Tax Strategy backed by real math, not guesswork.
I help business owners, advisors, and families reduce lifetime taxes through advanced planning strategies powered by proprietary analytics.
"I don't just teach tax strategy — I co-built the platform that proves it."
Meet Edward W. Cotney
Edward W. Cotney is a visionary leader in tax strategy, business planning, and wealth optimization. Hailing from Alabama (Roll Tide!), Ed earned degrees in Physiology and Aviation Management and dedicated twenty years of distinguished service in the United States Air Force, retiring in 1998 in Northern California. His deep-seated commitment to excellence has since guided his success in the realms of advanced tax planning and family wealth counseling.
Ed's introduction to advanced planning arose from a close friend's struggle to manage the tax implications of selling a highly successful multi-million-dollar business. Facing a tax liability that threatened to claim nearly half of the proceeds, Ed's friend sought advanced tax solutions. Inspired to help, Ed returned to school, attending the prestigious program in Franklin, Indiana, where he became a certified Family Wealth Counselor in 2000. Armed with advanced tax planning expertise, Ed has since dedicated himself to helping families and business owners reduce income and capital gains taxes, increase income, and make meaningful contributions to the world.
Certified Exit Planner (CExP)
Continuing his professional education, Ed earned certification as a Certified Exit Planner through the Business Enterprise Institute. Today, he serves as a sought-after strategy and tax designer, applying cutting-edge methods to transform how families and businesses approach wealth planning.
The Tax Code is a Tool — Not a Burden.
Co-Founder of FINCW.com | Author | National Speaker | Tax Strategy Architect | OlympusTax.com | TaxSmartIRA.com | BizTaxFreedom.com | PerspectivPlanning.com
Companies & Roles
- EdCotney.com, Inc.Founder & Principal
- Olympus Tax, Business and Insurance Solutions, Inc.Co-Founder & Chief Tax Strategy Officer
- Financial Cloud Works, LLC (FINCW.com)Co-Founder & Chief Tax Strategy Officer
- PerspectiV Planning, LLC.Principal
Author & Speaker
An accomplished author, Ed has published four influential books:
Tax Secrets Made Simple
2018
Practical tax-saving strategies for families at all income levels.
The Great IRA Tax Grab
2021
A deep dive into tax traps targeting high-net-worth individuals with Qualified Assets. (Private release)
The Business Owner's Guide to Tax Freedom
Income Tax 2024
A comprehensive guide for business owners navigating the tax code to maximize wealth retention.
The Business Owner's Guide to Selling Your Business Tax Smart
2025
Your roadmap to a strategic, tax-smart business exit — sell smart, sell strong, sell tax smart.
In addition to his written works, Ed is a dynamic speaker, frequently featured on podcasts, radio programs, and YouTube, where he empowers audiences with actionable strategies to optimize their financial futures.
Entrepreneur & Leader
A passionate advocate for philanthropy, Ed is a board member and director for three public charities administering assets exceeding $250 million. His work reflects his unwavering commitment to creating lasting positive impact, both in his clients' lives and the broader community.
Personal Life
Ed moved to Carson City, NV on June 1, 2026 with his wife Laura, his partner of 44 years. Laura, a retired school superintendent, continues to support education leaders and charter school startups. Together, the Cotneys enjoy an array of hobbies, including camping, fly fishing, hiking, trap shooting, and wine tasting. Their greatest joy, however, comes from spending quality time with their children and grandchildren, embracing a vibrant and active family life.