Podcasts about secure act

In this episode of ChooseFI, hosts Brad and Sean Mulaney dive deep into tax strategies crucial for financial independence, focusing on tax basketing, asset location, and effective use of retirement accounts. The conversation includes recent changes regarding 529 plans funding Roth IRAs and reassurances for those starting their financial journey at any age. FI Tax Guy | What to know about the ins and outs of the new SECURE 2.0 529-to-Roth IRA rollover provision Read Article  Fidelity's 529 Withdrawal Guide The Shockingly Simple Math Behind Early Retirement Schwab Guide on How to Sell Specific Lots Note from Sean Sean also wanted to clarify that in order to qualify to use the IRS Joint Life and Last Survivor Expectancy table to compute required minimum distributions for the older spouse, the older spouse must be more than 10 years older than the younger spouse and the younger spouse must be the 100 percent primary beneficiary. Key Topics Discussed: Question from Jay regarding tax strategies 00:00:53 Exploration of tax drag vs. tax strategies for high savings rates Discussion on Tax Basketing 00:01:38 Explanation of asset location and tax implications for early retirees Query about 529 Plans and Roth IRA Conversions 00:10:59 Recent changes in Secure Act 2.0 regarding 529 accounts Advice for Starting Financial Independence at Age 35 00:17:42 Encouragement that it's never too late to start financial independence Explaining Capital Gains and Taxation 00:25:23 Understanding tax on gains from asset sales and strategies for minimizing it Options for Late Savers 00:30:27 Discussion on optimal retirement account strategies at different life stages Final Thoughts and Resources 00:51:12 Recap and resources for listeners to further explore these topics Actionable Takeaways: Consider tax basketing to optimize your investment strategy in retirement accounts. 00:10:04 Explore Roth conversions annually to potentially minimize RMDs and tax burdens. 00:36:46 Start your financial independence journey today, regardless of your current age or financial situation. 00:22:10 Key Quotes: "Tax drag isn't really much of a thing at all." 00:03:07 "It literally takes $0 to start." 00:18:22 "This is an opportunity, not a problem." 00:10:04 "You do not need a backdoor Roth IRA." 00:24:11 "It's never too late to start on the path to FI." 00:22:41 Timestamps: 00:00:53 Tax Strategies 00:01:38 Tax Basketing Discussion 00:10:59 Roth IRA from 529 Plans 00:17:42 Starting at Age 35 00:25:23 Capital Gains Taxation 00:30:27 Strategies for Late Savers 00:51:12 Final Thoughts Discussion Questions: How can tax basketing improve your investment strategy? 00:10:01 What steps can you take to maximize the benefits of a backdoor Roth IRA? 00:24:11 What financial actions can individuals take today to start their path to financial independence? 00:22:10 FAQs: What is tax basketing? Tax basketing refers to the strategic allocation of various asset types (Roth, traditional, taxable) to minimize tax liabilities. 00:10:01 How does the Secure Act 2.0 affect 529 plans? The Secure Act 2.0 allows for up to $35,000 from 529 plans to be transferred to a beneficiary's Roth IRA. 00:11:21 Is it too late to start financial independence at age 35? Absolutely not; starting at 35 can still lead to successful financial independence with the right strategies. 00:22:10

Things seem to be happening fast, and many people are worried about potential changes to tax laws and funding for programs on which they rely. Over time, Jeff has learned that talk of change does not always result in change. Because speculation can drive anxiety and poor decisions, often the best approach is to wait. If laws and programs do change, then meet with your professional advisor(s) and make decisions based on the most current and accurate information.   WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW (00:00) Episode introduction. (03:48) We anticipate changes in 2026 to the federal estate tax limit for people who have at least $13.99 million as a single person or $27.98 million as a married couple. Be prepared to speak with your tax attorney in the last quarter of 2025. (05:45) If you have less than $13.99 million or $27.98 million, hold off on making changes for tax purposes until we know more. (07:40) Tax planning with an irrevocable trust means giving up control. Understand your options.  (12:00) Jeff is skeptical that they will make cuts to Medicaid.  (16:18) Schedule an appointment with your attorney if changes are made to same sex marriage laws. (17:50) There is no harm in filing for The Corporate Transparency Act. If you wait, keep track of the filing deadline.  (19:21) If you have a grantor trust and have been filing separate trust tax returns, ask your tax professional if you should continue to do that. Pennsylvania now follows the federal rules.  (21:26) Changes to The Secure Act are possible. Wait to make adjustments until we know whether changes occur. (23:28) One smart way to prepare for an unknown future is to make sure that everyone over the age of 18 has a financial power of attorney, a health care power of attorney with a living will, and a last will and testament.   ABOUT BELLOMO & ASSOCIATES Jeffrey R. Bellomo, the founder of Bellomo & Associates, is a licensed and certified elder law attorney with a master's degree in taxation and a certificate in estate planning. He explains complex legal and financial topics in easy-to-understand language. Bellomo & Associates is committed to providing education so that what happened to the Bellomo family doesn't happen to your family. We conduct free workshops on estate planning, crisis planning, Medicaid planning, special needs planning, probate administration, and trust administration. Visit our website https://bellomoassociates.com/ to learn more.   LINKS AND RESOURCES MENTIONED Bellomo & Associates workshops: https://bellomoassociates.com/workshops/ Life Care Planning The Three Secrets of Estate Planning Nuts & Bolts of Medicaid For more information, call us at (717) 845-5390. Connect with Bellomo & Associates on Social Media Tune in Saturdays at 7:30 a.m. Eastern to WSBA radio: https://www.newstalkwsba.com/ X (formerlyTwitter):https://twitter.com/bellomoassoc YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/BellomoAssociates Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/bellomoassociates Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bellomoassociates/ LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bellomoandassociates WAYS TO WORK WITH JEFFREY BELLOMO Contact Us:https://bellomoassociates.com/contact/ Practice areas:https://bellomoassociates.com/practice-areas/      

In this episode, Bill and Pete Bush take a deep dive into the various risks associated with retirement. Drawing from their ongoing studies for the RICP (Retirement Income Certified Professional) designation, they unpack key categories of risk that can derail even the most well-thought-out retirement plans. From longevity and health concerns to market volatility and public policy shifts, they emphasize the need for proactive planning, emergency buffers, and a realistic outlook. This is not about fear—it's about readiness. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps & Topics: 00:00 – Intro: Fasten Your Seatbelts The episode takes off with a familiar aviation metaphor as the Bush brothers cue up a conversation rooted in both experience and education. 00:21 – Retirement Risks Overview & RICP Insight Bill mentions their RICP studies and how this inspired today's topic. Risks discussed include longevity, inflation, and withdrawal rate risk. 01:45 – Longevity Risk & The Illusion of "My People Don't Live That Long" People often underestimate how long they'll live. Life expectancy continues to rise, and the stat of a 65-year-old couple having a 50% chance that one spouse lives to 90+ is spotlighted. 02:53 – Longevity = More Time for Inflation to Hurt Longer life means more years for inflation to compound. Staying active longer also often means higher expenses. 04:14 – Aging & Health Expense Risks Health risks include long-term care, frailty, and even financial elder abuse. Health expenses are cited as the #1 cause of bankruptcy in retirement. 05:56 – Beyond Healthcare: Adapting Your Environment From needing a stair lift to remodeling a home for accessibility, aging has unexpected costs. Elder financial abuse often comes from trusted individuals—not just scammers. 07:34 – Investment Risks & The Sequence of Return Trap Sequence of return risk is explained in depth: how bad early market years can cause a retiree to “sell more shares” to generate income. Strategies like bucket planning and income “flooring” are discussed. 09:34 – Income Layers & The 7-Layer Dip Analogy Each retiree's income is like a layered dip: Social Security, pensions, investments, etc. Building the right layers is essential for long-term sustainability. 10:50 – Work-Related Risks: Forced Retirement & Reemployment Many people plan to work longer than they actually do. COVID showed us that employer insolvency and sudden job loss can strike at any time. 11:50 – The Illusion of Control The idea that we control all outcomes is often false. Surprise is the “mother of all panic,” especially in investments. A strong buffer (emergency fund) is essential. 13:34 – Family-Related Risks: Loss of Spouse & Surprise Expenses Losing a spouse can lead to emotional devastation and a significant drop in income. Taxes change, Social Security benefits can decrease, and stress may impact health. 14:32 – The Goal is Awareness, Not Fear Planning for these risks is just like buying insurance. You hope you won't need it—but you're covered if something happens. 15:02 – Timing & Policy Risks Interest rate shifts can hurt lump sums from pensions. Laws change—like the SECURE Act—and future changes to taxes, Social Security, or Medicare could impact retirees. 17:29 – Planning for the Unknown You can't control everything, but you can create buffers. “Risk is what's left over after you think you've thought of everything.” – Morgan Housel 18:30 – Don't Worry Alone: Seek Guidance The brothers encourage listeners to reach out if they feel uncertain. Asking the right questions—and having a trusted guide—can make all the difference.

