Core Insights - The article discusses strategies for everyday investors to lower their tax bills and build wealth, emphasizing the importance of utilizing assets that the wealthy have historically leveraged [1][5]. Tax Revenue and Government Spending - In fiscal year 2025, the federal government collected $2.656 trillion in individual income taxes, accounting for approximately 50.7% of total receipts of $5.235 trillion, while corporate income taxes contributed $452 billion and tariff revenue was $195 billion [3]. - The federal government faced a deficit of $1.775 trillion, with total outlays reaching $7.010 trillion [2]. Investment Strategies - Scott Galloway suggests that investors can borrow against appreciated assets instead of selling them, allowing them to access cash without triggering capital gains taxes [5][6]. - This strategy enables continued growth of investments while potentially incurring lower interest costs compared to tax liabilities from asset sales [6]. Real Estate Investment - Real estate remains a favored asset class for wealth building due to favorable tax treatments, including deductions for rental income and depreciation [11]. - Crowdfunding platforms like Arrived allow investors to participate in real estate with minimal capital, starting from as little as $100, without the responsibilities of traditional property management [12][13]. Investment Platforms - First National Realty Partners (FNRP) offers accredited investors opportunities to invest in grocery-anchored commercial properties with a minimum investment of $50,000, providing a way to diversify portfolios without landlord responsibilities [14][15]. - Range provides high-income households with tax management and investment advisory services, offering flat-fee pricing and tax loss harvesting opportunities [17][18].

Core Points - The article discusses the importance of creating a revocable living trust to avoid probate, protect privacy, and minimize estate taxes when a person passes away [1][4] - It highlights the complexities and potential legal battles associated with the probate process, using the example of the late entertainer Prince [2][3] - The article emphasizes the need for individuals to structure their living trusts carefully and provides considerations for what to include or exclude [4][11][12] Group 1: Trusts and Wills - A revocable living trust allows individuals to maintain control over their assets and designate beneficiaries, helping to avoid the probate process [1][7] - The process of creating a will is recommended to prevent confusion among family members regarding one's wishes after death [2][3] - The article presents a hypothetical case of an individual, Pete Moneywise, who is preparing his financial affairs, reflecting common concerns among retirement-age individuals [5][4] Group 2: Costs and Services - Ethos Will & Trust offers online services to create wills and living trusts quickly, with documents vetted by estate-planning attorneys [6] - The costs for creating a will start at $149 and a living trust at $349, with a full refund available within 30 days if unsatisfied [7] - Range provides financial planning services for high-earning households, including asset management and tax planning [8][10] Group 3: Items to Exclude from Trusts - Certain assets, such as vehicles, annuities, life insurance, international assets, and checking accounts, are recommended to be excluded from a revocable living trust to avoid complications [11][12][18][19] - The article advises that naming beneficiaries directly on life insurance policies is preferable to placing them in a trust [14][15]