Forced Annuitization: EDU #2624
In this episode Jim Saulnier and Chris Stein dissect a real‑world case of forced annuitization on a 90‑year‑old’s $1.7 million variable annuity, explaining how LIFO tax rules make the gains taxable as ordinary income and why the resulting Income‑Related Monthly Adjustment (IRMAA) could spike Medicare premiums. They outline the options available—such as negotiating life‑with‑period‑certain payouts, exploring trust strategies, and understanding beneficiary rules for non‑qualified annuities—while emphasizing the importance of consulting the insurance carrier for exact annuitization terms. The hosts also clarify the distinction between “noun” (account balance) and “verb” (income stream) annuities and warn about the tax pitfalls of inherited income‑related distributions (IRD).
Social Security, Annuities for LTC Planning: Q&A #2624
In this episode, certified financial planners Jim Saulnier and Chris Stein field listener questions about Social Security, annuities, and long‑term care planning, with a focus on how non‑qualified stock options (NSOs) affect Social Security earnings tests. They explain that NSO...
Income Annuities in Retirement: EDU #2621
In this episode, Jim Saulnier and Chris Stein dissect income annuities, clarifying their role as insurance products that can provide a guaranteed lifetime income stream for retirees. They explain the concept of the "minimum dignity floor"—essential expenses that must be...
Social Security, Withdrawal Strategy, HSAs, 4% Rule, Roths, Retirement Trust: Q&A #2621
In this Q&A episode, certified financial planners Jim Saulnier and Chris Stein tackle common retirement topics, focusing on Social Security claiming strategies, the interplay of spousal benefits, and how early filing impacts reductions. They also field questions about withdrawal sequencing,...
Retirement Lessons Learned: EDU #2614
In this episode, certified financial planners Jim Saulnier and Chris Stein discuss retirement planning through the lens of a listener’s mother’s experience, focusing on survivor benefits, pension options, and secure income for spouses. They emphasize the importance of electing full...
Buffered ETF Mechanics: EDU #2613
In this episode, Jim Saulnier and Chris Stein dive deep into how buffered ETFs work, focusing on 100% and 20% buffer products during a recent market downturn. Guest Jacob explains the concept of mark‑to‑market pricing, why the fund’s value can...
Ed Slott IRA Quiz Continued: EDU #2612
In this episode, Jim Saulnier and Chris Stein continue the Ed Slott IRA quiz, testing their knowledge on IRA rules and nuances. They explain recharacterizing IRA contributions, clarifying that the deadline is October 15 of the year after the contribution,...
Retirement Planning With a Defined Benefit Pension: EDU #2610
In this episode, Chris Stein and Jake discuss how to incorporate a defined benefit pension into retirement planning, using a listener’s scenario of a law‑enforcement employee with a non‑covered pension and a spouse’s Roth 401(k) contributions. They explain that the...
Cash Balance Plans Part 2: EDU #2606
In this episode, hosts Jim Saulnier and Chris Stein field listener questions about cash balance pension plans, focusing on their suitability for self‑employed owners and businesses with fluctuating but potentially large future income, such as farmers. Guest expert Steve explains...