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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.

An elderly man, seated at a table with a laptop, intently examines documents related to a 401k rollover, wearing glasses and a sweater draped over his shoulders.

Should You Roll Your 401k to an IRA?

1.More Investment Choices Most likely, your 401(k) investment choices are limited to a menu of mutual funds from one particular…

February 17, 2025

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A man discusses retirement income planning with a woman at a cluttered desk, both seeming engaged and focused.

Retirement Income Balancing Act

Market volatility and the uncertainty in the economy have people worried about the stability of their retirement income. When markets…

February 17, 2025

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An older woman, identified as Irmaa, attentively discusses a medication bottle with a doctor in an office setting, with another medical professional in the background.

IRMAA

Here is what you need to know about Medicare IRMAA for 2025: What is IRMAA for Medicare? How IRMAA is…

February 17, 2025

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An elderly couple looks worried while reviewing retirement finances, with documents and a calculator on the table.

The #1 Misconception That is Putting Americans Retirement at Risk

Why using a Rule of Thumb isn’t a good idea when your financial future is on the line The Mistake…

February 17, 2025

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Two people shaking hands over a table with documents and a laptop, symbolizing a family limited partnership agreement.

Family Limited Partnership VS Family Limited Liability Company

If you own and operate a family business, a family limited partnership (FLP) or family limited liability company (FLLC) has…

February 17, 2025

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A woman attentively listens to a man discussing financial documents at a desk, symbolizing questions to ask a CPA.

10 Questions to ask when hiring a CPA

In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, success often hinges on making smart financial decisions. And the quality of those decisions…

February 17, 2025

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A family sits at a table under an umbrella, with the child in the center holding papers, reflecting a sense of protection and focus on education as a form of enlightenment.

Understanding Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts

The primary reason for purchasing life insurance is to ensure that upon passing, our loved ones will have enough money…

February 17, 2025

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A piece of paper with the words "Probate Law" highlights the legal process of probate.

What is Probate

When you die, all of the assets you leave behind are part of your estate. Your estate consists of your…

February 7, 2025

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Three people sit at a table, engaged and smiling as they review documents related to an irrevocable life insurance trust.

Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust

One of the main reasons we buy life insurance is so our loved ones will have enough money to pay…

February 7, 2025

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