Retirement Planning with Fexingo: 401k, IRA, and Saving for Your Future

Episode 39 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo breaks down the SEP-IRA, a powerful retirement tool for freelancers, solopreneurs, and small business owners. Lucas and Luna walk through how a self-employed graphic designer earning $120,000 annually could contribute up to $30,000 to a SEP-IRA in 2026—far more than the $7,000 IRA limit. They compare it to solo 401(k)s and SIMPLE IRAs, explaining the trade-offs in contribution limits, administration, and catch-up provisions. The hosts also discuss the SEP-IRA's 'pro-rata rule' that complicates backdoor Roth conversions, and why it still beats a traditional IRA for high earners. A practical episode for anyone filing Schedule C who wants to supercharge retirement savings with minimal paperwork. #SEPIRA #SelfEmployedRetirement #FreelancerFinance #Solo401k #SIMPLEIRA #RetirementPlanning #Finance #SmallBusinessOwner #TaxStrategy #GigEconomy #IRA #RetirementSavings #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Fexingo #Podcast #FinancialPlanning #WealthBuilding Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 38 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into the spousal IRA strategy, a powerful but often overlooked retirement savings tool for couples with one non-working or lower-earning spouse. Lucas and Luna explain how a non-working spouse can still contribute to an IRA based on the working spouse's income, the income limits for 2026, and how this strategy can double a couple's retirement savings tax advantage. They walk through real numbers: for a family earning $150,000, a spousal IRA contribution could save $2,200 in taxes this year alone. The episode also covers the conversion to a Roth spousal IRA and common mistakes like missing the deadline or exceeding phase-out limits. Whether you're a stay-at-home parent, a part-time worker, or a dual-income couple, this episode gives you a concrete action step to boost your retirement nest egg by tens of thousands of dollars over time. #SpousalIRA #RetirementPlanning #NonWorkingSpouse #IRAStrategy #RothIRA #TaxSavings #FexingoBusiness #Finance #PersonalFinance #RetirementSavings #CouplesFinance #IncomeLimits #StayAtHomeParent #2026TaxYear #RothConversion #IRA #FinancialLiteracy #WealthBuilding Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna dive into the 401k auto-escalation feature — a little-known plan design that automatically increases your deferral percentage each year. Lucas explains how a typical auto-escalation clause raises contributions from 3% to 10% over five years, using data from Vanguard's 2025 How America Saves report showing that participants with auto-escalation save nearly 2 percentage points more than those without. They discuss why inertia works in your favor, how to check if your plan has it, and whether you should opt out or lean in. Luna shares a real story from a friend whose auto-escalation boosted her savings from 4% to 12% without her noticing. The episode also covers the behavioral economics behind the feature, potential downsides like hitting IRS contribution limits too early, and how to pair it with a company match. #401k #AutoEscalation #RetirementSavings #BehavioralFinance #Vanguard #HowAmericaSaves #SavingsRate #EmployerMatch #CompoundInterest #Inertia #RetirementPlanning #PersonalFinance #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #FinancialWellness #PlanDesign #SaveMoreTomorrow Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 36 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo tackles one of the most common retirement questions: 'Is there any way to access my 401k before 59½ without paying the 10% penalty?' Lucas and Luna walk through the three main exceptions — the Rule of 55, substantially equal periodic payments (SEPP), and hardship withdrawals — using concrete examples. They explain why the Rule of 55 only works if you leave your job in or after the year you turn 55, how SEPP plans lock you into a fixed withdrawal schedule for five years or until age 59½, and why hardship withdrawals still trigger the penalty unless they meet a specific exception. They also touch on a less-known strategy: rolling your 401k into an IRA and then using SEPP from the IRA. If you're planning an early retirement or just want flexibility, this episode gives you the rules so you don't get burned. #RetirementPlanning #Retirement #401k #EarlyWithdrawal #PenaltyException #RuleOf55 #SEPP #HardshipWithdrawal #SubstantiallyEqualPeriodicPayments #72t #IRA #Pension #Finance #Business #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #PersonalFinance #RetirementWithdrawal Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Retirement Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna break down a little-known provision from the SECURE Act 2.0 that allows employers to make matching contributions to your 401k based on your student loan payments. They explain how this works, who qualifies, and why ignoring it could leave thousands of dollars on the table. Using a concrete example of a 30-year-old earning $60,000 with $40,000 in student debt, they show how this match can add over $100,000 to retirement savings by age 65. The hosts also discuss practical steps to check if your employer offers this benefit and what to do if they don't. A must-listen for anyone juggling student loans and retirement savings. #SECUREAct2.0 #StudentLoanMatch #401k #RetirementPlanning #EmployerMatch #StudentDebt #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #RetirementSavings #LoanRepayment #TaxAdvantaged #WealthBuilding #MillennialFinance #GenZFinance #HRBenefits #PersonalFinance #FiduciaryRules Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 34 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into Qualified Longevity Annuity Contracts — QLACs — and how they can reduce your Required Minimum Distributions by deferring a portion of your tax-deferred savings to age 85. Lucas and Luna explain the mechanics, the updated 2026 limits, and the trade-offs, including liquidity risk and inflation concerns. They walk through a concrete example of a 72-year-old retiree with a $1.2 million IRA who defers $200,000 into a QLAC, cutting their first RMD by nearly $7,300. The episode also covers why QLACs aren't for everyone and how they fit into a broader tax-bucket strategy. Perfect for pre-retirees worried about RMD tax bombs and sequence-of-returns risk. #QLAC #QualifiedLongevityAnnuityContract #RequiredMinimumDistributions #RMD #RetirementPlanning #TaxDeferral #Annuity #LifetimeIncome #IRS #Section401a9 #IRA #TaxBomb #SequenceOfReturnsRisk #LongevityRisk #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #Retirement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Retirement Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna dig into a little-known Social Security rule called the widow's penalty. They explain how a surviving spouse's combined benefit can be significantly reduced if they claim early, and why the timing of a survivor benefit claim matters more than most retirees realize. Using a concrete example of a 62-year-old widow, they walk through the numbers: how a $1,500 monthly benefit drops to $1,050 if claimed early, and how waiting until full retirement age preserves the full amount. They also discuss strategies like filing a restricted application for spousal benefits first, then switching to survivor benefits later. The episode covers the Government Pension Offset and how it can reduce survivor benefits for those with non-covered pensions. A must-listen for couples planning their claiming strategy or anyone who wants to avoid leaving thousands of dollars on the table. #SocialSecurity #WidowPenalty #SurvivorBenefits #RetirementPlanning #SpousalBenefits #ClaimingStrategy #GovernmentPensionOffset #WEP #GPO #FinancialPlanning #RetirementIncome #FullRetirementAge #RestrictedApplication #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #PersonalFinance #Retirement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 32 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo breaks down the three-bucket withdrawal strategy—a systematic approach to sequencing your retirement income from taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts. Lucas and Luna walk through a concrete example: a retiree with $600,000 in a 401k, $200,000 in a Roth IRA, and $100,000 in a taxable brokerage account, withdrawing $40,000 per year. They explain how withdrawing from the right bucket each year can reduce your lifetime tax bill by tens of thousands of dollars, mitigate sequence-of-returns risk, and keep your Medicare premiums lower. The episode also covers the 'cash wedge' technique and how to refill buckets during bull markets. No fluff—just a practical framework you can apply to your own retirement plan. #RetirementPlanning #ThreeBucketStrategy #WithdrawalStrategy #TaxEfficientWithdrawal #SequenceOfReturnsRisk #CashWedge #RothIRA #TraditionalIRA #TaxableAccount #MedicareSurcharge #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #PersonalFinance #RetirementIncome #BucketStrategy #TaxPlanning #BucketsOfMoney Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Most people assume tapping your 401k before 59½ triggers a 10% penalty. But there's a little-known exception called the Rule of 55 that lets you access funds penalty-free if you leave your job in the year you turn 55. In this episode, Lucas and Luna break down who qualifies, how it works with multiple employers, and a real-world example of a 52-year-old who accidentally triggered it. They also cover the substantially equal periodic payments (SEPP) option as a fallback. If you're planning an early retirement or a mid-career job change, this episode is essential listening. #401k #EarlyWithdrawal #RuleOf55 #SEPP #RetirementPlanning #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #EarlyRetirement #PenaltyException #RetirementSavings #IRA #TaxStrategy #JobChange #FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #Podcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 30 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into inflation indexing and how it quietly shapes your 401k and IRA growth. Lucas and Luna break down the 2026 cost-of-living adjustment for contribution limits, the real impact of 3.2% annual inflation on a $500,000 nest egg over 20 years, and why ignoring indexing could leave you short by six figures. They also discuss how Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) and I Bonds work as hedges, and whether Roth accounts offer any inflation protection. A must-listen for anyone saving for retirement in today's rising-cost environment. #RetirementPlanning #Inflation #401k #IRA #CostOfLivingAdjustment #TIPS #IBonds #RothIRA #CompoundInterest #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #RetirementSavings #InflationHedge #ContributionLimits #RealReturn #PurchasingPower #FinancialPlanning Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna break down the Roth IRA conversion strategy for pre-retirees with large traditional 