• More SECURE Act 2.0 Changes: What 2025 Brings to Retirement Planning

    Navigating the Latest Updates to Retirement Rules for a Smarter 2025 Plan

    The SECURE Act 2.0 has introduced several significant updates to the rules governing retirement savings, many of which will take effect in 2025. These changes are designed to increase savings flexibility, offer new opportunities for long-term growth, and address the evolving needs of today’s savers. Here’s a breakdown of the key provisions and what they mean for your financial planning.

    1. RMD Age Adjustments

    Starting in 2025, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) will begin at age 75 for individuals born in 1960 or later.

    • This change delays when retirees must begin withdrawing from tax-deferred accounts.
    • Consider how deferring RMDs could impact your tax strategy, especially if future withdrawals might push you into a higher tax bracket.

    2. Higher Catch-Up Contributions for Ages 60-63

    For those nearing retirement, catch-up contributions are getting a boost:

    • Workers aged 60-63 can contribute an extra $10,000 (or 150% of the current catch-up limit, whichever is higher) to employer retirement plans.
    • High earners (over $145,000) must allocate these contributions to Roth accounts, which are taxed upfront but grow tax-free.

    3. Roth Matching Contributions

    Employers will soon be able to offer Roth matching contributions:

    • Employees can now direct matching funds into Roth accounts for tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement.
    • Evaluate whether Roth contributions fit your overall tax diversification strategy.

    4. Auto-Enrollment in Workplace Retirement Plans

    Beginning in 2025, new employer-sponsored plans must include:

    • Automatic enrollment at a minimum contribution rate of 3%.
    • Automatic annual increases of 1%, up to 10-15%.
    • Employees can adjust contribution levels or opt out entirely, offering flexibility while encouraging participation.

    5. 529 Plan Rollovers to Roth IRAs

    Unused education savings in 529 plans can now be repurposed:

    • Up to $35,000 (lifetime cap) can be rolled over into a Roth IRA for the plan beneficiary.
    • The 529 account must be open for at least 15 years, and Roth contribution limits apply.
    • This option provides an opportunity to extend the value of unused education funds into retirement savings.

    Related: Navigating College Savings: Exploring 529 Plans and Coverdell ESAs

    6. Emergency Savings Accounts Linked to Retirement Plans

    Employers can help employees save for emergencies while still contributing to retirement:

    • Emergency savings accounts will allow after-tax contributions of up to $2,500 annually.
    • Funds can be withdrawn penalty-free, helping employees handle short-term needs while preserving long-term savings goals.

    7. Student Loan Matching Contributions

    For workers focused on paying off student loans, a new option offers retirement savings benefits:

    • Starting in 2025, employers can match student loan payments with contributions to an employee’s retirement account.
    • This helps workers manage debt while still building a foundation for retirement savings.

    Key Takeaways for Your Retirement Strategy

    These updates reflect an evolving approach to retirement planning. Consider:

    • Reviewing your RMD strategy to align with the new age requirements.
    • Exploring whether enhanced catch-up contributions or Roth options align with your goals.
    • Taking advantage of workplace plan features like auto-enrollment and emergency savings accounts.
    • Making adjustments to your tax planning, especially for high-income earners required to use Roth accounts for catch-up contributions.

    Staying on Top of Changes

    The SECURE Act 2.0 offers new opportunities, but it’s important to assess how these updates fit into your overall financial strategy. Regularly reviewing your plan and discussing these changes with a financial professional can help you stay aligned with your goals as retirement approaches.

    SECURE Act 2.0 Changes: Final Thoughts

    The updates taking effect in 2025 are designed to provide savers with greater flexibility and new tools to enhance their retirement plans. Whether you’re nearing retirement or still in the accumulation phase, understanding how these changes could impact your strategy is key to making informed decisions.

