Podcasts about rmds

In this episode, Anderson attorneys Amanda Wynalda, Esq., and Eliot Thomas, Esq., tackle eight listener questions on a wide range of tax topics. They open with a deep dive into the tax advantages of purchasing property in an Opportunity Zone, covering both the original program and the newly reinvigorated Opportunity Zone 2.0 launching January 1, 2027, including deferral periods, stepped-up basis benefits, and rural vs. urban pathways. They also explain required minimum distributions and the five-year Roth seasoning rules, the nuances of married filing separately in community property states, and strategies for reducing passive capital gains tax after a multifamily syndication sale. Amanda and Eliot break down Qualified Small Business Stock under Section 1202, including new tiered exclusion rates and documentation requirements, walk through K-1 preparation and 1065 filing for limited and general partnership structures, and cover the Accumulated Earnings Tax for C corporations. The episode wraps with guidance on claiming education expenses for new businesses, amending prior-year returns, and using C corporations as the right vehicle for startup cost deductions. Tune in for expert advice on these topics and more! Submit your tax question to taxtuesday@andersonadvisors.com Highlights/Topics: [00:00] — Intro and questions [10:04] "If I'm still working for the company that sponsors my 401k when I turn 73, even if it's part time, do I need to take RMDs or required minimum distributions from that account? And once my Roth 401k is quote unquote seasoned for 5 years, if I roll it over to another Roth IRA account I have already had for 5 years, am I still able to take out the profits tax free?" - Still employed means no RMD required unless you own over 5% of the business. [13:42] "I am looking at a couple different commercial rental properties. One of them is in an opportunity zone in Florida. What are the benefits slash tax advantages of purchasing a property in an opportunity zone? Are there any downsides?" –Opportunity Zones defer capital gains tax with stepped-up basis and potential ten-year appreciation exclusion. [22:08] "My husband and I file separately. I itemize and my accountant said because I itemize, my husband must also itemize, which is worse for him as he loses out on the standard deduction. Is there any way around this? In addition, the IRS wants to know my salary on his return, which then leads to him owing tons of additional taxes. How can this be? Why would he be taxed on my income? I'm already being taxed on my income. So this year he left my salary blank on his tax return. Will this come back to bite him and incur fees? We file separately for many reasons, including me having rentals and he has child support and other things affecting his return." - Community property states require spouses to split income; no double taxation occurs. [30:32] "I was a passive investor in a multifamily unit deal. The property was sold and my CPA informed me that I have capital gains tax of 55,000 for 2025. Anything I can do to reduce this tax? If not, what could I have done differently?" - Cost segregation on existing property can create passive losses to offset the gain. [36:57] "I'm investing 250k in a software startup pre Series A. The founders say it qualifies under section 1202 as a qualified small business stock or QSBS. Let's say the stock grows 10x over the next 10 years, so my stock becomes worth 2.5 million. Ten years from now, how do I prove to the IRS that the profit should be tax free under section 1202? Do I just document it now and hope they agree when I file an 8949 when I sell? It seems like there are no assurances they'll agree and the profits, though not subject to income tax, still become part of my estate, potentially subject to estate tax. Is it just easier investing using my Roth to ensure that all future gains will be income tax free?" – Thorough documentation of C corp status and assets under $75 million proves 1202 eligibility. [48:20] "Anderson created my limited partnership and general partnership structure. My questions are which entity has to create or issue a K1 and who prepares it for me? And when preparing the 1065 tax return, who do I list as the limited partner, me or the entity?" - The limited partnership files the 1065 and issues K-1s; list yourself as the limited partner. [50:16] "I invested in education for several businesses last year. None have come to fruition yet. Is the education able to be claimed on 2025 taxes? Also I filed without any of the education being claimed. So I was wondering if I could amend my taxes at some point this year." - Amend within three years; a C corp can claim education costs as deductible startup expenses. Resources: Tax and Asset Protection Events https://andersonadvisors.com/real-estate-asset-protection-workshop-training/?utm_source=the-tax-advantages-of-purchasing-a-property-in-an-opportunity-zone%20&utm_medium=podcast Schedule Your FREE Consultation https://andersonadvisors.com/strategy-session/?utm_source=the-tax-advantages-of-purchasing-a-property-in-an-opportunity-zone%20&utm_medium=podcast Anderson Advisors https://andersonadvisors.com/ Toby Mathis YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@TobyMathis Toby Mathis TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@tobymathisesq Clint Coons YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ClintCoons

Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security survivor and ex-spouse benefits, using annuity income to satisfy RMDs, and annuity laddering strategies for both SPIAs and DIAs and MYGAs. (6:30) George writes in about a cousin who turns 62 in November 2026 and whose ex-spouse recently passed away — he wants to know what survivor and ex-spouse Social Security claiming options may be available. (19:45) A listener asks whether annuity income payments from a qualified annuity can be used to satisfy the RMD requirement on a separate IRA, potentially eliminating the need to take distributions from the IRA altogether. 43:15) The guys hear from a long-term buy-and-hold investor at the start of his transition from accumulation to decumulation who is drawn to the idea of purchasing SPIAs or DIAs in multiple chunks rather than a single lump sum and is curious about tradeoffs as well as how to apply a dollar-cost averaging mindset to annuity income. (1:01:00) Jim and Chris take a question from a listener about 2.5 years from retirement who is considering laddering MYGAs through his 401(k) and wants to know whether the yield advantage of A-rated carriers is worth the added risk compared to sticking with A+ or higher, and whether CD laddering might be a simpler alternative. The post Social Security, Annuity RMDs, Annuity Laddering: Q&A #2622 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

Retirement planning is not about retirement.That's the provocation David opens with — and he means it. This episode isn't another checklist. It's a ground-up rethink of what the 5-to-10-year sprint before retirement actually demands: emotionally, philosophically, and financially.Starting with a question no financial podcast has the nerve to ask — is retirement even a biblical concept? — David works through everything from the psychology of stopping work to the hard mechanics of income portfolios, tax strategy, and the risks that blow up otherwise solid plans.If you've been coasting toward retirement on autopilot, this episode is the alarm clock.In This Episode0:00 — Cold OpenWhy the conventional framing of retirement is wrong, and what this episode is actually going to cover.~3:00 — Is Retirement Even a Biblical Concept?The word never appears in Scripture. The one exception in Numbers 8, what the parables actually teach about accumulation, and why the biblical model looks more like a pivot than a finish line.~9:00 — The Behavioral Trap: What Will You Actually Do?The identity crisis nobody warns you about, retirement depression, underspending vs. overspending, and five questions worth sitting with before you make any financial decisions.~15:00 — The Purpose Problem: Should You Even Fully Retire?The happiest retirees David has seen, the financial benefits of partial work, and why "retire to something" beats "retire from something" every time.~20:00 — Business Owner or Employee: The Decisions Are DifferentW-2 employees: catch-up contributions, pension options, the healthcare gap before Medicare, Social Security timing. Business owners: exit planning, retirement plan vehicles, tax-efficient value extraction, and the concentration risk problem.~26:00 — Accumulation vs. Distribution PortfoliosWhy the portfolio that built your wealth can destroy your retirement. Sequence of returns risk explained plainly — same average return, completely different outcomes.~29:00 — The Bucket StrategyThree buckets, three time horizons, one framework that eliminates panic selling. How Bucket One is your shock absorber and why Bucket Three can still be aggressive.~32:00 — Roth vs. Pre-Tax: The Great DebateIt's almost always "and," not "or." Tax diversification, the Roth conversion window, and why business owners have unique opportunities here.~35:00 — The Risks Nobody Wants to Talk AboutLongevity risk (you live longer than your money does) and long-term care (70% of retirees will need it). What hybrid products exist now and why waiting to have this conversation is itself a costly decision.~38:00 — Spend on Experiences While You Can + Legacy PlanningThe go-go, slow-go, no-go framework. Why retirees wait too long. Legacy basics: beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, donor-advised funds, and the "talk while you can" imperative.Key Takeaways

Most people know Roth IRAs don't normally have required minimum distributions, but things can change when someone inherits one. In this episode, David explains how inherited Roth IRA rules work, why beneficiary type matters, and when the IRS may still require distributions even from tax-free accounts. David also walks through real-world examples and highlights why beneficiary planning has become much more complicated after recent law changes.   Here's some of what we discuss in this episode:

Retirement planning extends well beyond simply saving enough during your working years—it plays out with every decision you make once you stop working. One crucial, sometimes overlooked, aspect is managing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from your retirement accounts. If you have a retirement account approaching your RMD age, this episode breaks down the essential rules based on your birth year, how to calculate your distribution using the IRS tables, and key tax implications to keep in mind. You'll also get actionable tips to help minimize your future RMDs, from optimizing your income plan and leveraging Roth conversions to using qualified charitable distributions.    You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... [00:00] RMD rules and calculations [05:10] RMDs and distribution timing [09:03] Retirement accounts and RMD rules [14:22] Tax strategies for retirement planning [17:00] Common RMD mistakes and solutions [19:21] Proper charitable distribution process   What Are Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)? RMDs are the minimum amounts you must withdraw annually from certain retirement accounts starting at a specific age, as mandated by the IRS. These distributions apply to traditional IRAs, rollover IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, SEP IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, 457 plans, and profit-sharing plans. Importantly, Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s are exempt from RMDs, and regular taxable investment accounts are not impacted.   The required age for beginning RMDs now depends on your birth year: If you were born between January 1, 1951, and December 31, 1959, RMDs start at age 73. If born on January 1, 1960, or later, RMDs begin at age 75. Tax Implications of RMDs RMDs are taxed as ordinary income. If you're not careful, withdrawals can bump you into a higher tax bracket, increase how much of your Social Security is taxable, or trigger additional Medicare Part B and Part D premiums due to IRMAA. Failing to withdraw the required amount carries a steep penalty—25%, reduced to 10% if corrected within two years.   Strategies to Lower Your RMDs Don't put all your savings in pre-tax accounts. Split between traditional and Roth accounts or invest some in taxable brokerage accounts, which aren't subject to RMDs. It can be useful to collaborate with a financial advisor to create a withdrawal strategy that minimizes taxes by pulling funds strategically from different account types. You can also convert portions of your pre-tax accounts to Roth IRAs in years when your income (and tax bracket) is lower, helping "fill the bucket" at the lowest rates. If you retire early, delaying Social Security until age 70 increases your benefit and can create years of low taxable income—perfect for executing Roth conversions. If you're 70½ or older, you can also donate up to $100,000 per year directly from your IRA to a qualified charity. These gifts count toward your RMD but are excluded from taxable income.   Enjoying a Comfortable Retirement Navigating RMDs isn't just about following IRS rules—it's an ongoing strategy to keep your taxes low and your retirement income steady. By understanding your obligations and using the available tools, you can maximize your retirement savings and create a more secure future. Resources Mentioned Retirement Readiness Review Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel Download my entire book for FREE    Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management  www.MorrisseyWealthManagement.com/contact Subscribe to Retire With Ryan  

