Should You Convert Your IRA to a Roth in 2025? Here’s Why Now Might Be Your Best Shot

Roth IRA conversion 2025

Why 2025 Is a Critical Year for Roth IRA Conversions When it comes to retirement planning, timing is everything. And for many retirees and pre-retirees, 2025 may be the most important year yet to consider a Roth IRA conversion. Here’s why: 👉 In short: If you’ve ever considered a Roth conversion, 2025 may be your … Read more

How the “Big Beautiful Bill” Impacts Your Retirement and Financial Plan

big beautiful bill retirees

On July 4th, 2025, a sweeping piece of legislation known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) was signed into law. At over 1,000 pages long, this bill touches taxes, healthcare, savings plans, small business provisions, and more. While the fine print is complicated, the bottom line is this: there are opportunities here for … Read more

The Safe Withdrawal Rate in Retirement: Is 4% Still the Gold Standard?

Safe withdrawal rate in retirement

For decades, the 4% rule has been the go-to retirement strategy: withdraw 4% of your portfolio each year, and your money should last 30 years. But is that still a safe assumption in today’s market? As an advisor who’s helped clients navigate retirement through rising interest rates, inflation spikes, and market downturns, I believe this … Read more

Social Security Spousal Benefits Explained: How to Maximize Your Claim

Social Security spousal benefits strategy

When it comes to retirement planning, many couples underestimate the power of a well-executed Social Security spousal benefits strategy. I’ve seen this single decision make a six-figure difference over a couple’s lifetime. If you’re married, divorced, or widowed, there are strategic ways to maximize your household Social Security income—and they’re often overlooked. What Are Social … Read more

Tax-Efficient Withdrawal Strategies: How to Keep More of Your Money in Retirement

Tax-efficient withdrawal strategies

Using tax-efficient withdrawal strategies in retirement isn’t just smart—it can dramatically increase how long your savings last. I’ve worked with many clients who had solid portfolios but lacked a plan for withdrawals, which cost them thousands in unnecessary taxes. Let’s walk through how you can avoid that. Understanding the Impact of Taxes in Retirement Taxes … Read more

Best Investments for Retirement Income: Strategies for a Secure Future

Best investments for retirement income

When you’re nearing retirement, choosing the best investments for retirement income becomes crucial. Many clients I’ve advised share the same concern: “How do I ensure my money lasts while generating stable retirement income?” Let’s examine the most effective investment options to secure steady retirement income and protect your assets. Dividend-Paying Stocks: Best Investments for Retirement … Read more

How to Start Retirement Planning: A Step-by-Step Guide for Late Starters

How to start retirement planning

Retirement planning is one of the most important financial steps you’ll take in life. If you’re wondering how to start retirement planning, even if you’re behind, this guide will help you build a strong financial future. The good news? It’s never too late to start. With the right strategy, you can build a solid retirement … Read more

Financial Case Study: Are We on Track for Retirement?

Financial Case Study: Retirement Planning Strategy

Category: Retirement & Wealth Planning Case Study Type: Pre-Retirement Planning This financial case study explores how I helped a couple navigate retirement planning, optimize taxes, and use indexed annuities to secure their future. Client Profile Understanding This Financial Case Study John and Susan had been diligent savers, accumulating over $1.3 million in retirement accounts and … Read more

Retirement Planning Mistakes: 7 Costly Errors to Avoid

Retirement planning mistakes

Retirement planning mistakes can derail your financial future if you’re not careful. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about making the right decisions at the right time. Over the years, I’ve seen common mistakes that can derail even the best-laid financial plans. The good news? These mistakes are avoidable if you know what to watch … Read more