Today we discuss the idea of a foundational financial plan and explain why it is essential for anyone preparing for retirement or managing long term wealth. This is a comprehensive system that brings together multiple areas of financial life into one coordinated strategy. Without a clear plan, people are often guessing about their future instead of making informed decisions. At Hosler Wealth Management, the plan is broken down into 7 areas:

We start by breaking down the first component, which is a dynamic retirement income plan powered by advanced financial planning software. Tools like Monte Carlo simulations run thousands of scenarios to estimate the probability of success. This allows us to adjust for real world variables like inflation, taxes, and market volatility. This replaces outdated methods like spreadsheets and gives clients clarity when making decisions such as increasing spending or buying a second home.

We then move into tax planning and Roth conversion strategies, challenging the traditional belief that tax deferred accounts are always the best option. Future tax rates may be higher and that proactive planning today can help move assets into tax free environments. Strategic use of current tax brackets can improve long term outcomes.

Next, we cover estate planning and beneficiary strategies, explaining the importance of avoiding probate, properly titling assets, and ensuring documents like trusts and powers of attorney are in place. We also discuss how new technology and AI tools can review estate documents for errors and gaps, improving efficiency and accuracy. We highlight the importance of proper trust funding and tax advantages like step up in cost basis.

Social security planning: thousands of claiming strategies exist and decisions should consider both financial outcomes and personal health factors. Timing and coordination with other income sources are critical.

We then address insurance planning, focusing on long-term care and newer asset-based strategies that provide more stability. Life insurance can be a tool for creating tax free income in retirement.

Finally, we explain risk analysis and investment planning. Modern tools assign a numerical risk score and align portfolios accordingly. We outline a bucket strategy that separates short term income needs from long-term growth investments, helping clients manage risk while still pursuing returns.

Having this full plan in place provides confidence and peace of mind because clients can clearly see their financial future and make informed decisions.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we talk about the new Trump accounts and why grandparents need to be careful before trying to open one for a grandchild. The team is excited about the concept because these accounts could help young people learn about investing early, build long-term wealth, and become more financially aware. But the main warning is clear: grandparents should not rush to open these accounts themselves.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps

Bruce explains that while grandparents may be eager to help, the proposed rules create a specific order for who can establish a Trump account. For children born on or after January 1, 2025, parents or legal guardians are generally the ones who should open the account. A grandparent may only be able to open one if the child is their dependent or they are the legal guardian. For children born before January 1, 2025, grandparents are even further down the line. A legal guardian, parent, or adult sibling would generally have priority before a grandparent could step in.

The concern is that the form may not clearly warn grandparents about what they are certifying. If a grandparent opens the account when someone with higher authority is available, they may be making a statement under penalty of perjury. That is why Bruce urges listeners to wait for clearer IRS guidance before taking action.

The practical message is simple. Parents should open the account after July 4, 2026, and grandparents can help by contributing. The team discusses the possibility of contributing up to $5,000 a year and using broad stock market indexes such as the S&P 500 or NASDAQ 100. They also emphasize that the account can create a powerful opportunity for long-term growth.

Bruce closes by explaining the tax planning angle. If the account grows until the child turns 18 and then converts into a traditional IRA, there may be a window when the young adult is in a low tax bracket. That could create an opportunity to convert the account to a Roth IRA and let the money grow tax-free for decades. The key is teaching the child to treat the account as retirement money, not spending money.

The broader takeaway is that Trump accounts may become a useful wealth-building tool, but families should understand the rules before acting. They should also use the topic as a chance to talk across generations about saving, investing, taxes, and long-term financial planning.

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

In Episode 85 of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we continue the conversation about the widow’s penalty and how it can affect a surviving spouse after the death of a husband. The key issue is not that the widow’s income necessarily increases. It is that her tax status changes. While married, a couple can file jointly and benefit from wider tax brackets. After the year of death, the surviving spouse usually files as single. That can push the same income into higher tax brackets and create a larger tax burden over the rest of her life. The episode also points out that the surviving spouse may lose deductions tied to the deceased spouse, including the senior deduction discussed under the One Big Beautiful Bill.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps

We also talk about required minimum distributions. If the deceased spouse had reached the required beginning date and had not yet taken the RMD for the year of death, the surviving spouse needs to make sure it is taken by December 31. If that gets missed, there may be a way to avoid the penalty by correcting it under the newer automatic waiver rules, but it can still create extra stress and tax planning issues. One practical strategy is to take RMDs early in the year so this problem is already handled before a death occurs.

