POPULARITY
Categories
This year's prediction contest is live on Metaculus. They write: This year's contest draws directly from that community, with all questions suggested by ACX readers. Both experienced forecasters and newcomers are invited to participate, making predictions across U.S. politics, AI, international affairs, and culture. To participate, submit your predictions by January 17th at 11:59 PM PT. At that time, we will take a snapshot of all standing forecasts, which will determine the contest rankings and the allocation of the $10,000 prize pool. While you are encouraged to continue updating your predictions throughout the year, forecasts made after January 17th will only affect site leaderboards, not contest rankings. You are welcome to create a bot account to forecast and participate in addition to your regular Metaculus account. Create a bot account and get support building a bot here. And they've also announced this year's winners for best questions submitted. Congratulations to: Gumbledalf ($700) espiritu57 ($500) setasojiro843047 (Substack handle) ($400) sai_39 ($300) nicholaskross ($250) (Anonymous) ($200) (Anonymous) ($200) RMD ($150) (Anonymous) ($150) Hippopotamus_bartholomeus ($150) To participate in the tournament or learn more, go to Metaculus. https://www.astralcodexten.com/p/acxmetaculus-prediction-contest-2026
Markets are hitting all-time highs, earnings expectations are rising, and investors are navigating everything from oil prices to Roth conversions. Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff take live viewer questions and explore the themes investors are most focused on right now. Topics discussed include why earnings may be the primary market driver this year, what recent all-time highs signal for forward returns, and how capital flows are shifting across sectors and asset classes. We also examine oil markets—WTI pricing, energy stocks, Venezuela supply dynamics—and what the “sweet spot” for oil prices means for the broader economy. On the planning side, we address Roth IRA advantages and drawbacks, Roth conversions, RMD considerations, and asset allocation questions across different life stages, including retirement-focused portfolios. Additional discussion covers the growing disconnect between GDP and unemployment data, hidden consumer leverage through buy-now-pay-later programs, and how diversification differs from simply owning non-correlated assets. We also touch on factor rotation, bond ETF structure, metals like gold and silver, and whether certain defensive or out-of-favor sectors may eventually regain investor interest. 0:00 - INTRO 0:18 - Earnings to be The Big Driver this Year 5:45 - Markets Hit All-time Highs 9:23 - Economic Summit Preview & Danny's Holiday Recap 12:25 - WTI, XLE, and Venezuela Oil 17:51 - What is the "Sweet Spot" for Oil Pricing? 21:23 - Tax Advantages - Disadvantages of Roth IRA 24:38 - Where to Look for Capital Flows 27:08 - Roth Conversions & RMD's 28:27 - Commentary - Divergence Between Unemployment & GDP 31:10 - Unrecognized Debt - Buy Now - Pay Later is a Black Box 31:53 - Recommendations for 60-40 Allocations 35:03 - Example of Bond ETF's in SimpleVisor 38:57 - Factor Rotation Portfolio 41:54 - Diversification vs Non-Correlated Assets 44:46 - Silver, Gold, & Other Metals 45:51 - Back Door Roth Conversions 47:30 - Asset Allocations for Septuagenarians 50:18 - Are Packaged Food stocks Ever Coming Back? Hosted by RIA Advisors Chief Investment Strategist, Lance Roberts, CIO, w Senior Investment Advisor, Danny Ratliff, CFP Produced by Brent Clanton, Executive Producer ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGgxAtaZIOI&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Sector Rotation Signals Improving Market Breadth," is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8z27km9G1M&list=PLwNgo56zE4RAbkqxgdj-8GOvjZTp9_Zlz&index=1 ------- REGISTER for our 2026 Economic Summit, "The Future of Digital Assets, Artificial Intelligence, and Investing:" https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-ria-economic-summit-tickets-1765951641899?aff=oddtdtcreator ------- Watch our previous show, "Financial Nihilism vs. Financial Planning," here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-1qXRp9gLoc&list=PLVT8LcWPeAugpcGzM8hHyEP11lE87RYPe&index=1 -------- Get more info & commentary: https://realinvestm entadvice.com/newsletter/ -------- SUBSCRIBE to The Real Investment Show here: http://www.youtube.com/c/TheRealInvestmentShow -------- Visit our Site: https://www.realinvestmentadvice.com Contact Us: 1-855-RIA-PLAN -------- Subscribe to SimpleVisor: https://www.simplevisor.com/register-new -------- Connect with us on social: https://twitter.com/RealInvAdvice https://twitter.com/LanceRoberts https://www.facebook.com/RealInvestmentAdvice/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/realinvestmentadvice/ #MarketUpdate #StockMarketToday #MarketRisk #VIX #PortfolioManagement
Jeff Shepard from The Family Wealth Group join's Jack to best advise us on how and when to take our RMD. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Cole Scott, President of CEF Advisors, relies on his massive stores of data to look ahead for 2026, and he foresees no recession, lower inflation and modest GDP growth for 2026, with less volatility due to the interest-rate picture but more market tension due to the global macro picture. Scott also discusses what he sees happening in the closed-end fund industry, and he selects five funds — including one that has been in the news recently for problems that raised its discount — that he's expecting big things from in the year ahead. Long-time business journalist Allan Sloan — a seven-time winner of the Loeb Award, business journalism's highest honor — returns to the show to discuss his recent piece for Barron's in which he discussed his admiration for the way Michael and Susan Dell recently committed $6.25 billion of their own money to give 25 million kids $250 each to invest in mutual funds. But he doesn't like the mechanics of the new Trump accounts that are the vehicle for those young savers and he says their impact on changing lives will be much more limited than the hype is making it out to be. Plus, Chuck talks about avoiding mistakes that result in financial punishments if not completed by year's end: failing to take required minimum distributions and failing to spend down dollars set aside in Flexible Spending Accounts. He cites Vanguard data showing that the RMD problem is much bigger than many people expect, and he suggests ways that heatlh-care savers can legally spend down their accounts while there is still time.
About the Guest(s):The episode is hosted by Amy Irvine, a financial expert and part of the Money Roots podcast team. Amy Irvine, along with her team, is dedicated to making financial conversations real, relatable, and oriented around personal goals. Although the transcript doesn't detail Amy's professional history, her knowledge and expertise in financial planning and investment strategies are evident throughout the episode. Her commitment to helping listeners understand and manage their finances optimally is demonstrated through her thoughtful advice and insights.Episode Summary:In this insightful episode of the Money Roots podcast, host Amy Irvine walks listeners through essential financial actions to consider before the end of 2025. As the year draws to a close, the episode aims to equip the audience with practical advice to optimize their financial standing and prepare for future growth. Amy covers a breadth of topics, including asset management, tax planning, retirement contributions, and charitable donations, offering a wealth of information to guide listeners through pivotal year-end financial decisions.Throughout the episode, Amy emphasizes the importance of strategically managing assets and debt. She discusses the potential benefits of realizing capital losses to offset gains and highlights how certain mutual funds could impact tax obligations. Capital gain distributions and estimated tax payments are also discussed, providing listeners with key insights on minimizing year-end tax liabilities. Moreover, the host delves into retirement planning strategies, advising on required minimum distributions (RMDs), conversions between traditional and Roth IRAs, and intra-plan conversions within 401(k) plans. Her recommendations aim to maximize retirement savings while minimizing potential tax burdens.Key Takeaways:Realize capital losses to offset gains and consider potential capital gain distributions in taxable accounts.Meet required minimum distributions (RMDs) for both personal and inherited IRAs before year-end to avoid penalties.Evaluate opportunities for Roth conversions and strategic retirement contributions while considering future income levels.Engage in tax planning by capitalizing on qualified charitable donations and understanding adjustments such as IRMAA.Explore financial planning for education through 529 plans and business strategies like the QBI deduction.Notable Quotes:"You can even write off up to $3,000 of ordinary interest if you have a capital loss totaling of 17,000.""Make sure that you take that RMD before the end of the year. RMDs from multiple IRAs can generally be aggregated.""If you are over 70 and a half, you can make what's called a qualified charitable donation from your retirement IRA account.""Using those qualified charitable distributions can be a big help to reduce that adjusted gross income.""Consider the financial aid planning strategies such as reducing income in specific years to increase financial aid packages."Resources:
Introduction December 27th brings sudden urgency—just four days remain to implement critical year-end financial strategies that could save thousands in taxes, reduce portfolio risk, and position retirement accounts for 2025 success. Most people spend more time planning vacations than reviewing their largest asset: their retirement portfolio. But the market’s strong multi-year run has created hidden dangers in 401(k) accounts, particularly for those approaching retirement who haven’t rebalanced in years. In this episode of The Tom Dupree Show, Tom Dupree and Mike Johnson provide an essential year-end checklist covering portfolio drift, account consolidation, tax-smart charitable giving, target date fund dangers, and fraud protection as scam season intensifies. Portfolio Drift: The Silent Risk Multiplier What Five Years Did to Your 401(k) If you established a 60/40 portfolio (60% stocks, 40% bonds) five years ago and never rebalanced, you’re sitting on dramatically more risk than intended. “If you had a 60-40 split in 2020, today you’re at about 76% stocks if you’ve made no changes,” Mike Johnson explained. “And your account’s worth 20 or 30% more, so there’s more dollars at stake, at risk.” The drift problem: Stocks outperformed bonds over five years Your stock allocation grew from market gains Total account value increased substantially Risk exposure multiplied Example: $500,000 in 2020 (60% stocks = $300,000) is now $650,000 with 76% stocks = $494,000 in equities. Your stock exposure grew 65%. S&P 500 Concentration Risk “About 40% of the S&P 500 is allocated to tech and high multiple stocks,” Mike noted. “If it’s been on autopilot, now is as good a time as any to look at it critically.” Market Corrections Are Inevitable “On average, every