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Enjoy Retirement Without Overpaying: Tax Tips to Keep More of Your Money

Retirement was once synonymous with saying goodbye to the IRS.
Today, however, retirement revolves around managing withdrawals strategically, timing your income smartly, and steering clear of costly tax errors.

Yet each June, we engage with clients who unwittingly make errors they were unaware of.

If you've recently retired or are planning to retire soon, here’s a reality check:
Tax planning is as paramount post-retirement as it was during your career.
Perhaps even more so.

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Why Mid-Year is the Ideal Season for Retirees

While summer might not scream tax planning, it’s the optimal moment to:

  • Adjust your withdrawals before the year's end as RMDs approach

  • Recalibrate your income sources to minimize tax burdens

  • Avoid Medicare premium increases triggered by unforeseen income

By December, it may be too late to rectify these issues.

Three Common Retirement Tax Mistakes (And How to Correct Them Now)

1. Procrastinating on RMDs (or Overlooking Them Entirely)

For those aged 73 and above, Mandatory Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from IRAs and certain retirement accounts are a must. Missing out? Face a 25% penalty on what you should've withdrawn.

Whether you need the funds or not, a compliant strategy can lessen the penalties' effects.

2. Mismanaging Account Withdrawals

Retirees often dip into IRAs or 401(k)s first, sparing their Roth IRAs, yet this could inadvertently:

  • Push you into higher tax brackets

  • Elevate Medicare premiums (IRMAA surcharges)

  • Miss out on potential tax-free growth

A reflective withdrawal strategy can extend the longevity of your retirement funds.

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3. Ignoring Capital Gains on the Sidelines

Selling an asset? Restructuring investments? Side consulting gigs? Every activity counts as income and could breach essential thresholds, particularly for Social Security beneficiaries.

Mid-year planning empowers you to manage gains or losses prudently, preventing an overloaded income year.

Bonus: Smart Gifting, Legacy, and Charitable Giving Without Tax Strain

  • Aim to support your children or grandchildren?

  • Desire to contribute to a beloved cause?

  • Prepared to handle estate taxes ahead of the 2026 fiscal adjustments?

There are effective methods to fulfill those wishes—sans excess tax.

Ensuring a Tranquil Retirement With a Robust Tax Strategy

After working tirelessly to build your savings, don't let unexpected tax setbacks eat into your hard-earned assets.

Ensure your retirement income framework is wisely organized. We’re at your service. We’ll review your present strategy, pinpoint any gaps, and strategize for the future—ensuring your financial security is sustained, and stress is minimized.

Reach out to our office for those newly retired, approaching retirement, or seeking a thorough evaluation of your tax strategies.

You've paved the way to this stage—now let's ensure it benefits you, not merely the IRS.

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