Corrie ten Boom once said, “If the devil can't make you sin, he'll make you busy.” That's a sobering thought, especially in a world where many of us feel like life is moving faster than we can keep up. Deadlines, family responsibilities, bills, errands, emails, appointments, and unexpected needs can make every day feel like a sprint. And when life moves that fast, it's easy to make financial decisions on the fly. We don't always neglect stewardship out of carelessness. Sometimes, we neglect it because we're tired. We stop paying attention. We spend reactively instead of prayerfully. We put off conversations we need to have. We ignore creeping lifestyle inflation. We delay generosity until things “settle down.” Before long, the pace of life begins shaping our financial decisions more than the wisdom of God does. The Spiritual Danger of Distraction Busyness can be more spiritually dangerous than it first appears because it doesn't always oppose faithfulness with rebellion. Sometimes it opposes faithfulness with distraction. Jesus warned about this in Luke 8, when He described the seed that fell among the thorns. He said it was choked by “the cares and riches and pleasures of life” (Luke 8:14). In other words, ordinary life can become so crowded that it chokes out what truly matters. We can spend hours worrying, scrolling, comparing, impulse buying, chasing the next opportunity, or reacting to every headline while neglecting the simple habits that build faithful stewardship: planning, giving, saving, communicating, and trusting God. Jesus highlights a similar tension in Luke 10. Martha is working hard, serving diligently, and doing good things. But Mary is sitting at Jesus' feet, listening. Jesus gently says, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary” (Luke 10:41–42). Martha wasn't doing something sinful. She was doing something useful. But even useful things can become disordered things when they crowd out what matters most. That applies to stewardship, too. It's possible to work hard, earn income, pay bills, and stay active, yet slowly lose sight of the heart of stewardship: trusting God, aligning our resources with His priorities, and handling money with wisdom and intentionality. Stewardship Is Worship Stewardship is never just about transactions. It's about worship. Every dollar we earn, spend, save, or give becomes an opportunity to express what we believe about God. Do we trust Him? Do we believe He is our provider? Do we see money as ours to control—or His to manage? That's why financial faithfulness requires more than good intentions. It requires margin—not just margin in your bank account, but margin in your soul. Dallas Willard once said, “Hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day.” That certainly has implications for our finances as well. Hurry can lead to impulse spending, neglected planning, avoidable debt, forgotten generosity, and anxiety-driven decisions. When our lives are hurried, our money often becomes hurried, too. So what does it look like to remain financially faithful in a busy season? Slow Down Long Enough to Notice Proverbs 27:23 says, “Know well the condition of your flocks, and give attention to your herds.” In an agrarian society, a person's wealth was often tied up in flocks and herds. To know their condition meant slowing down enough to count them, care for them, and manage them wisely. Today, your “flock” may be your bank account, budget, bills, giving plan, savings, or debt. Awareness is often the first step toward wisdom. You can't faithfully steward what you never stop to notice. Prioritize What Matters Most If generosity, saving, debt reduction, or wise planning matter to you, don't leave them to chance. Put them on the calendar. Automate what you can. Schedule the budget conversation. Decide in advance what you will give. Review your spending before the month gets away from you. What gets scheduled often gets done. What gets ignored often drifts. Faithful stewardship rarely happens by accident, especially in a busy season. Simplify Where Possible Sometimes the problem isn't just a busy calendar. It's an overcomplicated life. Too many commitments. Too many subscriptions. Too many obligations. Too many purchases to manage and maintain. Simplicity can be an act of stewardship. It creates room to pay attention, to say yes wisely, to say no faithfully, and to focus your resources on what God has truly entrusted to you. Remember That Small Faithfulness Matters You may not have time today for a complete financial overhaul. But you may have time to review one statement, cancel one unnecessary expense, pray over one decision, or have one honest conversation. Small acts of faithfulness matter. Over time, small decisions can reshape your habits, your household, and your heart. The goal isn't to do everything at once. The goal is to take the next faithful step. Keep the Goal in View The goal of stewardship is not perfect financial performance. It's faithfulness. God is not asking you to control every outcome or master every detail. He is inviting you to trust Him, seek His wisdom, and handle what He has entrusted to you with care. So in a busy season, don't let hurry make your financial decisions for you. Slow down. Pay attention. Make room for what matters. And remember: faithful stewardship begins not with a frantic rush to do more, but with a quiet willingness to seek God first. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 71½ and have been using CDs to make charitable gifts. Is there a way to know whether Roth conversions from my IRA still make sense? Is now an optimal time to do more conversions? And once I begin taking RMDs, can I still do Roth conversions? My husband and I are setting up a trust, but he doesn't know much about my health. I'd like to name another relative as my medical power of attorney. Is that allowed, and could my husband override that decision? Also, is the ‘Five Wishes' document a good tool for end-of-life and medical preferences? I'm 67 and receiving Social Security and Medicare. My wife is 60, works part-time as a teacher, and is on Obamacare. If she retires at 62 and starts Social Security, will my benefit be reduced? And can she stay on Obamacare until 65, or does she need to enroll in Medicare at 65? We own two homes in different states and plan to sell one in the next three to four years. For the capital gains exclusion on a primary residence, do the two years of ownership and use have to be consecutive, or can they be any 24 months within the last five years? And if we split time between both homes, can we still qualify? My husband and I are 70 and 72, and we own five rental properties. We may sell them when he's around 78. From a tax and Medicare premium standpoint, is it better to sell them all in one year or spread the sales over multiple years? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) Five Wishes Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find 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.

One of the biggest misconceptions investors have about retirement planning is that a healthy portfolio with large balances guarantees retirement success. But without a comprehensive plan that accounts for the income, taxes, investments, healthcare, and legacy goals, retirees can still face unnecessary risks and uncertainty down the road. In this episode, SHP co-founder Matthew Peck is joined by SHP's Vice President of Advisory Solutions, Nick Nelson, to break down the key differences between having a portfolio and having a complete retirement plan. Nick explains why successful retirement planning goes far beyond investment performance and requires coordination across every area of your financial life. Together, they discuss how income planning serves as the foundation of retirement, why investment strategies must evolve during the distribution phase, and how factors like taxes, inflation, healthcare costs, and legacy planning can impact long-term financial success. They also explain how proactive planning and working with a trusted advisor can help retirees navigate uncertainty with greater confidence and peace of mind.  In this podcast interview, you'll learn: Why a retirement portfolio alone may not provide the confidence needed for long-term financial success. How income planning serves as the foundation for every other area of retirement planning. Why investment strategies should change when transitioning from accumulation to distribution. How inflation, taxes, and RMDs can significantly impact your retirement income over time. The role healthcare and long-term care planning play in protecting your retirement assets. Why legacy planning goes beyond estate documents and helps define the impact you leave behind. Want the Full Show Notes? To get access to the full show notes, including audio, transcripts, and links to all the resources mentioned, visit SHPfinancial.com/podcast Connect With Us on Social Facebook LinkedIn YouTube

This episode of Retire with Style continues the Retirement Planning Guidebook series by focusing on how tax planning changes when legacy and estate considerations are incorporated into the retirement planning process. Wade and Alex break down key estate planning concepts in a practical way, including step-up in basis rules, Roth conversion decisions tied to beneficiaries' future tax brackets, inherited IRA distribution rules under the SECURE Act, gifting strategies, estate tax exemptions, and how trusts and life insurance can be used to manage estate taxes and liquidity needs. The conversation emphasizes that retirement tax planning is not just about maximizing your own after-tax income, but also about improving the after-tax outcomes for heirs and charities. Listen now to learn more.   Key Takeaways Retirement tax planning changes significantly when leaving a legacy becomes a priority, especially regarding how different account types are spent down.  Taxable brokerage accounts receive a step-up in basis at death, allowing heirs to avoid capital gains taxes on appreciation that occurred during the original owner's lifetime.  Roth conversions can become more attractive if beneficiaries are expected to inherit assets during their peak earning years and face higher tax rates than the retiree.  Equal inheritances before taxes do not always produce equal inheritances after taxes, making asset location across heirs an important estate planning consideration.  In 2026, the federal estate tax exemption is $15 million per person, but future legislative changes could lower those limits substantially.  Several states impose their own estate or inheritance taxes, meaning some households may face state-level estate planning concerns even if they avoid federal estate taxes.  Annual gifting rules allow individuals to transfer up to $19,000 per recipient each year without reducing their lifetime estate tax exemption.  Life insurance can provide liquidity for estates and, when structured through irrevocable trusts, may help move future appreciation outside of the taxable estate.  The SECURE Act replaced many lifetime “stretch IRA” strategies with 10-year distribution windows for most non-spousal beneficiaries.  Inherited Roth IRAs still require distributions within the required timeframe, but those withdrawals are generally income tax-free to beneficiaries.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Retirement Planning Guidebook 03:10 Tax Planning and Legacy Considerations 05:55 Strategies for Tax-Efficient Inheritance 09:11 Understanding Estate Taxes 11:55 Gifting Strategies and Limits 14:49 Life Insurance and Estate Planning 18:00 RMDs on Inherited Accounts   Links

In this episode, Nathan discusses the importance of Roth IRA conversions and Required Minimum Distributions. Also, on MoneyTalk, the meaning of credentials in the financial planning industry. Hosts: Donna Sowa Allard, CFP®, AIF® & Nathan Beauvais, CFP®, CIMA®, CPWA®; Air Date: 5/15/2026. Have a question for the hosts? Leave a message on the MoneyTalk Hotline at (401) 587-SOWA and have your voice heard live on the air!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is your retirement plan built to create lasting income, or are you slowly draining your portfolio? In this week's episode, we explain the key differences between an income strategy and a withdrawal strategy, and why that distinction matters more than most retirees realize. We also discuss Social Security timing, Roth conversions, taxes, RMDs, and how these decisions work together to impact your long-term retirement security. Your retirement plan should be designed to create dependable income, reduce financial stress, and help you avoid running out of money later in life. Listen in.  >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>  LET'S CONNECT Show website: https://www.providencefinancialpodcast.com Find us at: https://www.providencefinancialinc.com Get to know Anthony: https://anthonysaccaro.com Anthony's book: https://morelifethanmoneybook.com Amazon Author Page: https://amazon/author/anthonysaccaro YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/AnthonySaccaro/featured Radio: https://www.providencefinancialradio.com Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/providence-financial-and-insurance-services-inc-woodland-hills Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Providence.FinancialInc/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnthonySaccaro LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonysaccaro/

Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on the SSA-44 and IRMAA process for a couple approaching Medicare, Social Security survivor benefit strategy, tax diversification for young investors, HSA vs. IRA prioritization and spending strategy during the delay period, and inherited IRA RMD rules for non-eligible beneficiaries. (15:30) A listener approaching Medicare asks how the SSA-44 process applies when one spouse is retiring while the other continues to work, and whether their planned Roth conversions could complicate the IRMAA appeal filing. (33:15) Georgette wonders whether she can start her own Social Security at 67, switch to a lower survivor benefit if her husband passes, and then return to her own larger benefit at 70. (41:00) The guys hear from a parent helping his adult children decide whether to convert their traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs or preserve a mix of account types for tax diversification in retirement. (57:45) Jim and Chris address two questions: (1) whether HSA contributions should be prioritized over IRA contributions for retirement savings, and (2) how to bridge a cash flow gap when brokerage funds run out during the delay period without undermining ongoing Roth conversions. (1:26:15) A listener asks whether a non-eligible beneficiary who inherits a traditional IRA before the decedent’s required beginning date must still take RMDs, given that the decedent had already taken one RMD in the year they turned 73. The post IRMAA, Social Security, Tax Diversification, Delay Period, Inherited IRA: Q&A #2620 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

Don opens this Friday Q&A episode with a personal reflection on finally releasing his historical fiction novel The Line Uncrossed, inspired by his great-great-grandfather's imprisonment at Andersonville during the Civil War. Listener questions then cover the wisdom (or insanity) of converting millions from a traditional IRA to a Roth all at once, the evolving role of “538” savings accounts, why covered calls and options strategies often disappoint despite sounding clever, skepticism over the show's repeated praise of Avantis and Dimensional funds, and the surprisingly massive dollar amounts collected in ETF management fees. Throughout, Don leans hard into skepticism, simplicity, evidence-based investing, and the dangers of overcomplicating portfolios or tax planning.0:05 Friday Q&A tradition and how listeners submit spoken questions1:28 Don talks about releasing The Line Uncrossed next week2:22 Andersonville inspiration and writing historical fiction3:29 Listener asks about converting $4.1M traditional IRA to Roth to avoid RMDs5:55 Why a massive one-time Roth conversion could be financially disastrous7:17 RMD misconceptions and the need for professional tax planning8:13 Discussion of proposed “538” accounts and Roth conversion possibilities10:40 Listener asks about covered calls, selling puts, and options strategies12:06 Why buying options is gambling and covered calls eventually fail13:28 The illusion of downside protection with covered calls14:58 Skeptic questions repeated mentions of Avantis and Dimensional funds17:31 Don explains factor investing, Fama/French research, and fee tradeoffs20:30 Why TRM recommends Avantis and Dimensional despite higher costs20:38 Don responds directly to accusations of compensation or sponsorship21:47 Listener shocked by millions paid in ETF management fees22:26 What ETF management fees actually pay for behind the scenes23:27 Why large ETF operations require huge staffs and compliance teams24:33 Final call for listener questions and advisor meetingsQuestions? Comments? Click!