    Illuminated Advisors is the original creator of the content shared herein. I have been granted a license in perpetuity to publish this article on my website’s blog and share its contents on social media platforms. I have no right to distribute the articles, or any other content provided to me, or my Firm, by Illuminated Advisors in a printed or otherwise non-digital format. I am not permitted to use the content provided to me or my firm by Illuminated Advisors in videos, audio publications, or in books of any kind.

  • Financial Transparency: Long-Term Financial Planning Tips for Couples

    Financial Planning Tips for Couples: Build a Stronger Financial Future – Together

    Openness is key to a strong and thriving relationship, especially when it comes to finances. When couples are transparent about their financial status, goals, and future plans, they build trust and foster better communication, both in their relationship and in their long-term financial planning. If you’re unsure how to approach money matters with your partner, this guide will highlight the importance of financial transparency and offer valuable financial planning tips for couples.

    The Importance of Financial Transparency in a Romantic Relationship

    Talking openly about money is often one of the toughest parts of a relationship, yet it’s one of the most important. Financial transparency means more than just revealing your account balances—it includes conversations about your financial mindset, goals, spending patterns, debts, and future plans. Here’s why it matters:

    1. Builds Trust. Honest conversations about money build trust and understanding between partners. When you’re open about your financial situation, it reduces the chances of misunderstandings, arguments, and hidden financial surprises down the road.
    2. Creates Unified Goals. Financial transparency allows couples to set joint financial goals and work together to achieve them. Whether it’s buying a house, saving for retirement, or funding your children’s education, shared goals give your financial planning purpose and direction.
    3. Facilitates Planning. Transparent discussions enable better financial planning. Couples can allocate resources strategically, make informed decisions, and adjust their plans as circumstances change.
    4. Reduces Stress. Money is a common source of stress in relationships. Open communication about finances can help alleviate this stress by allowing both partners to understand the bigger picture and share the responsibilities.

    Related: Mid-Year Retirement Planning Checklist

    Thinking Forward: Long-Term Financial Planning Tips for Couples

    In addition to transparency and a commitment to open and honest communication, these financial planning tips for couples can help you prepare a joint roadmap for your shared future:

    1. Initiate Honest Conversations. Start by sitting down and discussing your individual financial situations openly. Share your income, savings, debts, and credit scores – this will lay the foundation for productive financial planning discussions.
    2. Define Shared Goals. Identify your shared short-term and long-term financial goals. Whether it’s buying a home, traveling, or retiring comfortably, having common objectives gives your financial planning a clear purpose. It’s one of the financial planning tips for couples that will also help you ensure that you’re both staying on the same page.
    3. Create a Budget Together. Collaboratively design a budget that incorporates both partners’ incomes and expenses – and be sure it’s realistic so you can be successful in following it. Think critically about your spending habits and find areas where you can cut back to save for your goals.
    4. Allocate Responsibilities. Divide financial responsibilities based on each person’s strengths and preferences. One partner might be better at investing, for instance, while the other excels at managing day-to-day expenses. Establishing clear roles prevents confusion and ensures both partners are actively involved.
    5. Emergency Fund. This is foundational among financial planning tips for couples. Build an emergency fund that covers at least three to six months’ worth of your joint living expenses. Having this safety net ensures you’re prepared for unexpected financial challenges without derailing your long-term plans – or facing undue financial stress that can negatively impact your relationship.
    6. Manage Debt Together. If either partner carries debt, work together to create a strategy to pay it off efficiently. A smart strategy is to prioritize high-interest debt, like credit cards, and explore consolidation options. By working together to eliminate debt, you and your partner will be able to improve your financial stability significantly.
    7. Invest Wisely. A smart way to build wealth is through savvy investing. Before you begin, research investment options and consult financial professionals if needed. The key is to diversify your investments to mitigate risks and properly align your portfolio with your long-term goals.
    8. Save for Retirement. Both partners should begin saving for retirement as early as possible. Consider opening retirement accounts like IRAs or 401(k)s and contribute consistently. If available, take full advantage of employer match programs as that’s free money that will contribute to the magic of compounding over time.
    9. Regularly Review Your Finances. Set aside time together, perhaps on a monthly or quarterly basis, to review your financial progress. Discuss any changes in your circumstances or goals and adjust your plan accordingly. Get creative, too. This is one of those financial planning tips for couples that can end up being fun if you turn it into a regular date night that incorporates your favorite takeout or a movie, too.
    10. Stay Flexible. Life is unpredictable – just like relationships – and financial plans might need to be adjusted over time. Be open to revisiting and modifying your strategy as circumstances change.
    11. Maintain Open Conversation. Using these financial planning tips for couples is helpful, yet they can’t be one-time endeavors. Regularly discuss your financial status, goals, and concerns. Ongoing communication is key to ensuring you’re both on the same page and working toward a shared future.