Retirees have leveraged the traditional IRA for decades to invest and save, but is it still the best tool for today's retirement landscape? IRA expert Ed Slott recently called the traditional IRA “the worst possible asset to own,” which is a bold statement. If this is true, when did it all change, and what are some better options? In this episode, we'll explore the validity of this statement and have a real conversation about investing and taxes.  Here's what we cover in this episode:

I wanted to title this episode "Stable & Controlled" because that's what LTC health underwriters look for in every applicant's medical history. Today, I share several things not to do until after you've applied and been approved for some form of LTC insurance. We don't need to be in perfect health, but we need to be aware of red flags that the insurance companies will view as an unacceptable risk. Listen and learn what not to do until both you and the insurance company of your choice have made decisions and coverage is in place. Schedule with me to design your plan   Estimate traditional and hybrid LTC premiums   Learn what your state Medicaid system lets you keep Explore current and projected future costs of care at home, in assisted living and in nursing homes   

Maximizing your retirement plan contributions is one of the most powerful ways I can help you secure your financial future. As we near the end of the first quarter of 2025, it's the perfect time to review your contributions. In this episode, I break down how you can ensure you're contributing the maximum allowable amount and why it's essential to do so. I explain how to calculate your contribution limits based on your salary and pay frequency, so you can easily determine how much you should be setting aside per pay period.  If you haven't adjusted your contributions for the year, don't worry—I'll walk you through how to quickly get back on track to ensure you're maximizing your retirement plan. By taking action now, you can set yourself up for greater savings down the road. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (0:00) The importance of maximizing retirement contributions (3:21) How to calculate maximum contributions for those under 50 (6:50) How catch-up contributions for individuals over 50 (and how to maximize these) (8:12) A new super catch-up provision for those aged 60-63 under the Secure Act 2.0 (9:34) Employer matching contributions and how they fit into your total contribution limit (12:03) How to convert after-tax contributions to Roth accounts to maximize growth (14:55) The advantages of using a taxable brokerage account for additional savings 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

This week, Angela discusses key financial and legislative updates, including the Corporate Transparency Act, Social Security Fairness Act, Secure Act 2.0, the impact of executive orders on financial markets, and more.   Key Takeaways

In Chapter 11 of The Informed Fed, “Understanding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs),” Jeffrey Roediger and Bryant Stone break down RMD rules, recent changes under Secure Act 2.0, and strategies like Roth conversions to reduce tax burdens and maximize retirement savings.To order the book: https://a.co/d/gdQclm6To schedule a consultation with Bryant Stone: https://go.oncehub.com/consultation3For additional resources for the federal employee, visit www.myfeduniversity.comBryant.Stone@toprankadvisors.com(919) 300-5870

Four categories are recognized under current regulations to qualify as an Eligible Designated Beneficiary (EDB). These include the surviving spouse, minor children of the decedent, a disabled or chronically ill individual as assessed at the time of the decedent's passing, and other individuals who are no more than ten years younger than the deceased account owner. If you fall into one of these categories, you'll be afforded more time and flexibility than Non-Eligible Designated Beneficiaries. This is due to recent regulatory changes, underscored by The Secure Act, altering the landscape of inherited IRAs. Outline of This Episode [00:00] The complexities and benefits of being an eligible designated beneficiary (EDB) for inheriting an IRA. [03:34] Eligible designated beneficiaries have two key advantages: more time and flexibility in inheritance. [08:21] Withdrawing from an IRA before age 59 incurs a 10% penalty and income tax; RMDs depend on age, starting at 73 for most people. [10:10] The stretch IRA avoids a 10% penalty by basing RMDs on life expectancy.  [15:46] Timing distributions strategically can reduce tax liability. Wait until retirement to avoid high tax brackets.  [18:01] Evaluate options carefully when inheriting an IRA, considering tax implications and future changes. ***********

Kaaren Hall is the founder and CEO of uDirect IRA Services, LLC, a leading provider of self-directed IRA accounts since 2009. With over 20 years of experience in real estate, mortgage lending, and self-directed retirement accounts, she has helped thousands take control of their retirement funds by investing in alternative assets like real estate, private lending, and precious metals. A sought-after speaker, Kaaren has shared her expertise at top industry conferences, including BiggerPockets' BPCON22, 23 & 24.In addition to leading uDirect IRA Services, Kaaren founded the Orange County Real Estate Investors Association (OCREIA) in 2012, fostering education and networking among investors. She is also the author of Self-Directed IRA Investing: A BiggerPockets Guide, a comprehensive resource for investors looking to build wealth through self-directed IRAs. Passionate about financial education and advocacy, she serves on the boards of The Council on Aging Southern California and the Retirement Industry Trust Association (RITA), promoting transparency in the retirement industry.Take control of your future and discover a powerful retirement secret for real estate investors: Self- directed IRAsSelf-Directed IRA Investing: A BiggerPockets Guide with Kaaren Hall. Get it HEREIn this episode:How Self-Directed IRAs empower investors beyond traditional retirement accounts.Self-Directed IRAs vs. 401(k): Key Differences – What sets them apart and which is best for your financial goals. Managing Real Estate in a Self-Directed IRA – Strategies, tax advantages, and potential pitfalls.The Legal Framework for Self-Directed IRAs – What assets qualify and how to stay compliant.Mistakes Investors Make with Self-Directed IRAs. How the SECURE Act 1.0 & 2.0 Affects Retirement Accounts.The Norris Group originates and services loans in California and Florida under California DRE License 01219911, Florida Mortgage Lender License 1577, and NMLS License 1623669.  For more information on hard money lending, go www.thenorrisgroup.com and click the Hard Money tab.Video LinkRadio Show

Ever experienced the gut-wrenching moment of losing a job—or worried about what you'd do if it happened? Today, we tackle how to prepare, what to do immediately, and the smartest moves to protect your finances if your job ever disappears. From building an emergency fund to making the most of employer benefits, we'll walk you through the steps to keep your financial house in order when life throws a curveball. But that's not all. Estate planning gets a shake-up thanks to the new Secure Act 2.0, and we're diving into what it means for inherited Roth IRAs (hint: the government has new rules, and you'll want to know them). And because we can't resist a good detour, we also explore the real cost of horse ownership (spoiler: it's more than just hay money) and why tide pooling is more financially educational than you'd think. All that, plus trivia, TikTok wisdom (or nonsense), and plenty of lively discussion from the basement crew. What's Inside Today's Episode: Job Loss Survival Guide: How to prepare before, during, and after a layoff. Emergency Fund Essentials: Why you need one (and how much is enough). Navigating Employer Benefits: Making the most of what's available before you leave. Secure Act 2.0 & Estate Planning: The new rules around inherited Roth IRAs. Trivia & The TikTok Minute: Because questionable financial advice is always worth dissecting. Horse Stackers & Expensive Hobbies: Ever wonder what it really costs to own a horse? We break it down. Tide Pooling Adventures: A financial lesson wrapped in sea creatures and crashing waves. Key Takeaways from the Episode: ✔️ Job security is a myth—be ready. Build that emergency fund, update your resume, and keep networking. ✔️ Your employer's benefits might be your hidden lifeline. Know what's available before you walk out the door. ✔️ Secure Act 2.0 changes estate planning. If you're inheriting a Roth IRA, don't assume the old rules apply. ✔️ Horses aren't just expensive—they're financial black holes. But that won't stop people from trying. ✔️ Tide pooling might be the best investment lesson in disguise. Patience, observation, and avoiding getting pinched—it's practically a stock market metaphor. Tune in now to make sure you're financially prepared—whether it's for job loss, estate planning changes, or just the unexpected expenses of a very expensive hobby. FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/spring-cleaning-your-estate-plan-1646 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode discusses financial independence strategies, including Barista FI and Coast FI, along with insights into inherited accounts post-Secure Act (2020). Listeners will learn about health insurance considerations in early retirement, the dynamics of inherited IRAs, and how to manage finances during entrepreneurial transitions. The discussion highlights the importance of treating business expenses as valid investments and navigating inheritance with strategic planning. Timestamps & Key Takeaways: 00:01:28 Introduction to Barista FI and Coast FI Key Insight: Barista FI allows early withdrawals from retirement savings while supplementing income through part-time work. Takeaway: Understand the mechanics of Barista FI to reduce stress from job pressure when planning retirement. 00:04:13 Health Insurance Challenges in Early Retirement Key Insight: Health insurance costs can significantly impact your early retirement plans. Actionable Takeaway: Assess your health insurance situation and potential subsidies if considering early retirement. 00:19:08 Understanding Inherited Accounts Post-Secure Act Key Insight: The Secure Act requires non-spouse beneficiaries to deplete inherited retirement accounts within 10 years. Actionable Takeaway: Ensure all retirement accounts have updated beneficiary designations to avoid complications. 00:23:39 Simplifying Inherited IRA Management Key Insight: Spouses can assume the inherited IRA as their own, providing greater flexibility and simpler management. Takeaway: Review spouse beneficiary options when dealing with inherited accounts for optimal tax outcomes. 00:26:11 Using a Brokerage Account for Inheritance Advantages Key Insight: Brokerage accounts benefit from a step-up in basis, allowing heirs to sell securities with no capital gains tax immediately. Actionable Takeaway: Explore how to effectively utilize brokerage accounts for tax efficiency in inheritance. 00:45:58 Freedom from Inherited Advisors Key Insight: Remember, you are not obligated to keep the inherited advisor when managing inherited accounts. Takeaway: Take time to assess whether to maintain or change financial advisory relationships after inheriting accounts. 00:50:09 Investment Approaches in Early Stages of Entrepreneurship Key Insight: Treat your startup costs as investments in yourself and factor in the inherent risks. Action Item: Give yourself permission to direct resources into your business, rather than traditional savings during early entrepreneurship. Actionable Takeaways: Health Insurance Planning: Run the numbers for potential health insurance options based on your anticipated income when planning for early retirement. Beneficiary Check: Verify that all retirement accounts have up-to-date beneficiary designations to prevent issues for heirs. Business as an Investment: Reflect on viewing your business endeavors as valid investments, allowing you to adapt your financial strategy accordingly during entrepreneurial journeys. Quotes to Note: "Health insurance costs can significantly impact your early retirement plans." - Rachael Camp 00:04:13 "Spouses should ideally assume the inherited IRA as their own for simplicity." - Rachael Camp 00:23:39 "You don't have to inherit an advisor when you inherit accounts." - Rachael Camp 00:45:58 Related Resources: The Secure Act Detailed Explanation Health Insurance Subsidy Calculator Discussion Questions: How can understanding Barista FI change your approach to work and retirement? What strategies can help when dealing with inherited accounts? How does the Secure Act impact your financial planning for generational wealth?