401k balances. They explain the tax implications, the ideal timing to minimize tax brackets, and how this move can reduce future Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Using a concrete example of a 58-year-old with $800,000 in a 401k, they walk through the math of converting $50,000 per year at a 22% marginal rate vs. waiting until age 72 when RMDs could push them into higher brackets. The hosts also discuss the Medicare IRMAA surcharge trap and state tax considerations, and offer a practical rule of thumb: convert up to the top of your current bracket if you expect higher income in retirement. This episode covers a specific strategy often overlooked by those nearing retirement, providing actionable insights for listeners considering proactive Roth conversions. #RothIRA #401k #RetirementPlanning #RothConversion #TaxStrategy #RMDs #RequiredMinimumDistributions #TaxBracket #IRMAA #Medicare #PreRetirement #FinancialPlanning #Fidelity #Vanguard #WealthManagement #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 28 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo uncovers a hidden tax rule that could cost you thousands: employer matching contributions to a Roth 401k are always pre-tax, meaning you'll owe taxes on that 'free money' in retirement. Lucas and Luna break down the IRS rule, walk through a concrete example with a 35-year-old earning $120,000, and explain why this creates a tax liability at withdrawal that most savers never see coming. They also discuss a simple strategy: max out the Roth 401k up to the match, then redirect additional savings to a Roth IRA. No fluff, just the numbers you need to avoid a nasty surprise in your 70s. Plus, a brief word on listener support—if today's tip was worth a coffee to you, that's the link. #Roth401k #EmployerMatch #TaxTrap #RetirementPlanning #401k #RothIRA #TaxLiability #IRS #MatchingContribution #PreTax #AfterTax #WithdrawalTax #Fiduciary #RetirementTaxes #SavingsStrategy #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 27 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo explores the Health Savings Account as a powerful but overlooked retirement savings vehicle. Lucas and Luna walk through the triple tax advantage — deductible contributions, tax-free growth, and tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses — and explain why an HSA can outperform a 401k for certain savers. They discuss the 2026 contribution limits, the high-deductible health plan requirement, and the strategy of paying current expenses out of pocket to let the account grow. The episode also covers the penalty-free withdrawal rules after age 65 and how to coordinate HSA withdrawals with Medicare premiums. A concrete example shows how a couple in their 30s could accumulate over $500,000 in HSA assets by retirement, even if they never use it for current medical bills. The hosts close with a donation appeal tied to the show's mission of making financial planning accessible and ad-free. #HealthSavingsAccount #HSA #RetirementPlanning #TripleTaxAdvantage #HighDeductibleHealthPlan #TaxFreeGrowth #Medicare #FSA #RetirementSavings #TaxStrategy #MedicalExpenses #CatchUpContributions #CompoundGrowth #InvestmentOptions #Finance #Podcast #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 26 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo. Lucas and Luna dissect the Social Security earnings test — the rule that reduces benefits if you claim before full retirement age and still work. They walk through a concrete example: a 63-year-old earning $60,000 who claims early, triggering a $1-for-$2 benefit reduction on earnings above the annual limit. They explain how benefits are recalculated later, why many retirees fear the test unnecessarily, and the specific income thresholds for 2026. The episode includes a listener donation segment. No prior episode covered this specific rule's mechanics and behavioral impact. #SocialSecurity #EarningsTest #EarlyRetirement #FullRetirementAge #BenefitReduction #RetirementPlanning #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #RetirementIncome #ClaimingStrategy #SocialSecurityAdministration #WorkAndBenefits #TaxPlanning #RetirementTips #FinancialLiteracy #SocialSecurityBenefits #Retirees Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Retirement Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna break down the Roth conversion ladder — a strategy that lets early retirees access their 401k funds before age 59 1/2 without paying the 10 percent early-withdrawal penalty. They walk through a concrete example: someone retiring at age 45 with a $500,000 traditional 401k balance, converting $40,000 per year to a Roth IRA, and using the five-year waiting period to create a tax-free income pipeline. The hosts discuss the tax implications, the risk of higher future tax brackets, and how to avoid the 'conversion tax trap' where a large conversion pushes you into a higher bracket. They also touch on Medicare premium surcharges (IRMAA) and the importance of having some taxable savings to cover living expenses during the five-year gap. If you are planning to retire early or considering a financial independence (FIRE) path, this episode provides a step-by-step guide to the Roth ladder and its pitfalls. No fluff, just the numbers. #RothConversionLadder #EarlyRetirement #FIRE #401k #RothIRA #TaxStrategy #RetirementPlanning #PenaltyFreeWithdrawal #FiveYearRule #IRMAA #TaxBracketArbitrage #FinancialIndependence #RetireEarly #InvestmentStrategy #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #RetirementTips Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 24 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into the often-overlooked tax bomb that inherited retirement accounts can trigger for your beneficiaries. Lucas and Luna break down the SECURE Act’s 10-year rule, the difference between designated and non-designated beneficiaries, and why a charity can be a smarter beneficiary than a child in high tax brackets. They walk through a concrete example of a $500,000 inherited IRA and how it can push an adult child into the 37% bracket. Plus, they discuss stretch IRAs for spouses and how the SECURE 2.0 Act tweaked the rules for surviving spouses. This episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to ensure their heirs keep more of what they inherit, not hand it to the IRS. #RetirementPlanning #InheritedIRA #RequiredMinimumDistributions #SECUREAct #IRAInheritance #TaxPlanning #EstatePlanning #BeneficiaryDesignation #StretchIRA #RMDs #Finance #PersonalFinance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Retirement #Heirs #TaxBomb #WealthTransfer Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Retirement Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna explore a little-known tax strategy for mitigating sequence-of-returns risk in early retirement. Using a hypothetical retiree with a $1.2 million portfolio, they walk through how a tactical Roth conversion ladder can reduce the impact of a market downturn in the first five years. Lucas explains the math behind withdrawing from taxable accounts first, then converting traditional IRA funds to Roth at low marginal rates, and finally spending Roth basis tax-free. Luna pushes back on the complexity, and they discuss the role of cash buffers and the 'bond tent' approach. The episode drills into a specific case: a 62-year-old who retires into a bear market and uses a combination of a cash reserve and partial Roth conversions to avoid selling stocks at a loss. Listeners will come away with one concrete strategy they can discuss with a fee-only planner. Episode 23 of the series. #SequenceOfReturnsRisk #RothConversionLadder #TaxStrategy #RetirementPlanning #BearMarketProtection #PortfolioWithdrawalStrategy #BondTent #CashBuffer #TaxableAccount #TraditionalIRA #RothIRA #MarginalTaxRate #EarlyRetirement #FinancialPlanning #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #Retirement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explore the most overlooked document in retirement planning: the 401k beneficiary form. Using the cautionary tale of a 2019 California case where a $600,000 retirement account went to an ex-spouse because the owner never updated the designation after remarrying, they explain how the Supreme Court's 2018 ruling in Sveen v. Melin overturned a Minnesota law that automatically revoked a former spouse's beneficiary status upon divorce — meaning many plan participants still have outdated designations. They walk through the practical implications for married couples, the interaction with state law versus federal ERISA preemption, and why naming a trust as beneficiary requires careful planning. The episode closes with a simple checklist: review your beneficiary form after every major life event, not just when you open the account. #401k #BeneficiaryDesignation #ERISA #RetirementPlanning #SveenVoinMelin #SupremeCourt #EstatePlanning #Divorce #Remarriage #TrustAsBeneficiary #Finance #PersonalFinance #WealthManagement #RetirementAccounts #LegalRuling #PlanDocument #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode, Lucas and Luna explore a powerful but underused retirement strategy: tax bracket arbitrage. Instead of simply deferring taxes with a traditional 401k or paying them upfront with a Roth, this approach involves strategically managing taxable income in retirement to fill lower tax brackets each year. They break down how a married couple with $1.2 million in traditional retirement assets could save over $100,000 in lifetime taxes by converting just enough to the 12% bracket each year before Social Security kicks in. Lucas explains the mechanics with a concrete example, including how to factor in Social Security taxation and Required Minimum Distributions. The hosts discuss the 'tax torpedo' that hits when RMDs and Social Security overlap, and how proactive conversions can soften that blow. They also touch on the role of health savings accounts and municipal bonds in controlling taxable income. The episode includes a brief, organic mention of listener support as the show remains ad-free. By the end, listeners will understand why retirement tax planning is not just about account type, but about managing tax brackets year by year. #RetirementPlanning #TaxStrategy #TaxBracketArbitrage #RothConversion #RequiredMinimumDistributions #SocialSecurityTaxation #TaxTorpedo #RetirementIncome #FexingoBusiness #Finance #PersonalFinance #401k #IRA #HealthSavingsAccount #MunicipalBonds #TaxPlanning #WealthManagement #RetirementSavings Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 20 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into the mega backdoor Roth strategy—a powerful but lesser-known technique that allows high earners to save tens of thousands of extra dollars in a Roth account each year, even if they exceed the normal income limits. Lucas and Luna break down how the strategy works step by step: maxing out your 401k, then making after-tax contributions, followed by an in-plan Roth conversion. They discuss which employer plans support it, the tax implications, and