retirement accounts Archives - DR News - News, Retirement, Finance

The New Retirement Age and What It Means for Your Savings

In today’s dynamic financial world, the concept of retirement savings is constantly evolving. A recent study by Charles Schwab has highlighted a new benchmark for retirement savings: $1.8 million, up from the previous $1.7 million. However, this figure comes with its challenges and misconceptions. The Reality of Achieving $1.8 Million While the goal of $1.8 million for a comfortable retirement is widely acknowledged, many find it daunting. One needs a disciplined approach to saving and …

Are you making this common retirement mistake

Planning for retirement often involves making contributions to tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs. These accounts offer attractive tax benefits, but staying within the IRS-imposed limits is essential. Exceeding these limits can result in unwanted tax consequences. Here’s what you need to know about excess contributions and how to rectify them before the tax deadline. For the 2024 tax year, the contribution limits for retirement accounts vary based on age and the type of account …

1 in 5 Skip Emergency Funds for Retirement – Should You?

Current statistics from GOBankingRates show that roughly one in five people focus more on saving for retirement rather than accumulating an emergency reserve. This financial preference highlights the need for deeper understanding; which one is more important? Experts in the field of finance have come forward to provide a detailed analysis of the pros and cons inherent in this financial planning tactic, underscoring the importance of a well-informed strategy when it comes to personal finance. …

Understanding Non-Deductible IRAs and Their Distinctions from Roth or Traditional IRAs

Is it logical to finance an individual retirement account (IRA) when it doesn’t offer a tax deduction? Many individuals who aren’t eligible to fully finance a deductible IRA or Roth IRA miss out on this straightforward opportunity to set aside additional retirement funds that can mature without tax implications. Unlike a 401(k) or similar salary reduction plan, you can contribute to a non-deductible IRA until the tax filing deadline. Understanding Non-deductible IRAs During a tax …

Shocking IRA Blunders: Are You Making These Costly Errors?

An Individual Retirement Account (IRA) can be a powerful tool for securing your financial future, but navigating its rules and regulations can be tricky. Making mistakes with your IRA can lead to significant financial consequences, so it’s essential to be well-informed. To help you avoid potential pitfalls, here are three common and costly IRA mistakes that can easily be prevented: #1 Beneficiary Mistakes An IRA passes on to beneficiaries, not through a will. Therefore, it’s …

Shocking Revelation: High-Income Savers Must Pay Taxes NOW on Retirement Contributions

Tags: retirement savers, catch-up contributions, taxes, Congress, Secure Act 2.0, retirement accounts, Roth basis, after-tax money, tax deduction, retirement planning, contribution limits, 401(k), retirement plans, Vanguard report, legislative errors, operational challenges, retirement community, retirement savings, Roth accounts, required minimum distributions, IRS, U.S. Treasury, American Retirement Association, Retirement savers with high incomes might soon face the prospect of paying taxes immediately on catch-up contributions rather than later. Congress passed Secure Act 2.0 last December, stipulating that …

Unveiling the Shocking Truth: Are Roth IRAs Really Overhyped?

Are Roth IRAs truly as beneficial as they are often portrayed? While Roth IRAs serve as a favorable tax strategy, it’s essential not to overlook the advantages of traditional tax-deferred retirement accounts. It is rare to find critics of Roth IRAs, as they have gained an exceptional reputation and are considered essential for anyone saving for retirement. However, it’s crucial to recognize that Roth IRAs are just one of many tax strategies, each with pros …

Retirement Planning Demystified: Understanding the 25% Rule and Social Security Benefits

The 25x Rule provides a helpful guideline for estimating the amount of money required for retirement savings. When planning for retirement, numerous factors exist, such as determining the optimal time to claim Social Security benefits, covering healthcare expenses, and effectively managing retirement accounts. This rule of thumb, known as the 25x Rule, offers a broad perspective on your retirement needs as you create your retirement plan. What Does the 25x Rule Entail? The 25x Rule …

Are You Falling Into A Hidden Tax Trap By Delaying RMDs?

Congress has recently expanded a tax trap that affects individuals with traditional IRA and 401(k) accounts by enacting the SECURE Act 2.0 in December 2024. This law has pushed back the age at which required minimum distributions (RMDs) must begin, delaying it to age 73 starting from January 1, 2023. Subsequently, the starting age will increase to 75 starting from January 1, 2033. If you already take RMDs before 2023, these changes do not impact …