Is your business capitalizing on SECURE 2.0? On this episode of THRIVE, Gene sits down with Zachary Keep, Manager of Risk Compliance at Paychex, to unpack the game-changing potential of SECURE 2.0. From tax credits that make setting up a 401(k) basically free to the introduction of auto-enrollment, this legislation is transforming how small businesses attract and retain employees. Zach breaks down how these key provisions can make a lasting difference for your employees — and your bottom line.   Topics include: 00:00 – Episode preview and welcome 01:12 – What is SECURE Act 2.0? 02:45 – SECURE 2.0 incentives for employers 03:12 – Tax credits for new retirement plans 05:22 – Matching contribution incentive structure 06:42 – New auto-enrollment rules 07:58 – Automatic escalation explained 09:31 – Rothification of catch-up contributions 11:51 – State mandated retirement plans 14:21 – SECURE 2.0 key takeaways 15:14 – Wrap up and thank you   12 retirement trends you need to know for 2025: https://bit.ly/3WVT3DD   More regulatory changes every business should prepare for this year: https://bit.ly/4gfFWE6   DISCLAIMER: The information presented in this podcast, and that is further provided by the presenter, should not be considered legal or accounting advice, and should not substitute for legal, accounting, or other professional advice in which the facts and circumstances may warrant. We encourage you to consult legal counsel as it pertains to your own unique situation(s) and/or with any specific legal questions you may have.

Listen in as host David Mandell sits down with Carole Foos, CPA from OJM Group and Greg Heimkreiter, JD, CPA from Howard, Nunn & Bloom, Inc.  David asks both Carole and Greg to give their key insights on the tax landscape as we enter 2025 with a new party in control of both the White House and Congress.  Carole begins with a discussion of potential changes to individual tax rates and Greg mentions the SALT limitations and dives into estate tax issues as well. David then chats with Carole about retirement plan changes due to the Secure Act, new planning opportunities coming online in 2025, and the continued importance of tax diversification.  Greg then shifts the discussion to corporate taxation, including the possibility that C corporations may come back into more utility for medical practices and other small businesses.  Carole and David then discuss Qualified Opportunity Zone investments and how the deferred tax is going to be coming up for payment soon and what that means for 2025 tax planning. David concludes asking both Carole and Greg for their input on the changes in the accounting industry and why so many physicians and practices are having difficulty finding good firms who want to provide tax return preparation services.     KEY POINTS Tax Uncertainty in 2025: With potential changes to tax laws due to a new administration, tax planning remains a "wait and see" process, especially for individuals and businesses.  Expiring Tax Cuts: Key provisions of the 2017 tax reforms, including lower individual income tax rates and increased standard deductions, are set to expire at the end of 2025 unless extended.  Estate Tax Exemptions: Current estate tax exemptions of $13 million+/- per individual ($27 million for married couples) could be halved if laws revert in 2026, raising planning concerns.  SALT Deduction Limit: The $10,000 cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions is a significant pain point, particularly for taxpayers in high-tax states like California and New York.  Retirement Plan Changes: The Secure Act 2.0 introduces supersized catch-up contributions for ages 60-63 in 2025 and expands options for Roth contributions, encouraging tax diversification.  Opportunity Zones: Taxes deferred through qualified opportunity zone investments will become due in 2026, requiring proactive liquidity planning for investors.  Inherited IRA Rules: New rules require most beneficiaries to withdraw inherited IRA funds within 10 years, potentially accelerating tax liability.  Business Tax Considerations: Proposed reductions in C corporation tax rates from 21% to 15% and changes in bonus depreciation rules could shift entity structuring decisions.  Qualified Business Income (QBI): The QBI deduction benefits pass-through entities but is not available to most high-income professionals, particularly medical practices.  Industry Shifts in Tax Preparation: A shortage of accountants and outsourcing trends have made finding quality tax preparation services more challenging for individuals and small businesses.  Roth IRAs and RMDs: Funding Roth accounts now can reduce future required minimum distributions (RMDs), offering long-term tax benefits.  Accelerated Depreciation: Businesses, including medical practices, may benefit from restored 100% bonus depreciation for assets like equipment.  Tax Diversification for Retirement: Balancing assets in different tax treatment "buckets" (e.g., Roth, traditional accounts) enhances flexibility and minimizes tax burdens in retirement.  Future of C Corporations: Lower corporate tax rates could make C corporations more attractive, but double taxation remains a potential downside.  Challenges in Accounting Industry: Many firms are shifting away from individual tax returns, emphasizing the importance of finding specialized services that align with clients' needs. Learn more, including additional show notes, links, and more, by visiting physicianswealthpodcast.com. Click here to get your FREE copy of our latest book, Wealth Strategies for Today's Physician!

From Insurance to Exit Planning: Building Confidence in Owner ServicesIn this episode of The Exit Planning Coach Podcast, John F. Dini interviews Brian Trzcinski, Director of Business Market Development at MassMutual, about the evolution of their business owner services. Brian describes his 18-year journey from traditional insurance planning to comprehensive exit planning, emphasizing how MassMutual helps financial advisors build confidence in serving business owners. He shares insights about their adoption of the Exit Planning Institute's CEPA designation and Value Compass valuation tools, explaining how these resources help advisors have deeper conversations with owners. The discussion covers current challenges including the Connolly decision and Secure Act 2.0 but consistently returns to the core theme of building advisor capability and confidence. Through the conversation, Brian emphasizes that while 95% of financial professionals want to work with business owners, many lack the confidence or experience - a gap that MassMutual's training and tools are designed to bridge.

You might think that with the high cost of education today, having too much college savings would be the least of your concerns. But there are many circumstances in which 529 balances remain unused, particularly today when more and more children are opting to forgo college for alternative paths. Donna and Nathan discuss new options for unused 529 savings made available through the SECURE Act 2.0. Also on MoneyTalk, 7 investing lessons for 2025, and Stock Trivia: Two Truths and a Lie. Hosts: Donna Sowa Allard, CFP®, AIF® & Nathan Beauvais, CFP®, CIMA®; Air Date: 1/14/2025; Original Air Dates: 5/28/2024 & 1/2/2025. Have a question for the hosts? Visit sowafinancial.com/moneytalk to join the conversation!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.If you are adopting or have adopted within the last several years you should join our conversation today about claiming the Adoption Tax Credit for 2024. Our guests will be Becky Wilmoth, an Enrolled Agent and Adoption Tax Credit Specialist with Bill's Tax Service; and Josh Kroll, the Adoption Subsidy Resource Center coordinator at Families Rising.In this episode, we cover:What is the Adoption Tax Credit for adoption being claimed on 2024 federal taxes? What is a “credit,” and how does it differ from a deduction or tax savings?How would you use the Adoption Tax Credit if you get a tax refund every year?Should you still apply the credit to your federal income taxes if you don't have any federal tax liability?What types of adoptions are included or excluded? Are kinship adoptions covered? Are kinship guardianship arrangements covered? What if the child never was involved with the foster care system?Can you get credit for each adoption you complete even if completed in the same year? What about adopting siblings at the same time?What is a Qualified Adoption Expense for purposes of the Adoption Tax Credit 2024?When can you claim the Adoption Tax Credit?Special Needs Adoption: How does the Adoption Tax Credit differ for adoptions from foster care? What does the IRS accept as proof of “special needs”?What is a $0 subsidy agreement?Special needs child for international adoptionCan you reclaim your expenses for an attempted adoption that did not result in a placement (failed adoption)? How?What income level (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) is excluded?How long can the credit be carried over?What if you didn't claim the Adoption Tax Credit when eligible? Is the Adoption Tax Credit something you can amend your tax return for, and if so, how do you amend it, and how many years back?Will the Adoption Tax Credit offset self-employment tax?How does the Secure Act impact claiming the Adoption Tax Credit for 2024 taxes? What should you do if the child's Social Security Number is unavailable when you file? Should you use an Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number (ATIN #) if you don't have the child's social security number?How does the Adoption Tax Credit work in conjunction with employee adoption benefits? For special needs adoption?If you adopt, can you still get the Child Tax Credit?What do you need to get the Child Tax Credit for your adopted child?Do you need to send any documentation to the IRS when you file your taxes? What type of documentation should you keep in your records?How do you find a tax specialist knowledgeable about Adoption Tax Credit? The Adoption Tax Credit used to be a refundable credit. Do you think the new administration will impact the refundability legislation? Advocate for refundability Support the showPlease leave us a rating or review. This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org. We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them.Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content: Weekly podcasts Weekly articles/blog posts Resource pages on all aspects of family building

Curious about how to optimize your tax plan for 2025? Join us on this episode of A Wiser Retirement® Podcast as we share key tax moves to make this year. We cover key topics like charitable giving, the SECURE Act 2.0, upcoming legislative changes, monitoring AGI, and optimizing business deductions.Related Podcast Episodes:- Ep 239: How can I reduce my current taxable income?- Ep 229: How do I avoid capital gains tax?Related YouTube Videos:- Reduce Your Taxes and AGI by Giving to Charity- How to Reduce Taxable Income as a Business OwnerLearn More:- Wiser Wealth Management- Schedule a Complimentary Consultation: Discover how we can help you achieve financial success.- Access Our Free Guides: Gain valuable insights on topics such as why most financial plans fail, how to leave a financial legacy, post-divorce financial planning, and more!Stay Connected: - Social Media: Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Twitter- A Wiser Retirement® YouTube Channel This podcast was produced by Wiser Wealth Management. Thanks for listening!

