first floor – SUITE 110 – immediately to… Read More Read More
eMoney Vault Checklist
eMoney vault, a digital storage platform, enables us to exchange and share documents with clients, their CPAs and estate planners in a secure way. Financial Planning magazine called it a “lock box in the clouds that provides peace of mind.” Take a look at the Vault Checklist here. If you would like more information on… Read More Read More
Economic Recap Q1 2016: Important Factors and Events Shaping US Economy
Markets Stop, Drop, Roll…And Rebound SEI gives a breakdown of important factors and events that have helped to shape US economic standing for the first-quarter of the year: Despite the dramatic equity market selloff (and recovery), one of our bedrock assumptions is that a global recession remains unlikely. Another bedrock assumption is that central-bank policy… Read More Read More
Thomas P. Connors, Jr. Joins Sapers & Wallack as President of Group Benefits
Sapers & Wallack, a Newton-based insurance, benefits, and wealth management firm, is pleased to announce the arrival of Thomas P. Connors, Jr. as President of Group Benefits. Tom’s passion is working with corporate customers to guide their decisions as their trusted advisor. Using his problem solving skills, economic acumen, and creativeness, he and his team… Read More Read More
Economic Outlook Q4 2015: The Ongoing Challenges for Investors
More of the same in 2016…With a Little Less Certainty SEI gives a breakdown of important factors and events that have helped to shape US economic standing for the end of the year, as well as speculate as to how said factors will govern economic expectations moving ahead into 2016. Read the summary here or the… Read More Read More
Investment Fundamentals December 2015: Federal Funds Rate
SEI provides a concise overview of the Federal Funds Rate, how it’s determined, and what it means for you. The federal funds rate is an interest rate set by the Federal Reserve for borrowing and lending between major banks. The FOMC’s strategy around setting the target federal funds rate requires a delicate balancing act. Changes… Read More Read More
AALU: Charitable Giving Approaches Using Life Insurance
A Few Simplified Charitable Giving Approaches Using Life Insurance As clients search for ways to make their year-end charitable contributions, a gift of life insurance may be an easy solution. A life insurance policy is easily transferable and, among other benefits, can provide a fixed-value gift with minimal administrative requirements, financial flexibility for the donor,… Read More Read More
Long Term Care Planning Options
Sometimes it’s nice to have the basics laid out on one simple chart. We have attempted to provide just that with LTC Alternatives. Traditional Long Term Care Life Insurance with Long Term Care Rider Life & LTC Hybrid Insurance Self-Insure Life Insurance with Return of Premium Rider Visit our Long Term Care Insurance page and learn… Read More Read More
Today’s Long-Term Care Coverage: Understanding the Fine Print
Recognizing the changing priorities and pitfalls of today’s long-term care needs, National Financial Partners has created this document to explore the intricacies of various LTC products with a keen eye toward Understanding the Fine Print. Pressures on Traditional LTC Hybrid/Linked benefit LTC Policies LTC Riders Accelerated Death Benefit for Chronic Illness Riders The Fine Print Contact… Read More Read More
A shoppers guide to LTC Insurance (NAIC)
Put together by The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), A Shoppers Guide to LTC Insurance was designed to help you answer: What is long term care? Who needs long term care? What are the various insurance options to help pay for it? When does it make sense to buy? Contact us to learn more about how our… Read More Read More
S&W Hiring Sales Consultant/Business Development
Sapers & Wallack is seeking to expand its staff with a sales associate to build long-term relationships with our customers, helping them navigate our full range of investment, insurance, and executive and employee benefit products and services. If you are interested in joining our team, learn more about the role and how to apply. Read More
AALU: Crummey Powers Instrumental in Funding Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts
Crummey Powers – Crummy or Essential? It’s More Than Just Moving Paper Crummey powers are instrumental in funding irrevocable life insurance trusts (“ILITs”) with annual exclusion gifts. Annual exclusion gifts can help clients substantially fund ILITs while preserving their lifetime gift and estate tax exemption amounts. Qualifying a gift in trust as an annual exclusion… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter June 2015: Target-Date Funds
In this issue of the Retirement Report you will find: The Most Important Assumption Regarding Target-Date Funds Current Stresses Eclipse Retirement Planning for Working Millennials Best Practices in Hardship Distributions Company Stock and Fiduciary Considerations Read More
Sapers & Wallack to Participate in 7th Annual Employee Wellbeing Month
Company Joins Leading Organizations Worldwide in Pledging Support to Employee Wellbeing and Creating Healthy, Productive Workplaces and Cultures Newton, MA (June 1, 2015) – Sapers & Wallack today announced it has pledged support for, and will once again participate in, Employee Wellbeing Month, taking place throughout June 2015. This initiative, originally known as National Employee Wellness… Read More Read More
AALU: Understand the Transfer for Value Rule
A Primer on the Transfer for Value Rule Estate and business succession planning often involves life insurance, including transfers of existing policies to irrevocable life insurance trusts (ILITs) or other parties. Understanding the transfer for value rule and its potential tax impact is critical when considering such policy transfers. Death benefits paid under a life insurance… Read More Read More
AALU: Death Benefit Only Plans
Death Benefit Only Plans – Not Dead Yet As income tax rates rise, death benefit only plans can be an appealing way to attract or retain selected key employees. As the name implies, death benefit only plans generally provide death benefits to a current employee’s surviving beneficiaries. These plans typically are: subject to less complex… Read More Read More
AALU: Spousal Lifetime Access Trust
Spousal Lifetime Access Trust (SLATs) The increased gift and generation-skipping transfer tax exemptions provide greater opportunities to benefit future generations during life. A spousal lifetime access trust (a so-called “SLAT”) may provide a helpful solution for clients, who are looking to giving lifetime gifts with the need to retain adequate funds to support their needs.… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter February 2015: Employee Communications Strategies
In this issue of our Retirement Report you will find: Is the Oil Price Decline Beneficial to the U.S. Economy? The Hopes, Fears and Reality of Retirement Preparing for a Partial Plan Termination Employee Communication Strategies for All Seasons Read More
Retirement Newsletter January 2015: Is Your Fiduciary House in Order?
