Tax free investment instruments are used by investors to take advantage of tax exemptions. Investment gains from these instruments, although subjected to federal taxes, are exempted from State and Local taxes. Different States have different tax rates. For States with high local taxes, it makes more sense to consider investing in the different types of tax free investment instruments.

There are several different types of tax free investment instruments for your consideration. Some traditional forms of tax free investment instruments include US savings bonds, treasury bills, securities and notes.

However, for accredited investors, there are additional options for risk and tax management purposes using private placement life insurance.

In essence, Private Placement Insurance policies are variable universal life (VUL) insurance plans wrapped within a private placement offering. VUL is a type of life insurance that allows the contract owners to invest in a wide variety of separate accounts, similar to mutual funds. In other words, a private placement insurance policy allows the contract owner to enjoy a wide range of customized tax free investment options together with attractive pricing. Mass produced policies often have to sacrifice customization options in return for attractive pricing. But this does not apply to private placement policies. In order for Private Placement policies to allow personalized options while still retaining its attractive pricing, a high level of investment is required, hence the need to be an accredited investor.

Here are some of the advantages of investing within a PPLI:

1. Tax deferred returns

2.Non-recognition of capital gains. The ability to switch investment options within the product without triggering taxation.

3.Option of tax-free access to policy cash values.

4.Income tax-free death benefits.

5.Estate tax-free benefits.

6.Privacy with the investment.

7.Total asset protection with PPLI.

When considering tax free investment options, you are actually comparing the yield with other taxable investment instruments. For instance, an investment vehicle may offer a 10% yield after tax. So if you opt for a tax free vehicle, will the yield be more than 10%? If you expect the returns to be more than 10% from a tax-exempt investment instrument, then it makes sense to invest in tax free instruments. Otherwise, you are better off placing your investments in other taxable instruments with better yields. Obviously, this depends on state and local tax rates, as well as your tax bracket. These factors will affect your after tax yield. To obtain more precise figures, speak with a qualified tax advisor.

Investments are all about maximizing yields. This is no different when you are considering Private Placement Programs. As we mentioned earlier, these programs are exclusive to high net worth individuals only. But in return for the high level of investments, these highly specialized programs also allow you to build a personalized tax free portfolio.