EDU Will Be Back Next Week!
July 16, 2025

Unfortunately, there’s no EDU episode this week—life got in the way! But not to worry, Chris and Jake will be back on Saturday for a Q&A episode. And Jim and Chris will be back on track with a full EDU episode next week. We appreciate your patience and, as always, thanks for listening!
Listen NowSocial Security, Annuities, Roth and Roth TSP 5-Year Rule: Q&A # 2528
July 12, 2025

Jim and Chris answer listener questions on Social Security filing and its effect on HSA eligibility, Social Security means testing, the timing of annuity purchases in IRAs, the Roth and Roth TSP 5-year rule.(7:30) Georgette asks whether the six-month Medicare Part A lookback is triggered by her husband’s Social Security application date or benefit eligibility date, and how that affects HSA...
Listen NowOBBBA Tax Changes Explained: EDU #2528
July 9, 2025

Chris’s SummaryI am joined by Jake and Paul to discuss OBBBA tax changes and retiree impacts from the Inflation Reduction Act. We cover changes to brackets, deductions, personal exemptions, and estate limits. Paul explains how new SALT caps, Social Security deductions, and ACA credit rollbacks affect planning opportunities for retirees, especially those near income phaseouts or considering Roth...
Listen NowSocial Security, Pension Buyouts, and Managed Payout Funds: Q&A #2527
July 5, 2025

Jim and Chris answer listener questions on Social Security family maximum rules, spousal and disabled child benefits, defined benefit pension concerns, and 401k managed payout funds.(7:45) A listener is trying to understand how the Family Maximum Benefit might reduce the amounts paid to his spouse and disabled adult child once he claims his own retirement benefit.(16:45) Jim and Chris respond to...
Listen NowBroker vs Advisor Sold RILAs: EDU #2527
July 2, 2025

Chris’s Summary:Jim and I examine broker vs advisor sold RILAs using real cap rate comparisons from 2024 to highlight how identical contracts can offer different outcomes. We explain how six-year outcome periods work, what locking in gains actually does, and when fees can reduce returns more than commissions. This episode is less about product bias and more about understanding the trade-offs...
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