The job report was good, but why is that bad? Before we go into why the good report was bad, let's talk about some of the data. The expected number of payrolls was 155,000, which came in well above that at 256,000 jobs for the month of December and also increased from November when it was 212,000 jobs. This high increase in payrolls caused unemployment to drop to 4.1% and came along with an increase in average hourly earnings of 0.3% for December. Over the last 12 months average hourly earnings have increased 3.9%, which is a decent number, but just under the expected growth in average hourly earnings. Job Growth was seen in healthcare with an increase of 46,0000 jobs. That was followed by leisure and hospitality which saw an increase of 43,000 jobs and government jobs, which includes Federal, state and local jobs were up 33,000. Because it was a holiday season there was an increase in retail jobs of 43,000 after the loss of 29,000 jobs in November. There are always revisions to the previous two months, but there was not much change here as October saw an increase of 7000 jobs and the November report was actually cut by 15,000 jobs which produced a total decline of only 8000 jobs for the past two months. Because the job report was so good compared to expectations, this put fear in the stock market and bond market that there may not be any interest rate cuts until the fall of this year. This also led to concerns that we could maybe see more inflation going forward. Maybe that makes sense for traders to sell, but investors should want a strong economy. That means your businesses will sell more goods and services and increase their profits. Interest sensitive equities like real estate were hit pretty hard with a good job report and banks also had a little trouble digesting the good report and declined as well. For investors I think this is a good report because it shows strength in the economy and based on the recent job openings from the JOLTS report, I think 2025 will be a good investment year for investors in fairly valued equities, but you will see a lot of scary volatility, which smart investors should use as a buying opportunity.   Job openings report sends the market lower! The JOLTs report, which stands for Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey showed an impressive increase in job openings in the month of November to 8.096 million. This easily topped the estimate of 7.65 million and October's reading of 7.839 million, which was revised upward from the initial number of 7.744 million. While this points to a labor market that has continued to remain strong, there were some indications of softening. On a year-over-year basis, job openings fell by 833,000 and the quits rate moved from 2.1% in October to 1.9% in November. This indicates workers are less confident in finding another job if they quit their current one, which should put less pressure on wage inflation. The resiliency in the labor market is concerning for those that are looking for more rate cuts as a strong labor market allows the Fed to be patient and wait for inflation to cool further. The news paired with a December US services sector report that showed faster-than-expected growth and higher prices paid caused the ten-year Treasury to climb to around 4.7%. This spooked many speculative areas of the market including technology and cryptocurrencies.   Apple Intelligence, maybe not so intelligent? Apple's AI system, also known as Apple Intelligence, has been having some issues and has been spreading fake news. One of the AI features for iPhones summarizes users' notifications, but some of the news stories it has been summarizing has been completely inaccurate. It recently attempted to summarize a BBC News notification that falsely claimed British darts player Luke Littler had won the championship. Unfortunately, this came a day before the actual tournament's final, which Littler did end up winning. Maybe Apple Intelligence is so good it can predict the future? This was not the only false story though as Apple Intelligence has now wrongly claimed that Tennis star Rafael Nadal had come out as gay, Luigi Mangione, the man arrested following the murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, had shot himself, and that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had been arrested. The BBC in particular has been trying for a month to get Apple to fix the problem. In response, Apple apparently told the BBC it's working on an update that would add clarification that shows when Apple Intelligence is responsible for the text displayed in the notifications. This compares to the current situation where generated news notifications show up as coming directly from the source. To me this doesn't sound like a good solution as it doesn't solve the problem and most people likely wouldn't read past the headline anyway. This could still make the news organizations look bad, which I'm sure they are trying to avoid. Personally, I'm still not seeing the need to upgrade to the new iPhone, especially if these new AI features don't provide any value. From an investment standpoint, as you likely know we still believe Apple is extremely expensive trading at nearly 30x future earnings and would not recommend the stock at this time.   The tariffs are coming, who could get hurt? The retail industry will take a big hit on profits. It is estimated that about 23% of durable consumer goods like refrigerators, washers and dryers are connected to imported goods. About 19% of non-durable goods such as diapers, clothing, shoes and towels have some sort of dependency on imported products. These could be slightly higher because the only data available was from the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco that came out in a 2019 study. You may think that technology and the Mag Seven will be immune from the hit to profits, but even they could face problems. Nvidia has a 76% gross margin so they should be able to absorb most, if not all of any tariffs that come their way. Apple has half the gross profit margin of Nvidia at 37% and most of their products are built in China, which could be a huge dilemma for Apple. It is no guarantee but last time around the CEO of Apple, Tim Cook, was able to get an exemption on their products. Will that happen in 2025? That's the big question. If they don't get the exemption, their stock could take a massive hit that could be more than Apple investors have seen in a while. If you're an Apple investor, you may want to use the sophisticated investing technique of crossing your fingers and anything else you're able to cross as well and hope for the best. With the other Mag Seven such as Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon and Meta, their products are safe but keep in mind that combined they spent roughly $200 billion in capital expenditures in the most recent quarter and about 60% was on imported equipment. The other industry that could take a big hit would be carmakers, such as Ford, General Motors and Stellantis and we could see hits to the operating profits anywhere from 20 to 30%. The big fear here is the estimate is between 50 to 70% of parts for the popular cars sold in the U.S. come from Canada or Mexico. Experts estimate that the consumers will see about a 6% increase in the price of new cars sold here in the US. I can't even imagine what the increase on the price of a car will be if it's a full import like a Porsche, Maserati or Ferrari. The good news is that the economy in the US is far stronger than Europe, China and Mexico, so we can weather the storm and be in a better negotiating position than those countries. With that said, I do believe we will go through some pain before things get better. I also believe if you have equities with high valuations in your portfolio that are affected by the tariffs, they could take a much larger hit than your low valuation companies that pay dividends.   Changes to Catch-Up Contributions Every year the contribution limits for retirement accounts increase.  This year is a little different because one of the provisions from the Secure Act 2.0 is now active.  If you are under the age of 50, your contribution limit for an employer sponsored retirement plan like a 401(k) is now $23,500, an increase of $500 from 2024.  If you will be 50 or older by the end of the year, you may make an additional catch-up contribution of $7,500 which means your total contribution limit is now $31,000.  However, starting in 2025 thanks to the Secure Act 2.0, if you are between the ages of 60 and 63, you may make a catch-up contribution of $11,250 rather than $7,500, meaning your total contribution limit is $34,750.  This age range is based on how old you will be at the end of the year, so if you are turning 60 this year, you are eligible to contribute the entire $34,750.  However, if you are currently 63 but will be turning 64 this year, you may only contribute $31,000.  If you are wanting to max out your retirement plan, make any necessary adjustments to your payroll contributions now so you don't have to scramble at the end of the year.  This addition catch-up contribution was implemented to help older workers prepare for retirement, but I don't see how this will make much of a difference for anyone.  It increases the contribution limit by $3,750 for 4 years, which is a total of $15,000.  An extra $15,000 is not going to make or break anyone's retirement, especially considering we already the option of funding non-retirement investment accounts after maxing out retirement accounts.   Companies Discussed: Expand Energy Corporation (EXE), Paychex, Inc. (PAYX), Cintas Corporation (CTAS) & United States Steel Corporation (X)

For the first time this year, on the 2024-25 FAFSA, students are no longer required to report cash gifts from a grandparent or contributions from a grandparent-owned 529 savings plan. As Peter with Richon Planning explains to Erin Kennedy, that means, grandparents can now use a 529 plan to fund a grandchild's education without impacting the child's financial aid eligibility. Peter also walks through the benefits of contributing to a 529 plan, including perhaps the biggest perk following the passage of the SECURE Act 2.0: up to $30,000 of unused funds in a 529 account can be rolled over into a Roth IRA for your grandchild, giving him or her a leg up on retirement planning! If you'd like to talk about how to open a 529 account, or if you'd like to learn about other ways to help your grandchildren financially, please call Peter at (919) 300 - 5886 or visit www.RichonPlanning.com

Since the passing of the SECURE Act 2.0, the IRS age trigger for required minimum distributions has been raised to 73, but having a little extra time to grow your assets doesn't necessarily mean there will be more money left when you pass. Donna and Nathan discuss RMD planning, and how to use the rules to your maximum benefit. Also on MoneyTalk, Stock Trivia: Two Truths and a Lie. Hosts: Donna Sowa Allard, CFP®, AIF® & Nathan Beauvais, CFP®, CIMA®; Air Date: 1/7/2025; Original Air Date: 10/15/2024. Have a question for the hosts? Visit sowafinancial.com/moneytalk to join the conversation!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questions? Thoughts? Send a Text to The Optometry Money Podcast!In this episode, your host, Evon Mendrin, CFP®, CSLP®, owner of Optometry Wealth Advisors, dives into the critical financial and tax updates optometrists need to know as we head into 2025. Whether you're an associate OD, a private practice owner, or planning to start your own practice, these updates are vital to helping you make informed financial decisions.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Retirement Account Contribution Limits for 2025:Updates for 401(k), SIMPLE IRA, HSA, and IRA contribution limits, and how to adjust your contributions accordingly.SECURE Act 2.0 Changes Now in Effect:Automatic enrollment requirements for newer 401(k) plans, new rules for long-term part-time employees, enhanced catch-up contributions, and more.Key Tax Updates for 2025:Changes to tax brackets, standard deductions, Qualified Business Income (QBI) phaseouts, and the Social Security wage base.Student Loan Repayment Tips:How the timing of your tax filing can impact income-driven repayment plans, especially if you're pursuing loan forgiveness.Inherited IRA RMDs:The return of required minimum distributions for inherited IRAs and what this means for beneficiaries in 2025.Things to Watch in 2025:Updates on Corporate Transparency Act reporting, SAVE plan court cases, and the potential sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.Resources Mentioned:

Hosted By: Joe Bert CFP® & Aaron Bert CFP® Joe Bert CFP® and Aaron Bert CFP® take your calls and provide expert answers to your questions on NEWS 96.5 FM. Submit your questions to:  1-844-220-0965 Joe@FinancialGroup.com •  Aaron@FinancialGroup.com   The post Secure Act 2.0 and other changes coming in 2025 appeared first on On The Money Podcast.

