A step-by-step walkthrough of how to use the Case Study Spreadsheet to estimate tax rates on Roth conversion with Social Security and Medicare IRMAA.
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Two Types of Bond Ladder: When to Replace a Bond Fund or ETF
A bond ladder has advantages over a bond fund or ETF. The shorter the time span in which you will liquidate your bond holdings, the more valuable it is.
How to Buy Treasury Bills & Notes On the Secondary Market
Detailed steps and screenshots for how to buy Treasuries on the secondary market without a fee at Fidelity, Vanguard, Charles Schwab, and Merrill Edge.
When to Sell I Bonds or Cash Out and Buy TIPS
I Bonds are great for the short term but TIPS are better for the long term. Calculate whether the time has come to cash out your I Bond and switch to TIPS.
Guide to Money Market Fund & High Yield Savings Account (2024)
The yield on a money market fund adjusts to the current market. You aren’t at the mercy of a bank’s decision to catch up or stay behind.
Random Thoughts From a Month-Long Trip to Switzerland
Switzerland has made great achievement in the world as such a small country. What made it so successful and what can we learn from it?
An Unusually High Marginal Tax Rate Means Paying Lower Taxes
An unusually high marginal tax rate isn’t a problem. You’re rewarded with paying lower taxes. You live on after-tax dollars, not rates.
How to Split an Existing I Bond for Multiple Beneficiaries
You can name only one beneficiary on a savings bond. If you’d like to name two or more beneficiaries, you have to split your bond into multiple parts.
A Large Margin of Safety Reduces Stress and Need for Precision
You don’t have to be precise when you have a large margin of safety. It reduces stress and it makes your solution more robust against adverse conditions.
Cash Out I Bonds Tax Free For College Expenses Or 529 Plan
It’s possible to cash out I Bonds tax free for college expenses or transfer to a 529 plan but you must meet an income limit and some other requirements.