Summer is not that far off, and for many families, the kids are already dreaming about vacation. But parents may be asking a different question: How can we make great family memories without breaking the budget? A family vacation can be a wonderful gift, but it doesn't have to create financial pressure that follows you home. With a little planning, creativity, and communication, you can enjoy meaningful time together while staying within your means. Crystal Paine, creator of MoneySavingMom.com, joined us on today's show to share practical ways families can plan a memorable, budget-friendly vacation. Start Planning Early The first step is to plan ahead. The earlier you begin, the more options you'll have for lodging, travel, and activities. Crystal recommends considering destinations that are a little off the beaten path. These places often have fewer crowds and lower prices while still offering plenty of opportunities for rest and fun. If you're flying, she suggests using Google Flights to search flexible destinations. You can enter your travel dates and explore lower-cost flight options across the country. Just as important, set a clear budget for the entire trip before you go. Decide what matters most to your family. Maybe staying near the beach is a priority, but eating out every meal is not. Knowing those priorities ahead of time helps you spend intentionally rather than react in the moment. Take Advantage of Free Activities Some of the best vacation memories don't cost anything. Crystal encourages families to search for free things to do in their destination. Try looking up phrases like “best free things to do” along with the name of the city or area you'll be visiting. You may find hiking trails, local parks, self-guided walking tours, free museums, art exhibits, festivals, or concerts. These activities are often overlooked, but they can become the hidden gems of a trip. And they remind us that meaningful experiences don't always require a high price tag. Get the Whole Family Involved A vacation is more enjoyable when everyone feels included. Ask your children what they would enjoy doing. You may not be able to do everything, but letting each person choose one activity can help the trip reflect the whole family's interests. Crystal also suggests giving each family member a set budget and allowing them to plan a few hours of the vacation within that amount. This can be a fun way to teach kids practical money skills. They learn how much things cost, how to make tradeoffs, and how to enjoy the responsibility of planning. Be Strategic About Meals Food can quickly become one of the most expensive parts of a trip, especially if you eat out for every meal. One way to save is to stay somewhere that offers free breakfast. Then, bring snacks or simple meal items from home. If you're flying and can't pack much food, visit a grocery store when you arrive. A loaf of bread, peanut butter and jelly, fruit, carrots, chips, or sandwich supplies can cost far less than several restaurant meals. That doesn't mean you can't enjoy a special meal out. Part of a vacation can be the fun of eating at a memorable place. The key is to be strategic. Choose the meals you want to splurge on, and save on the rest. Set a Daily Spending Limit Before the trip begins, decide how much you can spend each day. Then, make it a family challenge to stay under that amount. This can turn budgeting into a game rather than a burden. It helps children think carefully about purchases and gives everyone a shared goal. Instead of saying yes to everything in the moment, your family can work together to decide what is truly worth the cost. Come Home With Memories, Not Debt The best vacation is not the one with the biggest price tag. It's the one that gives your family time together, creates lasting memories, and allows you to come home without financial regret. A budget-friendly vacation doesn't mean settling for less. It means choosing what matters most, planning wisely, and remembering that joy is not found in how much we spend, but in the people we share life with. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions: I'm 66, recently retired from the Air Force, and considering taking Social Security before full retirement age. What income counts toward the earnings limit—just wages, or also pension income and IRA withdrawals? And how does a lump-sum vacation payout affect that? I'm 60 and plan to work until 67. I have traditional and Roth IRAs. Should I continue doing small Roth conversions each year, as my CPA suggested, or wait until retirement? What's the advantage of converting now? I'm 72, turning 73 soon. Can I use a donor-advised fund to satisfy my RMDs, and when exactly do RMDs begin? Resources Mentioned: Faithful Steward: FaithFi's Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner) MoneySavingMom.com  Our Ultimate Treasure: A 21-Day Journey to Faithful Stewardship by Rob West Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool Find 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.

Andy and Brad Flood from Tenon Financial share their thoughts on a handful of current events and "hot topics" relating to retirement planning. Specifically, they talk about:Portfolio withdrawal strategies for addressing sequence of returns risk ( 10:44 )Using financial planning software and dealing with its limitations ( 26:25 )Thoughts on Medicare surcharges known as IRMAA, and how much they should be factored into tax planning ( 40:25 )Dealing with legacy investments in client's accounts when clients want to streamline and simplify their holdings, but also want or need to continue to hold some existing positions of theirs ( 46:14 )Balancing optimization and simplicity in financial planning; when is "good enough," enough? ( 58:29 )When in the year to take distributions from Required Minimum Distributions ("RMDs") ( 1:12:19 )A summary of our processes and semiannual meetings at Tenon Financial ( 1:19:02 )Links in this episode:Tenon Financial's website summarizing services and fees - https://tenonfinancial.com/services-and-feesTo send Andy questions to be addressed on future Q&A episodes, email andy@andypanko.comMy company newsletter - Retirement Planning InsightsFacebook group - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Taxes in Retirement)YouTube channel - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Retirement Planning Demystified)Retirement Planning Education website - www.RetirementPlanningEducation.com

Clark Howard joins Wes Moss and Christa DiBiase for a fun, fast-moving Retire Sooner Podcast episode packed with conversations about retirement planning, Roth conversions, HSAs, taxes, investing, and the lifestyle choices that may help to shape financial life. From boats and horse racing to tax strategies and retirement income planning, this episode blends practical financial conversations with the relatable chemistry listeners love. • Compare **Roth vs. traditional **401(k) contribution approaches as Clark Howard and Wes Moss sort through taxes, future flexibility, and retirement income planning considerations. • Consider how state income taxes, Roth conversions, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and Medicare IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) surcharges may influence retirement cash flow over time. • Explore HSA strategies, backdoor Roth IRAs, and mega backdoor Roth opportunities while reviewing contribution rules and planning considerations for higher earners. • Weigh whether buying a boat aligns with lifestyle goals and retirement spending priorities by comparing personal value and real-world price-per-use scenarios. • Enjoy Christa DiBiase's stories about horse racing, sports fandom, and finding balance between financial goals and enjoying life along the way. Listen and subscribe to the Retire Sooner Podcast to hear Clark Howard, Wes Moss, and Christa DiBiase bring retirement planning and investing conversations to life with humor, perspective, and approachable discussions about financial independence, retirement income, and long-term planning strategies. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down why even famous market predictors like Michael Burry shouldn’t drive your investment decisions, how volatility and bad news can actually create opportunity in a diversified portfolio, whether a vacation home is worth it, and smart strategies for handling burnout, large RMDs, real estate complexity, and co-signing risks.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down the latest inflation data as CPI comes in hotter than expected at 3.8% year-over-year—driven largely by rising energy prices tied to global conflict—and what that likely means for interest rates, the Fed’s next moves, and your portfolio strategy. They also dive into the surge in annuity sales and why “guarantees” often come with trade-offs investors don’t fully understand. Plus, a deeper conversation on what your portfolio is actually supposed to do—and why focusing only on returns can lead you astray. The show also highlights how two families with identical wealth can end up with dramatically different outcomes depending on planning decisions around RMDs, taxes, concentrated stock, and estate strategies. Finally, listener questions cover navigating retirement’s impact on marriage, whether Roth conversions still make sense if tax rates rise, and how to know when it’s time to move on from a long-time advisor. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode Summary In this thought-provoking episode, Spencer Shaw and Kim Butler unpack a growing financial concern highlighted by a recent Kiplinger article: why even high-net-worth individuals with millions saved still don't feel confident about retirement. The conversation explores how inflation, increased longevity, rising living costs, and outdated retirement assumptions are creating anxiety for wealthy Americans. Kim challenges the traditional concept of retirement itself, arguing that humans are designed to continue serving, solving problems, and creating value throughout life rather than simply "stopping work" at a socially constructed retirement age. The episode dives into practical retirement planning strategies, including cash flow bridges, required minimum distributions (RMDs), stock market withdrawal timing, and the role of whole life insurance in long-term tax planning. More importantly, the discussion reframes retirement from an end goal into an evolving lifestyle centered around purpose, flexibility, and intentional financial management. This episode is both philosophical and tactical — blending mindset shifts with actionable financial concepts for individuals navigating retirement uncertainty in an inflationary world. Links & Resources Mentioned For resources and additional information of this episode go toEmpower Your Finances With Our Prosperity Podcast Empowering Parents, Nurturing Futures - Prosperity Parents Kim D. H. Butler Rich but Restless: Why Your $5M Portfolio Isn't Buying Retirement Confidence Keywords retirement planning, inflation, financial freedom, Kim Butler, Spencer Shaw, Prosperity Thinkers, wealth management, retirement confidence, RMDs, required minimum distributions, whole life insurance, financial education, cash flow bridge, high net worth, longevity planning, retirement anxiety, tax strategy, financial mindset, Kiplinger, wealth preservation Episode Highlights 00:00–00:00:39 – Spencer introduces the Kiplinger article discussing why even wealthy individuals feel unprepared for retirement. 00:00:39–00:02:03 – Kim explains how inflation dramatically changes retirement expense projections over time. 00:02:03–00:03:16 – Discussion about longevity, technology, and why future living expenses may continue increasing. 00:03:16–00:04:26 – Spencer outlines how older generations failed to anticipate modern inflation and extended lifespans. 00:04:26–00:05:19 – Kim argues that the traditional concept of retirement is fundamentally flawed. 00:05:19–00:06:06 – The conversation explores how purpose, work, and solving problems contribute to fulfillment later in life. 00:06:11–00:07:14 – Spencer shares a story about a retired man in Mexico who became deeply bored despite financial freedom. 00:07:42–00:08:27 – Discussion begins around retirement withdrawal strategies and written financial plans. 00:08:27–00:10:11 – Kim explains the "cash flow bridge" strategy for avoiding withdrawals during stock market downturns. 00:10:11–00:11:00 – Kim introduces the "Pay Down Permission" report and explains how it supports retirement cash flow planning. 00:11:02–00:11:46 – Spencer raises concerns about Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) age requirements. 00:11:46–00:13:18 – Kim explains why many retirees should withdraw more than just their RMDs. 00:13:18–00:13:55 – Discussion about reducing future tax burdens through strategic wealth repositioning and whole life insurance. 00:13:55–00:14:41 – Spencer closes by emphasizing the importance of understanding the full financial picture and seeking education.