how a real-world case from a Fidelity survey shows that only about 15 percent of eligible workers actually use this loophole. The episode also covers the potential legislative changes from the SECURE 2.0 Act that could alter the landscape. Perfect for anyone who has maxed out their 401k and Roth IRA and wants to supercharge their retirement savings. #MegaBackdoorRoth #AfterTaxContributions #RothConversion #HighEarners #401k #RetirementSavings #SECURE2_0 #InPlanConversion #TaxLoophole #RothIRA #Fidelity #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #FinancePodcast #RetirementPlanning #WealthManagement #TaxPlanning #IRS Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 19 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo breaks down the Backdoor Roth IRA — a strategy high earners use to bypass the Roth IRA income phaseout. Lucas and Luna walk through the mechanics, the IRS 'step transaction' risk, and the pro-rata rule that can trigger unexpected tax bills if you have existing traditional IRA balances. They use a concrete example: a married couple earning $250,000 in 2026, contributing $7,000 each via a non-deductible traditional IRA then converting to Roth. They also discuss the proposed legislation in Congress that could eliminate the Backdoor Roth loophole, and what to do if you're caught by the pro-rata rule. No fluff, just the numbers and rules you need to know. #BackdoorRothIRA #RothIRA #HighEarners #RetirementPlanning #IRAConversion #ProRataRule #TaxStrategy #StepTransaction #IRS #FiduciaryRule #SECUREAct #RothConversion #NonDeductibleIRA #WealthManagement #PersonalFinance #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 18 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into a little-known RMD strategy: the first-year deferral rule. Lucas and Luna explain how retirees who turn 73 in 2026 can delay their first required minimum distribution until April 1 of the following year, avoiding a potentially massive tax bill. They walk through a concrete example of a retiree with a $1.2 million IRA, showing how proper timing can save over $15,000 in taxes. The hosts also cover the double-RMD trap that catches many retirees off guard, and offer a simple checklist for deciding when to take that first distribution. This episode is essential listening for anyone approaching RMD age or advising clients on retirement income planning. #RequiredMinimumDistribution #RMD #RetirementPlanning #IRA #TaxStrategy #SECUREAct #DeferralStrategy #DoubleRMD #RetirementIncome #TaxSavings #RolloverIRA #Fiduciary #FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #TaxEfficient #RetireeTips #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In Episode 17 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna uncover the spousal IRA — a little-known provision that allows a non-working spouse to contribute to their own IRA based on the working spouse's income. Using a hypothetical couple — Sarah, a stay-at-home parent, and Tom, a marketing manager earning $120,000 a year — they walk through how the rule works, the income limits, and the long-term impact: if Sarah contributes $7,000 annually from age 35 to 65 at a 7 percent return, she accumulates over $660,000 in tax-advantaged savings she owns outright. The hosts explain why this isn't just a 'nice-to-know' but a critical strategy for stay-at-home parents, part-time workers, and couples where one spouse takes a career break. They also address common misconceptions — like the idea that both spouses need earned income — and clarify that Roth IRA income phaseouts still apply. Anchored to May 2026, when many families are reassessing savings strategies amid higher living costs, this episode gives listeners a concrete, actionable tool they can discuss with their financial planner or use immediately. No fluff, just a clear rule that can change a couple's retirement picture. #SpousalIRA #RetirementPlanning #IRA #RothIRA #StayAtHomeParent #TwoIncomeCouples #TaxAdvantaged #Fidelity #Vanguard #SECURE20 #RothPhaseout #CompoundInterest #Finance #PersonalFinance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #FinancialLiteracy #RetirementSavings Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 16 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo reveals a hidden tax on retirement income that catches millions of retirees by surprise: the Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount, or IRMAA. Lucas and Luna break down exactly how IRMAA works, why it's triggered by seemingly small Roth conversions and capital gains, and how a single year of high income can spike Medicare Part B and Part D premiums for two years. They walk through the 2026 income brackets, the steep 200% premium surcharge at the top tier, and three strategies to avoid the surcharge: spreading Roth conversions across multiple years, timing capital gains, and filing an appeal if you've had a life-changing event. Listeners learn one concrete number—$94,000 for a single filer—and how to keep more of their Social Security benefits by managing modified adjusted gross income. #Medicare #IRMAA #RetirementPlanning #PartBPremiums #SocialSecurity #RothConversion #CapitalGains #ModifiedAdjustedGrossIncome #HealthcareCosts #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #Retirement #WealthManagement #TaxStrategy #ElderCare #Insurance #FinancialLiteracy Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 15 examines the 'tax torpedo' — the hidden tax spike that hits retirees with modest 401k and IRA withdrawals when combined with Social Security