In this issue of our Retirement Report you will find: Qualified Plan Governance: Is Your Fiduciary House in Order? Top Five New Year's Resolutions for Retirement Plan Fiduciaries Solutions for a Stressed-Out Nation Improper Handling of Hardship Distributions May Result in Significant Problems Read More
AALU: 1035 Exchanges of Life Insurance Policies
1035 Exchanges of Life Insurance Policies — How Easy Are They Really? Complex tax laws and the emergence of new, more sophisticated life insurance products emphasize the need for life insurance solutions that offer flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances. Internal Revenue Code (“Code”) § 1035(a) allows the exchange of a life insurance contract for… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter November 2014: Automatic Enrollment Revisited
In this issue of our Retirement Report you will find: Case Study: Automatic Enrollment Revisited Pension Protection Act of 2006 Restatements Despite Noise, Macro Factors Will Drive Fixed Income Markets Common Misconceptions Read More
AALU WRMarketplace 14-36
Department of Labor (DOL) Issues Updated Guidance for Dealing with Accounts of Missing Participants Under Terminated Defined Contribution Plans The effective termination of a defined contribution plan requires the plan fiduciary to timely distribute ALL plan assets, which can be complicated if certain participants cannot be located. Due to changes in available search vehicles and… Read More Read More
AALU WRMarketplace 14-15
Knowing What You’re Doing: Troubleshooting Common Oversights in Split-Dollar Plans Easily over-looked trouble spots in split-dollar life insurance arrangements and suggestions for how to avoid them include: (1) confirming the availability of term insurance rates used to measure annual economic benefits; (2) filing non-recourse representations for split-dollar loans; (3) using properly drafted collateral assignments for… Read More Read More
AALU WRMarketplace 14-26
Deferred Compensation for Tax-Exempt Organizations (Part I) – Tax Qualified Arrangements To provide deferred compensation using a tax-qualified arrangement, tax-exempt employers can offer the typical 401(k) plan as well as the 403(b) tax-sheltered annuity plan. Although the rules governing 401(k) plans and 403(b) plans have become increasingly similar over time (e.g., similar annual contribution limits… Read More Read More
AALU WRMarketplace 14-30
Deferred Compensation for Tax-Exempt Organizations (Part II) – Non-Qualified Arrangements Internal Revenue Code (“Code”) §457 imposes special rules for non-qualified arrangements maintained by tax-exempt employers. As a result, the employee of a tax-exempt employer may be able to defer less compensation than an employee of a taxable employer for the same period or may be… Read More Read More
Let’s Cook! Sapers & Wallack sponsors Men of Boston Cook for Women’s Health event
Let’s Cook! Sapers & Wallack sponsors Men of Boston Cook for Women’s Health event Coming October 2nd, our team will put on their aprons and join top Boston chefs to support a very important cause: help raise funds for critical women’s health programs. We are proud to partner with our client Codman Square Health Center again… Read More Read More
Aviva Sapers Discusses Being Financially Responsible with Jewish Vocational Services
Aviva Sapers talks finance with July’s Jewish Vocational Services graduates Aviva Sapers gave sound financial advice to a group of graduates from JVS this past July. Among her words of sage advice, Aviva counseled the group on how to take steps towards financial fitness. For example: Credit cards vs. debit cards: When a debit card… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter August 2014
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: What to Expect When Transitioning Providers The Future of Retirement Plans ERISA 3(21) vs. 3(38) Fiduciary A Quick Look at Gap Analysis Communication Corner: Save Early, Reach Your Goal Visit our website at sapers-wallack.com/retirement to learn more about our offers for plan sponsors and individuals and connect with us on our "Team" page. Read More
Retirement Newsletter July 2014
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: Determining Fee Reasonableness of a Retirement Plan Record Keeper Why Advisors Are Taking a New Look at Collective Investment Trusts Locating Missing Participants Establishing Your Retirement Plan Committee Charter Communication Corner: How Long Will Your Money Last? Visit our website at sapers-wallack.com/retirement to learn more about our offers for… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter June 2014
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: Weathering All Market Conditions One Size Does Not Fit All Understanding Multiemployer Plans Complying with ERISA 404(c) Communication Corner: Your Perfect Match Visit our website at sapers-wallack.com/retirement to learn more about our offers for plan sponsors and individuals and connect with us on our “Team” page. Read More
Aviva Sapers wins 2014 Outstanding Women of Family Business Award
Aviva Sapers wins 2014 Outstanding Women of Family Business Award Our CEO and President Aviva Sapers received the 2014 award for “Outstanding Women of Family Business”. Presented by The Warren Group in conjunction with Massachusetts Family Business magazine, the New England Family Business Conference and the Family Business Association, the award honors entrepreneurial women who… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter May 2014
