Your IRA Is a Tax Bill You Haven't Paid Yet.
If most of your retirement savings are in a traditional IRA or 401(k), that money belongs to you and the IRS together. The window to change this is open now, but it narrows fast.
The Money You Saved May Not Be Worth What You Think
At age 73, the IRS requires Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), a set amount calculated annually from your account balance, whether you need the money or not. Large accounts push RMDs into a higher bracket, which taxes more of your Social Security and raises Medicare premiums.
IRA Rescue: The Earlier You Start, the Better
A coordinated strategy to systematically reduce the amount sitting in tax-deferred accounts before RMDs force it out on the IRS's terms. WMA aims to catch people at 55, typically a decade before RMDs begin.
- Roth conversions done in low-income years
- Annuity structures
- Life insurance strategies
- Charitable giving vehicles
The right combination depends on your accounts, income, timeline, and estate plan. Already past 55? We can still work with what you have.
The Retirement She Planned For: Without the Tax Bill She Didn't Expect
A client planned to retire at 59. She'd done it right. She had enough saved. The problem wasn't the amount. It was the withdrawal strategy, which would have pushed her taxable income high enough to raise both her tax bill and, because she was too young for Medicare, her health insurance costs.
- Pull from accounts as needed
- High taxable income in pre-Medicare years
- Elevated tax bill + high insurance costs
- Shifted mix to tax-advantaged sources
- Same monthly income and lifestyle
- Projected tens of thousands saved
Names and identifying details have been changed to protect client privacy.
You're Likely a Strong Fit If…
- You're between 55 and 72, within 10 years of retirement (or already there)
- You have $300,000+ in tax-deferred retirement accounts and you're thinking about RMDs
- You're worried your retirement income tax bill will be higher than planned
- You don't have a coordinated plan between your advisor, CPA, and estate attorney
- You want to actually know, not estimate, how long your money will last
Questions People Actually Ask About Retirement Taxes
How do I avoid Required Minimum Distributions?
How is retirement income taxed in Florida?
When should I start Roth conversions?
What happens to my IRA when I die?
Have More Questions?
Your first call is free and there's no pressure. If you don't see your question here, just ask us directly.
Book a Discovery CallThe Earlier You Plan, the More Options You Have.
Retirement tax planning isn't something to figure out in your last six months at work. Start the conversation now.