Perspectives from the Path
When Should You Take Your Social Security?
Have you been wondering, “When should I start taking my Social Security?”
The “right” answer to this common question depends on a wide array of personal variables. It depends on how Congress acts. It depends on how the unknowable future plays out.
Let’s take a closer look at how to find the right balance for you.
Understanding the SECURE 2.0 Act
The SECURE 2.0 Act, was similarly enacted at year-end on December 29th, 2022. The legislation seeks to reform how Americans prepare for retirement while juggling current spending needs. Following is an overview of its key components.
Are You Prepared for the RMD Deadline?
As the end of the year approaches, investors over the age of 72 need to ensure they have taken their 2022 Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs).
Accessing Retirement Funds Early Through Rule 72(t)
The IRS's Rule 72(t) allows for penalty-free withdrawals from an IRA or other specified tax-advantaged accounts. If you need to access retirement funds early, here's how you can do so without facing the 10% withdrawal penalty and income tax.
RMD Deadline is Approaching - Don’t Be Penalized!
Don’t forget to take your 2021 RMDs before year-end! Once you reach age 72, you must start taking withdrawals from your traditional retirement accounts to avoid tax penalties.
2 tax-efficient & strategic ways that may help you use/avoid RMDs in the future include:
+ Roth Conversions
+ Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
Creating Liquidity in Retirement Using Your HSA
HSAs carry a unique characteristic that can assist with portfolio decumulation efficiencies in retirement. If you save receipts, you can reimburse yourself from the HSA years later to access tax-free liquidity, in addition to the tax-deferred growth and tax-deductible contribution.
Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): The Holy Grail of Investment Accounts?
If used properly, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can provide a tax deduction on the front-end, tax-deferred growth on earnings, and tax-free withdrawals when used on qualified expenses. With a notable increase in healthcare costs over recent years, HSAs may be a great tool for you to mitigate those costs in the future.
Medicare: How to Time it Right and Avoid Penalties
Are you nearing 65? It’s time to evaluate the coverage options and deadlines surrounding Medicare. We walk through some of the main considerations regarding timing, coverage, and avoiding penalties. Make sure you are informed for this next stage of life!
2021 Tax Changes: What We Know Now (Updated)
Here's what we know now about 2021 tax changes - how can you optimize now?
Book Review: Your Money Made Simple by Russ Crosson
Finding balance is often a difficult thing. On the surface, it sounds so simple but within many areas of life, it can be very elusive. Take some time to think about how you can take those next steps to find contentment, confidence, and financial freedom with the resources under your care.
Barbell the Roths: How and When to Utilize Roth IRAs
If you're planning a Roth conversion or evaluating the tax implications of Roth contributions, consider the barbell strategy for your retirement planning.
Top Lessons from 2020
2020 will certainly be remembered for many historical events. Here are 7 lessons that investors can learn from the year 2020.
2020 Year-End Planning Guide
How should you prep for 2021? Here's our guide for retirement, tax, and investment considerations as you consider 2020 year-end planning.
Should I Take a Lump Sum or Annuity from My Pension or Retirement Package?
Are you trying to decide between taking a lump sum or annuity from your pension or retirement package? Here are some questions to consider before deciding.
2020 CARES Act Summary
In the midst of recent events, the United States legislature has passed the CARES (Coronavirus, Aid, Relief and Economic Security) Act.
The SECURE Act of 2019
The SECURE Act was signed into law in late December and made many changes to rules around retirement plans and other investment arenas. Almost all investors are impacted, so it is good to see what is inside.
The Retirement Gender Gap
Women are 80% more likely than men to be impoverished in retirement. What are the reasons for this retirement gender gap and how we can close the gap?