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A Smarter Way to Give: Why Donor-Advised Funds May Be One of the Best Year-End Strategies for Your Charitable Goals
Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) offer one of the most flexible and tax-efficient ways to give to charity, especially at year-end. By donating appreciated assets instead of cash, you can avoid capital gains tax, receive a full fair-market-value deduction, and support your favorite charities on your own timeline. This simple example shows how a DAF can help maximize both your tax benefits and your charitable impact.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Dec 95 min read


Do You Need a Trust?
Many people assume trusts are only for the ultra-wealthy, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Trusts help everyday families avoid probate, protect assets, and pass wealth on their terms. This guide breaks down what trusts are, how they work, and the differences between revocable and irrevocable trusts so you can decide if one makes sense for your estate plan.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Dec 25 min read


Key Year-End Financial Moves for W-2 Earners
As the year ends, high-income professionals have a valuable opportunity to strengthen their financial plan and reduce taxes. From maxing out your 401(k), HSA, and catch-up contributions to exploring the Super Backdoor Roth, running a tax projection, and using up FSA funds, this checklist covers the most important year-end moves to help W-2 earners finish strong and set up for a more efficient year ahead.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Nov 185 min read


Smart Year-End Financial Moves for Retirees
As the year wraps up, retirees have a limited window to make powerful financial moves that can lower taxes and strengthen their retirement plan. From taking RMDs and reviewing Medicare coverage to running tax projections, completing Roth conversions, and using Qualified Charitable Distributions, this article walks through the key steps to finish the year strong and set up a more tax-efficient 2026.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Nov 65 min read


3 Questions Every Couple Should Ask Before Retiring Together
Retiring together can be exciting and a little overwhelming. Beyond how much you’ve saved, couples need to plan for how income will change, how taxes will affect each spouse, and whether both partners share the same vision for retirement. This article walks through three essential questions every couple should ask before leaving work behind to help align goals, manage taxes, and retire with confidence.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Oct 284 min read


What High-Income Earners Should Do with an Old 401(k)
If you’ve changed jobs or recently retired, that old 401(k) could be holding more opportunities and risks than you realize. For high-income earners, knowing what to do with an old plan isn’t just about consolidation. It’s about taxes, flexibility, and strategy. This article breaks down your options, the hidden pitfalls of rollovers, and how to make smart moves that preserve your ability to use Roth strategies and avoid unnecessary taxes.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Oct 216 min read


How Required Minimum Distributions Work
Learn how required minimum distributions work, when they start, how they’re calculated, and smart ways to reduce taxes around them

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Oct 125 min read


How to Access Your Retirement Accounts If You Retire Before 59½
Retiring before 59½? Learn how to access your retirement savings without paying the 10% IRS penalty. This guide explains key strategies like the Rule of 55 for 401(k)s, Rule 72(t) SEPP withdrawals, and using Roth IRA contributions for flexibility. Discover how to bridge the gap to 59½, manage taxes, and create a smart withdrawal plan so you can retire early, avoid penalties, and enjoy the freedom you’ve worked hard for.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Oct 53 min read


How the New Senior Tax Deduction Works
Starting in 2025, retirees age 65 and older will receive a new tax break through the Senior Deduction worth $6,000 per person or $12,000 for married couples. When combined with the standard and age-based deductions, a retired couple could deduct up to $46,700 from their taxable income. This temporary but powerful benefit offers a valuable opportunity to reduce taxes and plan smarter for retirement income.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Oct 53 min read


How the “One Big Beautiful Bill” Helps High-Income Families
The "One Big Beautiful Bill" has been signed into law, bringing real benefits for high-income professionals, especially those with families.
Here’s a quick breakdown of 7 changes and how they can help you save:

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Jul 72 min read


What Smart Retirees Do Differently
Here’s the truth about retirement: Saving money is only the first step. What determines success is what you do after the paycheck stops.
Smart retirees don’t guess on income, taxes, or healthcare. They follow a clear strategy, and that makes all the difference.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Jun 202 min read


What You Should Know About Bear Markets
Concerns about bear markets have resurfaced recently, both in the headlines and in conversations I’m having with clients. Here’s a breakdown of some common questions and what you should know to navigate market uncertainty confidently.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Apr 303 min read


Strategies for Navigating a Potential Lost Decade
Uncertainty is part of investing. Here are some strategies to help navigate a potential "Lost Decade"

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Apr 93 min read


Strategies for High-Income Earners and Retirees: Turning Market Volatility Into Opportunity
Market volatility can be unsettling, but it presents unique financial planning opportunities for high-income earners and retirees.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Mar 213 min read


Is the Backdoor Roth IRA Right for You? A Smart Strategy for High Earners
Learn how the Backdoor Roth IRA can help you build tax-free savings even if your income is too high for Roth IRA contributions.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Mar 65 min read


Retirement Success: Tax-Efficient Planning & Long-Term Financial Security
Retirement success isn’t just about savings—it’s about a lasting, tax-efficient plan that aligns with your goals.

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Mar 43 min read


Key Tax Strategies for Retirees and High-Income Earners
Taxes can be the biggest burden for retirees and high-income workers. Here are 7 ways to help reduce the lifetime tax bill

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
Mar 14 min read
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