    Long-Term Financial Planning for Couples: Do You Need Professional Guidance?

    Financial transparency is essential for a strong partnership, allowing couples to work through the intricacies of long-term financial planning together. By having open discussions, setting mutual goals, and managing your finances collaboratively, you can build a solid foundation for a stable and rewarding future. Keep in mind that reaching your financial objectives is a continuous process. Applying financial planning tips for couples and maintaining honest communication will help you navigate any obstacles that arise along the way.

    Illuminated Advisors is the original creator of the content shared herein. I have been granted a license in perpetuity to publish this article on my website’s blog and share its contents on social media platforms. I have no right to distribute the articles, or any other content provided to me, or my Firm, by Illuminated Advisors in a printed or otherwise non-digital format. I am not permitted to use the content provided to me or my firm by Illuminated Advisors in videos, audio publications, or in books of any kind.

  • The Top 5 Funding Reminders for Roth IRAs

    By: Denise Appleby, MJ, CISP, CRC, CRPS, CRSP, APA

    The rules of Roth IRAs create multiple tax-saving opportunities for Roth funding.

    Many consider Roth IRAs a gold standard for retirement savings because they provide a source of tax-free income during retirement. This tax-free benefit includes tax-deferred earnings, which are tax-free for those eligible for qualified distributions. Taxpayers who choose to fund Roth IRAs instead of traditional IRAs pay taxes upfront in exchange for this benefit. However, the promise of tax-free income is only one of the factors that must be considered, and taxpayers who choose Roth must also consider various strategies and operational requirements. The following reminders are a good start.

    1. After-tax 401(k) contributions: an opportunity for tax-free conversions

    Once a plan participant is eligible to make withdrawals from their 401(k) or other type of employer plan account (401(k)), eligible amounts may be rolled over to an IRA or another eligible retirement plan. For those who want to continue tax deferral until they are ready to take distributions, a traditional IRA is a common choice for rolling over assets from 401(k)s. However, if the 401(k) account includes after-tax amounts, that after-tax balance is an opportunity for a tax-free conversion.

    Unlike a conversion of pre-tax amounts, for which a suitability assessment is often recommended because it is taxable when converted, the conversion of an after-tax amount is tax-free. Therefore, no suitability assessment is needed. Further, any earnings on the after-tax amount would eventually become tax-free in a Roth IRA when you are eligible for a qualified distribution—a contrast with earnings that accrue in a traditional IRA, which would be taxable when distributed.

    Essential Tip: If you want to roll over their 401(k) account to an IRA, and that 401(k) includes an after-tax amount, instruct the plan administrator to split the distribution and send the after-tax amount to your Roth IRA. Doing so helps to ensure that the after-tax amount is not sent to your traditional IRA.

    2. Micro conversions for tax management

    Roth conversions are included in income, with any pre-tax amount being taxable for the year the conversion occurs. However, converting small amounts over time can mitigate the tax impact. For example, an individual who wants to convert $500,000 could make $50,000 yearly conversions over ten years instead of converting the entire $500,000 all at once. This strategy is commonly referred to as micro-conversions.