year you have a 10% drop in the market. That’s just the cost of admission,” Mike explained. “We had one back in April—it was closer to 20%. You were looking at 40, 50% drops in some things.” “A lot of people have forgotten how—and even that they should—play defense, especially when you’re getting close to retirement,” Mike cautioned. Year-end action: Check your actual allocation today. If stocks exceed your risk tolerance, rebalance before December 31st. Account Consolidation: Simplify Now The Multiple Account Problem “People’s thinking is, if I have this account over here and this account over here, I’ve got more money,” Tom observed. “When they consolidate those accounts, every one of those five pieces put together as one is gonna get managed better.” Hidden Costs of Scattered Accounts “It’s really hard to track performance if you have multiple accounts,” Mike explained. “It’s much simpler, much more accountable when it’s all consolidated together.” Problems with scattered accounts: Impossible to track overall performance Multiple RMD calculations Complex tax reporting Higher fees (missing breakpoint discounts) Poor overall portfolio coordination Mike’s consolidation benefits: “Proper investment to reach your goals, performance tracking, tax reporting, tax planning, and possible discounts on fees.” Year-end action: List all retirement accounts—schedule consolidation to simplify 2025 RMDs and reduce fees. Tax-Smart Year-End Strategies Strategy 1: Gift Appreciated Stock “Let’s say you give $10,000 a year to charity. You can gift those appreciated shares of stock to the organization,” Mike explained. “You can put that money right back into your brokerage account and reinvest it. You could even repurchase the same stock.” The double benefit: Charitable deduction for full market value Avoid capital gains tax on appreciation Example: Stock purchased for $4,000, now worth $10,000. Gift it, avoid $6,000 capital gain, use the $10,000 cash to buy it back. Strategy 2: Qualified Charitable Distribution “If you’re of the age where you have required minimum distributions, you can do a qualified charitable distribution,” Mike explained. “If you gift the RMD straight to the charity, it never flows through as taxable income to you.” QCD advantages: Counts toward RMD requirement Reduces adjusted gross income Lowers Medicare premiums Reduces taxes on Social Security Works even if you don’t itemize Year-end deadline: Execute stock gifts or QCDs before December 31st to count for 2024 taxes. The In-Service Rollover: Plan Three Years Ahead Act at Age 59½—Even While Working “At 59 and a half, you can do what’s called an in-service rollover,” Mike explained. “Even if you’re still employed and working, you can move over the balance of your 401(k) to an IRA and invest it more specifically for your situation.” The Three-Year Retirement Transition “Let’s say you’re 59 and a half and planning on retiring at 62. You can do that rollover, get the funds invested into an income-producing portfolio,” Mike detailed. “While you’re working, that income just reinvests back in. But when you hit 62, that portfolio’s already in place, it’s already working, and literally it’s linked to your checking account.” Tom emphasized the benefit: “It makes the retirement process more comfortable because you’re not leaving work and at the same time coming in brand new, getting comfortable with our investment approach. You’ve planned for it.” The seamless transition: Portfolio established 2-3 years before retirement Dividends reinvest while still working At retirement, switch to income payout mode No adjustment period or uncertainty Year-end action: If age 59½+, investigate in-service rollover options. Target Date Funds: Hidden Dangers The Collective Investment Trust Problem “52% of the assets in target date funds—over $2 trillion—are now in collective investment trusts,” Mike reported. What makes CITs dangerous: “A collective investment trust—they’re not required to register with the SEC,” Mike explained. “They don’t have to report, as transparently, all the internal fees. And they’re allowed to hold more illiquid investments inside of them.” The Blue Rock Disaster “There was a private real estate fund—the Blue Rock Total Income Fund,” Mike detailed. “The net asset value when it was private was about $24 a share. They decided to go public. The fund closed the day it went public at $14.70.” Investor loss: 39% immediately when real market pricing was revealed. “The NAV was bogus. It was totally bogus,” Mike concluded. The Vanguard-TIAA Annuity Trap “Vanguard announced they’re partnering with TIAA, and the target date fund automatically enrolls the investor in an annuity,” Mike reported. “What they’re hoping is that these people that have been on autopilot for 40 years—they’re not gonna change from being on autopilot at year 41,” Mike explained. “It’s just gonna automatically roll into these annuities. This is a money grab to keep the assets locked in.” Why Dupree Financial Group Avoids Them “We don’t use target date funds. We don’t like what the target date fund does to the client’s return,” Tom stated. “It’s about having all your money in one spot the day you retire. That money doesn’t need to be in one spot. It needs to be growing and throwing off dividends.” Mike: “The target date’s all based on historical averages. It doesn’t take into account what’s going on in the market or your situation.” Year-end action: If in a target date fund, research what’s actually inside it before the “glide path” continues. Year-End Fraud Alert: Peak Scam Season The January-February Surge “This time last year, at the first of the year, was one of the biggest fraud pushes that we’ve seen,” Mike warned. “As we get close to the end of the year, be diligent and protect yourself.” Sophisticated Team Operations “These fraudsters are very convincing. They sound like us. They sound like an advisor,” Mike explained. “They’ll bring somebody onto the line. They’ll keep people on the line for three hours. They’ve gotten used to handling objections.” Real Client Losses “We heard two in a row from our clients—older women, same amount: $10,000 each,” Tom recounted. “One woman could afford it. The other one really couldn’t.” The Defense Strategy “The first line of defense is you, the client,” Mike stated. “If you have something that pops up on your screen—don’t click there. If somebody calls—call somebody. Call a trusted person. If you’re a client of ours, call us. But do not take action on any of these things.” Critical warning: “Do not verify within their ecosystem. They say, ‘We’ll let you verify,’ and then they transfer you. They’re all working together.” Tom’s advice: “Get off the phone or don’t click on things and get somebody that you trust to find out exactly what’s going on.” Year-end vigilance: Never click pop-ups, never transfer money based on calls, always verify independently. Your Year-End Action Plan Critical Tasks Before December 31st ✓ Check portfolio drift – Verify stock/bond allocation matches risk tolerance ✓ Rebalance if needed – Reduce risk before 2025 ✓ Execute charitable strategies – Gift stock or make QCD before deadline ✓ Consolidate accounts – Simplify RMDs and reduce fees ✓ Research in-service rollovers – If 59½+, investigate options ✓ Review target date funds – Understand holdings before glide path continues ✓ Increase fraud vigilance – Peak scam season protection Questions Before Year-End What’s my actual current allocation? How many retirement accounts do I have scattered? Am I missing tax-saving charitable strategies? Do I understand what’s in my target date fund? Am I 59½+ with rollover options available? The Bottom Line With days remaining in 2024, retirement investors face critical decisions affecting taxes, risk exposure, and 2025 positioning. Portfolio drift has likely pushed your stock allocation far beyond original intentions. Target date funds may contain illiquid investments, opaque fees, and automatic annuitization. But opportunities exist: tax-smart giving, consolidation, in-service rollovers, and rebalancing. “All of these things fit into more of a holistic long-term retirement financial plan,” Mike concluded. “You want everything moving in the right direction to accomplish your goals.” Schedule Your Portfolio Review Is your portfolio drifted into dangerous territory? Missing tax-saving strategies? Approaching retirement without a transition plan? Call (859) 233-0400 or schedule your complimentary portfolio review. Dupree Financial Group – Where we make your money work for you. Important Disclosures Dupree Financial Group is a registered investment advisor with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, tax advice, or a solicitation. Past performance does not indicate future results. All investments involve risk, including potential loss of principal. Tax strategies should be reviewed with a qualified tax professional. Before making investment or tax decisions, consult qualified professionals. For more information, review our Form ADV Part 2A at www.adviserinfo.sec.gov or call (859) 233-0400. The post Year-End Financial Planning Checklist: Critical Actions Before December 31st appeared first on Dupree Financial.
How much you need to retire quiz: https://bit.ly/Adam-OlsonMost people think retirement problems are solved by saving more.But for Mike — a 60-year-old with over $1.2 million saved — the real breakthrough came from one simple fix: withdrawing smarter, not saving harder. In this episode, Adam Olson CFP® breaks down the exact withdrawal sequence strategy that turned Mike's retirement from anxious and unpredictable to smooth, tax-efficient, and fully structured for the next 30 years.You'll learn:• Why focusing on net worth creates anxiety in retirement• The withdrawal order that transformed Mike's cash flow• How guaranteed income, flexible income buckets, and long-term assets work together• The tax moves that prevented Medicare penalties and RMD tax spikes• How the Red Zone Retirement Planning Process™ creates predictable income for lifeIf you're approaching retirement and want confidence, clarity, and consistent income, this episode shows the exact system that makes it possible.
Host: Charles Turck, PharmD, BCPS, BCCCP Guest: Andrea Necchi, MD Presented at the 2025 ESMO Congress, the IMvigor011 phase 3 trial evaluated a ctDNA-guided strategy for administering adjuvant atezolizumab in patients with muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC) following radical cystectomy. Patients with high-risk pathological features were monitored using a personalized, tumor-informed ctDNA assay; those testing positive for ctDNA were randomized to receive atezolizumab or placebo, while ctDNA-negative patients continued surveillance without treatment. The trial demonstrated significant improvements in both disease-free and overall survival in the atezolizumab group along with favorable outcomes among ctDNA-negative patients, suggesting many may safely avoid overtreatment. Joining Dr. Charles Turck to unpack the study results and how they highlight ctDNA's role in guiding personalized therapy is Dr. Andrea Necchi. Not only is he an investigator on this research, but he's also an Associate Professor of Oncology at Vita-Salute San Raffaele University and the Director of Genitourinary Medical Oncology at IRCCS San Raffaele Hospital and Scientific Institute in Milan, Italy.