Are you approaching retirement with $1 million or more savedand wondering how to minimize taxes on your IRA withdrawals, Social Security income, Roth conversions, brokerage accounts, and retirement income strategy?In this episode I'll break down 7 powerful retirement tax planning strategies that high-net-worth retirees can use to potentially reduce or even eliminate portions of their lifetime tax bill.You'll learn:• How some retirees can take IRA withdrawals tax-free • Why Roth conversions are often overused • How the 0% long-term capital gains bracket works • Strategies to reduce taxes on Social Security income • Roth IRA withdrawal rules and common mistakes • Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) strategies • HSA planning opportunities in retirement • How Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) works for company stock If you are over 50, nearing retirement, or already retiredwith substantial IRA, 401(k), brokerage, or Roth assets, this episode will help you better understand how retirement tax planning impacts:If you are over 50, nearing retirement, or already retired with substantial IRA, 401(k), brokerage, or Roth assets, this episode will help you better understand how retirement tax planning impacts:• lifetime income, • Medicare premiums, • RMDs, • ACA subsidies, • estate planning, • and legacy goals. ⁠Areyou interested in working with me 1 on 1?⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Clickthis link to fill out our Retirement Readiness Questionnaire⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Or,⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠visit my website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multipleseven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.

On this episode of Simply Money presented by Allworth Financial, Bob and Brian break down what a “higher for longer” rate environment means as strong job data and persistent inflation keep the Fed on hold. Allworth CIO Andy Stout explains what’s driving oil prices, why emerging markets are outperforming, and where investors should be paying attention right now. They also discuss a possible shift away from quarterly earnings reports and what it could mean for market volatility. Plus, a troubling AI deepfake scam that cost a retiree $200,000—and how to protect your family. Finally, they answer listener questions on managing a $5 million inheritance, handling RMDs tax-efficiently, protecting assets from a gambling-addicted child, and whether college is still worth the cost. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if you treated every dollar as a "fun coupon" instead of something to hoard and stress over? In this episode, Stan The Annuity Man lays out how annuities can create guaranteed income, break the scarcity mindset, and give you permission to finally enjoy Chapter Two of your life.   In this episode, The Annuity Man discusses:  Money as "fun coupons" and winning the game Core purposes of annuities and principal protection Taxes, rich mindsets, and not over-optimizing Scarcity scars, personal hardship, and financial trauma Using guaranteed income to actually enjoy life in Chapter Two   Key Takeaways:  Money is most powerful when it's treated as a tool for enjoyment and experiences, not just accumulation. Annuities are primarily designed for principal protection and lifetime income, creating predictable "fun coupons" you can actually spend. Obsessing over taxes, markets, and spreadsheets often prevents people who have already "won the game" from enjoying their lives. A scarcity mindset rooted in past financial hardship can trap even very wealthy people in fear, unless they consciously choose to spend and live. Building an income floor with guarantees (like annuities, Social Security, pensions, and RMDs) can free you to focus on lifestyle, relationships, and Chapter Two of life.   "Money is nothing more than fun coupons." —  Stan The Annuity Man   Connect with The Annuity Man:  Website: http://theannuityman.com/  Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com  Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g  Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator!

Life insurance isn't just protection — it's a tax-free wealth tool your CPA probably missed.

A one‑in‑three chance of recession may not sound certain—but it can feel very real nearing retirement. In this episode, Tim Wood explains why even a small probability of market downturns matters when you only get one chance to retire. The conversation explores sequence‑of‑returns risk, the importance of protecting income, and why understanding retirement terms like RMDs, IRMAA, and longevity risk can shape long‑term outcomes. Tim also discusses common planning mistakes, how to reduce exposure to volatility, and why building a strategy that prioritizes income can help bring clarity in uncertain markets.Join Certified Financial Fiduciary®, Retirement Income Certified Professional®, and bestselling author Tim Wood each week to discuss protecting your retirement dollars, guaranteeing your lifetime income, wisely planning for taxes, and more. Visit us online at www.SafeMoneyRetirement.com for more information, to join us for this week's webinar, or to get a FREE copy of Tim's bestselling book.Safe Money Retirement® - Insuring Your Retirement Dreams

The 401k access rules they never taught you — RMDs, hardship withdrawals, loans & hidden costs.

Today on Your Money, Your Wealth® podcast number 580, Joe Anderson, CFP®, and Big Al Clopine, CPA, are spitballing for some folks who've done the work, hit the numbers, but aren't sure if they can really walk away yet. Martha in DC is 44 and says her soul is being sucked out of her body by her employer. When can she stop working full-time and foster puppies instead? “Bandit” is bullish on his company stock in archeology instruments, but not so much on his work itself. “Kevin” is staring down a wall of deferred comp and needs a spitball on how aggressive his and “Winnie's” Roth conversion strategy should be before RMDs hit. Can both “Bandit and Chilli” and “Kevin and Winnie” call it quits this year?Free Financial Resources in This Episode: https://bit.ly/ymyw-580 (full show notes & episode transcript)Tax-Free Retirement Guide - free download:https://purefinancial.com/white-papers/tax-free-retirement-guide/?utm_source=captivate&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=whitepaper-tax-free-retirement-guide&utm_content=ymyw-pod-ep580-description-whitepaperRetirement Readiness Guide - free download:https://purefinancial.com/white-papers/retirement-readiness-guide/?utm_source=captivate&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=whitepaper-retirement-readiness-guide&utm_content=ymyw-pod-ep580-description-whitepaper401(k) After Retirement? Here Are Your 4 Options (And The Costly Mistakes) - YMYW TV:https://purefinancial.com/ymyw/episodes/what-happens-to-your-401k-ira-at-retirement/?utm_source=libsyn&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ymyw-tv&utm_content=ymyw-pod-ep580-description-tv-s10e06Financial Blueprint (self-guided):https://bit.ly/PureFinancialBlueprintFinancial Assessment (Meet with an experienced professional):https://bit.ly/PureFreeAssessmentREQUEST your Retirement Spitball Analysis:https://bit.ly/AskJoeAndAlDOWNLOAD more free guides:https://bit.ly/PureGuidesREAD financial blogs:https://bit.ly/PureFinBlogWATCH educational videos:https://bit.ly/PureEdVideosSUBSCRIBE to the YMYW Newsletter:https://bit.ly/YMYWNewsletterConnect With Us:Subscribe on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments:https://bit.ly/YMYW-YTSubscribe or follow YMYW in your favorite podcast app:https://lnk.to/ymywLeave your honest reviews and ratings in Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-money-your-wealth/id312900254Chapters: 00:00 - Intro: This Week on the YMYW Podcast00:56 - Can We Exit the Rat Race in Our 40s With $6.5M? (Martha & George, DC)16:07 - Can I Retire at 51 Without Using Rule of 55? (Bandit & Chilli, CA)36:29 - Can I Retire Before My $3M Deferred Comp Pays Out? (Kevin & Winnie, Chicago)44:28 - Outro: Next Week on the YMYW Podcast

Drew is joined by Leo this week as they talk to callers and answer questions regarding the withholding on a house sale for MD non-residents, credits for infrastructure projects like wind farms, inherited Roth IRA Pre-2020 rules and what happens if you missed an RMD, and more! Download and enjoy!

"It's all about these different pieces and how they can fit together. And it's not just how they fit together in good ways, but also how they fit together in bad ways."   Our hosts, Stephanie McCullough and Kevin Gaines, sit down to unpack a letter from a reader of The Retirement Strategy Report who signed off as "Get What's Mine Before It's Gone", ready to claim at 62 just to lock in something before the trust fund runs dry. That reader is right to be anxious. The Social Security OASI Trust Fund is now projected to deplete by 2033, at which point ongoing tax revenues would cover only about 77% of promised retirement benefits. That's an automatic across-the-board cut of roughly 23%! Add frozen income thresholds from 1983 (with an 85% taxation tier added in 1993) that quietly pull more retirees into taxation every year, plus Medicare's IRMAA surcharges that jump off income cliffs, and you've got a retirement income picture that's genuinely complex. But claiming early doesn't solve any of it. A 23% cut hits whether your monthly benefit is $1,400 or $2,200. The math still favors patience, as 77% of a larger number is always better than 77% of a smaller one. What does help is projecting your taxable income now and managing it deliberately. Kevin's core suggestion is to avoid leaving all your money in traditional, pre-tax retirement accounts and wait for RMDs to force a reckoning. Use lower-income years (early retirement, career transitions, entrepreneurship) to draw down those accounts at the 12% bracket instead of the 22% or 24% you might face later. Convert some to Roth. Build out taxable investment accounts alongside tax-deferred and tax-free buckets, so you have flexibility every year. The goal isn't to predict what Congress will do. It's to build a retirement with enough moving parts that whatever happens, you have room to adjust.   Key Topics: How Social Security Fits Into Our Retirement (02:15) Should You Claim Early to "Get Yours"? (06:30) How Social Security Benefits Get Taxed (10:22) IRMAA and Medicare: The Hidden Hit on Your Net Check (17:19) Roth Conversions and the Case for Acting in Low-Income Years (19:39) Tax Diversification: Balancing Your Buckets (29:02)   Resources: Take Back Retirement Episode 82: Getting the Most from Social Security: Smart Strategies for Women with Heather Schreiber: https://takebackretirement.com/podcasts/getting-the-most-from-social-security-smart-strategies-for-women-with-heather-schreiber/   If you like what you've been hearing, we invite you to subscribe on your favorite platform and leave us a review. Tell us what you love about this episode! Or better yet, tell us what you want to hear more of in the future. stephanie@sofiafinancial.com   You can find the transcript and more information about this episode at www.takebackretirement.com.   Follow Stephanie on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.  Follow Kevin on Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and LinkedIn.