    This strategy can also be used to stay within a tax bracket in cases where a conversion could cause some of the individual’s income to be taxed at a higher tax bracket.

    Ideally, you would consult with your tax advisor to project the tax impact of the conversion and help them determine how much would be an ideal amount to convert each year.

    3. Tax withholding is not conversion

    If you want to have taxes withheld from the requested conversion amount, the withholding tax is not included in the conversion. As a result, the amount withheld for taxes will be subject to the (10% additional tax) 10% early distribution penalty unless an exception applies.

    Example 1: 45-year-old Sean’s Traditional Number 12345 had a balance of $100,000—all of which is pre-tax amounts. He instructed his IRA custodian to convert Traditional IRA Number 12345 to his Roth IRA Number 67890 and withhold 20% for federal taxes. Based on his instructions:

    • $20,000 was sent to the IRS for federal tax withholding.
    • $80,000 was deposited to Roth IRA #64890 as a Roth conversion.

    The result:

    • $100,000 is included in Sean’s income for the year.
    • $100,000 is taxable.
    • $80,000 is not subject to the 10% early distribution penalty.
    • $20,000 is subject to the 10% early distribution penalty because it is not part of the Roth conversion.

    If Sean had funds in a regular savings account (not a tax-deferred account), he could pay the income tax from that account instead of his traditional IRA.

    Consideration: An analysis should be done to determine if it makes good tax sense for Sean to perform a Roth conversion if it requires paying the income tax from his IRA.

    4. Roth conversion amounts must be rollover eligible

    A Roth IRA conversion is a two-part transaction:

    1. A distribution from the traditional IRA, and
    2. A rollover to the Roth IRA- which is treated as a conversion.

    Consequently, like a rollover, only eligible amounts can be included in the amount credited to the Roth IRA.

    An example of an amount that is not eligible to be rolled over is a required minimum distribution (RMD). If you are at least 73 this year, you must take RMDs due from your traditional IRA before any Roth conversion.

    Reminder: If the funds are in an employer plan and you are still employed by the plan sponsor, you should check with the plan administrator to determine if you must take an RMD for the year.

    5. Let conversion amounts sit and stay for at least 5-years

    A Roth IRA conversion is not subject to the 10% early distribution penalty, regardless of the age at which it occurs. However, distribution from a Roth conversion amount is subject to the 10% early distribution penalty if it occurs before it has aged in the Roth IRA for at least five years.

    Example 2: Using the facts from Sean’s example above, assume that the conversion was done in 2024. If Sean withdraws any amount from that $80,000 conversion before January 1, 2029, it would be subject to the 10% early distribution penalty unless he qualifies for an exception.

    Reminder: The 10% early distribution penalty does not apply if you are at least age 59 ½ when the distribution is made or if the distribution qualifies for an exception to the penalty.

    Note: Under the ordering rules, any regular Roth IRA contribution or conversions done in previous years would be drawn before Sean’s 2024 Roth conversion.

    Disclaimer

    The tips provided in this article are generally operational in nature. The decision of which to choose—Roth IRAs vs. traditional—is more complex and requires a suitability analysis. However, using some of the strategies mentioned in this article can lessen any immediate tax effect. Except for the tax-free conversion of after-tax funds from a 401(k), the assistance of a tax professional should be engaged to help determine suitability.

    Original Post by Horsesmouth, LLC.: https://www.savvyira.com/article.aspx?a=99588

  • Your Financial Reset Checklist: Moves to Make as We Approach Mid-Year

    Strategic Adjustments for Enhanced Financial Health: A Mid-Year Review Guide

    As we approach the midpoint of the year, it’s an ideal time to review and potentially reset your financial strategies. This period allows you to assess your progress towards your annual goals, adjust your budgets, and fine-tune your investment strategies, too. Here’s a practical mid-year financial reset checklist to guide you through your mid-year financial review.