benefits. Using a concrete example of a couple with $60,000 in annual income, we explain how provisional income formulas cause marginal tax rates to spike to 40% or higher on every additional dollar withdrawn. Lucas and Luna break down why the conventional 'wait until 70 to take Social Security' advice can backfire, how Roth conversions before retirement can defuse the torpedo, and why many retirees only discover this trap when they file their first tax return after claiming benefits. A must-listen for anyone approaching retirement with a combination of pre-tax accounts and Social Security. #TaxTorpedo #SocialSecurity #RetirementTaxes #RothConversion #ProvisionalIncome #MarginalTaxRate #RetirementPlanning #401k #IRA #TaxPlanning #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #RetirementWithdrawal #MidIncomeRetirees #TaxSpike #SequenceOfReturns #SecureAct Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 14 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo: 401k, IRA, and Saving for Your Future dives into the Roth IRA income phaseout — the little-known rule that silently blocks high earners from contributing directly. Lucas and Luna break down the phaseout thresholds for 2026: $150,000 to $165,000 for single filers and $236,000 to $251,000 for married couples filing jointly. They explain the 'pro rata rule' that makes the backdoor Roth IRA a trap if you have a traditional IRA balance, and walk through a concrete example of a married couple earning $240,000 who accidentally trigger a 6% excise tax on excess contributions. The episode also covers strategies to avoid the tax hit: rolling existing IRA balances into a 401k, using a mega backdoor Roth if your employer allows after-tax contributions, and the simpler option of recharacterizing contributions. No fluff, just the numbers and rules that matter. #RothIRA #IncomePhaseout #BackdoorRothIRA #ProRataRule #HighEarners #RetirementPlanning #Finance #FinancialPlanning #IRARules #TaxStrategy #MegaBackdoorRoth #ExcessContributions #ExciseTax #401k #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #RetirementSavings #WealthManagement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

When you inherit a 401k from a parent or spouse, the tax rules changed dramatically with the SECURE Act. In this episode, Lucas and Luna break down the new ten-year distribution rule, the 'stretch IRA' that no longer exists, and the shocking tax bracket surprises that await beneficiaries who don't plan ahead. They walk through a concrete example: a $400,000 inherited 401k that could trigger a $90,000 tax bill if cashed out in a lump sum, or a manageable $20,000 if spread over the decade. They also discuss the exception for surviving spouses and the pitfalls for minors and disabled beneficiaries. Practical advice on when to consider Roth conversions before you pass, and why you should update your beneficiary forms today. #Inherited401k #SECUREAct #StretchIRA #RetirementPlanning #Beneficiary #RMD #TaxPlanning #RothConversion #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #PersonalFinance #401k #IRA #EstatePlanning #TaxBracket #WealthTransfer #FinancialLiteracy Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 12 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into a question that trips up many savers: once you have a mix of Roth and traditional 401k money, how do you actually withdraw it tax-efficiently? Lucas and Luna break down the withdrawal rules, the pro-rata problem, and a real-world strategy called 'tax bracket stacking.' They use the example of a hypothetical retiree named Mark who has $400,000 in traditional and $150,000 in Roth 401k. Learn why Mark might want to start his traditional withdrawals earlier than planned and how to avoid triggering a higher tax bracket in retirement. The episode also covers how employer matching contributions are always pretax, even in a Roth 401k, and why that complicates your withdrawal strategy. Plus, a quick behind-the-scenes moment about how listener support keeps this podcast ad-free. #Roth401k #Traditional401k #RetirementWithdrawals #TaxPlanning #ProRataRule #TaxBracketStacking #EmployerMatch #PretaxContributions #RothVsTraditional #RetirementPlanning #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #PersonalFinance #TaxStrategy #401kWithdrawal #LucasAndLuna #ListenersLikeYou Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna dig into the hidden costs of borrowing from your 401k. Using a concrete example of a mid-career borrower who takes a $20,000 loan, they show how double taxation, lost compounding, and job-change repayment cliffs can cost you over $100,000 in retirement savings. They contrast the 401k loan with alternatives like a home equity line or a personal loan, and explain the one scenario where borrowing from your 401k actually makes sense. A must-listen for anyone who has ever considered tapping their retirement account early. #401kLoan #RetirementPlanning #BorrowingFrom401k #DoubleTaxation #OpportunityCost #LostCompounding #JobChangeCliff #RepaymentRules #SECURE20 #SIMPLEIRA #PersonalLoan #HomeEquity #EmergencyFund #FinancialPlanning #Retirement #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 10 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into sequence-of-returns risk — the often-overlooked danger of a market downturn hitting just as you start withdrawing from your nest egg. Lucas and Luna walk through a concrete example: a retiree with a $1 million portfolio who retires in 2008 versus 2013, showing how the same average return leads to