Does it make sense for Alex and his wife in Massachusetts to do Roth conversions now to the top of their eventual tax bracket? Steve in San Diego got serious about saving for retirement after Joe and Big Al gave him some tough love 5 years ago. Is he good to retire now, and should he convert to Roth? That's today on Your Money, Your Wealth® podcast number 510 with Joe Anderson, CFP® and Big Al Clopine, CPA. Plus, can Barbara in New Jersey's grandson move excess 529 funds to a Roth and withdraw the money after 5 years? PWare has a cunning plan to gift appreciated stock to avoid capital gains tax, but will it work? Should Mike create a limited liability company for his rental properties? And finally, qualified charitable distributions don't make sense to GetSmart Paul. Sherri in California wonders if her kids can inherit her savings account without any tax penalty, and whether there's a safe, high-yielding investment she should put it in. And Houry in New York wonders if her IRA can fund a charitable remainder unitrust, or CRUT. Access free financial resources and the episode transcript: https://lnk.to/ymyw-510 DOWNLOAD The Complete Roth Papers Package DOWNLOAD The Retirement Readiness Guide WATCH Retirement Pop Quiz: 18 Questions to Get You Ready to Retire on YMYW TV LISTEN to Steve in San Diego's 2019 question Al: "Maybe you gotta live in a trailer somewhere." Joe: "that side hustle, you better be able to do that in a wheelchair." LISTEN to YMYW Podcast Best of 2021, 2022, and 2023 REQUEST: Ask Joe & Big Al for your Retirement Spitball Analysis SCHEDULE: free financial assessment SUBSCRIBE: YMYW on YouTube DOWNLOAD: more free guides READ: financial blogs WATCH: educational videos SUBSCRIBE: YMYW Newsletter Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro: This Week on the YMYW Podcast 01:08 - Should We Do Roth Conversions to Our Eventual Tax Bracket? (Alex, MA) 07:51 - YMYW Tough Love Made Me Get Serious. When Can I Retire? Should I Do Roth Conversions? (Steve, San Diego, CA) 14:11 - Download the Complete Roth Papers Package for free 14:59 - Can Grandson Withdraw 529 Funds From Roth After 5 Years? (Barbara, NJ) 18:37 - Can We Avoid Capital Gains Tax With This Appreciated Stock Gifting Strategy? (P Ware) 20:57 - Should I Create an LLC for Rental Properties? (Mike, voice) 23:00 - Qualified Charitable Distributions Don't Make Sense to Me (GetSmart Paul, YouTube) 24:59 - Watch the Retirement Pop Quiz on YMYW TV, Download the Retirement Readiness Guide for free 25:45 - Do My Kids Inherit My Savings Account Without Tax Penalty? What's a Safe, High-Return Investment for Them? (Sherri, CA) 27:18 - Can an IRA Fund a Charitable Remainder Unitrust? (Houry, NY) 31:43 - Outro: Next Week on the YMYW Podcast

In this episode, Shawn Terrell discusses essential financial planning strategies for dentists in 2025, focusing on key numbers that will impact retirement savings and tax planning. He highlights the importance of understanding catch-up contributions, especially for those nearing retirement, and provides resources for listeners to access updated financial information.--------------------------TakeawaysImportant financial numbers go up every year.Catch-up contribution for 2025 between age 50-59 is $7,500.The maximum qualified plan total deferral is $34,750 for ages 60 to 63.Tax deferred accounts can be crucial for late-stage dentists.The Secure Act 2.0 introduced new catch-up limits starting in 2025.Roth IRA and Traditional IRA contribution limit is $7,000 for 2025.Download all the important numbers for 2025.Late-career dentists may be able to stuff a little bit more money away.Understanding these numbers is vital for financial planning.-----------------------------Resources from Episode  ------------------------------Dentist Exit Planning:Website: dentistexit.comEmail Shawn at: shawn@dentistexit.comSchedule a Discovery MeetingSign-Up for Dentist Exit Email Newsletter-------------------------------Follow Dentist Exit on Social Media:Facebook Group for DentistsWatch on YouTubeInstagramLinkedIn

On this week's episode of THE FINANCIAL COMMUTE, host Chris Galeski welcomes Wealth Advisor Patrice Bening to discuss how to strategize distributions when inheriting IRAs, complexities introduced by Secure Act changes in 2020, and what to know for 2025.Here are some key takeaways from their conversation:- In 2020, Secure Act 2.0 made it so non-spouse beneficiaries must fully deplete inherited retirement accounts (traditional or Roth IRAs) within 10 years, instead of stretching distributions over their lifetimes.- Starting in 2025, individuals who inherited IRAs after January 1, 2020, must begin taking annual RMDs within the 10-year window.- Beneficiaries need to consider their income levels, tax brackets, and financial plans when deciding how much to withdraw annually to minimize taxes and maximize financial benefits.- Spouses have unique flexibility, such as rolling an inherited IRA into their own account to delay RMDs or treating it as an inherited IRA to access funds penalty-free.- Minors who inherit IRAs can use their life expectancy for withdrawals until turning 18, after which the 10-year rule applies. Withdrawals can impact eligibility for student aid or repayment plans.- Individuals aged 70.5 or older can make qualified charitable distributions (QCDs) directly from inherited IRAs to reduce taxable income while fulfilling RMD requirements.- Failing to take an RMD incurs a 25% penalty, which can be reduced to 10% if corrected within two years. Beneficiaries must stay on top of annual distribution requirements. 

In this episode of  'Retire with Style' Alex and Wade continue answering your questions about the various aspects of retirement planning. Their conversation focuses on the implications of the Secure Act 2.0 on SPIA and RMD calculations, the legal responsibilities surrounding RMD miscalculations, strategies for protecting late-life income against inflation, optimizing Social Security payments, and the considerations for Roth IRA contributions versus distributions. They also emphasize the importance of understanding new regulations, legal implications, and financial strategies to ensure a secure retirement. Listen now to learn more!   Takeaways Understanding the new RMD rules can significantly impact retirement planning. SPIA payments can now be aggregated with IRA balances for RMD calculations. Legal advice may be necessary for resolving RMD miscalculations. Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) can help protect against inflation. Roth IRA contributions should ideally be made early in the year. Dollar-cost averaging can mitigate market volatility in distributions. Innovative financial products are emerging to address retirement income needs. Understanding the implications of the Secure Act 2.0 is essential for retirees. Chapters 00:00 Strategies for Achieving a Funded Ratio 01:22 Understanding RMDs and SPIAs 12:28 Inflation Protection for Late Life Income 22:41 Optimizing Social Security Benefits 24:11 Investment Strategies: Lump Sum vs. Dollar Cost Averaging 32:07 Withdrawal Strategies: Constant Percentage vs. Variable Spending   Links The Retirement Planning Guidebook: 2nd Edition has just been updated for 2024! Visit your preferred book retailer or simply click here to order your copy today: https://www.wadepfau.com/books/  This episode is sponsored by McLean Asset Management. Visit https://www.mcleanam.com/retirement-income-planning-llm/ to download McLean's free eBook, “Retirement Income Planning”

In this episode of Financial Clarity for Doctors, our hosts Rachelle Vanderzanden and Corey Janoff chat through some upcoming changes to retirement savings rules. A handful of adjustments happen every year, but there are also some new updates coming up because of the Secure Act and the Secure Act 2.0. Updates include: Details on increases to contribution limits. New 401k/403b catch up rules for folks aged 60-63. New Roth rules for catch up contributions starting in 2026. Updated limits on social security wage limits and covered compensation for workplace retirement plans. How to set aside as much as possible into your tax-advantaged accounts whether you are a W-2 employee or self-employed. For most people, retirement plans are one of the best ways to save on taxes.  Make sure you are using them to your advantage as much as possible!  To hear more, listen to the full episode. For more financial planning tips from Corey and Rachelle, find them on social media! LinkedIn: @CoreyJanoff and @RachelleVanderzanden; Instagram: @CoreyJanoff and @VanderzandenRachelle; and Twitter: @CoreyJanoffCFP and @RachelleFinance  Discussions in this show should not be construed as specific recommendations or investment advice. Always consult with your investment professional before making important investment decisions. Securities offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a Registered Investment Adviser. Finity Group, LLC and Cambridge are not affiliated. Cambridge does not offer tax or legal advice.

Do you know what effects the Secure Act 2.0 will have on your financial planning? Find out in today's episode. 00:00 – Intro 00:53 – The Most FRUSTRATING Financial Move I've Made 08:30 – Changes from the Secure Act 2.0 10:15 – 1) Educational Investments 14:32 – 2) Retirement Contributions 18:06 – 3) Retirement Matching 20:40 – 4) Retirement Distributions 24:56 – 5) Other Miscellaneous Changes 27:55 – 6) Seldom Mentioned Changes Today's story describes one of the most painfully frustrating financial moves we have ever made. And it ALL could have been avoided if we had known about the changes to the Secure Act 2.0! What was the most frustrating financial move that you have made? The main topic goes over 6 broad categories of changes that the Secure Act 2.0 has caused in the financial world. These changes could be VERY important for your financial journey. Let us know what you think in the comments!  Please don't forget to like, share, and subscribe! Doing so helps us grow and share HopeFilled financial wisdom. We release a new full episode every Tuesday! Disclaimer: This podcast serves as educational entertainment only. Any and all opinions relating to real estate, law, taxes, insurance, and/or securities investing that may be contained within this podcast should not be interpreted or implemented as recommendations nor advice. The opinions related to these topics – especially those regulated by state and/or federal entities – should never be taken as replacement for advice from a competent, licensed professional. HopeFilled Financial Coaching is not liable for any individual acting on any understanding of topics directly or indirectly related to real estate, legal practice, taxes, insurance, or investing even if an individual in question changed their understanding after listening to this podcast. All listeners are entirely responsible for seeking advice from licensed professionals before taking any action of their own.  Our Website: HopeFilledFinancial.com Music: "Take Me Higher" by Jahzzar Music Copyright License: This music is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. To view a copy of this license, visit http://creativecommons.org/licenses/b... or send a letter to Creative Commons, PO Box 1866, Mountain View, CA 94042, USA.