    1. Review Your Budget

    Start with a thorough review of your current budget:

    • Examine Spending Habits: Compare your planned expenses against actual spending. Look for areas where you’ve overspent and identify categories where you can cut back.
    • Adjust Budgets: Based on your spending review, make the necessary adjustments to your budgets for the rest of the year. Consider any changes in your income or expenses since the beginning of the year.

    2. Evaluate Your Emergency Fund

    An emergency fund is crucial for financial security, providing a buffer against unexpected expenses:

    • Assess Fund Adequacy: If you don’t have one already, work toward an emergency fund that covers at least three to six months of living expenses. If you aren’t near your goal yet, plan how you can bolster this fund in the second half of the year.
    • Replenish If Needed: If you’ve had to dip into your emergency fund, it’s alright! That’s why you have it. However, now you need to make a plan to replenish it. Prioritize this to avoid potential financial strain going forward.

    3. Reassess Your Financial Goals

    Mid-year is a perfect time to reassess and refine your financial goals:

    • Goal Progress: Evaluate how close you are to achieving the goals you set at the beginning of the year. This could be saving for a down payment, paying off debt, building a plan to pay for healthcare in retirement, or investing more of your retirement savings.
    • Adjust Goals as Necessary: Life circumstances change, and so may your financial goals. Adjust your strategies to better align with your current situation and future aspirations.

    If you neglected to set goals at the start of the year, it’s not too late! There is nothing magical about January 1, so get started setting your goals now with the S.M.A.R.T. goals framework.

    Related: New Year, New Goals: Planning Your Money Moves for 2024

    4. Check Credit Reports

    Regular checks on your credit report can help you catch and rectify any inaccuracies that might affect your financial health, not to mention helping you spot identity theft:

    • Request Credit Reports: You can obtain a free credit report from each of the three major credit bureaus once per year at AnnualCreditReport.com.
    • Review for Accuracy: Look for any discrepancies or fraudulent activities. Promptly report any errors to the credit bureau for correction.

    5. Review Insurance Coverages

    Insurance needs can evolve, so it’s important to periodically review your policies:

    • Assess Coverage Needs: Consider changes in your life that might affect your insurance needs, such as buying a new home, changing marital status, or adding a family member.
    • Shop for Better Rates: Compare your current policies with what’s available on the market to see if you can find better rates or more comprehensive coverage for the same price.

    6. Optimize Your Investments

    Market conditions change, and so should your investment strategies:

    • Portfolio Review: Assess the performance of your investments and consider rebalancing if your asset allocation has drifted from your target, which happens to many investors over time.
    • Tax-Saving Strategies: Consider tax implications of any buy or sell actions in your portfolio and explore opportunities like tax-loss harvesting to offset gains.

    7. Plan for Tax Liabilities

    You may be breathing a sigh of relief with tax season behind you, but working all year round to understand your potential tax liabilities can help you manage your finances more effectively:

    • Estimate Taxes: Use your current earnings and expenses to estimate your tax liability for the year.
    • Adjust Withholdings: If you anticipate a major tax bill or a significant refund, adjust your tax withholdings accordingly to better manage your cash flow.

    8. Reflect on Your Financial Well-Being

    This step is a subjective addition to your mid-year financial reset checklist because financial well-being means different things to different people. So, decide what it means to you and take a moment to reflect on how you’re feeling about your finances:

    • Financial Stress Test: Consider how you would handle a financial emergency. Do you feel confident about your financial situation?
    • Educational Opportunities: Look for ways to improve your financial literacy. Engaging with financial news, books, or seminars can provide valuable insights and enhance your financial decision-making skills.

    Concluding Thoughts on Using a Mid-Year Financial Review Checklist

    A mid-year financial review checklist is a practical tool that can help you take proactive steps to stay on track with your financial objectives. This checklist serves as a guide to help you assess various aspects of your finances, from budgeting and savings to investments and taxes. By taking the time to review and adjust your financial plan now, you can improve your financial health and approach the rest of the year with a solid strategy in place.

