A clear way to price the gaps in your Social Security 35 years
Social Security 35 years: among higher-earning women, 86% with no children reach 35 work years — but only 69% of those with three or more do.
The key numbers behind the average IRA balance by age
Average IRA balance data comes from four sources that disagree by 3.75x for the same age band. Here’s what each one actually measures.
The Saver’s Match Rules Worth Knowing Before 2027
The Saver’s Match reaches zero at $35,500 for single filers in 2027 — a lower ceiling than the credit it replaces, which still covers $40,250 this year.
The real limits on a 529 to Roth IRA rollover
529 to Roth IRA rollovers are capped at $35,000 for life — but four separate limits decide how much moves this year, and the smallest one wins.
Holding a 401(k) and an IRA in the Same Year, Made Clear
A 401(k) and an IRA in the same year is never a conflict. But claiming the IRA deduction can’t lower the income that decides it — only your deferral can.
An excess IRA contribution is fixable — here’s how and by when
An excess IRA contribution is fixable — but a $7,500 excess can come back as $7,200, and your custodian is not making a mistake.
IRA Investments Worth Holding and the Ones That Aren’t
IRA investments don’t start themselves: 28% of 2022 rollovers were still in cash a year later. The money arrived. Nobody placed the trade.
The hidden gold IRA cost that no fee schedule lists
Gold IRA fees look small until you price the dealer’s spread: FINRA reports some dealers charge under 20%, some frauds over 300%. Here is the math.
The Self-Directed IRA Risks Most Savers Overlook
Self-directed IRA risks go past bad deals. Business or debt-financed income inside the account can be taxed at 37% above $16,000 in 2026.
Your SEP IRA Contribution Limits, Made Clear for Schedule C
SEP IRA contribution limits look simple until you’re the employer too. The 25% rule becomes 20% once it’s applied to your own net earnings.