As the calendar year draws to a close, end-of-year planning becomes essential for individuals seeking to secure their personal and financial futures. In this episode of Parenting Impossible, I dive into the importance of taking control of your finances with a proactive mindset. Instead of getting stuck on setbacks, I encourage you to focus on celebrating your wins and using them as a foundation to move forward. I share practical tips on keeping your asset lists and important documents, like letters of intent, up to date—not just to avoid legal issues but to simplify life for you and your loved ones. We'll also explore how timely retirement and tax planning can set you up for success in the new year, especially in light of the updates from the Secure Act. Let's make this the year you take charge with confidence!  In this episode, you will hear: Why it is important to update documents like letters of intent. What to focus on celebrating at the end of the year. How reviewing retirement assets and estate planning documents benefits you. Why it is crucial to align beneficiary designations with estate planning goals   Engage with us: Join our community: Circle of Care Visit:  https://annettehines.com Read Butterflies and Second Chances LinkedIn: @annette-hines-snc  Instagram: @parentingimpossible Facebook: @SpecialNeedsCompanies Twitter: @SpecialNeedsCo   Follow and Review: We'd love for you to follow us if you haven't yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.  

Adam Bergman discusses a critical development in retirement planning: the new "lost and found" system under the SECURE Act 2.0. This initiative will help millions of Americans track down unclaimed retirement funds from past employers, which could include 401(k)s or profit-sharing plans they weren't aware of. Adam dives into how it works, potential privacy concerns, and the regulatory hurdles.

You don't need to work longer, you just need a better plan. Schedule a consultation with this link to tailor a plan that suits your unique financial goals:

Imagine growing your wealth tax-free and leaving a legacy for your loved ones. In this episode, Mike Canet delves into the benefits of using life insurance policies as a tax-efficient investment tool, contrasting it with traditional 401(k) plans. By investing in life insurance, you can potentially achieve a higher rate of return without the burden of taxes, both when contributing and withdrawing. Mike emphasizes the importance of balancing today's needs with future planning, ensuring financial advantages for both you and your heirs. Additionally, this episode touches on the current political landscape and its impact on federal spending, urging listeners to make informed decisions about their finances. Join the conversation to learn how to navigate the Secure Act 2.0 and optimize your financial strategy. Want to begin building your retirement plan? Schedule a call with us here:

Get the latest on 2025 retirement contribution limits! Adam Bergman unpacks changes to IRAs, 401(k)s, SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, Roths, and Solo 401(k)s, plus Secure Act 2.0 enhancements for ages 60-63. Learn what's new, what's the same, and how it impacts your savings strategy!

URL:  https://www.lpfadvisors.com/   Episode Summary: The information I am providing is my opinion and not necessarily that of my firm or this platform.  I am only providing general educational information and not any customized investment recommendations. You should consult with your Financial Advisor, Tax Advisor or Attorney on your specific situation. Nothing shall be construed as Financial, Tax or legal advice or recommendations. The Secure Act has brought significant changes to the landscape of inherited IRAs, most notably with the implementation of a 10-year rule for non-spouse beneficiaries. This rule requires that the entire balance of an inherited IRA be withdrawn within a decade, necessitating strategic tax planning to avoid unnecessary tax burdens. Kris Flammang and Collin Habig, both experts in financial planning, stress the importance of understanding this new regulation and the necessity of spreading distributions over the 10-year period. Their perspectives are shaped by their extensive experience in advising beneficiaries to manage taxable income efficiently, ensuring compliance with the updated rules. Both Flammang and Habig advocate for consulting with tax professionals or financial advisors, highlighting the complexity of the Secure Act and the need for proactive planning to maximize financial benefits.   Here's what to expect this episode: Tax planning is crucial to navigate the new rules introduced by the Secure Act for non-spouse beneficiaries of inherited IRAs. Beneficiaries must determine their beneficiary type and consult professionals to create a distribution strategy that complies with the regulations and minimizes tax implications.   Connect with Collin Habig https://www.linkedin.com/in/collinhabig/   Connect with Kris Flammang https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristopher-flammang-lpfadv/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 'Retire with Style', hosts Alex Murguia and Wade Pfau, along with guest Rob Cordeau, continue their conversation into the complexities of Roth conversions and their implications for tax efficiency in retirement planning. They discuss the nuances of paying taxes on conversions, the importance of understanding tax brackets, and the impact of the SECURE Act on intergenerational wealth transfer. The conversation emphasizes strategic planning to optimize tax outcomes for both current and future generations, highlighting the need for a dynamic approach to retirement income management. They highlight the value of having a diversified tax strategy to enhance financial flexibility in retirement. Listen now to learn more!  Takeaways Roth conversions can be beneficial if done at a lower tax rate. Paying taxes from an IRA during a Roth conversion isn't always bad advice. Tax brackets in retirement can vary significantly based on spending phases. Intergenerational planning is crucial for optimizing tax liabilities for heirs. The SECURE Act has changed the landscape for inherited IRAs, requiring careful planning. Clients often go through different spending phases in retirement, affecting tax strategies. Understanding the timing of tax payments can lead to better financial outcomes. Overconfidence can lead to over-converting in Roth strategies. Having a tax-free bucket in retirement offers significant advantages. Understanding the pro-rata rule is crucial for backdoor Roth conversions. Tax projections are vital for effective Roth conversion planning. Flexibility in tax strategy can enhance retirement income management. It's important to consider state tax implications when converting. Engaging in Roth conversions can open doors for future financial flexibility. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Roth Conversions 08:35 Intergenerational Tax Planning 17:57 Hedging Strategies in Retirement Planning 24:03 Mistakes in Roth Conversions 30:01 Understanding Roth Conversion Nuances   Links Click here to submit your question for a future RWS Live Q&A: retirementresearcher.com/ask The Retirement Planning Guidebook: 2nd Edition has just been updated for 2024! Visit your preferred book retailer or simply click here to order your copy today: https://www.wadepfau.com/books/  This episode is sponsored by McLean Asset Management. Visit https://www.mcleanam.com/retirement-income-planning-llm/ to download McLean's free eBook, “Retirement Income Planning”

Dan and Scott discuss accessing 403(b) money at 59.5 while working and the new age 60 "super" catch up provision which will go into effect in 2025. Dan also talks about completing the mission he and three other friends started in 1990: to see a game in every NFL city.    401(k)/403(b)/457(b) Age 60 "Super" Catch-Up One Weird Trick to Fix Retirement Plans a.k.a. "SECURE" Act 3.0 Learned by Being Burned - Short pod series about how teachers got burned then got wise to the 403(b) Meridian Wealth Management 403bwise.org Nothing presented or discussed is to be construed as investment or tax advice. This can be secured from a vetted Certified Financial Planner (CFP®). 

“Prevention is better than cure. Don't feel overwhelmed by all this. Would you remove your own kidney? You would go to a professional to get it done.” -Denise Appleby   Renowned IRA and retirement plans expert Denise Appleby joins our hosts Stephanie McCullough and Kevin Gaines for a crucial conversation on managing your retirement accounts effectively, especially as 2024 comes to a close.   Having trained thousands of financial, tax, and legal professionals, Denise shares her invaluable insights on year-end retirement planning strategies, covering the complexities of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and the potential pitfalls of rollovers.   They talk about the challenges family members face when inheriting IRAs and handling 401(k) withdrawals, including those aged 73 and older.   In addition to RMDs, they also cover Roth conversions and Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), giving you much-needed clarity on suitability assessments and precise reporting needs.   Denise explains the differences between transfers and rollovers, providing real-life examples of costly mistakes and IRS penalties that typically come from common misunderstandings. By sharing these cautionary tales, Denise demonstrates the importance of consulting knowledgeable financial advisors to guide you through these often-daunting processes, ensuring your retirement plan remains on track!   Key Topics: How to Manage Your Retirement Accounts Before the Year Ends (3:38) Navigating IRS Publications and Regulations (10:18) What's Eligible for a Rollover? (22:38) Understanding Beneficiary IRAs and R&D (27:30) Direct Versus Indirect Roth Conversions (38:28) A Primer on Qualified Charitable Distributions (46:42) Stephanie and Kevin's Key Takeaways (59:45)   Resources: DeniseAppleby.com Take Back Retirement Episode 12: What Women Need to Know About IRA's, with Sarah Brenner Take Back Retirement Episode 20: Women + Roth IRA's – What Should You Be Aware Of? Take Back Retirement Episode 58: Secure Act 2.0: New Retirement Account Rules, Same Old Message! Take Back Retirement Episode 78: The Essential Rules to Know When You Inherit an IRA     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.

