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Tax Planning


25 Tax Questions for 2025
As we head into a new tax season, I wanted to share a quick guide to help make filing your 2025 taxes a little easier and hopefully a lot less stressful. One of the biggest updates this year is the passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). It made some permanent changes that many expected would result in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) expiring. I’ve included a breakdown that walks through 25 of the most common tax questions for 2025 General Tax Questions 1. How do

Steven C. Balch, CFP®
6 days ago15 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 18, 20255 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 6, 20255 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 21, 20256 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 5, 20253 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 7, 20252 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 6, 20255 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 4, 20253 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 1, 20254 min read
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