Today we're joined by Ed Slott, the expert’s expert on retirement planning, to talk about how to make the most of your retirement savings and avoid costly tax surprises. Ed explains why converting to Roth IRAs could be a smart move, the risks of sticking with traditional IRAs, and how to get ready for the taxes that come with required minimum distributions (RMDs). With Ed’s advice, you’ll learn how to approach retirement planning with a clear, long-term strategy.

Check out Ed Slott’s book, The Retirement Savings Time Bomb Ticks Louder, for more tips on managing retirement taxes. To find additional resources and learn more, visit his website at irahelp.com.

If you’re thinking, "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast!” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We add new content every week, and if you’re not following, you’ll likely miss out. Follow now!

Don’t miss the Big Picture Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet. We've distilled the essential brackets, thresholds, and rules of retirement into an easy-to-digest, three-page summary. https://www.carrolladvisory.com/pl/2148282517

Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and click on the “Ask A Question” menu selection.

Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms.

Contact Devin’s team at https://www.carrolladvisory.com/

Contact John’s team at https://www.rossandshoalmire.com/

In this episode, we’re answering more listener voicemails about Social Security, gifting money, and estate planning.

First, we help a listener who’s trying to figure out the best way to maximize his wife’s Social Security benefits. He’s getting close to his full retirement age in 2025 and wants to make sure they get the most out of their benefits.

Next, we talk about a question regarding "superfunding" a 529 plan. A listener’s mom wants to contribute a large amount upfront for her niece’s education, but they’re worried about potential gift taxes if the rules change in 2026. We explain how the rules work and what to consider.

Lastly, we hear from a listener who recently moved to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and is looking for an advanced estate planning attorney. He’s got a solid estate plan but wants to make sure it’s as sophisticated as it needs to be, especially regarding trusts.

If you’re curious about Social Security strategies, gifting, or refining your estate plan, this episode has plenty of useful information to help you make the right choices. Tune in for straightforward advice and practical tips!

If you’re thinking, "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast!” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We add new content every week, and if you’re not following, you’ll likely miss out. Follow now!

Don’t miss the Big Picture Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet. We've distilled the essential brackets, thresholds, and rules of retirement into an easy-to-digest, three-page summary. https://www.carrolladvisory.com/pl/2148282517

Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and click on the “Ask A Question” menu selection.

Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms.

Contact Devin’s team at https://www.carrolladvisory.com/

Contact John’s team at https://www.rossandshoalmire.com/

Today, Devin and Alexander are back answering listener questions. Tune in as we explore:

• Jamie's request for a detailed walkthrough of a monthly brokerage account statement, explaining where to find and understand fees, and demystifying various financial terms in plain English.

• Carl's situation as a 58-year-old with a diversified $1.1 million nest egg, seeking advice on overcoming the fear of retiring despite having solid financial resources, zero debt, and multiple income streams from pensions and investments.

• John's inquiry about the implications of cashing in a 30-year-old MetLife whole life policy, including tax considerations, potential impacts on medical insurance premiums, and alternative ways to reinvest the funds.

• Ken from Florida's strategy on maximizing retirement savings through Roth and Pre-Tax 401k contributions, the benefits of Roth IRA versus Roth 401k, and navigating contribution limits to optimize tax efficiency and investment options.

• Shawn's quest to understand the best methods for locking in a 6% return over the long term, exploring various investment vehicles and strategies.

• Patrick's interest in the tax implications of holding equity investments in a non-tax-advantaged account, specifically using an S&P index fund, and how gains would be reported and taxed.

If you’re thinking, "I love the Big Picture Retirement podcast!” please consider rating and reviewing this show! This helps us support more people -- just like you -- move toward a confident retirement. Just scroll down to the “ratings and reviews” section, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let us know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. We add new content every week, and if you’re not following, you’ll likely miss out. Follow now!

Don’t miss the Big Picture Retirement Planning Cheat Sheet. We've distilled the essential brackets, thresholds, and rules of retirement into an easy-to-digest, three-page summary. https://www.carrolladvisory.com/pl/2148282517

Want to ask Devin or John your question? Just visit https://www.bigpictureretirement.com/ and click on the “Ask A Question” menu selection.

Although this show does not provide specific tax, legal, or financial advice, you can engage Devin or John through their individual firms.

Contact Devin’s team at https://www.carrolladvisory.com/

Contact John’s team at https://www.rossandshoalmire.com/