Join us in this insightful episode as we continue our series on year-end action items, focusing on optimizing your retirement planning. Today, we delve into the intricacies of withdrawing assets, discussing everything from flexible spending accounts to inherited IRAs. We also explore the concept of "gear, not stuff" with insights from Michael Easter, and how making thoughtful purchasing decisions can impact your financial health and the environment. Don't miss our deep dive into tax strategies and the importance of building a resilient retirement plan. Plus, we answer listener questions about decumulation, working with financial advisors, and more. Tune in to take actionable steps toward a secure and fulfilling retirement!PRACTICAL PLANNING SEGMENT(00:00) This week we continue to discuss year end action items to optimize your retirement planning(00:50) We are gearing up for a retirement plan live case study for January. This time we will be focusing on someone who is single with no children.(02:10) Roger shares an anecdote about having his kitchen cabinets painted and discusses gear versus stuff.(05:00) Roger discusses the importance of buying high quality items that last.(07:25) Today we're going to talk about accounts we should consider withdrawing money from before the end of the year. First up are FSA accounts.(08:14) The next accounts we are going to talk about are inherited pre-tax accounts.(09:30) If you inherited an IRA prior to January 1, 2020, your required minimum distribution is required to be taken out by the end of this year.(10:48) What happens if you inherited an IRA after 2020?(12:25) Since the Secure Act 2.0 started in 2023, the penalty for not taking the required minimum distribution is 25% of what you should have taken.(13:35) The next type of required minimum distributions we are going to talk about are those that are age related for original IRA owners.(15:03) Proactively taking qualified distributions can lower your overall tax rate in retirement.LISTENER QUESTIONS (20:44) Next Month, we'll focus on answering some of your questions on AskRoger.(21:12) The first question comes from Scott about principal versus interest and decumulation.(28:59) Next, Joy says she needs help with retirement planning and decumulation of assets.(32:45) Mike asks about decumulation and resilience. How should pre-retirees position retirement assets as they reach the last five years or so before retirement?(39:11) Tom asks about the five year rule for Roth 401k conversions.SMART SPRINT(41:08) Take a look at the items that we talked about in terms of withdrawing assets.BONUS(41:45) Roger reads another excerpt from his grandfather's war journal.REFERENCESAsk Rogerhttps://www.rogerwhitney.com/askrogerMichael Easterhttps://2pct.comDinkytown Calculators- specifically the 10/40 tax estimatorhttps://dinkytown.netSchwab Required Minimum Distribution Calculatorhttps://www.schwab.comSix Shot Saturdayhttps://6shotsaturday.comShow notes created by https://headliner.app

In this episode of Financial Straight Talk, hosts Jim Fox and Kevin McAlpin discuss the nuances of retirement planning, particularly focusing on 401ks. They explore the popularity and pitfalls of 401ks, contrasting them with other retirement options like IRAs and pensions. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding retirement income streams and the implications of the Secure Act on 401k plans. The hosts emphasize the need for financial literacy and proactive management of retirement funds. Ready to connect with Jim today?  Get some Financial Straight Talk!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this video, we break down strategies to make Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) less overwhelming and more tax-efficient. If you're approaching retirement or already retired, understanding RMD rules, age requirements, and the impact on your tax bracket is essential. We cover everything from the basics of RMDs to advanced strategies for minimizing tax implications and preserving wealth. Here's what you'll learn: *What Are RMDs and Why They Matter: Get a clear understanding of Required Minimum Distributions and why they're mandated. *Current RMD Age Requirements: Learn how the Secure Act 2.0 has updated RMD ages, including options for reducing taxable income through strategies like Roth conversions. *Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs): How to donate your RMD directly to charity, avoiding taxes and supporting causes you care about. *The Tax Implications of RMDs: Understand how large RMDs can push you into higher tax brackets and how to plan for it. *Tax Diversification and Asset Location: Why balancing tax-deferred, taxable, and Roth accounts can make a big difference in your retirement plan. Whether you're nearing RMD age or planning for the future, these insights will help you create a more tax-efficient retirement strategy. Don't miss these expert tips on maximizing your retirement savings! Here are key timestamps from the video "How to Make Navigating RMDs Less Taxing," giving you direct access to specific discussions: Introduction to Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) - 00:00 Definition and Importance of RMDs - 00:00:32 Age Requirement for RMDs (Currently 73) - 00:01:04 Changes Under Secure Act 2.0 - 00:02:07 Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) Explained - 00:02:38 Roth Conversions as a Strategy - 00:04:10 Impacts of Large RMDs on Tax Brackets - 00:04:43 Key Milestones for Retirement Accounts (Age 55, 59½, etc.) - 00:05:13 Importance of Tax Diversification - 00:09:05 Managing Capital Gains and Asset Location - 00:09:52

Jim and Chris sit down for another EDU show discussing updates to the SECURE Act that Jim brought back from the recent Ed Slott conference. The post SECURE Act Updates :EDU #2446 appeared first on The Retirement and IRA Show.

Changes to 401(k)s are coming in 2025!In this episode of the Queer Money Podcast, hosts David and John talk with LGBTQ+ financial advisor Jake Skellhorn about significant 401k changes coming in 2025. They highlight five key changes, including updated catch-up contribution limits for those aged 50 and above, mandated Roth catch-up contributions for high income earners in 2026, and automatic 401k enrollments. Jake also explains the Secure Act 2.0's rules on inherited IRAs and the implications for the LGBTQ+ community. They delve into strategies for investing in retirement accounts and the potential benefits for younger and late-start savers in making the most out of these new rules.Topics Covered:00:00 Introduction to 401k Changes in 202500:15 Meet Jake Skellhorn: LGBTQ+ Financial Advisor03:39 Catch-Up Contributions Explained05:26 Investment Strategies for Near-Retirees07:55 Changes for High-Income Earners17:57 Automatic Enrollment in 401ks22:07 Inherited IRA Changes26:57 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFollow us:Queer Money InstagramQueer Money YouTubeQueer Money on TiktokConnect with John on LinkedInConnect with David on LinkedInMentioned in this episode:Subscribe to the Queer Money Weekly NewsletterSubscribe here to get weekly money tips, show notes, Queer Money take-aways, give-aways, access to events and more.Subscribe to the Queer Money weekly newsletter

In this episode of 'Retire with Style', hosts Alex Murguia and Wade Pfau with Jessica Wunder from McLean Asset Management delve into the complexities of early withdrawals from retirement accounts, specifically IRAs and 401(k)s. They discuss the penalties associated with early withdrawals, the Rule of 55, and various exceptions allowing penalty-free access to funds. The conversation highlights the differences between IRAs and 401(k)s, including specific exceptions applicable to each type of account. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the new exceptions introduced by Secure Act 2.0, including emergency withdrawals and disaster recovery relief. They delve into various early withdrawal exceptions, such as those for death, disability, and medical expenses. A significant focus is placed on the 72T approach, which allows for early withdrawals without penalties under specific conditions.    Takeaways The Rule of 55 allows penalty-free withdrawals from 401(k)s after age 55. Public safety employees have unique exceptions for early withdrawals. You can withdraw for medical insurance premiums if unemployed. Educational expenses can be covered by early withdrawals from IRAs. The 72(t) strategy allows for substantially equal periodic payments. There are strict rules governing early withdrawals from retirement accounts. Early withdrawal exceptions include death, disability, and medical expenses. The 72T approach allows for substantially equal payments from retirement accounts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 01:38 Understanding Early Withdrawals from Retirement Accounts 04:02 Exploring the Rule of 55 11:09 Exceptions for IRAs vs. 401(k)s 15:57 Common Exceptions for Early Withdrawals 18:00 New Exceptions in Secure Act 2.0 22:00 Understanding Early Withdrawal Exceptions 30:00 The 72T Approach Explained 35:59 Planning for Retirement Cash Flow Needs   Links Click here to download Retirement Researcher's free resource, “Exception to Early Withdrawal Penalties“: https://retirement-researcher.ontralink.com/tl/476 We're hosting another YouTube LIVE Q&A episode for RWS! Click here to submit your questions: www.retirementresearcher.com/ask Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EzdIgudCkPQ?feature=shared The Retirement Planning Guidebook: 2nd Edition has just been updated for 2024! Visit your preferred book retailer or simply click here to order your copy today: https://www.wadepfau.com/books/  This episode is sponsored by McLean Asset Management. Visit https://www.mcleanam.com/retirement-income-planning-llm/ to download McLean's free eBook, “Retirement Income Planning”

Are you making the most of your 401(k)? In this episode of The Agent of Wealth Podcast, host Marc Bautis dives deep into the 401(k) – a cornerstone of retirement planning that has transformed how Americans save for the future. Tune in to discover the nuances between Roth and pre-tax contributions, including their immediate and long-term implications.The second part in this series will be live on November 8, 2024.In this episode, you will learn:The evolution and history of the 401(k) and its impact on retirement savings.The key differences between Roth and pre-tax 401(k) contributions and their tax implications.How to determine whether Roth contributions may be more beneficial based on your current and future tax situation.The significance of employer matching contributions and how the Secure Act 2.0 has changed matching rules for Roth accounts.The concept of required minimum distributions (RMDs) and the recent changes affecting Roth 401(k)s.The Mega Backdoor Roth strategy, allowing high earners to maximize contributions to Roth accounts beyond standard limits.Resources: Episode Transcript & Blog | Checklist: Should I Contribute to My Roth 401(k)? | Checklist: Can I Make a Mega Backdoor Roth Contribution? | Bautis Financial: 8 Hillside Ave, Suite LL1 Montclair, New Jersey 07042 (862) 205-5000 | Schedule an Introductory Call

Can my job help me repay my student loans AND save for retirement? Popcorn Finance listener Alexis sent in a question wanting to know more about a section of the Secure Act 2.0 that allows employers to match student loan repayments just like they do with retirement contributions. I'm breaking down this section of the Secure Act 2.0, explaining how it works, and sharing how you can find out if your employer offers this benefit. Episode Mentioned 215: 401(k) Q&A - What's a 401(k) Match? Want to submit a question to the show? Send an email to questions@popcornfinance.com  Send me a message at PopcornFinance.com/Voicemail  Call 707-200-8259 Connect with me Instagram | Twitter | Facebook | YouTube | TikTok  Thank you for listening to today's episode! Help support the show by leaving Popcorn Finance a rating or review on Apple or Spotify! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are diving into the SECURE Act 2.0, which was enacted nearly two years ago, and exploring the tax planning opportunities it presents. While many changes are still on the horizon, there are strategies you can implement now to enhance your tax situation. We are breaking down the key changes from the SECURE Act 2.0 and how you can optimize your tax planning in this episode of the Wise Money Show. Season 10, Episode 9   Have a question you want to have answered on the show? Call or text 574-222-2000 or leave a comment! Want to speak with a Certified Financial Planner™? Visit www.korhorn.com or call 574-247-5898. Find more information about the Wise Money Show™ at www.wisemoneyshow.com    Be sure to stay up to date by following us! Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/WiseMoneyShow  Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wisemoneyshow/    Want more Wise Money™? For a behind-the-scenes look at this episode: https://youtu.be/4M7IWFAuQQk  Read our blog! https://www.korhorn.com/wise-money-blog  Subscribe on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/c/WiseMoneyShow   Kevin Korhorn, CFP® offers securities through Silver Oak Securities, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Kevin offers advisory services through KFG Wealth Management, LLC dba Korhorn Financial Group. KFG Wealth Management, LLC dba Korhorn Financial Group and Silver Oak Securities, Inc. are not affiliated. Mike Bernard, CFP® and Joshua Gregory, CFP® offer advisory services through KFG Wealth Management, LLC dba Korhorn Financial Group. This information is for general financial education and is not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations. All investing and investment strategies involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Asset allocation & diversification do not ensure a profit or prevent a loss in a declining market. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.

