Thinking about retiring early or leaving your job in your mid-50s? The IRS Rule of 55 could let you access your 401(k) funds without the usual early withdrawal penalty. In this post, we break down how the rule works, who qualifies, and how it can fit into a smart early retirement strategy.

If you're a high earner looking to save more for retirement in a tax-smart way, the mega backdoor Roth could be a game-changer. This powerful strategy lets you contribute tens of thousands of after-tax dollars to a Roth account—far beyond the usual limits. Learn how it works, what your 401(k) plan must allow, and why timing matters to avoid taxes. It’s a hidden gem for those already maxing out traditional retirement options.

If your 401(k) plan allows in-service distributions, you can convert pre-tax savings to a Roth IRA while still working—giving you a head start on building tax-free retirement income. This strategy lets your money grow tax-free, with no required minimum distributions later. You don’t have to convert everything at once; spreading conversions over several years helps manage taxes. It’s a smart move for high earners or anyone planning long-term retirement growth.

Thinking about accessing your retirement savings early? The IRS’s Substantially Equal Periodic Payments (SEPP) rule lets you withdraw funds from your IRA or 401(k) before age 59½ without paying the usual 10% penalty—if you commit to taking equal payments over a set period. Learn how SEPP works, the strict rules you must follow, and why it could be a smart option for early retirees or those needing early access to funds.

How Much Can You Safely Spend in Retirement? Understanding the 4% Rule Turning your nest egg into a reliable income stream is one of the biggest retirement challenges. The 4% rule offers a simple starting point—withdraw 4% of your savings in the first year, then adjust for inflation—to help your money last 30 years. But does it still work today? Learn how the rule works, its limitations, and what alternatives might be better suited for your retirement lifestyle.

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) can significantly impact your retirement savings and tax bill. But with smart strategies—like Roth conversions, qualified charitable distributions, and innovative options such as charitable gift annuities and qualified longevity annuity contracts—you can reduce or even avoid RMDs altogether. Discover six effective ways to keep more of your retirement income and plan for a financially secure future.

Leaving a job with an outstanding 401(k) loan? You could be hit with unexpected taxes if you’re not careful. This post breaks down what happens when a plan loan is "offset," what qualifies as a Qualified Plan Loan Offset (QPLO), and how to avoid paying unnecessary taxes by understanding your rollover options. Simple, practical advice—no jargon required.

Before jumping into the world of investing, it’s essential to define what you're working toward. Are you saving for retirement, a new home, or a child’s education? Setting clear financial goals helps you choose the right investment strategy tailored to your timeline and risk tolerance. In this post, we break down how different goals call for different types of investments—and how aligning the two can keep your financial future on track.

In 2025, workers aged 60-63 can contribute up to $34,750 to their 401(k)—a great chance to boost retirement savings!

Boost your retirement savings in 2025 by combining a Traditional IRA or Roth IRA with your 401(k) for tax benefits and growth potential.

Maximize your retirement savings by contributing enough to get your employer's 401(k) match—it's essentially free money for your future!

Maximize your 2025 tax savings by contributing to a 401(k). Learn how to boost retirement funds and reduce your taxable income.

Maximize your savings with smart tax planning: use 401(k)s, IRAs, credits, deductions, and more to reduce your tax burden.