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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 13, 20255 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 6, 20253 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 6, 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


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 20, 20252 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 30, 20253 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 9, 20253 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 21, 20253 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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