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: 3(16) ERISA Fiduciary Definition Power of Peer Influence: From Inertia to Action Pass or Fail? Corrective Actions to Remedy Your Test Results Going the Extra Mile: A Deeper Look at the Scorecard Communication Corner: Explore Your Options Visit our website at sapers-wallack.com/retirement to learn more about our offers for… Read More Read More
AALU WRMarketplace 14-19
Letters of Wishes & Other Precatory Guidance in Dynasty Trust Planning Settlors of discretionary trusts can provide vital guidance to trustees in the exercise of their discretionary powers through the use of non-binding (i.e., precatory) language in the trust agreement or the provision of a separate “letter of wishes.” Discretionary dynasty trusts may retain substantial assets… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter April 2014
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: Thoughts on the investment policy statement review DC plan participant perspectives on risk The six categories of fiduciaries A comment about what constitutes proper documentation of retirement plan committee meetings Read More
Aggressive audit program of health and welfare plans
Aggressive audit program of health and welfare plans The Department of Labor is launching an aggressive audit program of health and welfare plans. Per the attached directive, this comprehensive document and information request needs to be responded to within 10 days of receipt. Are you confident your organization is prepared to withstand the scrutiny of… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter March 2014
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: Information about 3 recommended index funds and the importance to offer fewer funds to drive better participation A comment about the benefits of a qualitative mutual fund review A list of advantages for plan sponsors who consider adopting a safe-harbor design for their retirement plan Explanation about the… Read More Read More
Medicare Support Service
New at Sapers & Wallack: Medicare Support Service Sapers & Wallack is offering a new service to our clients and their employees. The impact of the large number of baby boomers turning 65 has become a burden for many HR departments. This service provides a licensed advisor who is available to talk with employees one… Read More Read More
New Sapers & Wallack Service: Medicare Support
New Sapers & Wallack Service: Medicare Support We are offering a new service to our clients and their employees: The impact of the large number of baby boomers turning 65 has become a burden for many HR departments. This service provides a licensed advisor who is available to talk with employees one on one to… Read More Read More
AALU WRMarketplace 14-04
Avoiding Inadvertent Taxable Gifts: Crummey Powers and Annual Exclusion Gifts to Trusts Many individuals follow an annual gifting strategy that involves making gifts to trusts, including irrevocable life insurance trusts (“ILITs”), and rely on beneficiary withdrawal powers to avoid taxable gifts by qualifying the transfers as annual exclusion gifts. For gifts to trusts to qualify for the… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter February 2014
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: Information about retirement income solutions with Guaranteed Minimum Withdrawal Benefits (GMWB) Insights into Specialty Asset Classes as part of a retirement plan menu An overview of different fee methods and A comment about revenue sharing Read More
Retirement Newsletter December 2013
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: Thoughts on fixed income investing in a rising rate environment A birthday letter to the Target Date Fund Detailed information about the benefits of stable value products Answers to the question “Do I need an independent ERISA audit?”. Read More
Doing well by doing good – Our team gives back to our community
It’s that time of year when snow falls, fires are lit, and families gather. A time for reflection and community. As a family-run business, the spirit of the holidays gives us a chance to renew our commitment to one of our core beliefs: that we do well by doing good. “It is important, given the… Read More Read More
Charitable Giving is at the heart of family businesses – Sapers & Wallack featured in MA Family Business Magazine
Giving back to our community is close to our heart and our team is involved in many charitable initiatives. Read more about our “Giving Back” philosophy in the recent Massachusetts Family Business Magazine. Read More
Fiduciaries on Retirement Plans – FEI article by Victor Kwitkiwski
In his most recent article for Financial Executives International, Victor Kwitkiwski, Vice President, Retirement Plan Services and Fiduciary at Sapers & Wallack, elaborates on the roles and responsibilities of different types of fiduciaries that exist. Many Plan Sponsors don’t know if they’re working with a Fiduciary; many are confused about the role of a Financial Advisor… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack recognized as leader in financial services industry
