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Financial Blog
Longer-form articles addressing some of the more complex financial planning, investment, and tax planning issues we frequently address.
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Integrating Equity Awards into Your Retirement Strategy: A Practical Guide
Explore thoughtful strategies for integrating stock options and RSUs into your retirement plan to manage risk, taxes, and income timing.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Sep 35 min read


Beyond the 401(k): Deferred Compensation Strategies for High Earners
Learn how deferred compensation plans help executives save beyond 401(k) limits, smooth income, and fund early retirement with tax-efficient strategies.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Aug 174 min read


From Overwhelmed to Empowered: Demystifying Executive Compensation for High-Income Professionals
Explore thoughtful strategies for managing complex compensation — including deferred pay and equity — to build a clear, actionable financial plan aligned with your goals.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Jan 24, 20245 min read


Year End Planning for Equity Compensation: Tax Implications - Part 2 of 6
A high-level overview of the tax implications when RSUs vest, ISOs and NQSOs are exercised, and resulting shares from each of these methods

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Nov 1, 20235 min read


How to File US Tax Returns as a Foreign National - Part II
With Part I as a starting point, I now want to walk you through a few planning opportunities to consider when becoming a US tax resident.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Oct 18, 20235 min read


How to File US Tax Returns as a Foreign National - Part I
In this article (first of a two-part series), we provide a high-level overview of filing requirements for those who are not US citizens.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Oct 4, 20236 min read


The QSBS Exemption Tax Benefit (IRC Section 1202)
Learn about the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) exemption and Internal Revenue Code section 1202 rules for QSBS tax treatment.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Apr 11, 20235 min read


Year End Portfolio Management: Checklist
An outline of some of the steps you can take now to rebalance your portfolio and set yourself up for success in the New Year

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Dec 23, 20224 min read


Tax-Efficient Charitable Giving Strategies
Using Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) and Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) for tax efficiency.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Dec 2, 20225 min read


How To Build A Strong Estate Plan
Estate planning can present many challenges. When done right, it ensures your wishes are followed and your loved ones are cared for.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Jan 25, 20216 min read


How Do You Build A Well-Structured, Tax Efficient Portfolio?
Your portfolio plays a significant role in your financial life. Here are three basic tenets to crafting a balanced investment portfolio.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Aug 26, 20205 min read


The Joyful Intricacies of Filing US Taxes When Living Abroad or Owning Foreign Financial Assets
Filing US tax returns when you live and work abroad can add significant complexity to the process - you may have learned that the hard way.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Jun 30, 20203 min read


How a Financial Plan Creates Freedom: More Than Just Numbers
Most people who reach out to me have never worked with a financial planner before. They seek clarity and a less stressful path to their goals but feel intimidated by the process. Comprehensive financial planning starts not with numbers, but with understanding what matters most. Together, we craft a personalized roadmap that turns anxiety into confidence and creates freedom through clarity and ongoing partnership.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Feb 4, 20205 min read


Do Not Go Gently 🕯
While it is unlikely that tax planning is a priority during the holiday season, I wanted to share some final thoughts before the year closes

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Dec 11, 20193 min read


The Ghost of Tax Returns Past 😱 – Gaining Perspective on Year-End Tax Planning
Discover how reviewing past tax returns and taking proactive year-end steps can bring clarity, reduce surprises, and strengthen your financial plan.

Malissa Marshall, CFP®, MS Tax, EA
Nov 6, 20194 min read

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