In this Episode of the Secure Your Retirement Podcast, Radon and Murs discuss a comprehensive year-end tax checklist designed specifically for those in or nearing retirement. As the calendar winds down, it's easy to overlook critical financial decisions that can significantly impact your retirement income tax and long-term retirement planning. This conversation walks through the most important year-end financial checklist items to help you avoid costly mistakes, missed deadlines, and unnecessary taxes as you plan for retirement.Learn how a proactive retirement checklist can help you move from simply reacting at tax time to intentionally planning retirement with confidence. From required minimum distributions and the RMD deadline to charitable giving strategies and health savings account strategy, this episode reinforces why year-end planning is essential for retiring comfortably and helping to secure your retirement.Listen in to learn about the practical steps you should take before December 31st to align your retirement planning with tax efficiency. Radon and Murs break down complex topics like capital gains tax planning, tax loss harvesting, and donor advised fund strategies into clear, actionable guidance. Whether you're already retired or still planning retirement, this episode helps you connect year-end decisions to long-term retirement success.In this episode, find out:How to avoid penalties by meeting the RMD deadline and properly handling required minimum distributionsWhy tax loss harvesting and capital gains tax planning can play a major role in retirement income tax managementHow charitable giving strategies, like a qualified charitable distribution and a donor advised fund can create powerful tax benefitsWhy a health savings account strategy is one of the most overlooked tools in retirement planningHow a year-end financial checklist supports a smarter plan for retirement and long-term peace of mindTweetable Quotes:“If you wait until the end of the year to think about taxes, you're already behind—retirement planning works best when it's proactive.” — Radon Stancil“A simple year-end tax checklist can be the difference between unnecessary penalties and retiring comfortably with confidence.” — Murs TariqResources:If you are in or nearing retirement and you want to gain clarity on what questions you should be asking, learn what the biggest retirement myths are, and identify what you can do to achieve peace of mind for your retirement, get started today by requesting our complimentary video course, Four Steps to Secure Your Retirement!"To access the course, simply visit POMWealth.net/podcast.
RevitalyzeMD - RMD Podcast: All things Aesthetics & Wellness
CME credits: 0.25 Valid until: 31-12-2026 Claim your CME credit at https://reachmd.com/programs/cme/when-topicals-fail-the-new-ipc-consensus-every-clinician-should-know/39967/ This podcast reviews the International Psoriasis Council (IPC) 2025 guidance on reclassifying psoriasis severity and redefining failure of topical therapies. Clinical features such as high-impact disease sites, failure of topical treatment, or BSA >10% all factor into whether patients are candidates for systemic therapy in this new guidance. Despite broad endorsement, many clinicians remain uncertain about applying the new framework. This activity aims to raise awareness, clarify updated criteria, and align practice with current evidence supporting earlier use of IL-23 and IL-17 inhibitors in appropriate patients.=
Guest: Seth Wander, MD, PhD Over the past decade, CDK4/6 inhibitors have transformed the treatment landscape for HR+ breast cancer, but resistance remains a key clinical challenge. Hear from Dr. Seth Wander as he explores the latest translational insights into resistance mechanisms, including genomic alterations affecting cell cycle and signal transduction pathways, and discusses evolving therapeutic strategies. Dr. Wander is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and the Director of Precision Medicine at the Termeer Center for Targeted Therapies at Mass General Brigham Cancer Institute. He also spoke about this topic at the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.
Host: Pavani Chalasani, MD, MPH Guest: Timothy Yap, MBBS, PhD, FRCP Early findings from the PETRA study suggest that combining saruparib with camizestrant may offer added clinical benefit in ER+/HER2– advanced breast cancer, particularly in patients with BRCA or PALB2 mutations. Tune in to hear from Dr. Pavani Chalasani and Dr. Timothy Yap as they discuss this encouraging new data on tolerability and antitumor activity. Dr. Yap is the Ransom Horne, Jr. Endowed Professor for Cancer Research, Vice President and Head of Clinical Development in the Therapeutic Discovery Division, and a professor in the Department of Investigational Cancer Therapeutics at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. He recently presented this research at the 2025 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium.
Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security spousal eligibility and claiming coordination, a listener PSA on Social Security proof of marriage requirements, RMD planning while still working, money market earnings in brokerage accounts, and using QLACs for long-term care planning.(16:15) Georgette asks whether the repeal of WEP and GPO affects her eligibility for a spousal benefit if her ex-husband worked for the federal government and she did not pay into Social Security. (26:45) A listener asks how Social Security works when one spouse lacks enough work credits for their own benefit and only qualifies for a spousal benefit, including whether both spouses must claim at full retirement age to access that benefit.(42:00) The guys address a PSA on why Social Security may already have proof of marriage on file for one spouse due to a name change but still requires documentation from the other spouse when benefits are claimed.(49:30) Jim and Chris discuss whether maximizing pre-tax retirement contributions and rolling a SEP IRA into a 403(b) can reduce or eliminate RMDs under the still-working exception.(1:06:45) A listener questions the statement that Money Market earnings are minimal, pointing to current yields in a fund they hold.(1:12:00) The guys respond to feedback on whether a QLAC could be an effective way to address long-term care planning when self-funding alone does not feel sufficient. The post Social Security, RMDs, Money Market Earnings, QLACs: Q&A #2551 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.
Host: Charles Turck, PharmD, BCPS, BCCCP Guest: Sarah Cogle, PharmD, BCNSP, FASPEN Evolving evidence supports the shift from single-source to multi-source intravenous lipid emulsions in parenteral nutrition. These newer formulations may offer improved metabolic, inflammatory, and hepatic outcomes, particularly for vulnerable patient populations. Joining Dr. Charles Turck to discuss the clinical rationale and operational considerations for these formulations is Dr. Sarah Cogle, who's a Clinical Pharmacist Specialist at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, Tennessee.
As tax season looms, there is one thing most people are thinking about: Keeping the IRS out of their pockets! That's why this week Randy Barkley and Jeremiah & Laura Lee break down what really happens—tax-wise—when you inherit money, investments, and other assets. They walk through step-up in basis for stocks and real estate, why some taxes effectively “disappear” at death, and where they absolutely do not. The conversation covers annuities, life insurance, qualified accounts, RMD rules, and the organizational headaches that come with sorting through multiple accounts, statements, and beneficiaries. If you've ever wondered, “What actually happens when I inherit this?” or “How do I avoid making an expensive tax mistake?”, this episode gives you a practical roadmap. We Cover: – Why the tax implications of inheritance can be bigger than most families expect – How the step-up in basis works for stocks and real estate—and when it's a major tax saver – Why capital losses from a parent's lifetime usually do not carry over to heirs – How staying organized with account records and cost basis helps beneficiaries avoid costly errors – The key differences in how annuities and life insurance are taxed – Why inherited IRAs and other qualified accounts are taxed as ordinary income – How RMD rules work for beneficiaries and what happens if they're missed – Ways charitable strategies can help offset higher taxes after an inheritance – Why having the right financial and tax team matters when multiple assets and heirs are involved Don't Miss These Moments: 00:00 – Navigating Inheritance and Tax Implications 02:53 – Understanding Step-Up in Basis 06:01 – Managing Losses and Staying Organized 08:48 – Real Estate, Community Property, and Ownership Structure 12:03 – Annuities: Tax Treatment and Implications for Heirs 14:55 – Life Insurance Benefits and Taxation 18:03 – Inherited Qualified Accounts, RMDs, and Tax Strategy 20:56 – Planning Ahead: Charitable Contributions and Tax Maneuvers Reach out at contact@tricordadvisors.com Connect with Jeremiah: LinkedIn: / jeremiahjlee Email: Jeremiah@tricordadvisors.com Connect with Laura: LinkedIn: / laura-lee-59a83610 Email: Laura@tricordadv.com Connect with Randy: LinkedIn: / rkbarkley Email: Randy@tricordadv.com Information and ideas discussed are general comments and cannot be relied upon as pertaining to your specific situation, do not constitute legal/financial advice, and do not create an attorney-client or fiduciary relationship. Examples discussed are fictional. You should consult your own advisor/attorney and do your own diligence prior to making any decisions. Investments involve risk and the possibility of loss, including the loss of principal. All situations are different, and results may vary. Randy Barkley is a life insurance agent CA license # 0518567 and Jeremiah Lee is a California licensed attorney and is responsible for this communication. Advisory services offered through TriCord Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Advisory firm.
