The Guide's practical approach, comprehensive guidance, informative examples, and checklists will enable you and your staff to identify, market, and profitably complete retirement planning engagements.

Here are some of the key features contained in the latest edition of PPC’s Guide to Retirement Planning:

• 2013 Scheduled Tax Increases. Beginning in 2013, a variety of tax increases are scheduled to occur. First, the Bush tax cuts expire at the end of 2012. Second, new Medicare taxes on high-income individuals will commence. Finally, the estate and gift tax regime will return to the lower exemption of $1 million and the higher top tax rate of 55%. The Guide has been updated to include planning ideas related to these scheduled tax increases.
• Estate Tax Planning. The lower 35% estate tax rate has been extended through 2012. In addition, the basic exclusion amount has increased to $5.12 million in 2012 and surviving spouses will be allowed to use the deceased spouse’s remaining exclusion amount. The Guide has been updated to discuss current estate tax law and tax planning ideas to implement before the scheduled rate increases in 2013.
• Incapacity Planning. The discussion on incapacity planning has been expanded to include discussions of the Elder Investment Fraud and Financial Exploitation Prevention Program, basic in-home care services, and eldercare resources available in most communities.
• Boomer Alerts. Additional Boomer Alerts have been added to help with planning for the 10,000 baby boomers turning 65 every day.
• Social Security. Budgetary concerns have changed certain administrative policies within the Social Security Administration, including the elimination of annual statements for people under age 60 and the ability to receive benefits by check. The Guide has been updated with the latest social security guidance and benefit strategies.