Navigating taxes doesn’t end when your 9-to-5 does, and in retirement the rules can get increasingly complex. Donna discusses some of the tax topics that tend to complicate the filing process for retirees, including social security, RMDs, quarterly estimates, and more. Also, on MoneyTalk, action items for your first year of retirement, and grounding your expectations to reality. Host: Donna Sowa Allard, CFP®, AIF®; Air Date: 4/27/2026; Original Air Dates: 1/13/2025, 11/10/2025 & 12/8/2025. Have a question for the hosts? Leave a message on the MoneyTalk Hotline at (401) 587-SOWA and have your voice heard live on the air!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Saving into Roth instead of traditional accounts to bring down required minimum distributions in retirement, and whether retiring early is in the cards: that's today on Your Money, Your Wealth® podcast 579 with Joe Anderson, CFP®, and Big Al Clopine, CPA. Brian in New York and "Todd and Margo" in Utah each have over $3 million in their pre-tax accounts. What should their Roth conversion strategies look like, and can Todd retire this year? But first up, should "Captain Morgan" go Roth to avoid RMDs and can he retire in a couple of years? Should "Klo Jopine" contribute to Roth instead of traditional if his income will always remain the same? Finally, Kyle and Katie have high incomes and need a spitball on how they can avoid future RMDs. Ya think Roth conversions might be in their future? We'll find out. Free Financial Resources in This Episode: https://bit.ly/ymyw-579 (full show notes & episode transcript) LIMITED TIME SPECIAL OFFER: THE DIY RETIREMENT GUIDE - download before the Special Offer changes on Friday, May 1, 2026! https://purefinancial.com/ymyw/?utm_source=libsyn&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=whitepaper-diy-retirement-guide&utm_content=ymyw-pod-ep579-description-whitepaper#specialoffer  Financial Advisors Expose Internet's Worst Retirement Strategies! - YMYW TV: https://purefinancial.com/ymyw/episodes/financial-advisors-expose-internets-worst-retirement-strategies/?utm_source=libsyn&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=ymyw-tv&utm_content=ymyw-pod-ep579-description-tv-s11e11 Financial Blueprint (self-guided): https://bit.ly/PureFinancialBlueprint  Financial Assessment (Meet with an experienced professional): https://bit.ly/PureFreeAssessment  REQUEST your Retirement Spitball Analysis: https://bit.ly/AskJoeAndAl  DOWNLOAD more free guides: https://bit.ly/PureGuides  READ financial blogs: https://bit.ly/PureFinBlog  WATCH educational videos: https://bit.ly/PureEdVideos  SUBSCRIBE to the YMYW Newsletter: https://bit.ly/YMYWNewsletter    Connect With Us: Subscribe on YouTube and join the conversation in the comments: https://bit.ly/YMYW-YT  Subscribe or follow YMYW in your favorite podcast app: https://lnk.to/ymyw  Leave your honest reviews and ratings in Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/your-money-your-wealth/id312900254  Chapters: 00:00 - Intro: This Week on the YMYW Podcast 00:58 - Should I Go Roth to Avoid RMDs and Retire at 51? (Captain Morgan, CA) 11:33 - Roth vs Traditional for Flat Income Earners? (Klo Jopine, TN) 22:53 - Big Roth Conversions to Tame a $3.5M 403(b)? (Brian, NY) 27:36 - Can I Retire in 2026 and Spend $200K/yr? (Todd 54 & Margo, UT) 34:53 - How High Income Earners Can Reduce Future RMDs (Kyle & Katie, Midwest) 44:37 - Outro: Next Week on the YMYW Podcast

Knowing your 401(k) balance is easy—but knowing how long it will last is another story. JoePat Roop explains why a 401(k) alone isn’t a retirement plan and how taxes, required distributions, and longevity can reshape outcomes. The episode explores common misconceptions around income, Roth conversions, and when tax pressure often shows up later than expected. Listeners hear why planning for withdrawals matters as much as saving—and why clarity beats guessing once retirement begins. For more information or to schedule a consultation call 704-946-7000 or visit BelmontUSA.com! Follow us on social media: YouTube | Instagram | Facebook | LinkedInSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it actually feel like to be on the cusp of retirement and wonder if you're doing it right? This week, Jean sits down with two listeners, Nancy and Melissa, who are both asking the same underlying question: How do I make sure I don't run out of money in retirement, while still actually enjoying my life? First, Jean talks with Nancy, 68, a soon-to-be retired nurse with $850K saved, a pension, and Social Security on the way. Nancy wants to renovate her bathrooms before she stops working, but she's torn between using her HELOC or tapping her nest egg.  Then Jean hears from Melissa, 53, who, along with her husband, has $1.2M+ saved across tax-deferred, Roth, brokerage, and treasury accounts, and wonders if she's taking on too much risk. Jean helps her zoom out, look at the full financial picture, and think through what a bucket strategy or annuity could mean for her peace of mind. In this episode: HELOC vs. refinance vs. pulling from savings; how to think through home improvement financing in retirement The 4% rule and when it makes sense to use it RMDs, IRMAA penalties, and why timing your withdrawals matters more than you think What 72% stocks actually look like when you account for your entire net worth Why hybrid long-term care policies might be worth a look How guaranteed income can actually free you to invest more aggressively with the rest Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Should the Fed still use the PCE as its inflation guide? I've talked a lot about the shelter index being misleading when it comes to inflation, especially when looking at the CPI, but the PCE has its flaws as well. The Federal Reserve has a 2% inflation target and uses monetary policy, which includes adjusting the Fed Funds rate, to tackle its dual mandate of maximum employment and stable prices. A big problem I see with the PCE is that healthcare now accounts for roughly 16% to 17% of index. This comes as an aging population led healthcare spending to be the single largest contributor to consumer spending in 2025. It surpassed housing and utilities in early 2023 as the fastest growing category in the PCE and by Q3 of 2025, it contributed nearly a full percentage point to overall economic expansion and accounted for nearly half of all spending growth. While it's important to keep an eye on healthcare inflation, the Fed's tools won't be able to have a major impact on the sector like let's say the housing sector. So, let's say inflation stays around 3%, but a large reason for that is healthcare inflation. If the Fed hikes rates, it will have little impact on inflation and in fact it could have a huge negative consequence on other areas of the economy and push us into a recession. A big reason I remain worried about healthcare inflation is labor costs. It doesn't appear we have enough workers to meet the demand for these jobs. On the positive side, the sector has provided stability and growth when looking at payroll data. In 2025, it added 686,000 jobs, which was more than all the gains in nonfarm payrolls. The question is though, can this continue without substantial wage inflation considering by 2030, we will have more people over the age of 65 than we do that are under18. I'm not sure how exactly we can rein in healthcare inflation, but I don't believe monetary policy would provide a meaningful solution.   Even with all the noise, the consumer remains strong March retail sales showed a nice increase of 4.0% compared to last year and while gas stations were a large contributor growing 18.1% due to higher gas prices, excluding them from the report still would have resulted in a good increase of 2.9%. The only areas that saw declines in the report were motor vehicle and parts dealers, which were down 2.1%, and furniture and home furnishing stores, which were down 0.8%. Areas of strength included nonstore retailers, which were up 10.1%, electronics and appliance stores, which were up 5.2%, and clothing and clothing accessories stories, which were up 7.2%. Food services and drinking places saw growth slow, but there was still a positive increase of 2.4%. It's not just the retail sales report that showed strength, Bank of America pointed out debit and credit card spending climbed 4.3% in March, the most in more than three years. While a 16.5% jump in spending at gas stations was a large reason for the increase, there was still “healthy growth” of 3.6% excluding gas. We also heard from Wells Fargo CEO, Charlie Scharf, in an interview with Bloomberg Television and he said the U.S. economy remains “extremely strong” and that loan demand is solid, consumer delinquencies are well controlled, and businesses entered this period in strong financial shape. He also said consumer spending continues to grow between 5% and 7% year-over-year. Even with all the noise, the consumer is what drives the US economy, and it appears people remain resilient in their spending, which is a major reason why I believe the economy remains healthy.   Can the new Apple CEO keep the stock gains coming? With the stock trading at a forward price/earnings ratio of around 32 times, I've got to say it's going to be a very difficult task. Keep in mind over the last 50 years the average forward P/E ratio for the S&P 500 has been between around 15 to 19 times, nowhere near 32. I'm also reminded of a similar situation where a prominent company with such great stock success was taken over by a new CEO and the 16-year return was only 27% including dividends. That company I'm referring to is General Electric when Jack Welch retired and the new CEO Jeffrey Immelt who was handpicked by Jack Welch took over. Things could be different this time when the new CEO of Apple takes over on September 1st but again given the current valuation it will be difficult. John Ternus is a mechanical engineer and was head of the hardware division. An engineering degree now represents the highest percentage of degrees among Fortune 500 CEOs, exceeding the number of CEOs with an MBA. I do have some question marks around the choice though as there have not been that many new successful products that have come out of Apple. We've had the AirPods and the Apple Watch, but they've had some major failures with the Vision Pro headset and are trying to build a self-driving car that they lost billions of dollars on. Mr. Ternus, who is 50 years old, is well liked and is said to have a friendly demeanor along with the engineering confidence, but will he have the magic that Tim Cook had finding ways to squeeze more value out of supply chain? Mr. Cook was also a great political negotiator working with President Barack Obama to President Trump and even made deals with China's president that has kept the company going. Mr. Ternus does have has some big shoes to fill and a large mountain to climb. I just don't believe Apple will see returns anywhere near the past returns they saw under Cook when he took over in 2011 and the stock grew by roughly 20 times.   Your annuity may not be as safe as you think! Many people that are sold annuities are told by the broker that they are 100% safe and to be frank they would probably say almost anything to collect their big 7% or 8% commission. But the Treasury department has concerns and is talking to state insurance regulators about the large amount of private loans that insurance companies are using in their portfolios. Back in 2024 even the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, which is also known as the NAIC and is the organizing body for regulators for every state in the US, had stated ratings that insurers had on private credit and investments were consistently overinflated. They have since pulled the report from the website. Large redemption requests from individual investors that want to pull their money out of many private loan funds are starting to show up in other areas like pension funds and insurance companies. The insurance industry holds about $6 trillion in invested assets and roughly $1 trillion or about 17% is now in private credit investments. The insurance industry uses what is known as private letter ratings and can also assign a risk score to the investment. In a study that examined 109 private letter ratings that NAIC officials received in 2023, in 106 of those cases the private rating was higher than the NAIC. To make matters worse, 17 of the cases gave an investment grade private letter rating to assets that the NAIC considered junk or below investment grade. It is especially important to look out for the smaller firms that use smaller rating agencies like Eagan – Jones as opposed to your bigger rating agencies. The smaller firms tend to rate things much higher than the NAIC, sometimes as much as three notches higher, which really disguises the risk of what the annuity you hold is invested in. I've said for years that we will someday see an insurance company file for bankruptcy and those investors who invested blindly into annuities because of a salesperson's recommendation will probably be disappointed to see that they lost all their earnings and perhaps even some of the principal. I unfortunately think it's too late for some of these insurance companies that have invested into risky assets to turn the situation around quickly.    Financial Planning: Traditional or Roth Choosing between traditional and Roth contributions comes down to one key question: will you be able to withdraw or convert that money at a lower tax rate than your rate today? Traditional contributions work best if the answer is yes, since you get a tax break now and pay less later, while Roth contributions are better if your future tax rate will be the same or higher. Many people enter a lower tax bracket starting at retirement and lasting until required minimum distributions (RMDs) begin at age 75, but this low-tax window is limited. There's only so much pre-tax money you can withdraw or convert each year before moving into a higher bracket. For example, while working someone may be in the 22% bracket and will drop to the 12% bracket in retirement, giving them some room to access that tax-deferred money at a lower rate. However, the threshold between the 12% and 22% brackets is about $100k of taxable income for joint filers, and other income sources like Social Security and pensions will take up some of that room. If those sources result in taxable income of $50k, then only another $50k can be withdrawn or converted from retirement accounts before being pushed from the 12% bracket back up to the 22% bracket.  If there is $1 million in pre-tax retirement accounts growing at 10%/year, that annual appreciation of $100k is much more than can be converted meaning the account balances would continue to grow. When RMDs begin, the taxable distributions would push income into the 22% bracket or higher and potentially trigger IRMAA. Situations like this are common when retirement account balances are large, and Roth contributions should be heavily considered while working unless the taxpayer is in the highest brackets (32% or above).   Companies Discussed: Abbott Laboratories (ABT), PepsiCo, Inc. (PEP) & Avis Budget Group, Inc. (CAR)