Big tax law changes always bring big rumors. But before you assume Social Security is now tax-free or that you're getting a $40K deduction just for breathing, let's set the record straight on what this new bill didn't actually do. Helpful Information: PFG Website: https://www.pfgprivatewealth.com/ Contact: 813-286-7776 Email: info@pfgprivatewealth.com Disclaimer: PFG Private Wealth Management, LLC is an SEC Registered Investment Advisor. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. The topics and information discussed during this podcast are not intended to provide tax or legal advice. Investments involve risk, and unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial advisor and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed on this podcast. Past performance is not indicative of future performance. Insurance products and services are offered and sold through individually licensed and appointed insurance agents. Speaker 1: The big tax law changes always bring rumors, so before you get too hyped up or worried about anything, we thought we'd have a little fun and debunk some of the Big Beautiful Bill myths this week on the podcast. Let's get into it. Hey everybody, welcome into Retirement Planning - Redefined with John and Nick from PFG Private Wealth. And one more time, we thought we would revisit the Big Beautiful Bill, the OBBBA conversation. I like saying OBBBA, it's just fun. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Guys, just kind of hopefully maybe dispel some of these things, continue to have questions all throughout the year as we're closing out the year we're just trying to knock down some of those worries or some of those fears that people still have. So let's set the record straight a little bit. We'll have some fun with this. You guys can be myth busters on this episode, if you will. John, what's going on my friend? How are you? John Teixeira: Not too much. Just wondering if Nick gave my phone number to a list because all of a sudden today I'm getting bombarded with, "Do you need a driveway cleaned?" And some random stuff. So I think I'm getting punked. Speaker 1: Oh man, it's that time of the year. It seems like spam calls have gone just through the roof for the last couple of months, so I don't know. Nick McDevitt: My hypothesis on that is I feel like businesses are slowing down and they're kind of going back to their- Speaker 1: They're getting creative too. Nick McDevitt: Yeah, they're going back to their list client lists or different marketing tools. I feel like I've gotten re-added or added to a hundred new email lists in the last three weeks. So it's interesting. Speaker 1: Yeah, it's a weird thing. And the text thing and the email, it's like they have so much access to you. Constantly getting stuff and of course the phones are always listening, so you just get all this weird stuff. But I'm with you, John, same thing. Would you like to sell your house? John Teixeira: No. Nick complained about it a couple of weeks ago and I was like, "I'm not getting too much." And all of a sudden I think he's like, "Well, if I got to deal with it, John's got it too." So. Speaker 1: Either that or your phone was listening and said, "Oh, you're not getting it? We'll get one, then. Here it goes." John Teixeira: It could be that one too. Speaker 1: All right, let's jump into a few myths. We'll have some fun here. Myth number one, Nick, Social Security is no longer taxed. Nick McDevitt: Kind of for some. So just like most things, there's nuance to it. If your income falls within the threshold of where single or married filing jointly and singles, I think the 75,000 married filing jointly is the 150, then you actually get a $6,000 tax credit to help offset taxes that you may owe on your social security income. But it's not something that line item wise is gone. So for most people, up to 85% of their social security income is includeable in their overall taxable income. So this is a way that that amount can get reduced dependent upon the overall situation. Speaker 1: So technically no, they did not remove social security tax, but they're for certain brackets in certain age groups for a couple of years, you can definitely reap a benefit. So do that. But yeah, it didn't go away unfortunately. Myth number two, John, the new tax law means tax cuts for everybody. John Teixeira: Unfortunately not for everybody. Like we talked about in the last episode, the senior citizen tax deduction above the age of 65 is those single will get six, joint will get 12, but that's not even for everyone above 65. Well, because if you income level's too high, you also don't qualify. So not for everybody. And then even the SALT deduction, which Nick went into last episode as well, if your state doesn't have income tax, certain situations work for you, certain situations, and everyone's a case-by-case scenario here. So not for everybody. Some people might not see any tax benefits from this, but some people might see quite a bit. Speaker 1: Okay. All right. Nick, myth number three, the tax brackets are permanent, so I'm groovy. We're going to stay in this low tax bracket forever. Nick McDevitt: Yeah, it'd be nice if things work that way, but as we know when it comes to taxes or really anything involving government or legislation, we can count on there being change at some point in the future. So although if people read through documents and they see, hey, this adjustment in brackets is now permanent, that's just kind of referring back to when they were originally reduced. There was a sunset provision that it had to get renewed at a period of time in the future. And so that's what happened is it was essentially renewed and locked into place, but a new president or a new Congress can adjust that and change that in the future. And based upon debt and all that kind of stuff, were of the opinion that at a certain point in time there will definitely be some changes. And the reality is that most likely they will be higher taxes. Speaker 1: Yeah, they changed their mind as the wind blows and what they do with it. Right? So, all right, myth number four, John, we didn't really talk about the estate tax too much on that prior episode where we talked about some things, but they actually raised it up a tick, made it a nice even number. So it's a $15 million estate tax exemption, which means estate planning doesn't much matter anymore because most people aren't going to get to that level. What's your thoughts? John Teixeira: Yeah, so it's nice they made it a nice even number, just like when they changed the RMDH from a 70 and a half to a nice even number there. So we like simplicity here. But yeah, it doesn't mean estate tax planning doesn't matter anymore because certain states do have their own estate tax themselves. We live in Florida here. Speaker 1: Good point. John Teixeira: So we don't have to worry about that. But depending on the state you live in, important to understand what those estate taxes are. Speaker 1: Yeah, that's a federal estate. Yeah, that's a great point. Yep. John Teixeira: Yep. So that's the federal level there, 15 million. So yeah, just make sure you understand where it is. And just because the exemption went up doesn't mean you don't need estate planning because we've come across some people that definitely needed to structure their assets correctly to make sure that Uncle Sam doesn't get all of it and also it goes to the right places. So. Speaker 1: Yeah, it's much more than just the tax is a good estate plan, so definitely you want to have the other pieces covered as well. So just because the number's high doesn't mean you don't need an estate plan. And you don't have to be a Rockefeller to need estate plan. A lot of people kind of surprised by the fact of what an estate plan can do for them. Just average everyday folks, it can still be very beneficial. So something to certainly consider. Nick, we talked a little bit about the car loan interest on that prior one, but so I googled basically just common misconceptions about this, and that's how I'm wording these based on how some of these questions came up. So it's like, "Car loan interest is now fully deductible," and that's how with the internet and everything, that's how things get run amok. People think, "Oh, no, no, I totally saw that. Car loan interest is fully deductible. So great, I'm going to go out and buy a car and be able to write off the interest." But that's not the whole story. Nick McDevitt: For sure. There are definitely... So there's a cap as far as the amount that can be deducted, it's about $10,000. From a deductibility standpoint, it is a temporary thing and there are certain thresholds from the perspective of income can't exceed a hundred thousand. And then the rules about the final assembly being the US for the vehicle. So it's not a blanket something that, just like anything else when it comes to rules and laws, especially on taxes, the devil's in the details and you want to make sure you have a full understanding of what it looks like. And on top of that, the reality is that a tax deduction is not usually a reason to spend money if you don't need something. So that's kind of like the famous last words of, "Yeah, but there's a tax deduction." But also if there's a cash flow issue, then it may not make sense. So just like anything else, you want to be smart about the decision. Speaker 1: Yeah. And I'll take this last one, John for a little bit. Myth number six, it was really around the itemizing. "I can skip itemizing and still get deductions for charity giving." And I think people confuse the itemization and QCDs. And so I think there's a little bit different disinformation there and there is some above-the-line stuff. So just hit me with that one real quick. John Teixeira: So you can make the deductions with charitable gifting. And it's just recapping last episode, it's capped at 1,000 for single in 2,000 for couples. So you can get the standard deduction and go ahead and get these additional deductions for giving to charity without itemizing. Speaker 1: And I think for a lot of people, especially if you're making good money, they think, "Hey, I don't need the RMDs," especially for a lot of your client base. "I got to pull this RMD. I don't want to, but I have to. The government's making me. How can I maybe be charitably inclined but also be effective from a tax standpoint?" And that's where the confusion with the QCD comes in. Because you can satisfy that RMD by doing a QCD. John Teixeira: Yeah, these are... Yeah, thanks for clarifying. Speaker 1: Yeah. John Teixeira: Yeah. These are two separate things here. The QCD is its own strategy and definitely take advantage of that if you are not, it's a great way to do it. And just let's kind of recap that strategy, Although it's not part of the bill here, but what you want to do is have your... Once you're above the age of 70, you can take advantage of it and you want the check or distribution that's coming out of the retirement plan to go pre-tax, let's emphasize that pre-tax, go directly from the retirement account to the charitable institution. So it has to be check made payable to that institution. They don't need to get it directly. I have some clients that will get it mailed to their house as long as it's written out to that institution. And the example, they go to church and they feel good about actually handing the check in. And full disclosure, when you're doing your taxes, I don't want to say all, but most financial institutions aren't basically telling the IRS what you did. When you do your taxes, you actually need to say, this is what you did. So the 1099 will kind of reflect a little bit of that, but you have to actually tell your CPA, "I did this." Because if you do not, you will not get that tax deduction. Speaker 1: Yeah, no, for sure. And that's why I wanted to ask you that because it does get confusion around what the tax law changes were with the above line charitable deductions or gift giving and the QCDs, so there was definitely some confusion there. So thanks for clearing that up. And again, that's the whole point, right? Anytime there's legislation, it always brings confusion. So having a good strategy, a good plan, and a good team in place to help you deal with this stuff because dealing with it every day is a lot easier than us who just only see the headlines and whatnot. So if you need some help, reach out to John and Nick, get onto the calendar at PFGPrivateWealth.com, that's PFGPrivateWealth.com and schedule some time for yourself today. And with that, guys, thanks so much for hanging out. I hope everybody has a great holiday season. Don't forget to subscribe to the podcast on Apple or Spotify or whatever podcasting app you enjoy. Retirement Planning - Redefined with John and Nick from PFG Private Wealth. We'll see you next time.
How do you know if it's time to retire? Roger and Elias react to the 10 Subtle Signs That You Are Ready to Retire. Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Most millionaires don't fail because they didn't save enough — they fail because they oversaved and never learned how to spend with confidence.In this episode, Adam Olson, CFP®, breaks down the Oversaving Trap — the silent habit that keeps high-net-worth retirees working longer, worrying more, and living smaller than they need to. You'll meet Nancy, a 64-year-old with $3.1M in savings who still feared retirement… until the Red Zone Retirement Planning Process completely reshaped her future.You'll learn:Why oversaving becomes a psychological prison for even the wealthiest retireesHow large Traditional IRAs create RMD tax bombs, higher Medicare premiums, and Social Security taxationHow Red Zone Retirement Planning shifts you from accumulation obsession to lifestyle-first cash flow designThe two-bucket strategy that separates needs from wantsHow strategic Roth conversions can eliminate future taxes and give you controlWhy Go-Go / Slow-Go / No-Go planning creates smarter, more enjoyable spendingThe mindset shift that finally gives retirees permission to live freelyIf you're within five years of retirement (or already retired), this episode will change how you think about money, freedom, and the purpose of saving.