wildly different outcomes. They explain why dollar-cost averaging works in accumulation but fails in decumulation, and discuss practical strategies like a bond tent, cash reserve buffer, and flexible spending rules. If you're within five years of retirement, this episode could save you from running out of money even if the market cooperates in the long run. #SequenceOfReturnsRisk #RetirementWithdrawalStrategy #PortfolioSequenceRisk #RetirementPlanning #BondTent #CashReserve #DecumulationPhase #RetirementIncome #MarketTimingRisk #FinancialPlanning #PersonalFinance #RetirementSavings #InvestmentStrategy #RiskManagement #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #WealthManagement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 9 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo tackles Qualified Longevity Annuity Contracts (QLACs), an IRS-approved insurance product that lets retirees defer Required Minimum Distributions on a portion of their retirement savings until as late as age 85. Lucas and Luna explain how a QLAC works with a specific example: a 72-year-old with $500,000 in traditional IRA assets uses $100,000 to buy a QLAC that starts paying at age 80, removing that $100,000 from RMD calculations. They discuss the SECURE 2.0 Act's expansion of the QLAC premium cap (now $200,000 indexed for inflation) and the trade-offs: guaranteed income vs. lost liquidity, inflation risk, and counterparty risk with insurance companies. Lucas frames it as 'a niche tool for a specific problem: too much tax-deferred money later in life'. The episode includes the show's usual 'buy me a coffee dot com slash fexingo' donation segment. #QLAC #QualifiedLongevityAnnuityContract #RequiredMinimumDistributions #RMDs #SECURE20Act #RetirementIncome #Annuities #TaxDeferred #IRARules #LongevityRisk #GuaranteedIncome #IRS #PersonalFinance #RetirementPlanning #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 8 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo zeroes in on a retirement account that gets overlooked: the SEP IRA. Lucas and Luna walk through why freelancers, gig workers, and solo business owners should consider it instead of a traditional IRA or solo 401k. They break down the 2026 contribution limits ($69,000 or 25% of compensation, whichever is less), the tax deduction mechanics, and the surprising fact that SEP IRAs have different Roth rules than standard IRAs. They also cover the messy catch: if you ever hire employees, you have to contribute the same percentage for them. This episode is built around a concrete example: a 45-year-old freelance designer earning $150,000 who can stash away $37,500 pre-tax this year. No fluff, just the numbers and the trade-offs. #SEPIRA #SelfEmployedRetirement #FreelanceFinance #GigEconomySavings #RetirementPlanning #Solo401k #TraditionalIRA #RothIRA #TaxDeduction #ContributionLimits2026 #SmallBusinessOwner #EmployeeContributions #FiduciaryRule #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #LucasAndLuna #Fexingo Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 7 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo dives into a critical but overlooked anchor: your Social Security claiming strategy isn't just for pre-retirees. Lucas and Luna explain how decisions you make in your 40s and 50s—like timing your first benefit, coordinating spousal benefits, and managing earnings history—can boost lifetime income by six figures. They walk through the math on why waiting to age 70 is powerful, but not always optimal, and how a simple strategy like 'file and suspend' (before it was phased out) changed the game. If you've ignored Social Security planning until now, this episode will change your mind. #SocialSecurity #RetirementStrategy #ClaimingAge70 #SpousalBenefits #EarningsHistory #FRA #RetirementIncome #MidCareerCheckup #WealthManagement #PersonalFinance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #RetirementPlanning #LucasAndLuna #CompoundInterest #LifetimeIncome #BenefitStrategy Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Starting January 2026, the SECURE 2.0 Act raises the catch-up contribution limit for people aged 60 to 63 to the greater of $10,000 or 150% of the standard catch-up amount—indexed for inflation after 2025. But there's a catch: all catch-up contributions for those earning over $145,000 must now go into a Roth account, not traditional pre-tax. Lucas and Luna walk through the mechanics, the phase-in, and who should adjust their savings strategy now. They also discuss the new 'starter 401(k)' provision for small businesses and how the rules differ for SIMPLE IRAs. A practical guide to a law that quietly reshapes retirement saving for millions of older workers. #RetirementPlanning #SECURE2.0 #CatchUpContributions #Roth401k #401k #IRA #Finance #Business #PersonalFinance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Fexingo #LucasAndLuna #TaxPlanning #RetirementSavings #SECUREAct #OlderWorkers #WealthManagement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Lucas and Luna explore why Health Savings Accounts are arguably the most tax-advantaged retirement vehicle available, yet remain massively underutilized. Lucas walks through the triple tax benefit: contributions are pre-tax, growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for qualified medical expenses are tax-free. He explains the strategy of paying out-of-pocket for healthcare now and saving the receipts to reimburse yourself in retirement, effectively turning the HSA into a supercharged IRA. Luna challenges the