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The Echelon Journal

Money matters,
simplified.

Long-form writing on planning, tax, estate, and the decisions that compound over a lifetime. Published when we have something worth saying — never on a schedule.

The words "ROTH IRA" are displayed prominently on a wooden surface surrounded by numerous scattered $100 bills, symbolizing the concept of a Roth IRA conversion.

Should You Do a Roth IRA Conversion After Age 60?

A Roth IRA conversion is one of the most powerful – and misunderstood – tax planning strategies available to retirees…

February 11, 2026

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Stylized grayscale image depicting a man holding a child with the text "TRUMP ACCOUNTS: HOW THEY WORK" and the Echelon logo above.

Trump Accounts for Kids Explained: The $1,000 Government Investment, Tax Rules, and Who Really Benefits

The U.S. government is preparing to launch a new investment program for children-commonly referred to as Trump Accounts-with the stated…

February 5, 2026

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An alarm clock with a matrix-style digital display sits on a city street, emphasizing the sequence of returns risk in retirement planning, alongside the text "Minimize Market Downturn at Retirement" and the Echelon logo.

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How to Minimize the Impact of Bad Market Timing in Retirement

Quick Answer Summary Bad market timing in retirement can seriously damage your finances, but it can be managed. The key…

January 29, 2026

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Two doctors wearing white coats and stethoscopes stand confidently in a library, accompanied by the text "Medicare IRMAA" and the Echelon logo, illustrating the context of Medicare IRMAA brackets in 2026.

IRMAA

Here is what you need to know about Medicare IRMAA for 2026: What is IRMAA for Medicare? How IRMAA is…

January 22, 2026

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A blurred figure in a suit holds a marker with floating dollar bills in the background, overlaid with the text "Smart Money Moves.

Smart Money Moves 2026

Smart Money Moves: Your Guide to Financial Optimization in 2026 I’m excited to share practical strategies to strengthen your financial…

January 16, 2026

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A hand places a coin on top of a stack with the text "How Are Dividends Taxed?" against a blurred background, relating to qualified dividends.

How Are Dividends Taxed?

Qualified Dividends vs Ordinary Dividends: How Are Dividends Taxed? What are qualified dividends vs ordinary dividends? Here, we examine which…

January 8, 2026

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An elderly couple wearing party hats shares a joyful moment in their living room, symbolizing the celebration of successful retirement tax planning.

Year-End Retirement Tax Planning for Affluent and High-Net-Worth Investors (2025 Edition): Strategies to Reduce Taxes, Optimize Withdrawals, and Protect Wealth

If you have $1 million or more in retirement assets, year-end is the most powerful moment to shape your long-term…

December 10, 2025

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An older couple reviews retirement income documents together while seated in front of a laptop.

How to Build a Financially Bulletproof Retirement Plan

Planning for retirement isn’t just about accumulating a nest egg – it’s about creating a lifelong income engine that keeps…

December 4, 2025

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A group of people, including a woman smiling, attend a seminar discussing the 401k contribution limits for 2026.

The New 2026 Contribution Limits for 401(k)s and IRAs: What Employees Need to Know About the IRS Updates, Catch-Up Rules, and Roth Requirements

The IRS has officially unveiled the 2026 contribution limits for retirement accounts, releasing updates that will affect millions of workers…

November 18, 2025

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