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3535: Jeremy explores how long-term tax strategies can shape not just your retirement, but your child's financial future, showing how compounding, RMDs, and account structure could turn a modest IRA into a multi-million-dollar inheritance. He highlights how proactive Roth conversions at low tax rates today can shield future generations from higher taxes later. The takeaway: thoughtful, flexible planning now can dramatically improve after-tax wealth across decades. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gocurrycracker.com/multi-generational-tax-minimization/ Quotes to ponder: "The simplest way to become rich is to be born to the right parents." "Mathematically speaking, choosing to pay 10% now on a Roth conversion is equivalent to paying 10% on a larger withdrawal 60 years from now (associative property of multiplication.)" "It's hard to take action when things are a little vague." Episode references: The Economist: https://www.economist.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3535: Jeremy explores how long-term tax strategies can shape not just your retirement, but your child's financial future, showing how compounding, RMDs, and account structure could turn a modest IRA into a multi-million-dollar inheritance. He highlights how proactive Roth conversions at low tax rates today can shield future generations from higher taxes later. The takeaway: thoughtful, flexible planning now can dramatically improve after-tax wealth across decades. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gocurrycracker.com/multi-generational-tax-minimization/ Quotes to ponder: "The simplest way to become rich is to be born to the right parents." "Mathematically speaking, choosing to pay 10% now on a Roth conversion is equivalent to paying 10% on a larger withdrawal 60 years from now (associative property of multiplication.)" "It's hard to take action when things are a little vague." Episode references: The Economist: https://www.economist.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover all of the podcasts in our network, search for specific episodes, get the Optimal Living Daily workbook, and learn more at: OLDPodcast.com. Episode 3535: Jeremy explores how long-term tax strategies can shape not just your retirement, but your child's financial future, showing how compounding, RMDs, and account structure could turn a modest IRA into a multi-million-dollar inheritance. He highlights how proactive Roth conversions at low tax rates today can shield future generations from higher taxes later. The takeaway: thoughtful, flexible planning now can dramatically improve after-tax wealth across decades. Read along with the original article(s) here: https://www.gocurrycracker.com/multi-generational-tax-minimization/ Quotes to ponder: "The simplest way to become rich is to be born to the right parents." "Mathematically speaking, choosing to pay 10% now on a Roth conversion is equivalent to paying 10% on a larger withdrawal 60 years from now (associative property of multiplication.)" "It's hard to take action when things are a little vague." Episode references: The Economist: https://www.economist.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's Q&A Wednesday, and we're tackling the questions that matter most right now—markets at all-time highs despite geopolitical tension, whether this rally can hold, and where investors should be positioned if volatility returns. Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff also dive into real-world portfolio decisions: how to think about inflation hedges like I-Bonds and TIPS, strategies around QLACs and RMDs, tax considerations in ETFs, and where to park cash in today's environment. Along the way, we break down emerging risks and opportunities, from private credit exposure and national debt concerns to IPO dynamics and structural market changes. If you're trying to make sense of a market that seems disconnected from headlines while still planning for long-term outcomes, this episode connects the dots. Key topics include: 0:00 - INTRO 0:58 - Kevin Warsh & Iran Blockade 5:03 - Can Markets' Rally Be Maintained? 9:45 - I-Bonds & Tips 12:45 - QLAC's & RMD's 15:30 - What Would You Have Done Differently in Last Downturn? 17:35 - What Tax Benefits are Provided with SPYI ETF? 18:49 - NASDAQ-100 Fast Entry Rule Change 20:22 - Private Investment IPO's 22:05 - When Markets Pull Back, to what sectors will money rotate? 23:34 - What is the Private Credit Risk to Insurance Companies? 25:25 - What is the future impact of the National Debt? 28:40 - Space-X IPO 29:35 - Auto-callable Growth ETF's 36:01 - What Vehicles are Used for Cash Positions? 38:14 - Why is S&P at All-time Highs w Hormuz Strait Still Closed? ------- Do you enjoy our content? Rate us on Google: https://bit.ly/4b9JtEo ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/live/yFe9x3vjJn0 ------- REGISTER for our next Candid Coffee, Saturday, May 16: "Financial Organization Made Simple:" https://streamyard.com/watch/SA6aj2aMdMhf -------- Watch our previous show, "Financial Illiteracy: Too Big to Ignore" https://youtube.com/live/jAHYTG9JFDg ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Buy the Dip or Wait?" is here: https://youtu.be/70nOJWV4YDI ------- Resources Mentioned in Today's Show: "Short Covering Rally Or Is The Bull Market Back?" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/short-covering-rally-or-correction-over/ "Market Lesson: Why Panic Is A Costly Mistake" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/market-lesson-dont-waste-being-bailed-out/ ------- Download Lance's Latest e-book, "Laws of Money & Wealth:"https://realinvestmentadvice.com/ria-e-guide-library/ -------- 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/ #StockMarket #BuyTheDip #MarketOutlook #TradingStrategy #Investing #FinancialPlanning #Retirement #MarketAnalysis

It's Q&A Wednesday, and we're tackling the questions that matter most right now—markets at all-time highs despite geopolitical tension, whether this rally can hold, and where investors should be positioned if volatility returns. Lance Roberts & Danny Ratliff also dive into real-world portfolio decisions: how to think about inflation hedges like I-Bonds and TIPS, strategies around QLACs and RMDs, tax considerations in ETFs, and where to park cash in today's environment. Along the way, we break down emerging risks and opportunities, from private credit exposure and national debt concerns to IPO dynamics and structural market changes. If you're trying to make sense of a market that seems disconnected from headlines while still planning for long-term outcomes, this episode connects the dots. Key topics include: 0:00 - INTRO 0:58 - Kevin Warsh & Iran Blockade 5:03 - Can Markets' Rally Be Maintained? 9:45 - I-Bonds & Tips 12:45 - QLAC's & RMD's 15:30 - What Would You Have Done Differently in Last Downturn? 17:35 - What Tax Benefits are Provided with SPYI ETF? 18:49 - NASDAQ-100 Fast Entry Rule Change 20:22 - Private Investment IPO's 22:05 - When Markets Pull Back, to what sectors will money rotate? 23:34 - What is the Private Credit Risk to Insurance Companies? 25:25 - What is the future impact of the National Debt? 28:40 - Space-X IPO 29:35 - Auto-callable Growth ETF's 36:01 - What Vehicles are Used for Cash Positions? 38:14 - Why is S&P at All-time Highs w Hormuz Strait Still Closed? ------- Do you enjoy our content? Rate us on Google: https://bit.ly/4b9JtEo ------- Watch Today's Full Video on our YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/live/yFe9x3vjJn0 ------- REGISTER for our next Candid Coffee, Saturday, May 16: "Financial Organization Made Simple:" https://streamyard.com/watch/SA6aj2aMdMhf -------- Watch our previous show, "Financial Illiteracy: Too Big to Ignore" https://youtube.com/live/jAHYTG9JFDg ------- The latest installment of our new feature, Before the Bell, "Buy the Dip or Wait?" is here: https://youtu.be/70nOJWV4YDI ------- Resources Mentioned in Today's Show: "Short Covering Rally Or Is The Bull Market Back?" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/short-covering-rally-or-correction-over/ "Market Lesson: Why Panic Is A Costly Mistake" https://realinvestmentadvice.com/resources/blog/market-lesson-dont-waste-being-bailed-out/ ------- Download Lance's Latest e-book, "Laws of Money & Wealth:"https://realinvestmentadvice.com/ria-e-guide-library/ -------- 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/ #StockMarket #BuyTheDip #MarketOutlook #TradingStrategy #Investing #FinancialPlanning #Retirement #MarketAnalysis

What happens to annuity payouts when AI and medical breakthroughs start pushing life expectancy through the roof? In this episode, Stan reveals why current life expectancy tables are a one-time bargain and how to use them to your advantage. In this episode, The Annuity Man discussed:  Carpe Annuity Diem and seizing today's annuity opportunities Impact of AI and medical breakthroughs on life expectancy tables Building an income floor with Social Security, RMDs, and annuities Joint lifetime income for spouses and real-life lifestyle examples Mindset shift from accumulating money to spending and enjoying it   Key Takeaways:  Advances in AI and medical breakthroughs like GLP‑1 drugs are likely to extend lifespans, which will eventually reduce payout levels on new lifetime income products, making today's life expectancy tables unusually attractive. Locking in guaranteed lifetime income now—through SPIAs, DIAs, QLACs, and income riders—can secure favorable payout rates before tables are adjusted for longer life expectancy. Social Security and required minimum distributions function as annuity-like income streams, and combining them with actual annuities creates a dependable income floor. Structuring annuities on a joint-life basis is a way of honoring a spouse who has "put up with you for years," ensuring they're financially secure and free to live well if they outlive you. Winning the financial game isn't just about accumulating assets; it's about learning to spend, travel, upgrade your lifestyle, and enjoy your money while you're healthy—before your beneficiaries are the ones flying first class.   "Carpe annuity dang diem really comes down to life expectancy. Tables are in your favor right now. You might want to shop for that right now, son." —  Stan The Annuity Man   Connect with The Annuity Man:  Website: http://theannuityman.com/  Email: Stan@TheAnnuityMan.com  Book: Owner's Manuals: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/how-do-annuities-work YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCCXKKxvVslbeGAlEc5sra2g  Get a Quote Today: https://www.stantheannuityman.com/annuity-calculator!

Your CPA Is Looking in the Rearview MirrorTax preparation records what already happened. Tax planning changes what will happen. Here's the difference — and why it might be costing you tens of thousands of dollars a year.Nobody loves taxes. But the people who hate them the most are usually the ones overpaying. This episode is about closing that gap — using the exact same strategies that high-income earners and savvy business owners have always used, most of which your tax preparer has never once brought up.40%of U.S. households pay zero federal income tax40.4%of all federal taxes paid by the top 1% of earners97%of federal income taxes paid by the top 50% of earners300K+projected CPA shortage in the U.S. over the next decade⏱What's covered in this episode0:00Cold open — why everyone hates taxes (and why you're still listening)2:30What your taxes actually pay for — and the government's "flexible" relationship with efficiency5:00The stats: who actually pays federal income tax in America8:00How tax brackets really work — and busting the biggest myth in personal finance11:30Tax preparation vs. tax planning — the core difference14:00Deductions every business owner should be taking (home office, vehicle, travel)19:00Advanced strategies for high earners: state tax credits, historic preservation22:30Roth vs. pre-tax: paying taxes when rates are lowest25:30The RMD time bomb — and how to defuse it before it goes off1How tax brackets actually workBefore any strategy makes sense, you have to understand the system. The U.S. uses a progressive, marginal tax structure — meaning higher rates only apply to dollars above each threshold. This is the most misunderstood fact in personal finance.The myth that costs people real money"I don't want to earn more — it'll push me into a higher bracket." This is wrong. You cannot take home less money by earning more. The higher rate only applies to the next dollar above the threshold, never to everything below it.Standard deduction — your free pass (2025, married filing jointly)You only pay taxes on income above the standard deduction. For 2025, that's $31,500 for married couples filing jointly. A couple earning $131,500 only pays taxes on $100,000 of it.2025 federal tax brackets — married filing jointlyRateTaxable income rangeTax on this portion10%$0 – $23,850$2,385 max12%$23,850 – $96,950$8,772 max22%$96,950 – $206,700$24,134 max24%$206,700 – $394,600$45,096 max32%$394,600 – $501,050$34,064 max35%$501,050 – $751,600$87,693 max37%Above $751,60037¢ on every dollar aboveWorked exampleA married couple with $150,000 in taxable income pays: $2,385 (10%) + $8,772 (12%) + $11,671 (22%) =$22,828 total. That's an effective rate of 15.2% — not 22%. Their marginal rate is 22%, but that's only on the last dollars earned.2Deductions every business owner should be takingHome office deduction✓Must be used regularly andexclusivelyfor business — the IRS is strict on this✓Two methods: Simplified ($5/sq ft, up to $1,500 max) or Actual Expense — actual almost always wins for homeowners✓W-2 employees: not deductible since 2018's Tax Cuts and Jobs Act — this surprises people constantly✓S-corp owners: have the corporation pay you rent for the space — deductible to the business, potentially tax-free to you✓Hidden risk: depreciation recapture when you sell the home — most preparers never warn clients about thisBusiness use of vehicle✓Standard mileage rate: 70 cents/mile in 2025 — the simplest method, requires a contemporaneous log✓Apps like MileIQ make logging effortless — documentation is the difference between keeping and losing the deduction in an audit✓Heavy SUVs over 6,000 lbs GVWR qualify for Section 179 and Bonus Depreciation — potentially a massive first-year write-offBusiness travel — turning a trip into a deduction✓If the trip's primary purpose is business, transportation is fully deductible — even if you add personal days at the end✓Structure: business meetings at the front of the trip, personal time at the back. Sequence matters — plan before you book.✓Spouse/family travel generally not deductible unless they have a genuine, documented business role✓International trips: if personal days exceed 25% of the trip, transportation costs must be allocated proportionally3Advanced strategies for high earnersState tax credits — the strategy most advisors don't know aboutUnlike deductions (which reduce taxable income), credits reduce your actual tax liability dollar-for-dollar. Many states — including South Carolina and Georgia — offer transferable or refundable credits for affordable housing, historic rehabilitation, film production, and economic development zones.High-income taxpayers can purchase these credits from developers at a discount — buying $1.00 of tax credit for $0.85 creates an immediate 15% return before the tax savings even kick in. This is entirely legal and widely used by high earners who have proactive advisors.Historic preservation & conservation easementsThe Federal Historic Tax Credit (HTC) offers a 20% credit on qualified rehabilitation of certified historic structures. Conservation easements — where a landowner donates development rights to a land trust — can generate substantial charitable deductions.Important distinctionSyndicated conservation easements have been scrutinized by the IRS when promoters inflated valuations. The strategy itself is legitimate — what drew enforcement action were manufactured transactions with 4:1 or 5:1 deduction-to-investment ratios. Due diligence on the appraiser and structure is essential.Other strategies worth knowing✓Qualified Opportunity Zones:defer and potentially eliminate capital gains by reinvesting within 180 days of a sale✓Cash Balance / Defined Benefit Plans:contributions can exceed $200,000/year for high-earning self-employed individuals✓Charitable Remainder Trust (CRT):sell a highly appreciated asset without immediate capital gains, receive an income stream, get a partial charitable deduction✓The Augusta Rule (Section 280A):rent your personal home to your own business for up to 14 days/year — tax-free to you, deductible to the business4Pay taxes when the rate is lowest — Roth vs. pre-taxEvery dollar you earn will be taxed — either on the way in, or on the way out. The only question is when, and at what rate. That's the entire game.The core conceptPre-tax accounts (Traditional IRA, 401k): deduct now, pay taxes on every withdrawal in retirement. Roth: pay taxes now at today's rates, then never pay taxes on that money or its growth again. The math is identical if your rate stays the same — the strategy is about predicting the rate differential.The Roth conversion opportunityYou can convert any amount from a Traditional IRA or 401(k) to Roth in any year — you pay ordinary income tax on the converted amount. The strategy is "filling the bracket" — converting just enough to reach the top of your current bracket without crossing into the next one.A married couple with $150,000 in taxable income has roughly $56,000 of room in the 22% bracket (which runs to $206,700). Converting $56,000 at 22% today could mean avoiding 32%, 35%, or higher rates on those same dollars later.The RMD time bombRequired Minimum Distributions kick in at age 73 — the IRS forces you to withdraw a percentage of your traditional IRA balance every year, whether you need the money or not. On a $2 million IRA, that's potentially $80,000–$100,000+ of forced taxable income annually, often pushing retirees into higher brackets than when they were working.Proactive Roth conversions in the years before RMDs begin can dramatically reduce or eliminate this problem. A preparer sees the RMD on a 1099-R and enters it. A planner sees it coming 15 years out and builds a strategy around it.Key takeaways from this episode01Tax preparation is compliance. Tax planning is strategy. By the time you're sitting with your CPA in February, every decision that affects your return has already been made.0240% of households pay zero federal income tax. If you're a business owner or high earner, the tax code was not designed to protect you — proactive planning is the only protection you have.03Brackets are marginal — you never lose money by earning more. Your effective rate and your marginal rate are different things, and confusing them costs people real money every year.04Home office, vehicle, and travel deductions are available to almost every business owner and are routinely missed due to poor documentation or a purely reactive tax relationship.05State tax credits, historic preservation, opportunity zones, and cash balance plans are legal, proven strategies used by high earners everywhere — they're just unknown to those without proactive advisors.06The Roth conversion strategy is not a one-time decision — it's...

Building your nest egg is great, but remember that "Uncle Sam" is a silent partner in your retirement planning. The government collects taxes on individual retirement account funds through required minimum distributions (RMDs).This ensures that funds are taxed before your death, making proper tax planning and understanding taxes in retirement crucial for your financial future.

Roth conversions and IRMAA are deeply connected—one decision today can impact your Medicare premiums two years from now.Checklist Challenge: https://cdfinancial.org/checklist-challenge/FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtubeNewsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

David McKnight discusses the three biggest retirement planning mistakes that show up over and over again. Avoiding them will dramatically increase the likelihood that your retirement savings will last as long as you do.  Mistake #1 pertains to over-accumulating in tax-deferred accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs – a mistake that surprises many people as they feel they're doing everything right. The problem here is that you're taking a deduction at historically low tax rates only to postpone the payment of those taxes to a point in the future where tax rates are likely to be much higher than they are today. The moment you hit age 73 or 75, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) kick in. In other words, the IRS is forcing you to take money out, whether you need it or not. Those RMDs get combined with all your other sources of income: The taxable portion of your social security, your pension(s), and your investment income. David notes that, before long, you can find yourself in a higher tax bracket in retirement than you were during your working years. Remember, RMDs count as provisional income, which can cause up to 85% of your social security to become taxable – plus, it can trigger IRMAA surcharges on your Medicare premiums too. Building a retirement plan that is almost entirely tax-deferred looks good on paper but leaves you entirely exposed to the impact of higher taxes in the future. The second mistake is waiting too long to execute Roth conversions. David touches upon the so-called "retirement income valley," the ideal window within which to fully execute your Roth conversion. Many people ignore it. They're hesitant, reluctant to pay a tax to the IRS before it's absolutely required of them. Failing to take advantage of the "retirement income valley" puts you at risk of having your social security become taxable, while also paying higher Medicare premiums for the rest of your life. When it comes to Roth conversions, David recommends having a "rip the band-aid off" approach.  It may hurt a little during the conversion period but once that money is in the Roth bucket, it's tax-free for the rest of your life. The third big mistake David sees over and over again is underestimating future tax rates and overestimating your control over them. Most retirement plans today are built on the dangerous assumption that tax rates in the future will look a lot like they do today. However, David stresses that looking at the fiscal trajectory of our country paints a different picture. The national debt will grow by $2 trillion per year over the next 10 years, and $3 trillion per year after that. With the rising interest costs and $200 trillion in unfunded obligations for Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid, there will be a financial day of reckoning where tax rates will be forced higher. David predicts that to be around 2035 – which gives you around 10 years to plan and execute on your plan. People spend their entire lives focusing on building as big a retirement nest egg as possible, but they give almost no thought to the type of accounts within which that nest egg is being built. The lack of consideration for the tax implications upon distributions is a huge oversight, says David.  At the end of the day, the only thing that really matters in retirement is how much money you get to spend after taxes. David concludes by highlighting that the best way to regain control over your after-tax income retirement is to pay taxes on it preemptively at historically low tax rates and on your terms (rather than on the IRS' terms).     Mentioned in this episode: David's new book, available now for pre-order: The Secret Order of Millionaires David's national bestselling book: The Guru Gap: How America's Financial Gurus Are Leading You Astray, and How to Get Back on Track Tax-Free Income for Life: A Step-by-Step Plan for a Secure Retirement by David McKnight DavidMcKnight.com DavidMcKnightBooks.com PowerOfZero.com (free video series) @mcknightandco on Twitter  @davidcmcknight on Instagram David McKnight on YouTube Get David's Tax-free Tool Kit at taxfreetoolkit.com

This week's theme on the Retirement Quick Tips podcast is The Hidden Tax Traps in Retirement Today, I'm talking about required minimum distributions. Talk to any retiree in their mid 70s with a large 401k or Traditional IRA balance, and you'll no doubt hear them grumble about their required minimum distributions, or RMDs.

