Mercer Advisors
Sharing Knowledge

Tax Planning

Learn the importance of tax planning and how to reduce tax liability through customized investments, estate plans, and retirement strategies, from our CFPs® and CPAs at Mercer Advisors.

Tax Planning Article

Illinois Estate Tax: What High-Net-Worth Families Need To Know

Illinois’ $4 million estate tax exemption, far below the $15 million federal threshold, can expose high-net-worth families to unexpected state tax bills without proactive planning.

Tax Planning Guide

Tax Filing Is Not the Same As Tax Planning

You may think you’re managing your taxes effectively when you file each spring, but are you sure? Learn the difference between tax preparation and proactive tax planning.

Tax Planning Article

How To Open a Trump Account for Your Child

Trump Accounts (Section 530A) let families invest up to $5,000 a year for any child under 18 — plus a $1,000 federal pilot contribution for kids born 2025 to 2028.

Tax Planning Article

Maryland Estate and Inheritance Tax

Maryland is the only state levying both an estate tax and inheritance tax. Understand thresholds, exemptions, and strategies to protect your estate.

Team having a discussion in a meeting
Tax Planning Article

Taxes and Wealth Management: Better Together With a Unified Team

Our integrated tax and wealth management teams work together year-round, delivering coordinated planning that helps reduce surprises and tax liability.

Tax Planning FAQ

What is the Illinois estate tax?

See the answer
Tax Planning FAQ

Does Illinois have an inheritance tax?

See the answer
Tax Planning FAQ

What is the “cliff” effect in Illinois estate tax?

See the answer
Tax Planning FAQ

Should I create a credit shelter trust to reduce Illinois estate tax?

See the answer
Tax Planning FAQ

Should I use an LLC to hold Illinois real estate if I’m not an Illinois resident?

See the answer
Tax Planning FAQ

Should I make lifetime gifts to reduce my Illinois estate?

See the answer
Tax Planning FAQ

Where can I find help with Illinois estate tax planning?

See the answer
Tax Planning FAQ

Where do I file an Illinois estate tax return?

See the answer

Further Learning

Listen
Investment Management Podcast

Episode 39 – Financial Planning Is a Prerequisite to Successful Investing

Don Calcagni, Chief Investment Officer, breaks down why financial planning should be the essential first step to building, sustaining, and transferring wealth.

Listen
Investment Management Podcast

Episode 525 – Investment Philosophy vs. Strategy

Discover how your core beliefs shape investment decisions. John Walker and Jason O’Meara break down philosophy vs. strategy for long-term success.

Women & Wealth Guide

Retirement Planning for Single Women: A Complete Guide

A practical guide to retirement planning for single women — covering Social Security, long-term care, estate planning, and an age-specific checklist.

Women & Wealth Article

Beyond Business Growth: Wealth Planning for Women Founders

Many women founders face a three-way financial pull. Learn how to help protect personal wealth, optimize taxes, and plan your business exit — all at once.

About Mercer Advisors

We exist so you don’t have to worry about money. For more than 40 years, we’ve taken the sophisticated, time-tested approach that many ultra-high net worth individuals use to help manage their financial lives and made it accessible to more families.

Explore Our Solutions

Financial Planning
Estate Planning
Tax Planning & Preparation
Insurance Solutions
Investment Management
Trustee Services

Want to learn more about Mercer Advisors?

Let’s Talk