    Illuminated Advisors is the original creator of the content shared herein. I have been granted a license in perpetuity to publish this article on my website’s blog and share its contents on social media platforms. I have no right to distribute the articles, or any other content provided to me, or my Firm, by Illuminated Advisors in a printed or otherwise non-digital format. I am not permitted to use the content provided to me or my firm by Illuminated Advisors in videos, audio publications, or in books of any kind.

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plans for Executives

    Tips to navigate ESOP suitability within the context of financial planning strategies

    Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) have emerged as a popular mechanism for companies to foster employee ownership and align the interests of employees with those of shareholders. For seasoned executives, considering participation in an ESOP entails a careful evaluation of the potential benefits and risks involved.

    Benefits of ESOPs for Seasoned Executives

    Ownership and Alignment of Interests: ESOPs grant employees, including seasoned executives, a direct stake in the company’s performance and financial success. By owning shares of the company, executives are motivated to work towards enhancing shareholder value, fostering a sense of ownership, commitment, and alignment of interests across all levels of the organization.

    Wealth Accumulation and Retirement Planning: Participation in an ESOP provides seasoned executives with an opportunity to accumulate wealth over time, leveraging the potential appreciation in the value of company stock. ESOPs can serve as a valuable component of executives’ retirement planning strategies, allowing them to build a diversified portfolio of assets while benefiting from potential tax advantages associated with qualified retirement plans.

    Tax Deferral and Liquidity Options: ESOP contributions are typically made with pre-tax dollars, allowing participants to defer taxes on the value of the contributed shares until distribution.

    Additionally, ESOP participants may have access to various liquidity options, including the ability to sell shares back to the company or on the open market, providing flexibility in managing their investment portfolio and liquidity needs.

    Retention and Incentive Alignment: ESOPs can serve as effective retention tools for seasoned executives, incentivizing long-term commitment and loyalty to the company. By offering a stake in the company’s ownership, ESOPs reinforce the executive’s connection to the organization’s mission, values, and long-term success, fostering a culture of employee engagement and dedication.

    RELATED: Understanding Stock Options: ISOs, NQSOs, & Restricted Stock

    Risks and Considerations for Executives

    Concentration of Risk: Participation in an ESOP exposes seasoned executives to concentration risk, as their investment portfolio becomes heavily weighted towards company stock. In the event of adverse developments or underperformance of the company, executives may experience significant declines in the value of their ESOP holdings, potentially jeopardizing their financial security and retirement goals.

    Lack of Diversification: ESOP participants may face limited diversification options, particularly if the company’s stock represents a substantial portion of their investment portfolio. Without adequate diversification, seasoned executives may be vulnerable to market volatility and sector-specific risks, underscoring the importance of implementing sound diversification strategies to mitigate downside risk.

    Liquidity Constraints: Unlike publicly traded stocks, shares held in an ESOP may have limited liquidity, making it challenging for seasoned executives to convert their holdings into cash when needed. Illiquid ESOP shares may pose liquidity constraints and inhibit executives’ ability to access funds for personal financial goals, necessitating careful planning and consideration of alternative liquidity options.

    Regulatory and Fiduciary Compliance: ESOPs are subject to a complex regulatory framework governed by ERISA (Employee Retirement Income Security Act) and other federal and state laws. Seasoned executives serving on the board of directors or as trustees of the ESOP bear fiduciary responsibilities and must adhere to strict compliance requirements, including the duty to act prudently and in the best interests of ESOP participants.

    Navigating the Decision Process with Care

    For seasoned executives contemplating participation in an ESOP, the decision entails a nuanced assessment of the potential benefits and risks in light of their financial objectives, risk tolerance, and long-term outlook.

    Consultation with financial advisors, legal experts, and other professionals can provide valuable insights and guidance in navigating the complexities of ESOPs and evaluating their suitability within the broader context of executives’ financial planning strategies.

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