In this episode, Jeff Mains sits down with Stanley Leong — former IBM/Agilent engineer turned bestselling author and private wealth advisor — to explore what it truly means to engineer your finances. Stanley brings his analytical, systems-driven engineering background to personal wealth building, and the result is a refreshingly practical framework for tech founders and high-income professionals who are great at running businesses but often treat their personal finances as an afterthought.Stanley shares how getting laid off the day after buying his first house sent him on an unexpected 20-year journey into financial planning. He explains why concentration risk (too much wealth in one stock or one company) is the #1 mistake he sees among tech professionals, why investment management is really risk management, and how the key question every investor should ask first is "What if I'm wrong?" The conversation also dives deep into underutilized tax strategies — including the Mega Backdoor Roth and the HSA as a stealth retirement account — and wraps with a powerful discussion on aligning money with purpose and preparing emotionally for life after a liquidity event.Key Takeaways4:10 — From Chips to Cashflow: Stanley's Origin Story Stanley was laid off the day after buying his first house. Frustrated by conflicting advice and no clear answers, he pivoted from engineering to financial planning — and discovered he could serve others facing the same confusion.7:24 — What "Engineering Your Finances" Actually Means Stanley applies the same systematic, process-oriented thinking he used as an engineer to personal finance. His "Wealth Focus Model" structures client meetings around specific, scheduled topics — goal tracking, protection planning, taxes, and investment strategy.9:02 — Concentration Risk: The #1 Mistake Tech Founders Make Too much net worth tied up in a single stock, employer equity, or your own company is the most common and dangerous financial mistake. Tech founders are especially vulnerable — success can quietly become massive exposure.15:19 — How to Think About When to Diversify Start with your goal (e.g., retire at 60), work backward to determine how much you need to set aside in diversified investments, and then let the rest work harder in higher-risk/higher-reward vehicles. This keeps you on track even if the concentrated bet doesn't pay off.17:10 — Investment Management Is Really Risk Management Most people think investing is about making money. Stanley reframes it: the job is to manage risk first, then optimize returns. That mindset shift is what separates investors from gamblers.18:10 — The Investor's First Question: "What If I'm Wrong?" Before committing capital to anything, ask what happens if the investment doesn't go your way — and whether you can live with that outcome. Gamblers ask "How much can I make?" Investors ask "What's the downside?"20:34 — Tax Diversification: Build Three Buckets Prepare for an uncertain tax future by spreading wealth across three types of accounts: pre-tax (traditional 401k), after-tax Roth (tax-free growth and withdrawals), and taxable brokerage. Having optionality across tax buckets is just as important as investment diversification.22:44 — The Mega Backdoor Roth: A Largely Unknown Strategy High earners who can't contribute directly to a Roth IRA can use a little-known third 401k contribution type — after-tax contributions — to funnel an additional $20–40K/year into a Roth position. The key: don't forget to actually convert the after-tax contributions to Roth.27:45 — The HSA: The Most Tax-Efficient Account Nobody Maxes Out The Health Savings Account beats every other tax-advantaged vehicle: pre-tax contributions, tax-deferred growth, and tax-free withdrawals. The strategy: don't use it for current healthcare costs — let it grow, save your receipts, and reimburse yourself decades later tax-free.32:44 — The Retirement Tax Window Many Miss Many high earners experience a brief "tax valley" in early retirement — income drops before RMDs and Social Security kick in. Use that window to convert pre-tax retirement accounts to Roth at a very low (sometimes 0%) rate before required minimum distributions force higher taxes.36:19 — Money Without Purpose Has No Value Stanley's first question to every new client: "What is the purpose of this money?" Clear goals — not just "retire someday," but where, with whom, doing what — make risk evaluation real and decisions intentional.39:10 — Life After a Liquidity Event: The Emotional Preparation The financial transition is only part of the story. Founders who retire or exit without a clear vision for what comes next often struggle. Start forming that post-exit identity before the event — read, talk to others, explore — so you're moving toward something, not just away from work.42:17 — Financial Independence ≠ Retirement The better framing is "financial independence" — the freedom to work on your own terms. One of Stanley's clients realized he loved his job the moment he knew he didn't have to be there anymore. The ability to walk away is sometimes more valuable than walking away.Tweetable Quotes"You should want to pay more capital gains tax than anyone you know — because that means you've made more money than anyone you know." — Stanley Leong"Investment management sounds cooler, but we're really risk managers. The focus on risk is what defines an investor versus a gambler." — Stanley Leong"A gambler's first question is 'How much money am I going to make?' A good investor's first question is always 'What if I'm wrong?'" — Stanley Leong"Money without purpose has no value." — Stanley Leong"Success can quietly turn into massive exposure. Diversification isn't about fear — it's about freedom." — Stanley Leong"Don't be afraid to pay capital gains tax. It means you made money. The more you pay, the more you made." — Stanley Leong"Financial independence doesn't mean you stop. It means you're still living your life — just maybe in a different way." — Stanley Leong"Start forming your post-retirement vision while you're still working — it's a lot easier to dream when you're not already in it." — Stanley LeongSaaS Leadership Lessons1. Engineer Your Systems, Not Just Your Product The same discipline you apply to software architecture belongs in your financial life. Build repeatable, scheduled processes around your wealth — don't wing it. A systematic approach to finances compounds over time just like good code.2. Concentration Is a Silent Risk As founders, your identity and your net worth are often tied to one thing: your company. That's a risk management problem, not a success story. The most dangerous financial position isn't losing — it's winning so much in one place that you forget you're exposed.3. Reframe Risk Before You Reach for Returns Before you invest in anything — a new product line, a strategic hire, a side bet — ask "What if I'm wrong?" Not just "What's the upside?" Embedding this question into your leadership culture protects the company as much as the balance sheet.4. Build Optionality Into Everything — Including Taxes High-growth founders often optimize for today's tax savings and ignore tomorrow's flexibility. Diversifying across tax buckets (pre-tax, Roth, taxable) gives you options in an unpredictable future. The same principle applies to your cap table, your customer base, and your revenue streams.5. Purpose Drives Better Decisions at Every Stage Vague goals produce vague results. Whether you're managing a P&L or a portfolio, specificity creates accountability. "Retire at 60 to travel Europe with my family" is a strategy. "Someday retire" is a wish. Build toward something concrete.6. Financial Independence Is a Better Goal Than Exit The most underrated outcome of building a great company isn't the exit — it's the freedom to choose. Many founders discover they love the work once they no longer have to do it. Design your financial life so you work because you want to, not because you have to.Guest ResourcesStan@engineeringyourfinancesbook.comwww.engineeringyourfinancesbook.comEpisode SponsorThe Futureproof Series - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfkXKUPZ5xuOqMPR7_gzGybncTtavyR1NThe Captain's KeysSmall Fish, Big Pond – https://smallfishbigpond.com/ Use the promo code ‘SaaSFuel'Champion Leadership Group – https://championleadership.com/SaaS Fuel ResourcesWebsite - https://championleadership.com/Jeff Mains on LinkedIn -

In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat react to a listener being pitched a complex direct indexing strategy using margin, while another wrestles with whether setting up trusts for their grandchildren is worth the hassle—breaking down what actually adds value and what doesn't. They expand into tax strategies for larger portfolios, including when more sophisticated approaches create more cost and complexity than benefit. You'll also hear practical guidance on estate planning, gifting, RMDs, and charitable giving through QCDs. What You'll Learn: When a direct indexing strategy using margin may do more harm than good How to approach tax strategies for larger portfolios without overcomplicating your plan When trusts make sense for gifting—and when they don't Smarter ways to handle RMDs and reduce taxes with QCDs Why some strategies are driven more by firm incentives than investor outcomes Join Money Matters:  Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here.  You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com. Download and rate our podcast here.

Explore how meaningful travel experiences, storytelling, and thoughtful planning can enhance your retirement journey. In this episode, Roger answers listener questions on managing retirement accounts, health insurance, financial literacy, and shares inspiring stories and book recommendations.OUTLINE OF THIS EPISODE OF THE RETIREMENT ANSWER MAN(00:00) Introduction: Rock retirement with community questions and storiesROCKIN' RETIREMENT IN THE WILD(01:39) A memorable travel story from Doug in Greece and the value of experiential travelRETIREMENT LIFE LAB(03:50) The significance of experiences over souvenirs for meaningful memoriesLISTENER QUESTIONS(06:15) Addressing listener questions on managing retirement accounts and consolidating assets(06:43) Handling required minimum distributions and tax considerations for late retirees (Vern's story)(09:23) Reasons to keep or roll over 401(k) assets, including inertia, access, and creditor protection(12:32) Audio question about health insurance and budgeting(18:10) Correcting misconceptions about MAGI and ACA subsidies (Michael's feedback)(20:08) Insights on the blind spots of retirement planning software and AI's role in financial planning(23:00) The emerging role of AI as a thinking partner in retirement planning(25:43) Managing required minimum distributions and tax planning for late retirees (Michelle's situation)(28:08) Using professional help vs. DIY approaches for RMDs and taxes(31:24) Dan's pursuit of a meaningful second career in financial literacy and how to prepareON THE BOOKSHELF(35:42) Recommended bookshelf: The Art of Spending Money, Devil in the White City, Inside the Greatest Crash, and Once an EagleSMART SPRINT(41:37) Smart Sprint: Create an experiential gift to cherish memories with loved onesREFERENCESThe Art of Spending Money by Morgan HouselDevil in the White City by Erik LarsonInside the Greatest Crash by Andrew Ross SorkinOnce an Eagle by Anton MyrerAging and Healthcare Planning ResourcesConnect with Roger Whitney:Submit a Question for RogerSign up for The NoodleNote: The opinions expressed are for informational purposes only and should not replace personalized advice from licensed professionals.

Listener Q&A where Andy talks about: How often to check your accounts for rebalancing, and how often to check on your bigger picture finances and plan ( 2:32 )What to do with old positions you no longer want in a brokerage account but they all have large unrealized gains ( 16:03 )How Medi-Cal benefits interact with a high deductible health plan and an HSA (spoiler alert...I don't know!) ( 22:20 )Are there any good reasons to leave old/prior employer 401(k) plans where they are ( 25:31 )Tracking Roth IRA contributions (including money inherited from a deceased spouse's Roth 401(k)) ( 29:50 )The mechanics of separating the cream from the coffee when rolling pre-tax money in an IRA to a 401(k) to leave behind in the IRA just the after-tax basis, and potential gotchas with that process ( 33:41 )Are potentially large RMDs really a threat to someone's financial plan, or just a pain ( 42:37 )Additional thoughts on whether to pay off a mortgage before retirement, particularly if using pre-tax funds (like from a 401(k)) to do it, even if the interest rate on the loan is really low ( 49:45 )Why Roth money within a 401(k) isn't actually in its own separate account, but is instead just an internal accounting record type of "sub" account ( 53:04 )Tax-free conversions of mutual fund share classes to ETF share classes of the same fund, where available ( 59:02 )Thoughts on rental property vs bank CD's for purposes of estate transfer, tax implications and general retirement plan considerations ( 1:03:23 )To send Andy questions to be addressed on future Q&A episodes, email andy@andypanko.comLinks in this episode:My article about pros and cons of rolling over old employer plans to an IRA - hereMy company newsletter - Retirement Planning InsightsFacebook group - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Taxes in Retirement)YouTube channel - Retirement Planning Education (formerly Retirement Planning Demystified)Retirement Planning Education website - www.RetirementPlanningEducation.com

In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat break down real-world tax strategies for high net worth investors dealing with multi-million dollar IRAs, brokerage accounts, and rising future tax liabilities. They walk through detailed listener cases—including a couple with over $18 million in assets trying to minimize RMD taxes, IRMAA surcharges, and legacy tax burdens—while sharing actionable tax strategies for high net worth investors. Here's what you'll learn: How to handle upcoming RMDs on multi-million dollar retirement accounts Why Roth conversions may have limited impact at higher income levels How gifting appreciated assets can reduce your taxable estate When to use a donor-advised fund instead of giving cash Why you should stop reinvesting dividends in taxable accounts How tax-loss harvesting technology can improve portfolio efficiency The importance of asset location (and how mistakes can cost you) How to better prepare large portfolios for generational wealth transfer Why AI can assist—but not replace—real financial advice If you're serious about optimizing your wealth, understanding the right tax strategies for high net worth investors can help you reduce taxes, protect your assets, and build a more efficient long-term plan. Join Money Matters:  Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here.  You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com. Download and rate our podcast here.  

Jim and Chris discuss listener emails, opening with listener PSAs on Medicare Advantage HSA reimbursement eligibility, then moving into questions on Social Security beneficiary rules and finishing their look at conduit trusts for IRAs. (7:00) A listener asks whether Social Security benefits can be passed on to a significant other. (28:00) The guys continue from last week with a listener’s multi-part question on whether a conduit trust should be structured to distribute RMDs before allowing any additional withdrawals — as a strategy for controlling how beneficiaries access inherited IRA funds. The listener also asks what else could trigger a large tax bill in that setup, and whether a conduit trust provides creditor protection. (1:15:30) George asks for the follow-up promised at the end of a recent episode — specifically, the better approach for having a trust inherit an IRA when you’re concerned about an heir mismanaging the funds. The post HSA Reimbursement, Social Security, Conduit Trusts: Q&A #2612 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

In this episode of Money Matters, Scott and Pat break down smart Roth conversion strategies for retirees who want to reduce lifetime taxes, manage future RMDs, and avoid costly bracket mistakes. A caller with $4+ million asks how much to convert each year — and whether moving IRA withdrawals into a brokerage account makes sense as part of a long-term Roth conversion plan. They also discuss direct indexing, including how it works, whether low-cost providers are safe, and when direct indexing makes sense compared to backdoor Roth contributions. Plus, a real client case study highlights asset location, ETF overconcentration, muni bond mistakes, and how coordinated Roth conversion and tax planning can potentially add six figures over time. What You'll Learn: -How to structure a Roth conversion tax-efficiently -When direct indexing makes sense — and when it doesn't -Why asset location matters more than most investors realize -How to reduce future RMD and IRMAA surprises -The hidden risks inside “diversified” ETF portfolios Join Money Matters:  Get your most pressing financial questions answered by Allworth's co-founders Scott Hanson and Pat McClain. Call 833-99-WORTH. Or ask a question by clicking here.  You can also be on the air by emailing Scott and Pat at questions@moneymatters.com. Download and rate our podcast here.