The Personal Finance Notebook
Straightforward frameworks for everyday money choices — from cash flow and taxes to equity comp and big life goals. Written by Aaron Randak.
The Health Insurance Subsidy Cliff Came Back, and It Changes the Roth Conversion Math
The 400% subsidy cliff returned January 1. If you buy marketplace coverage, one dollar of Roth conversion over $84,600 can cost a couple $16,000.
The Charitable Gift That Also Lowers Your 2028 Medicare Premium
Giving from your IRA lowers the AGI that sets your 2028 Medicare premium. It only counts against this year's RMD if it goes out first.
How to Size a 2026 Roth Conversion, and the Hidden Bracket Between $150,000 and $250,000
Between $150,000 and $250,000 of income, a retired couple faces a real federal rate near 24.6% while sitting in what the chart calls the 22% bracket.
Inherited a Roth IRA? The Rules Are Better Than You Think
Withdrawals are tax-free, there are no annual required distributions during the 10-year window, and the five-year clock does not reset at death. What most heirs get wrong about inherited Roth IRAs, and what waiting can be worth.
What To Do With Your Old 401(k) Before Year-End: Smart Moves for Retirees and Job Changers
Many retirees and job changers leave old 401(k)s behind, which can lead to higher fees, limited investment options, and lost control.
Year-end is the perfect time to review and consolidate accounts for better organization and tax efficiency.
Rolling your old 401(k) into an IRA offers broader investment choices, clearer fees, and easier integration with your retirement income plan.
Direct rollovers prevent unnecessary taxes or penalties and help keep your money growing tax-deferred.
A well-planned IRA rollover can simplify retirement management and create more flexibility for future Roth conversions or withdrawals.
Reading is a good start. A plan is better.
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