Sapers & Wallack recognized as leader in financial services industry We are proud and honored to have been named one of the Top 100 Women-Led Businesses in MA by The Commonwealth Institute and the Boston Globe and one of the Largest Employee Benefit Firms in MA by the Boston Business Journal. As a third generation family… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter November 2013
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: Interesting results of the EBRI Annual Retirement Confidence survey Detailed information about the exchange of traded funds in retirement plans An overview of prohibited transactions fiduciaries must be aware of Answers to the often asked question: What records should I keep, for how long and how should… Read More Read More
Retirement Newsletter October 2013
In this issue of our Retirement Report you find: The pros and cons of allowing participants to take loans from their retirement accounts Detailed information about plan eligibility An overview of the Health Care reform and its implications on retirement plans A discussion about the exclusion of part-timers from the 401(k) plan Read More
Why Hire a Professional Retirement Advisor
As a plan sponsor and fiduciary to your company’s retirement plan, you have certain responsibilities to ensure optimal investments, reasonable fees, and informed participants. With an Advisor at your side, you can navigate these waters smoothly and with confidence to create a best practices retirement plan which strives to help protect you from liability and… Read More Read More
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Obamacare – what employers need to know
We presented an overview of what has transpired since the Act was passed in 2010 and what employers need to be doing now to be in compliance in 2014 in collaboration with the Financial Management Association of New Hampshire (FMANH). Our experts Janice Belmonte and Paula Drozdal Connors lead the discussion about this important topic. Take a… Read More Read More
Strengthening a successful team – new hires in the retirement plan division
We are pleased to announce the recent hire of Dan Roderigues and Victor Kwitkiwski in our Retirement Plan division. Dan is leading the division as Managing Director and works in close collaboration with Victor who is responsible for business development as Vice President. Dan Roderigues Victor Kwitkiwski As experts in their fields for more than… Read More Read More
AALU Report 13-27
What is the proper valuation of Life Insurance policies distributed from non-qualified trusts? Life Insurance valuations continue to be an elusive concept. The conservative approach to the valuation of a life insurance contract is to follow the safe harbors of Rev. Proc. 2005-25. However, The Ninth Circuit’s affirmation of a Tax Court decision indicates that there is current… Read More Read More
AALU Report 13-19
Why Fiduciary Representation is important for Retirement Plan Sponsors As part of our value proposition when consulting to Retirement Plans, Sapers & Wallack acknowledges in the Retirement Plan Services Agreement that we are a Fiduciary with respect to assets of the Plan as defined in ERISA under Section 3(21). As Plan Fiduciaries, we undertake a… Read More Read More
AALU Report 13-17
Target Date Retirement Funds – a popular investment option Target Date Retirement Funds (TDF’s) have become an increasingly popular investment option in 401(k) plans. It is important to identify the differences between various funds, especially in their fee structure, investment strategy and glide path. As TDF offerings continue to expand, and as their popularity with… Read More Read More
AALU Report 13-12
Leave large sums for children and grandchildren We want to share a technique that can help maximize returns for the benefit of your children and grandchildren: We recently met with clients who wanted to maximize the return they could receive from their investments, for the benefit of their heirs. At the end of 2012 this… Read More Read More
The importance of values in today’s business world
During the development of our new branding and website, we had a lot of discussions about our company history and our approach to doing business. Our firm has served hundreds of clients over the last 80 years. I was fortunate to observe the growth of the company under the leadership of my father Bill Sapers… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack Recognized as Finalist for Massachusetts Family Business Award
We did it again – Finalist for MA Family Business Award We are proud and honoured to be recognized as a finalist in the Massachusetts Family Business Award. Created 7 years ago by the Center for Family Business at Northeastern University, the awards program creates awareness and promotes the achievements of Massachusetts-based, family owned companies. As… Read More Read More
Sapers & Wallack Pledges Support for National Employee Wellness Month!
Newton, MA. (June 3, 2013) – Sapers & Wallack, a leader in the benefits industry, announced today that they have pledged their support for the fifth annual National Employee Wellness Month. This month-long initiative helps business leaders learn from best practices of how to successfully engage employees in healthy lifestyles. National Employee Wellness Month is… Read More Read More