How to Avoid Overreacting to Taxes
With the sharp market rebound, investors may find sizeable gains and tax consequences in their portfolios. Few things generate a more emotional response than taxes. Deciding to hold or sell an investment based purely on the tax consequences is usually at odds with maintaining a disciplined investment process. Ultimately, marginal differences in tax treatments are not as significant as we might imagine.
The analysis below highlights the tax consequences of a 20% gain on a $1 million dollar portfolio under a range of potential tax treatments. The difference between the more and less favorable scenarios is a negligible 3% change in the overall portfolio value.
Source: https://www.irs.gov/publications/p15t.The chart above shows the outcome of an individual who is in the middle federal income tax bracket, achieves a 20% return on a million-dollar portfolio, along with the cumulative outcome of moving from the least to most impactful tax treatment. In the most favorable scenario, the gain is taxed at the long-term capital gains rate in the current tax bracket. In the least favorable scenario, the entire gain is taxed at the marginal income rate in the next higher level-tax bracket. The difference between the two is $34,000.
Despite making $200,000 from investment gains, we can get undone by the thought of having to write a big check to the government. Fortunately, for most investors, there are a handful of straightforward tax strategies that can help build long-term wealth without compromising your investment process. These strategies include taking advantage of tax-deferred accounts, accelerating or deferring distributions, and gifting. Working with an experienced advisor, accountant, or attorney can help navigate this area and tailor solutions for your unique situation without compromising your investment process.
The main point is to separate our investing strategy from tax management. Grow investments first, then manage the tax consequences. After all, an investment gain is almost always a good thing!
From the Behavioral Viewpoint
What is going on?
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We anchor on the gross value of a gain and see anything less as a loss.
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We perceive taxes as a capital loss, which engages our two-for-one loss aversion, where we feel twice as bad about a loss than an equivalent gain. “I lost $64,000 in taxes!”
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We lose numerical perspective, by focusing on the tax rather than the overall positive impact of a large capital gain on a portfolio.
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We use heuristics to simplify complex problems and satisfy emotional urges. “Taxes are bad, I want to avoid them.”
What can we do?
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Realize that achieving gains and paying taxes are a normal part of building long-term wealth
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Separate investment decisions from tax management and keep the relative long-term impact of taxes in perspective.
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Use needs-based planning to put investments in tax advantaged accounts and to help manage timing of activities.
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Consider gifting appreciated securities to avoid taxes and increase giving impact.
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Work with a skilled advisor to develop a plan to stay on track towards meeting real needs.
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IMPORTANT INFORMATION AND DISCLOSURES
The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. It should not be assumed that recommendations of AthenaInvest made herein or in the future will be profitable or will equal the past performance records of any AthenaInvest investment strategy or product. There can be no assurance that future recommendations will achieve comparable results. The author’s opinions may change, without notice, in reaction to shifting economic, market, business, and other conditions. AthenaInvest disclaims any responsibility to update such views. These views may not be relied upon as investment advice or as an indication of trading intent on behalf of any AthenaInvest.
You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security, or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives and financial circumstances. You should consult with a qualified financial adviser, legal or tax professional regarding your specific situation. Investments involve risk and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
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