listener's main hesitation: the risk of overfunding and losing the money if you stay healthy. Lucas responds with data showing that a typical retired couple will spend about $315,000 on healthcare, according to Fidelity's 2025 estimate, making the HSA a near-certain win. They also cover the 'catch-65' rule: once you enroll in Medicare, you can no longer contribute, but you can still use the funds tax-free. The episode closes with Lucas's nomination of the HSA as the first account to max out after the employer 401k match, ahead of the Roth IRA, for anyone with a high-deductible health plan. #HSA #HealthSavingsAccount #RetirementPlanning #TaxAdvantaged #TripleTaxBenefit #Medicare #Catch65 #Fidelity #HealthcareCosts #HighDeductibleHealthPlan #HDHP #RothIRA #401k #EmployerMatch #TaxFreeGrowth #MedicalExpenses #Finance #FexingoBusiness Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Episode 4 of Retirement Planning with Fexingo digs into Roth IRA conversions — a powerful but often misunderstood strategy. Lucas and Luna break down a real-life case: a 58-year-old engineer with $600,000 in a traditional 401(k) who converts $50,000 per year over five years, paying taxes now to lock in tax-free growth. They explain the five-year rule, the pro-rata rule, and why 2026's lower tax brackets (set to expire in 2027) make this a narrow window. No fluff, no sales pitch — just a concrete playbook for listeners wondering whether to convert before the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act sunsets. #RothConversion #RetirementPlanning #TaxStrategy #IRA #401k #RothIRA #ProRataRule #FiveYearRule #TaxCutsAndJobsAct #Sunset #2026TaxBrackets #FinancialPlanning #WealthManagement #TaxEfficiency #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #Retirement Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

Target-date funds are the default choice in most 401k plans, but they carry hidden risks that many investors don't realize. In this episode, Lucas and Luna break down the specific glide-path assumptions behind a popular 2050 fund, explaining why someone with a high risk tolerance or a pension might be overpaying for exposure they don't need. They discuss a concrete example: a 35-year-old engineer with a stable defined-benefit pension who would be better off building a simple three-fund portfolio instead. The hosts also explore how target-date funds can mask bond-market duration risk, especially in a rising-rate environment like the one we've seen through early 2026. If you've ever wondered whether the 'set it and forget it' approach actually fits your personal financial situation, this episode offers a clear, data-driven reality check. #TargetDateFunds #401k #RetirementPlanning #GlidePath #AssetAllocation #BondRisk #DurationRisk #InvestmentFees #ThreeFundPortfolio #RiskTolerance #PensionPlanning #Vanguard #Fidelity #BlackRock #Finance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #RetirementFinance Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In this episode of Retirement Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna unpack a quiet problem: the majority of 401k participants are not maximizing their employer match. They break down the numbers using Vanguard's 2025 data showing that the average American leaves $1,336 per year in free money. Lucas explains how auto-escalation features, like those at Microsoft and Bank of America, have boosted participation above 90%, and why inertia is the biggest barrier. They also cover the 'stretch contribution' strategy used by tech workers and the new SECURE 2.0 rules making it easier to enroll part-time workers. Luna challenges Lucas on whether the match is always the right priority versus debt repayment. By the end, listeners learn a concrete move: check your plan's match formula and adjust your contribution by at least one percentage point. No jargon, no sales pitch—just a focused conversation on one of the highest-return financial decisions you can make. #RetirementPlanning #401k #EmployerMatch #FreeMoney #Vanguard #AutoEscalation #SECURE20 #Microsoft #BankOfAmerica #Inertia #ContributionRate #DeferralRate #FinancialLiteracy #PersonalFinance #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #Finance #Investing Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

In the first episode of Retirement Planning with Fexingo, Lucas and Luna tackle the single biggest silent killer of retirement savings: investment fees. Using a concrete example of a 25-year-old earning $50,000 with a 1% expense ratio versus a 0.03% index fund, Lucas shows how that tiny-sounding difference can eat $230,000 over 40 years. Luna pushes back on whether chasing the lowest fee always makes sense. They discuss target-date funds, 401k plan menus, and the one fee most people overlook: the plan administration fee. No jargon, no scare tactics—just a clear-eyed look at why a few basis points can mean the difference between retiring at 65 and working another five years. This episode sets the tone for the whole show: specific numbers, real trade-offs, and a focus on what actually moves the needle. Listeners walk away knowing exactly what to look for in their 401k summary plan document this afternoon. #401k #RetirementPlanning #InvestingFees #ExpenseRatio #IndexFunds #TargetDateFunds #LucasAndLuna #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast #PersonalFinance #WealthBuilding #CompoundInterest #PlanAdministrationFee #PassiveInvesting #FeeDrag #FinancialLiteracy #RetirementSavings #EpisodeOne Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo