The Modern Investor

Time to Consider Roth Conversions?

Time to Consider Roth Conversions?

Would you like to pay more income tax this year? It might not be as crazy as it sounds. Roth conversions – the process of moving money from a pre-tax retirement account to a tax-free, Roth alternative – can be a powerful retirement income planning and tax planning tool. But it likely means pulling income from the future to the present, along with any associated income tax.

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Roth vs Traditional 401(k) in 2024: Navigating Retirement Planning and Tax Planning
Retirement Plans & Planning, Tax Planning Eric Blattner Retirement Plans & Planning, Tax Planning Eric Blattner

Roth vs Traditional 401(k) in 2024: Navigating Retirement Planning and Tax Planning

Retirement planning options continue to evolve, and the Roth 401(k) has become an option for more and more people. Determining which is better - Roth or traditional 401(k) - will often come down to the assumptions made around current vs. future income levels, current vs. future income tax rates, and when (or if) retirement savings will be spent down. Sometimes the answer may seem obvious. For those with murkier forecasts, using both options can make sense, too.

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After the 401(k), Where to Invest Next?

After the 401(k), Where to Invest Next?

Some investors prefer to max out the 401(k), either with pre-tax contributions or after-tax Roth contributions. Others contribute just enough to take full advantage of an employer match. And for many others, the answer is somewhere in between. Regardless of how that question is answered, people often wonder where to go next. What makes the most sense after 401(k) contributions are finished for the year? Let’s look at a few options, specifically through the lens of tax treatment, availability, and flexibility.

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