The episode then turns to IRA options for a surviving spouse. A widow can roll the IRA into her own IRA, treat the IRA as her own, or, in some cases, keep the funds in an inherited IRA. That last option is especially important for younger widows under age 59 and a half. If she moves the account into her own name and takes distributions, she may face the 10% early withdrawal penalty. If she keeps it as an inherited IRA and remains the beneficiary, distributions can avoid that penalty.

We also cover successor beneficiary rules. If the husband had inherited an IRA and then dies, the widow may have to continue the existing distribution schedule. That can include the 10 year rule for inherited IRAs. Waiting until the final year to empty the account could create a major taxable event, so spreading distributions over several years may be a better plan.

Finally, we look at IRMAA and Roth conversions. A widow may face Medicare premium surcharges if her income crosses certain limits, and those surcharges usually show up on a two year delay. One major planning opportunity may come in the year the spouse dies, because the surviving spouse can still file married filing jointly for that year. That may create a chance to do a large Roth conversion before future years are taxed under single brackets. The message is clear: tax planning after the loss of a spouse is complex, and professional guidance can make a major difference.

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

In this episode, we introduce the concept of "the widow’s penalty" and explain why it is one of the most important, yet often overlooked, risks in retirement and estate planning. We focus primarily on taxes, income loss, and preparedness for surviving spouses, who are most often women. We begin by explaining that while couples are alive and filing taxes as married filing jointly, they benefit from significantly wider tax brackets. For example, we discuss how the 24% federal tax bracket allows married couples to earn far more income than single filers before moving into higher tax territory. When one spouse dies, the surviving spouse is forced into single filing status, which can effectively double their tax burden on the same level of income.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps

We emphasize that this tax shift often happens at the same time a widow is losing income. Social Security benefits drop from two checks to one, even though the survivor keeps the higher of the two benefits. This reduction in household income frequently pushes widows to withdraw more money from tax-deferred retirement accounts, which increases taxable income further. We explain how this can snowball into higher taxes year after year, accelerating the depletion of retirement assets.

We also discuss key statistics that reinforce why this planning matters. Most spousal heirs are women, and widows often outlive their husbands by four to twelve years. Despite this, many women defer long-term financial decisions during marriage, and nearly all widows later regret not being more involved earlier. We stress the importance of both spouses understanding what they own, why they own it, and how their plan is designed to answer the most important question: “Am I going to be okay?”

We explore planning strategies that can reduce the widow’s penalty, including Roth IRA conversions while both spouses are alive and in favorable tax brackets. We explain how tax-free Roth income can replace lost Social Security or pension income without increasing taxes. We also highlight planning opportunities in the year of death, such as still being able to file jointly, performing large Roth conversions, and stacking deductions through donor-advised funds.

Finally, we discuss the role of life insurance and chronic care riders. We explain that life insurance death benefits are tax-free, do not impact Social Security taxation, and can provide critical income replacement. Chronic care riders can give surviving spouses independence and security by providing funds for long-term care without burdening children or draining other assets. We conclude by reinforcing that proactive, holistic planning is essential to protecting surviving spouses from financial stress and uncertainty.

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

In this episode of Protecting & Preserving Wealth, we focus on estate planning—specifically, how often it is overlooked or improperly handled, and how good intentions can still lead to serious financial, tax, and family consequences. We walk through a real-life case involving a family that believed they had things mostly in order, only to discover after a parent’s death that the lack of proper planning created irreversible problems.

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps

We discuss a situation where a mother passed away without a will or trust, meaning she died intestate. One of her largest assets was a brokerage account held in joint tenancy with one of her children. While the account was likely structured this way to make things easier and avoid probate, the result was that the surviving joint owner automatically inherited the account outright. This unintentionally disinherited the other siblings, regardless of the mother’s likely wishes.

We explain how this setup not only caused family tension, but also created significant tax consequences. Because the account was jointly owned, only half of the assets received a step-up in cost basis at death. The other half retained a very low original cost basis. With the stock having grown dramatically in value, this resulted in millions of dollars of unrealized gains and roughly one million dollars in avoidable capital gains taxes. We emphasize that if the account had been held solely in the mother’s name or inside a revocable living trust, the entire balance would have received a full step-up in basis, potentially eliminating capital gains taxes altogether.