You've heard the identity theft protection ads for years, but do you really need it?Today, dozens of companies sell identity theft protection, so people obviously buy it. But what exactly are they getting, and is it really worth it?Understanding Identity Theft Protection: Is It Worth It?Identity theft is a growing problem that affects millions of people every year, with schemes ranging from credit card fraud to insurance and tax fraud. With this in mind, many companies offer identity theft protection plans. But is it worth it? Let's take a closer look at the features, their value, and whether or not you should invest in one of these plans.Before diving into the specifics, it's important to remember that fear should never dictate our financial decisions. In 2 Timothy 1:7, Paul reminds us:“For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.”When considering whether to purchase an identity theft protection plan, look at the facts, pray for guidance, and make an educated decision.Typical Features of Identity Theft Protection PlansIdentity theft protection plans come with a range of features, though not every plan includes all of them. Here's a look at some common offerings:Credit Report and Score Access: Many plans provide access to your credit reports and credit score.Credit Report Monitoring: This feature alerts you to suspicious activity, such as new accounts opened in your name.Fraud Alert Setup: Plans often help you set up fraud alerts on your credit reports, making it harder for thieves to open accounts.Dark Web Monitoring: This monitors for signs that your personal information is being misused on the dark web.Fraudulent Account Dispute Assistance: Some plans assist you in disputing fraudulent charges and accounts.Social Security Number Monitoring: You'll be notified if your Social Security number is used suspiciously.Browser Protection Tools: These tools protect your personal information online and alert you to unsafe websites.Insurance Coverage: Some plans include insurance to cover costs associated with identity theft recovery, such as legal fees and lost wages.These features may sound appealing, but is it worth paying $7.50 to $70 per month for this protection?Can You Do It Yourself?Interestingly, most of these features are things you can handle on your own:Credit Report Access: You can easily access your credit reports from Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax, or visit AnnualCreditReport.com for free reports.Credit Monitoring: Monitoring your credit every six months is simple and effective. You can also set up fraud alerts directly with the credit bureaus.Disputing Fraudulent Activity: You can dispute fraudulent charges on the credit bureau websites yourself—no third-party service is required.Browser Protection: Browsers like Chrome, Safari, and Microsoft Edge already offer safe browsing tools; you just need to enable them.There are a couple of features that are harder to manage on your own:Dark Web Monitoring: This is more challenging to do without specialized tools.Social Security Number Monitoring: While not easy to do on your own, this becomes less critical if you're already monitoring your credit and disputing fraudulent activity.What About the Insurance?Many identity theft protection plans offer insurance to cover financial losses. However, disputing fraudulent activity directly with the credit bureaus is usually sufficient to avoid significant out-of-pocket costs. While it might take some time, handling it yourself is typically manageable.Here's an important distinction: These plans offer identity theft protection, not identity theft prevention. They help you fix the problem after it occurs but do little to stop it in the first place.The most powerful thing you can do to prevent identity theft is to freeze your credit at all three credit bureaus. It's free and prevents lenders from checking your credit unless you unfreeze it temporarily when applying for new credit. This simple step can prevent thieves from opening accounts in your name.Should You Buy Identity Theft Protection?Ultimately, purchasing an identity theft protection plan comes down to personal preference. If having one brings you peace of mind and helps you sleep better at night, go ahead and purchase a plan—but do your homework first. And if a free plan is offered after a data breach, don't hesitate to accept it.By staying informed and taking simple steps on your own, you can safeguard your identity without fear.On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:There are so many charities and organizations to donate to, and I'd like to find websites that can help me decide how to allocate my charitable giving. I want to make sure the organizations are using the funds responsibly. What resources can you recommend for researching and evaluating different charities?I have a question about an inherited IRA. My husband inherited two IRAs from his mom, who died in 2020. We have yet to take any distributions. I know the SECURE Act requires withdrawing the total amount within ten years. Is there an advantage to withdrawing it gradually, or is it better to just do a lump sum withdrawal at some point?My mother purchased some land a couple of years ago, with three small houses on about 3 acres. I filed a transfer-on-death (TOD) deed that I printed off the internet, and it went through. Is that a good thing to do? How does that affect my taxes when I inherit the property?I have several accounts that will require me to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) at the end of the year. How do I set it up so the RMD can be paid directly to my church as a qualified charitable contribution to avoid increasing my taxable income?Resources Mentioned:ECFA | Charity NavigatorNational Christian Foundation (NCF)Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.

We sit down with Freddie Rappina, a financial advisor, chartered financial consultant, and accredited investment fiduciary, to explore how the SECURE Act and SECURE Act 2.0 have changed the landscape of retirement and estate planning. Freddie breaks down the new 10-year rule for inherited retirement accounts, explaining its potential tax implications for your heirs. He also shares strategies to mitigate the impact, from Roth conversions to charitable contributions, helping you pass on your hard-earned savings as efficiently as possible. Freddie Rappina is a financial advisor, a chartered financial consultant, and an accredited investment fiduciary who founded Opta Financial. He discusses the KevinMD article, "The hidden estate tax: How the SECURE Act could impact your heirs." Our presenting sponsor is DAX Copilot by Microsoft. Do you spend more time on administrative tasks like clinical documentation than you do with patients? You're not alone. Clinicians report spending up to two hours on administrative tasks for each hour of patient care. Microsoft is committed to helping clinicians restore the balance with DAX Copilot, an AI-powered, voice-enabled solution that automates clinical documentation and workflows. 70 percent of physicians who use DAX Copilot say it improves their work-life balance while reducing feelings of burnout and fatigue. Patients love it too! 93 percent of patients say their physician is more personable and conversational, and 75 percent of physicians say it improves patient experiences. Help restore your work-life balance with DAX Copilot, your AI assistant for automated clinical documentation and workflows. VISIT SPONSOR → https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST → https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD → https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended GET CME FOR THIS EPISODE → https://www.kevinmd.com/cme I'm partnering with Learner+ to offer clinicians access to an AI-powered reflective portfolio that rewards CME/CE credits from meaningful reflections. Find out more: https://www.kevinmd.com/learnerplus

#535: The Cost of Sticking with DIY Investing Melissa and her partner are preparing for the best earning years of their lives. Could they benefit from automated tax-loss harvesting and transition from DIY investing to a robo-advisor? An anonymous caller just learned something surprising about their Roth 401k and feels squeamish about making future contributions to this account. What's Paula and Joe's advice? Hampton is following up on a question from Episode 524 to spark an intriguing discussion on the generational tax advantages of a Roth IRA. Former financial planner Joe Saul-Sehy and I tackle these three questions in today's episode. Enjoy! P.S. Got a question? Leave it here. _______ Melissa asks (at : minutes): An upcoming job change is launching my partner and me into our highest earning years over the next decade. Given our higher tax bracket, what do you think about robo-investing with features like tax-loss harvesting? We're in our early fifties with a paid-off mortgage, $1.6 million in retirement accounts, and $400,000 in a taxable brokerage account. We're DIY investors with mostly total market index funds. Our last kid is finishing college with those costs already set aside.  Since our expenses will be much lower, we'll have more cash to invest after maxing out tax-advantaged accounts. We'll need some of that money to bridge us from retirement in 10 to 12 years to age 70. Does it make sense to look at something like the Schwab Intelligent Portfolio? My partner prefers an aggressive portfolio, but I'd like to mitigate the volatility since we'll need that money earlier than the typical 30 to 40-year investing timeline. How do we think through this? Hampton asks (at : minutes): I usually try to predict what your answers are going to be, but I was way off on episode 524 when Mark asked about how to use a $300,000 inheritance from a Roth IRA. When you interviewed Ed Slott in episode 307, he discussed inherited versus traditional IRAs and the tax implications. He mentioned that the Secure Act changed the inherited IRA rules to require a withdrawal of the full balance within 10 years. Given the tax rules on a Roth IRA, I think the wisest thing for Mark to do is to leave the inheritance alone for 10 years until he's forced to withdraw the money. The $300,000 would become $600,000 at 7.2 percent interest.  He could use his other savings for a down payment to buy the house and let the inheritance grow. At the end of the 10 years, he could easily pay off the house with beautiful tax-free money. What do you think? Anonymous asks (at : minutes): I recently rolled over a Roth 401k from a previous employer into a Roth IRA. After rolling it over, I learned that I'll have to pay taxes on the part of the rollover that is earnings, as opposed to contributions. Is this true? If so, I'm turned off from contributing to a Roth 401k. I know you're big proponents of Roth accounts but I'm worried that this degrades the benefits of this account. Is there something I'm missing? Should I continue contributing to a Roth 401k in the future? For more information, visit the show notes at https://affordanything.com/episode535 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices