Tax Optimization

Roth conversions, capital gains stacking, RMDs, and state tax strategies for early retirees.

7 articles

A traditional balance scale with a teal weight on one side and tax forms on the other, representing the Roth conversion tax trade-off
Tax Optimization

Roth conversion calculator - how much to convert

The optimal Roth conversion fills your lowest tax brackets without tripping ACA subsidies, IRMAA surcharges, or Social Security taxation. The exact math.

•12 min read
A lone crane standing in still water with a teal circle rising behind it, symbolizing longevity and the nest egg that funds required minimum distributions
Tax Optimization

RMD calculator - required minimum distributions

Divide your December 31 account balance by the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table factor for your age. At 73, the factor is 26.5 — a $500K IRA owes an $18,868 RMD.

•13 min read
Two stacked horizontal bars on a teal background — a lower bar labeled ordinary income and an upper bar labeled long-term capital gains — illustrating how LTCG stacks on top of ordinary income for rate purposes
Tax Optimization

Capital gains stacking - the 0% bracket move

Long-term gains stack on ordinary income and fill a 0% bracket first, up to $96,700 MFJ in 2025. Flat-15% calculators miss early retirement's best tax move.

•13 min read
Stacked stone columns of decreasing height against a teal gradient sky, representing the declining Uniform Lifetime Table factors that increase required minimum distributions with age
Tax Optimization

Required Minimum Distribution Rules: Age, Deadlines, Penalties

Under SECURE 2.0, required minimum distributions start at age 73 (born 1951–1959) or 75 (born 1960+), with a reduced 25% penalty for missed distributions and no RMDs for Roth 401(k)s.

•14 min read
Seven interlocking gears in graduated teal tones against a light background, representing interconnected retirement tax strategies
Tax Optimization

Retirement Tax Planning: 7 Strategies to Keep More

These 7 retirement tax strategies interact — a Roth conversion changes your ACA subsidies, IRMAA, and Social Security taxation simultaneously. Here's the sequencing most advice misses.

•15 min read
Two bonsai trees sharing a ceramic pot with intertwined roots representing inherited IRA transfers between generations
Tax Optimization

Inherited IRA RMD: Rules for Beneficiaries

Most non-spouse beneficiaries must empty inherited IRAs within 10 years. If the original owner died after starting RMDs, annual distributions are required — effective 2025.

•14 min read
Stepping stones ascending through clouds in graduated teal shades, representing the five-year Roth conversion ladder strategy
Tax Optimization

Roth Conversion Ladder: Complete Guide for Early Retirees

A Roth conversion ladder lets you access pre-tax retirement funds before 59½ without penalties. Here's the strategy, the math, and the tax traps to avoid.

•11 min read
© 2026 CoastIQ. All rights reserved.
PrivacyTermsSupport