When protecting your money, it’s important to limit the government’s take. Amid shifting tax policies and other types of political turbulence, you may want to make money moves that will lock down your wealth.
Here are some strategies for keeping your money safe during our current period of government turmoil.
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Use cryptocurrencies
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Cryptocurrency proponents say this type of digital asset provides the ultimate financial autonomy. Cryptocurrencies operate on decentralized blockchain technology, making it harder for governments to seize control.
Unlike traditional cash assets, cryptocurrency exists outside of centralized financial institutions and offers a high level of privacy. And since digital currencies can be accessed and used globally, these funds deliver maximum portability.
Use offshore accounts
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Opening a bank account in a foreign country can provide asset protection and tax advantages.
Many wealthy individuals and corporations use offshore banking to shelter their assets from high taxation or legal risks. The Cayman Islands, Curacao, and Switzerland are among the places known for reduced financial oversight, tax neutrality, and strong financial privacy laws.
U.S. citizens can legally hold assets in foreign financial institutions. However, you might have to report these funds to the IRS and comply with the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act (FACTA).
Put money in a 401(k)
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Setting aside money in a traditional 401(k) or similar individual retirement account (IRA) is an effective way to minimize your tax liability and build wealth for retirement.
These upfront contributions can lower your taxable income, as they are made with pre-tax dollars. Funds grow tax-free until qualified withdrawals are made during retirement.
Roth IRA and Roth 401(k) accounts are another tax-advantaged option to build wealth. You make these contributions with post-tax dollars, but funds grow tax-free and withdrawals are untaxed in retirement.
Resolve $10,000 or more of your debt
National Debt Relief could help you resolve your credit card debt with an affordable plan that works for you. Just tell them your situation, then find out your debt relief options.1 <p>Clients who are able to stay with the program and get all their debt settled realize approximate savings of 46% before fees, or 25% including our fees, over 12 to 48 months. All claims are based on enrolled debts. Not all debts are eligible for enrollment. Not all clients complete our program for various reasons, including their ability to save sufficient funds. Estimates based on prior results, which will vary based on specific circumstances. We do not guarantee that your debts will be lowered by a specific amount or percentage or that you will be debt-free within a specific period of time. We do not assume consumer debt, make monthly payments to creditors or provide tax, bankruptcy, accounting or legal advice or credit repair services. Not available in all states. Please contact a tax professional to discuss tax consequences of settlement. Please consult with a bankruptcy attorney for more information on bankruptcy. Depending on your state, we may be available to recommend a local tax professional and/or bankruptcy attorney. Read and understand all program materials prior to enrollment, including potential adverse impact on credit rating.</p>
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Max out your HSA contributions
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A health savings account (HSA) offers another tax-advantaged way to protect wealth and manage future health care costs.
Funds contributed to an HSA provide an immediate tax deduction. Funds grow tax-free and are tax-free upon withdrawal, provided the money is spent on qualified medical expenses.
And unlike a flexible spending account (FSA), you can carry over unspent HSA money from year to year, allowing you to build savings for future medical expenses.
Invest in tangible assets
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Holding tangible assets — such as precious metals, collectibles, or art — can be a good way to keep your wealth out of the hands of the government.
Unlike cash or digital assets, tangible assets cannot be electronically seized or frozen. Traditionally, tangible assets offer more privacy and do not have the same rigorous reporting requirements as some other forms of wealth.
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Create an LLC
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Setting up your own business as a limited liability company (LLC) offers legal, tax, and privacy advantages.
An LLC legally separates your personal wealth from business liabilities. As such, creditors cannot easily access your personal funds if your business faces financial or legal setbacks. Certain LLC structures also offer tax advantages.
In places such as Wyoming, you can even establish an LLC anonymously.
Set up an irrevocable trust
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Irrevocable trusts offer a near-impenetrable layer of defense against lawsuits and creditor claims. The ownership of assets is transferred to the trust and away from an individual’s name.
Once assets are held within the trust, they are legally protected from garnishment or seizure. Trusts also offer estate benefits, reducing the overall taxable value of an estate.
Establish a family limited partnership
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A family limited partnership allows family members to pool together assets within one business entity. This can provide tax benefits, including shielding more wealth from estate taxes.
FLPs are commonly used to manage real estate and other tangible assets, helping keep wealth within the family.
Set up a donor-advised fund
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A donor-advised fund (DAF) is a tax-advantaged investment account specifically designed for future charitable giving, but with an immediate tax benefit.
By contributing stocks, bonds, cash, or other assets to a DAF, you can receive an upfront tax deduction even though the funds don’t need to be immediately distributed to charities. This allows you to choose how and when to distribute the funds.
This method also simplifies your long-term charitable giving. Once the money is in a DAF, it is no longer subject to estate taxes, keeping out of the government’s hands.
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Stay as anonymous as possible
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Keeping a low financial profile is an effective way to avoid scrutiny. Discreetly manage your financial activities, which includes curbing ostentatious displays of wealth.
Doing so lowers your risk of identity theft, fraud, and government interest in your activities. You can still drive a fancy sports car, but don’t wallpaper your wealth all over Instagram and TikTok.
Bottom line
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Taxes, financial regulations, and big changes in Washington, D.C., might leave you worried about protecting your wealth. Taking some of the steps on this list can boost your peace of mind.
Also, consider talking to a financial advisor about the best way to prepare yourself financially for any future chaos that might put your wealth at risk.
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