Are you ready for the ticking tax time bomb in retirement? Dive into the essentials of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and learn how recent rule changes impact your retirement income. Discover strategies to minimize taxes and avoid costly penalties. Whether you’re planning ahead or facing RMDs now, this episode delivers actionable insights to help you navigate your financial future with confidence. Schedule your complimentary appointment today: TheRetirementKey.com Get a free copy of Abe’s book: The Retirement Mountain: The 7 Steps To A Long-Lasting Retirement Follow us on social media: YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Host: Ryan Quigley Guest: Kathrin M. Bernt, MD Guest: Rushabh Mehta, BS Guest: Fatemeh Alikarami New data presented at the American Society of Hematology (ASH) Annual Meeting and Exposition reveals how chemotherapy and immunotherapy may drive the emergence of CD-19–negative, myeloid-like subclones in pediatric B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL). Mr. Ryan Quigley sits down with Dr. Kathrin Bernt, Dr. Fatemah Alikarami, and Mr. Rushabh Mehta to discuss how their findings could impact minimal residual disease detection, therapy resistance, and future risk stratification strategies. Dr. Bernt is a pediatric oncologist and an Associate Professor of Pediatrics at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Alikarami is a Research Associate Scientist at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Mr. Mehta is a PhD candidate in cell and molecular biology at the University of Pennsylvania.
Host: Brian P. McDonough, MD, FAAFP Guest: Matthew Galsky, MD Five years after treatment, the impact of adjuvant nivolumab still holds strong in high-risk muscle invasive urothelial carcinoma. Join Drs. Brian McDonough and Matthew Galsky as they review the CheckMate 274 trial's long-term data, which show sustained disease-free survival and highlight ctDNA's potential as a marker for residual disease. These findings reinforce nivolumab's role in the evolving standard of care and may support more personalized post-surgical strategies. Dr. Galsky is a Professor of Medicine and the Director of Genitourinary Medical Oncology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai in New York.
We're deep into December, and the window for smart year-end tax planning is closing quickly. Taxes may not be at the top of your Christmas wish list, but they are an important reminder of God's provision—and an opportunity to honor Him through wise stewardship.As Scripture reminds us, “The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). That includes the resources He's entrusted to us. Thoughtful planning isn't about avoiding responsibility—it's about managing God's gifts with intention and gratitude.Today, we sat down with Kevin Cross, a seasoned CPA who has helped countless families navigate taxes with clarity and confidence. As we approach December 31 and look ahead to 2026, here are some of the most important moves to consider.Rethinking Charitable Giving at Year-EndCharitable giving is always close to the hearts of our listeners, and year-end is an especially strategic time to consider it.Recent changes to the tax code—including a higher standard deduction and an expanded SALT (state and local tax) deduction—mean many households may now benefit from itemizing again. If that's you, making charitable contributions before December 31 could provide meaningful tax benefits.But even if your standard deduction is still too high to itemize, there's another strategy worth considering: bundling your giving. Instead of spreading donations evenly each year, you might combine two years' worth of giving into one year. That can push you over the itemization threshold and maximize the tax benefit—while still supporting the ministries and causes you care about.Why a Donor-Advised Fund Is a Powerful ToolIf you don't yet know precisely where you want to give, a donor-advised fund (DAF) can be an incredibly flexible option. We often call it a charitable checking account. You receive the tax deduction when you contribute to the fund, then take your time prayerfully distributing gifts to qualified charities.Kevin likes to say it's “the most fun fund you'll ever have”—because it encourages generosity while allowing your resources to be invested and potentially grow before they're given.For those who want to ensure their giving supports gospel-centered ministries, I recommend opening a donor-advised fund through the National Christian Foundation (NCF). It's a wonderful way to align generosity with faith-based impact. You can learn more at FaithFi.com/NCF.A New Opportunity for Children and Grandchildren (Starting in 2026)One of the most talked-about developments Kevin highlighted is a new child tax savings account (Trump Account), set to begin in 2026. While no action can be taken until then, it's worth knowing what to expect.Under this provision, eligible children may receive a government-funded seed contribution, and families can contribute up to $5,000 per year. Even more interesting: businesses may be able to contribute up to $2,500 tax-free under the right circumstances—while still receiving a deduction.What makes this especially notable for generous families is that donor-advised funds may be used to contribute to these accounts, creating new ways to bless the next generation while maintaining a strong commitment to charitable giving. Proper planning and paperwork will be essential, but this is an opportunity many families will want to explore.Qualified Charitable Distributions: A Missed Opportunity for ManyOne of the most underutilized tax strategies Kevin sees involves Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)—and it always surprises me how many people don't know about them.If you're 70½ or older, you can give directly from your IRA to a qualified charity and exclude that distribution from taxable income. Once you reach the age for required minimum distributions (RMDs), this becomes even more powerful. Instead of taking the distribution, paying taxes, and then giving what's left, you can give directly—often satisfying your RMD without increasing your tax bill.And this isn't limited to small amounts. You can give up to $100,000 per year through QCDs. It's one of the most effective charitable strategies available, especially for retirees who want to give generously while managing their tax burden wisely.Stewardship with PurposeTaxes can feel complex, frustrating, or even discouraging—but they don't have to be. When we view them through the lens of stewardship, they become another opportunity to align our financial decisions with God's purposes.Kevin Cross brings both expertise and encouragement to this conversation, reminding us that wise planning isn't about fear—it's about faithfulness. If you'd like to learn more about Kevin and his work, you can visit KevinCrossCPA.com.As we close out the year, our prayer is that your financial decisions reflect gratitude for what God has provided—and confidence that He will continue to lead you as you steward it well.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I have about $135,000 in my 401(k), and my home is worth around $100,000. Would it be advisable to cash out my 401(k) to pay off my house?I was recently told about a fixed-rate annuity offering a 22% bonus immediately. Does that sound like a good opportunity, or is it too good to be true?My mother-in-law, who's still living, deeded my husband five and a half acres out of a 13-acre property. We're considering selling that portion to his sister and want to understand the tax implications—what tax rate applies, whether there's an inheritance tax, and how that works.Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)National Christian Foundation (NCF)Kevin Cross, CPAWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God's resources. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Tom Fortino, Founder and Principal, Alpha Wealth Group, and host of “The Alpha Wealth Hour” on WGN Radio, joins John to talk about some year-end tips and things to be aware of before 2026, a reminder about your RMD, the economic data being released later this week, the Supreme Court decision on President Trump’s tariffs, what […]
Tom Fortino, Founder and Principal, Alpha Wealth Group, and host of “The Alpha Wealth Hour” on WGN Radio, joins John to talk about some year-end tips and things to be aware of before 2026, a reminder about your RMD, the economic data being released later this week, the Supreme Court decision on President Trump’s tariffs, what […]
Tom Fortino, Founder and Principal, Alpha Wealth Group, and host of “The Alpha Wealth Hour” on WGN Radio, joins John to talk about some year-end tips and things to be aware of before 2026, a reminder about your RMD, the economic data being released later this week, the Supreme Court decision on President Trump’s tariffs, what […]
Jim and Chris discuss listener emails starting with PSAs about IRMAA and Social Security spousal benefit applications, then questions on IRMAA, QLAC-related RMD rules, and a Roth conversion involving a fixed indexed annuity (FIA). (9:30) Georgette shares a PSA explaining that she successfully filed Form SSA-44 preemptively—before receiving an IRMAA determination letter. (21:15) A listener offers a PSA describing issues with an online Social Security spousal benefit application that was denied after being submitted separately from the working spouse's application. (29:45) The guys discuss how the Social Security Administration determines IRMAA when a tax return is delayed due to combat-zone service and whether a significant drop in income qualifies for Form SSA-44 relief. (38:45) Jim and Chris address whether overestimating income on Form SSA-44 results in a refund, how survivor benefits are affected if claimed early, and whether post-retirement employer coverage is treated as active employee benefits for Medicare Part B and IRMAA purposes. (50:45) George asks whether payments in excess of the RMD from a QLAC can be applied toward RMDs for other IRAs, or only toward the non-annuitized portion of the same IRA. (1:00:20) A listener asks how the pro rata rule applies to a Roth conversion when assets include a fixed indexed annuity (FIA) with a guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit. The post IRMAA, Social Security, QLACs, Roth Conversions: Q&A #2550 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.
Hans and Robby are back again this week with a brand new episode! This week, they discuss required minimum distribution aka RMD. Don't forget to get your copy of "The Complete Cardinal Guide to Planning for and Living in Retirement" on Amazon or on CardinalGuide.com for free! You can contact Hans and Cardinal by emailing hans@cardinalguide.com or calling 919-535-8261. Learn more at CardinalGuide.com. Find us on YouTube: Cardinal Advisors.
Gene and Alyssa answered questions and explored important topics: He is 80 and wants to know how to use buffered ETFs in his investment portfolio? She asks if her friend is being misled by her annuity salesman? She asks if there is a way to protect the retirement funds they currently have in the TSP? He asks if his partner will need to take an RMD from her 401(k) next year when she retires? She wants to know how to stop her father from changes his will? Free Second Opinion Meetings Meet with a More than Money advisor to review your entire financial picture or simply project your retirement Meet with our Social Security partner to plan the best S/S strategy for you Meet with our estate planning attorney partner to review your estate plans – if you have any Meet with our insurance partner to review your life or long term care coverages Discover how to have your 401(k) professionally managed without leaving your company plan Schedule a free second opinion meeting with a More than Money advisor? Call today (610-746-7007) or email (Gene@AskMtM.com) to schedule your time with us.
#668: We're joined in-studio by David Bach, bestselling author of The Automatic Millionaire and The Latte Factor. He's updated his most popular book (over two million copies sold) and this is his last big launch as he heads into retirement. Together, we wrestle with a problem our listeners know well: what happens when you've built the habit of saving, investing, optimizing … and then feel weirdly unable to spend. We talk about mini-retirements, the psychology of “spend and enjoy,” and why waiting to touch retirement money can be its own kind of risk. Key Takeaways Think about retirement as a series of deliberate mini-retirements, not one finish line you might reach with less energy than you expected. If you're a dedicated saver, build a plan for the “spend and enjoy” phase so you do not accidentally optimize away the years you wanted freedom for. Run the numbers on “small” spending habits, not to guilt yourself, but to see which choices actually buy future optionality. Treat withdrawals, benefits, and deadlines as part of the strategy, not a paperwork problem you'll deal with later. If your finances feel out of reach, anchor yourself with a simple projection and one automated action, momentum beats motivation. Resources and Links David Bach's website: http://davidbach.com/ David Bach's books The Automatic Millionaire (updated edition) The Latte Factor Smart Women Finish Rich Chapters Note: Timestamps are approximate and may vary greatly across listening platforms due to dynamically inserted ads. (0:00) Introducing David Bach (4:50) Radical sabbaticals, Florence and rethinking retirement (9:10) Health scares, widowhood stats and enjoying life earlier (11:00) Updating The Automatic Millionaire for 24 million millionaires (15:30) Social Security strategy, RMD parties and claiming earlier (31:30) The latte factor, avocado toast and $10 dollar decisions (33:00) How $10 a day turns into $678,000 (34:20) Oprah behind the scenes, bricks of cash and an audience gasp (47:10) Tiffany Aliche, $75,000 dollars of debt and other success stories (54:25) A $53,000 income couple who retired as multimillionaires (1:25:40) Careers in advising, hiring trends and women advisors (1:28:37) Social Security taxes, new ideas and an eight year tax window (1:41:27) Remembering the “why,” values based choices and using money well Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Hans and Brian challenge the conventional wisdom around qualified retirement plans and expose the misaligned incentives baked into the 401(k) system.Most people defend their 401(k)s and IRAs with passion—but they're carrying water for institutions whose goals directly conflict with their own. This episode breaks down the four things financial institutions want from your money, reveals the history of how employers shifted pension risk onto employees, and asks the critical question: whose incentives are you serving?The conventional model says lock your money away for 40 years, fund your own retirement, bear all the market risk, and hope you have enough at 65. The qualified plan gives you a 13-year window of control—you can't touch it penalty-free until 59.5, and RMDs force withdrawals starting at 73. That means if you live to 76, you only controlled your money 25% of your life. Meanwhile, the average person retiring today has $537,000 saved but needs $1.5 million. The system is failing, yet people aggressively defend it.Chapters:00:00 - Opening segment 03:40 - Revisiting fundamentals 04:25 - What do financial institutions want from you? 05:25 - The four goals: get your money, hold it systematically, keep it long, give back little 06:40 - We just described a qualified plan 07:50 - The 13-year window: locked until 59.5, forced RMDs at 73 08:45 - Tax benefits: the one real advantage of a Roth 10:00 - Why we're assuming Roth for this discussion 11:30 - The gray area in Roth tax code and the $42 trillion sitting in qualified plans 12:35 - Only controlling your money 25% of your life 13:20 - Teaching kids to be good stewards vs. locking their money away 14:30 - RMD penalties: 25% minimum, up to 50% in some scenarios 16:00 - TSP RMD mechanics: you can't choose which funds to liquidate 17:00 - Taking the employer match and using whole life as a volatility buffer 18:20 - Spending down qualified plans first, not leaving them to heirs 18:50 - The pension system: employers provided capital and bore market risk 21:20 - The shift: now employees fund their own retirement and bear all risk 23:10 - Stockholm Syndrome: aggressively defending the institutions that benefit 24:00 - Median household income $84K, needs $1.5M, average savings $537K 27:40 - Why the average is skewed by millionaires (statistical reality check) 29:25 - Comparing contractual guarantees to projections and prospectuses 31:00 - Strip away the labels: whole life is just an asset, just like mutual funds 32:20 - We want you to understand WHY you believe what you believe 33:35 - The rate of return objection and Nelson's tailwind example 36:15 - Whose incentives align with yours? Insurance companies vs. 401(k) managers 38:05 - Underwriting proves alignment: they want you healthy and financially stable 39:30 - Our mission: cut banks out, create tax-free estates, control your capital 41:15 - Closing thoughtsVisit https://remnantfinance.com for more informationFOLLOW REMNANT FINANCEYoutube: @RemnantFinance (https://www.youtube.com/@RemnantFinance )Facebook: @remnantfinance (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560694316588 )Twitter: @remnantfinance (https://x.com/remnantfinance )TikTok: @RemnantFinanceDon't forget to hit LIKE and SUBSCRIBEGot Questions? Reach out to us at info@remnantfinance.com or book a call at https://remnantfinance.com/calendar !
Required Minimum Distributions play a significant role in year-end planning. In this episode, we outline the general rules around RMDs for 2025, including recent updates, key timing considerations, tax-related factors to be aware of, and common issues individuals may encounter when taking their distributions. This conversation is intended to provide a broad overview of the topic and help listeners better understand how RMD requirements work.
Prices didn't fall back after the spike—they stuck. We unpack what that really means for your wallet and your portfolio, and why a 3 percent inflation trend can quietly double living costs over a couple of decades. From retirees juggling health care and food increases to younger families squeezed by rent, insurance, and child care, we share a practical roadmap to keep spending power intact without retreating into cash.We walk through a smarter investing playbook: broad, global diversification that reduces concentration risk in the S&P 500, tilts toward profitability, and captures more sources of return. Drawing on factor-aware approaches like those used by Dimensional Fund Advisors, we explain how to balance U.S. and international exposure, why rebalancing matters after long growth cycles, and how to align risk with your real-life goals. You'll hear when it makes sense to green-light big purchases, when to wait, and how to avoid selling at the wrong time.Then we get tactical. Shop your auto and homeowner coverage and compare line by line before switching. Audit statements monthly, cancel dead subscriptions, and dispute unauthorized charges quickly. If your income is down, consider targeted Roth conversions to build tax-free options and reduce future RMD pressure. For career builders, make a results-focused case for a raise rather than leaning on inflation alone. For savers at every stage, small increases in contributions today can create outsized freedom later thanks to compounding.If sticky inflation has you wondering how to stay ahead, this conversation gives you the tools: disciplined diversification, flexible spending, vigilant cost control, and tax planning that creates choices. Listen now, subscribe for more practical money guidance, and share this episode with someone who needs a fresh plan for a higher-cost world. Envision Financial Planning. 5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 2428, Memphis, TN 38137. (901) 422-7526. This communication is strictly intended for individuals residing in the United States. Advisory Services offered through Envision Financial Planning, a Registered Investment Adviser.
Host: Jennifer Caudle, DO Guest: Wendy Wright, DNP, FNP-BC, ANP-BC Randomized controlled trials have shown data supporting the safety and efficacy of cell-based influenza vaccines in adults and children.1-4 However, effectiveness studies have historically relied on outcomes based on clinical diagnosis of influenza-like illness rather than test-confirmed influenza.5 Test-confirmed influenza outcomes provide a more specific evaluation of influenza vaccine effectiveness and can help reveal the clinical differences between cell-based versus egg-based vaccines.6 A retrospective test-negative real-world study including more than 106,000 patients compared the cell-based vaccine with egg-based vaccines.7 Dr. Jennifer Caudle sits down with Dr. Wendy Wright to review the key findings from this analysis and their implications. Dr. Wright is a board-certified adult and family nurse practitioner based out of Amherst, New Hampshire as well as the owner of Wright and Associates Family Healthcare. References: FLUCELVAX. Package insert. Seqirus Inc. Bart S, Cannon K, Herrington D, et al. Immunogenicity and safety of a cell culture-based quadrivalent influenza vaccine in adults: a phase III, double-blind, multicenter, randomized, non-inferiority study. Hum Vaccin Immunother. 2016;12(9):2278–88. doi:10.1080/21645515.2016.1182270. Frey S, Vesikari T, Szymczakiewicz-Multanowska A, et al. Clinical efficacy of cell culture-derived and egg-derived inactivated subunit influenza vaccines in healthy adults. Clin Infect Dis. 2010;51(9):997–1004. doi:10.1086/656578. Diez-Domingo J, de Martino M, Lopez …
CME credits: 1.00 Valid until: 11-12-2026 Claim your CME credit at https://reachmd.com/programs/cme/Hepatic-Encephalopathy-More-Common-Than-You-Think/39786/ This series of brief episodes focuses on the early recognition and clinical management of hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Drs. Arun Jesudian and Nancy Reau examine subtle signs that may indicate minimal or covert HE and offer strategies for timely diagnosis. The discussion covers practical tools for detection, the role of nutrition and pharmacologic therapy, and evidence-based approaches to prevent progression and hospitalization. Emerging therapies and ongoing clinical trials are also discussed to highlight future directions in HE treatment.
Jeremy Keil explores 7 money moves you can consider before the new year to lower your taxes and keep more of your money in retirement. Every December, people scramble to finish holiday shopping, travel plans, and year-end tasks. But one of the most important deadlines — your December 31st tax deadline — often gets overlooked until it's too late. And once the calendar flips to January 1st, many of the smartest tax moves disappear. In this episode of Retire Today, I walk through seven year-end tax steps you should consider to make sure April brings fewer surprises and more savings. With new tax laws taking effect, the stock market sitting near all-time highs, and contribution limits shifting in the coming years, this is the perfect moment to take control of your finances. 1. Manage Your Tax Bracket Before the Year Ends Your income may fluctuate from year to year — especially in retirement. Some retirees have unusually high-income years due to bonuses, pension payouts, early retirement packages, stock vesting, or unexpected distributions. Others have abnormally low-income years. If you're experiencing a higher income year, now is the time to pull deductions forward. Charitable giving, donor-advised fund contributions, and other deductible expenses can help lower your taxable income. If you're in a lower income year, you might choose to accelerate income instead — such as doing a Roth conversion or taking extra withdrawals at a better tax rate. Year-end planning starts with projecting your tax return and understanding which direction to go. 2. Harvest Capital Losses — and Sometimes Gains Even in years when the market is high overall, you may still have individual positions sitting at a loss. Harvesting those losses can offset gains or reduce taxes now or in the future. On the flip side, some retirees find themselves in the 0% long-term capital gains bracket, which creates the perfect opportunity to harvest capital gains on purpose. When you're in a low tax bracket and gains cost nothing, you can reset your cost basis without additional tax. This is one of the most underused year-end strategies — especially when markets have been climbing. 3. Review Mutual Fund Capital Gain Distributions Many mutual funds issue their capital gain distributions in December. You may not receive the money in cash, but it still counts as taxable income. Look up the estimated year-end distributions from your fund companies and double-check your brokerage account. Mutual fund distributions have surprised many retirees — and they can lead to unnecessary underpayment penalties if tax withholding isn't adjusted in time. 4. Get Your Tax Withholding Correct Years ago, tax underpayment penalties weren't a big deal. But with high interest rates today, penalties now operate more like expensive interest charges for not paying taxes in the proper quarterly schedule. If you expect to owe money for 2025, you may want to adjust withholding from your paycheck, pension, Social Security, or IRA distributions. For retirees over 59½, using IRA withholding is one of the easiest ways to catch up — and it is treated as if it was paid evenly all year. To avoid penalties, don't wait until spring. Make corrections before December 31st. 5. Use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) If you're age 70½ or older, QCDs allow you to donate directly from your traditional IRA to charity tax-free. This is often better than taking withdrawals and giving afterward — especially if you use the standard deduction. Even if you're not yet required to take RMDs, QCDs can reduce your future RMD burden and help you give in a more tax-efficient way. With 2025 bringing updated QCD limits and ongoing rule changes, it's smart to review your giving strategy now. 6. Make Annual Exclusion Gifts Before Year-End In 2025, the annual exclusion gift limit is $19,000 per person — and it remains the same for 2026. If you're planning to help your children or grandchildren, consider spreading the gifts across the end of this year and the beginning of next year to maximize tax-free amounts. For education planning, 529 plans also allow “superfunding,” letting you front-load up to five years' worth of gifts. Year-end is an ideal time to execute these strategies thoughtfully. 7. Rebalance Your Investments (Especially After a Big Market Year) When markets rise sharply, your portfolio may drift into a risk level you never intended. A portfolio that started at 60% stocks may now sit at 68% or higher. That's more risk than you signed up for — especially if you are nearing retirement. Rebalancing is a critical part of your year-end checklist. It brings your risk back in line, prepares your portfolio for the next year, and supports the long-term stability of your retirement plan. The Bottom Line Year-end planning isn't just about taxes — it's about taking control. Whether it's adjusting your income, harvesting gains or losses, fixing withholding, giving strategically, gifting to family, or rebalancing your investments, December is your opportunity to make meaningful changes before the window closes. Don't let the deadline sneak up on you. Start now so April feels predictable — not painful. Enjoying these episodes? Make sure to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “QCDs: The Tax-Smart Way to Give in Retirement (2025 Qualified Charitable Distributions Guide)” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures
The final month of the year may be filled with holiday distractions, but it's also where your financial year is won or lost. In this episode, Ryan and Andrew break down the high-impact money moves to make before December 31 — from tax-loss harvesting and charitable gifting strategies to maxing out retirement and HSA contributions. We'll cover the exact contribution limits for 2024/2025, critical RMD deadlines, and the simple checks that can protect your wealth, reduce taxes, and set you up strong for next year. Before the ball drops, make sure your finances are ready for a fresh start!Perfect for individuals and families looking to finish the year right — and for anyone who wants to keep more of what they earn.
Nationally syndicated financial columnist and author Terry Savage joins Wendy Snyder, filling in for John Williams, to talk about what she expects from the Fed today, if they are likely to cut rates again soon, why economic data is unreliable because of the government shutdown, if she expects a year-end rally, the importance of taking your RMD right now, […]
In this episode, we explore the ripple effects of the end of the U.S. penny — what it means for everyday consumers and how pricing may change. Then we take a look at the 2025 stock-market ride: despite record highs this year, we've already seen a sharp drawdown before finishing strong, and pullbacks have tended to be surprisingly shallow and brief. Finally, we break down popular frugal habits to ask: are they really saving you money, or just costing you time and stress? Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Guest: Brian Slomovitz, MD Endometrial cancer is rising in incidence, with mortality now surpassing that of ovarian cancer. Hear from Dr. Brian Slomovitz as he explores evolving molecular classifications, treatment challenges, and the urgent need to address racial disparities in care. Dr. Slomovitz is the Director of Gynecologic Oncology and Co-Chair of the Cancer Research Committee at Mount Sinai Medical Center as well as a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Florida International University in Miami.
In the season of giving, we're discussing making charitable contributions in 2025 and 2026. Americans are known for their generous donations to worthy causes, but understanding the best ways to give and maximize your tax benefits is key. This episode covers four effective strategies for making charitable contributions, from utilizing Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from your retirement accounts to cash donations, gifting highly appreciated stock or real estate, and using donor-advised funds. I also break down recent and upcoming tax law changes that impact your ability to itemize and deduct charitable donations, ensuring you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your generosity. Whether you're planning a gift this year or thinking ahead, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you give back and plan for a successful retirement. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [00:00] Charitable giving and tax benefits. [05:01] Managing qualified charitable distributions. [08:03] Charitable deductions and rules changing in 2026. [13:17] Benefits of donor-advised funds. [16:23] Charitable contributions for tax deductions. Four Smart Strategies for Charitable Giving in 2026 Charitable giving is at the heart of American generosity, with billions donated annually to causes that matter. But did you know your generosity can also be a powerful tool in your tax strategy, especially as rules shift for 2026? 1. Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): Tax Breaks from Your Retirement Account If you're 73 or older and taking required minimum distributions (RMDs) from a traditional IRA, a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) can be a game-changer. Instead of taking your full RMD as income (which is taxable), you can direct some, or all, of it straight to a qualified 501(c)(3) charity. This distributed amount is excluded from your taxable income, potentially lowering your tax bill and even your Medicare premiums. But details matter: The money must transfer directly from your IRA to the charity. You can't touch the funds yourself and then donate. The charity must be a registered 501(c)(3). When you receive your year-end 1099-R tax form, it won't indicate how much was a QCD. You (or your accountant) must reduce your taxable income by the QCD amount and annotate "QCD" on your return. Forgetting to do so can result in unnecessary taxes. By leveraging QCDs, retirees not only support their favorite causes but also make the most of their hard-earned savings. 2. Cash Donations: Navigating Itemizing and New Deduction Thresholds Traditional cash donations are an easy way to support charities and reduce taxes, but the benefits depend on your ability to itemize deductions. Until recently, many households in high-tax states struggled to itemize due to the $10,000 state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap. Big change for 2026 - 2029: The SALT cap jumps to $40,000, making itemizing possible for more people. If your itemized deductions, including mortgage interest, medical expenses, property taxes, and charitable gifts, exceed the standard deduction, your donations can reduce your taxable income. In 2026, a $1,000 per individual (or $2,000 per couple) charitable deduction will be available even if you don't itemize. However, your charitable giving must exceed 1.5% of your adjusted gross income to become deductible, creating a new bar to qualify. Careful timing and documentation of donations can help maximize these new opportunities. 3. Donating Appreciated Assets: Stocks and Real Estate If you're sitting on highly appreciated stocks or real estate, donating them directly to charity can deliver a double tax benefit: You avoid paying capital gains tax on the asset's increase in value, and you can also deduct the current market value of your donation (subject to certain AGI limits: 30% for appreciated assets). To qualify: The asset must have been held for at least one year. For real estate valued above $5,000, an independent appraisal is required. Charities get the full value, and you skip the capital gains tax bill. If your donation exceeds the allowed AGI percent, you can carry the excess deduction forward up to five years. 4. Donor Advised Funds: Flexible Giving, Immediate Deductions A Donor Advised Fund (DAF) is a charitable investment account. You can donate cash, stocks, or other assets now and get an immediate tax deduction, but distribute the funds to your chosen charities later, at your own pace. Why use a DAF? It allows for strategic, larger contributions (helpful in years with unusually high income). You enjoy flexibility in choosing and timing your ultimate beneficiaries. Major brokerages like Fidelity, Schwab, and Vanguard offer DAFs, with differing minimum contributions and low-cost investment options. Keep in mind that there are administrative fees (roughly 0.60% on the first $500,000), but DAFs are simpler and less costly than setting up a private foundation. Smart Giving Starts with Smart Planning As 2026 approaches, take time to review your charitable and tax strategy. Whether using QCDs, cash gifts, appreciated assets, or a donor-advised fund, the tax code changes mean new opportunities, and some fresh requirements. Consult a financial advisor to fit these options to your personal circumstances and maximize the impact of your generosity for both your favorite causes and your family's financial wellbeing. Resources Mentioned Retirement Readiness Review Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel Download my entire book for FREE Fidelity Schwab Vanguard Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact Subscribe to Retire With Ryan
What if your biggest retirement asset is also your biggest tax trap? Ryan Herbert dives into the realities of 401(k) withdrawals, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and how shifting tax laws could quietly erode your nest egg. This episode unpacks why following “Uncle Sam’s plan” may cost you far more than you expect and how proactive tax planning can save hundreds of thousands over your lifetime. Learn the pitfalls of relying on default strategies, the impact of future tax rates, and actionable steps to protect your legacy. Want to begin building your retirement and tax plan? Click Here to Schedule a 15-minute Discovery Call Follow us for more helpful insights:
December 8, 2025 | Season 7 | Episode 45We trace how a weak yuan powers China's record trade surplus despite tariffs, and why history with Japan's yen still shapes today's strategy. We map the U.S. pivot to talent and capital, the odds of a hawkish Fed cut, retiree tax moves for 2025, and two stock spotlights: Weyerhaeuser and Apple.• China's $1T trade surplus and currency dynamics• Tariff rerouting through Southeast Asia, Mexico and Africa• Lessons from Japan's Plaza Accord and export pricing• U.S. advantages in capital access, education and innovation• Market setup into the FOMC and earnings week• Retiree tax planning: RMD timing, QCDs, medical deductions• Weyerhaeuser asset value versus depressed earnings• Apple's measured AI path, privacy focus and partnershipsThis podcast is available on most platforms, including Apple Podcasts and SpotifyFor more information, please visit our website at www.heroldlantern.com** For informational and educational purposes only, not intended as investment advice. Views and opinions are subject to change without notice. For full disclosures, ADVs, and CRS Forms, please visit https://heroldlantern.com/disclosure **To learn about becoming a Herold & Lantern Investments valued client, please visit https://heroldlantern.com/wealth-advisory-contact-formFollow and Like Us on Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn | @HeroldLantern
This week, Roger and Elias took a break for the Thanksgiving holiday - so we are sharing some of their favorite listener questions from past episodes of their radio show, The Premier Financial Hour. Check out the Premier Financial Hour over on PIWM's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@premieriwm Get started on your path to financial freedom: www.premieriwm.com Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information purposes only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which investments may be appropriate for you, consult with your attorney, accountant, and financial or tax advisor prior to investing. Premier Investments & Wealth Management and LPL Financial do not provide tax advice, please consult your tax professional. Economic forecasts set forth may not develop as predicted and there can be no guarantee that strategies promoted will be successful. There is no guarantee that a diversified portfolio will enhance overall returns or outperform a non-diversified portfolio. Diversification does not protect against market risk. All performance referenced is historical and is not a guarantee of future results. All indices are unmanaged and cannot be invested into directly. There is no assurance that the techniques and strategies discussed are suitable for all investors or will yield positive outcomes. The purchase of certain securities may be required to effect some of the strategies. Investing involves risks including possible loss of principal. Dollar cost averaging involves continuous investment in securities regardless of fluctuations in price levels. Investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing through periods of low price levels. Such a plan does not assure a profit and does not protect against loss in declining markets. Consult your tax professional about eligibility to Roth and Traditional IRA contributions. Contributions and earnings in a Roth IRA can be withdrawn without paying taxes and penalties if the account owner is at least 59 ½ and has held their Roth IRA for at least five years. Traditional IRA account owners have considerations to make before performing a Roth IRA conversion. These primarily include income tax consequences on the converted amount in the year of the conversion, withdrawal limitations from a Roth IRA, and income limitations for future contributions to a Roth IRA. In addition, if you are required to take a minimum distribution (RMD) in the year you convert, you must do so before converting to a Roth IRA. This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.
Jim and Chris discuss listener questions on IRMAA brackets and several QLAC topics including RMD interaction, suitability, payout values, and purchase timing. (19:30) A listener wonders if their lower 2024 income will automatically reduce their 2026 IRMAA even though it doesn't qualify for an SS-44, or if they must contact the SSA.(25:15) George asks whether going above certain income thresholds in 2025 could keep IRMAA lower in 2027 because of inflation adjustments.(34:30) The guys weigh whether QLAC income, once it begins, can offset RMDs on other IRA holdings.(54:00) Georgette wants to know who is a good candidate for a QLAC, how it is purchased, and which features to consider.(1:05:00) A listener seeks guidance on determining early- and late-start payout values for a QLAC and whether those values are fixed or variable.(1:10:15) Jim and Chris consider whether buying a QLAC earlier leads to higher payments at the same deferral age and what factors affect purchase timing. The post IRMAA Brackets and QLACs: Q&A #2548 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.
First, we break down “the market” by exploring the major indices investors follow every day. From the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average to the Nasdaq Composite, we explain what these benchmarks measure, how they're built, and why your portfolio may not always mirror their movements. You'll learn the differences between price-weighted, equal-weighted, and market-cap-weighted indices, plus get insight into the Dow's historic milestones as it inches closer to 50,000.Then, we shift to Black Friday. With the holiday shopping season kicking off, we dig into the latest projections—how many Americans will shop, where they'll spend, and what trends are shaping this year's deals. Whether you love doorbusters or prefer digital carts, we'll connect the stats to what they could mean for consumers and the broader economy.Finally, as the year wraps up, we turn to your retirement strategy. We walk through the essentials of year-end IRA planning—from maximizing contributions to handling required minimum distributions and reviewing beneficiaries. We highlight key deadlines, common pitfalls to avoid, and tactics that can help strengthen your long-term savings.Three conversations, one goal: giving you the clarity and confidence to make informed financial decisions. Tune in!Join hosts Nick Antonucci, CVA, CEPA, Director of Research, and Managing Associates K.C. Smith, CFP®, CEPA, and D.J. Barker, CWS®, and Kelly-Lynne Scalice, a seasoned communicator and host, on Henssler Money Talks as they explore key financial strategies to help investors navigate market uncertainty. Henssler Money Talks — November 29, 2025 | Season 39, Episode 48Timestamps and Chapters6:46: Benchmarks and Big Numbers28:50: Black Friday Unwrapped41:54: Finish Strong: Your Year-End IRA PlaybookFollow Henssler: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HensslerFinancial/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HensslerFinancial LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/henssler-financial/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hensslerfinancial/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hensslerfinancial?lang=en X: https://www.x.com/hensslergroup “Henssler Money Talks” is brought to you by Henssler Financial. Sign up for the Money Talks Newsletter: https://www.henssler.com/newsletters/
In this episode of Retire in Texas, Darryl Lyons offers a general year-end reminder list to help listeners stay organized as they review their financial and tax-related items. As the year closes, Darryl walks through several topics that individuals and families may want to revisit with their tax or financial professionals. He breaks the discussion into four broad areas: Considerations such as reviewing pay stubs, retirement distributions, and personal budgeting tools to help ensure your information is accurate. General guidance on contribution deadlines, RMD requirements, Roth conversion considerations, and recent legislative updates. An overview of options like Qualified Charitable Distributions and donor-advised funds that some people use as part of their charitable giving approach. Information on 529 plans, medical account deadlines, the annual gift-tax exclusion, and the new age-related deduction created under recent legislation. Darryl also shares personal observations and real examples that illustrate how these year-end reviews can help individuals stay aware of key requirements. This episode provides general educational information only and is not intended to provide specific investment, tax, or legal advice. Listeners should consult their tax professional, CPA, or financial advisor before making decisions related to their personal situation. If you benefitted from today's episode, feel free to share it with your family and friends!
If you get a distribution from your 457, it may feel like income that you can do whatever with. This time of year, it may be tempting to spend it on a Christmas retreat or a New Year's reset, but is that going to steal your retirement nest egg? Nate Reineke and Chelsea Jones break down how that distribution can be used to bolster your retirement plans and how for Physician Family clients, it is already factored into their plan. We also answer your colleagues' questions. A Surgeon in New York says, “We are a little bit ahead on college savings for our 7 and 9 year old children, should we slow down?” Retired Family Medicine Doc in Oregon wants to know if they should do QCDs next year? A Psychiatrist in Chicago asks, “We want to move to a better neighborhood and buy a house that is twice as expensive as our current home. If we can afford the monthly mortgage, why not do it?” A Retired Urologist in Oregon is wondering, “Should we consider taking more than just the RMD in our inherited IRA in order to reduce ballooning during the end of the 10-year period, causing our taxable income to spike?” Are you ready to turn worries about taxes and investing into all the money you need for college and retirement? It's time to make a plan and get on track. To find out if we're a match visit physicianfamily.com and click get started or, you can ask a question of your own by emailing podcast@physicianfamily.com. See marketing disclosures at physicianfamily.com/disclosures
Joe Anderson, CFP® and Big Al Clopine, CPA spitball withdrawal strategies, Roth conversion timing, and saving priorities for every stage of life, today on Your Money, Your Wealth® podcast number 555. Christine just retired at 59 and wants the smartest way to draw income before Social Security, without letting taxes take a third of it. Prickly Richard and Margarita Maggie have a plan to "pull ahead" some Roth conversions now to dodge an RMD avalanche later. Will it work? And the Michigan Queen and Mississippi Boy are wondering whether to save harder for retirement or college for three kids currently under the age of 5. Free Financial Resources in This Episode: https://bit.ly/ymyw-555 (full show notes & episode transcript) Tax-Free Retirement Guide - NEW! Free download How To Retire Tax-Free With A Smart Income Plan on YMYW TV Financial Blueprint (self-guided) Financial Assessment (Meet with an experienced professional) REQUEST your Retirement Spitball Analysis DOWNLOAD more free guides READ financial blogs WATCH educational videos SUBSCRIBE to the YMYW Newsletter Connect With Us: YouTube: Subscribe and join the conversation in the comments Podcast apps: subscribe or follow YMYW in your favorite Apple Podcasts: leave your honest reviews and ratings Chapters: 00:00 - Intro: This Week on the YMYW Podcast 00:53 - I Retired at 59. What's My Best Retirement Withdrawal Strategy Before Social Security at 62? (Christine) 13:50 - Should We Do Roth Conversions Before Being Hit With the RMD Avalanche? (Prickly Richard & Margarita Maggie, Tucson, AZ) 26:20 - Saving for Early Retirement at 55 vs. Saving for Kids' Future (Michigan Queen & Mississippi Boy, TN) 39:53 - Outro: Next Week on the YMYW Podcast