We also explain the gift tax issue that arises when the surviving sibling tries to “do the right thing” and distribute assets to the others. Those gifts may require filing gift tax returns and using up part of her lifetime exemption, potentially harming her own long-term estate plan. Beyond taxes, we highlight how these situations create confusion, resentment, and conflict among family members that can last for years.

We zoom out to show how common this problem really is. Roughly 60% of Americans have no estate plan at all, and nearly 70% of existing plans are outdated. We also discuss newer issues like digital assets, which many older estate plans fail to address. Estate planning is not a one-time task—it must be reviewed and updated as laws, technology, and family circumstances change.

Our core message is simple: estate planning is not about perfection, it’s about clarity. A proactive review with a trusted advisor can prevent massive tax bills and protect family harmony.

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

Now that we are into 2026, we take a deep dive into several critical changes in tax law that will affect financial planning, estate strategy, and retirement contributions. At Hosler Wealth Management, taxes are a core focus of our work, and this episode unpacks the nuances and planning opportunities within four major updates.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

We begin with the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act, which makes tax rates for both income and estate taxes "permanent"—though in tax law, that only means until Congress changes them. For now, the extension of lower tax rates creates a prime window for Roth conversions. This is especially significant for those with large traditional IRAs and potentially taxable estates. Without conversion, those accounts could face both estate and income tax—resulting in a combined rate of 70–80%. By converting to Roth, clients can shield their heirs from that double hit, passing on assets that are not only tax-free but also less likely to drag down the estate’s overall value.

We also break down new limitations on charitable deductions. Starting in 2026, a floor of 0.5% of adjusted gross income applies, meaning you can no longer deduct the first half-percent of your charitable giving. This makes Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from IRAs more appealing for those over 70½. For larger givers, we discuss strategies like bunching donations using donor-advised funds and donating appreciated assets like Apple or Nvidia stock. This approach not only avoids capital gains taxes but also front-loads deductions into one year—maximizing tax efficiency while still distributing donations over time.

Next, we cover the Social Security Fairness Act, which repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP). Previously, government employees with pensions and limited Social Security work history saw reduced benefits. This change, now retroactive to January 1, 2024, restores their full Social Security entitlement. But there’s urgency—Social Security only pays retroactively for six months. So, if you're affected and haven't yet claimed, now is the time.

Finally, we explain a key Roth-related shift in the Secure Act 2.0: starting in 2026, high earners making over $150,000 must make their 401(k) catch-up contributions into Roth accounts. The contribution amount increases to $8,000, with an additional $3,250 for those aged 60–63. While this change accelerates tax collection for the government, it presents long-term benefits for investors. It allows clients to build a larger tax-free retirement nest egg by leveraging the higher Roth 401(k) contribution limits, especially compared to traditional Roth IRAs.

In summary, tax strategy continues to evolve, and it’s crucial to plan with both new rules and long-term goals in mind. If you need guidance navigating these changes, we’re here to help.

⏱️Chapters & Timestamps

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into key updates around Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) for 2026. QCDs allow individuals age 70½ and older to make direct charitable donations from their IRA accounts, and this episode is especially relevant for clients looking to manage taxes effectively while giving charitably.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps

We begin by clarifying the age requirement. You must be exactly 70½ to make a QCD — not before, not even within the same tax year if you haven't reached that age yet. This often confuses clients, especially early in the year when they expect eligibility based solely on the calendar year. Importantly, you don’t need to be taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) to utilize QCDs. Even if RMDs don’t kick in until 73 or 75, you can still make a QCD at 70½.

Another common question we addressed is whether inherited IRA beneficiaries can make QCDs. The answer is yes — as long as they are 70½. A QCD can satisfy RMDs from an inherited IRA, but the age rule still applies. For 2026, the annual QCD limit is $111,000 per person, meaning couples could potentially give up to $222,000.

We also discuss the mechanics. The distribution must be made directly from your IRA to the charity. You can’t take the money into your personal account and then donate it — doing so disqualifies the distribution from being a QCD. Additionally, you cannot direct a QCD to a donor-advised fund or receive any benefit (like a charity dinner ticket) in return. The transaction must be completely tax-neutral — for both you and the charity.

We emphasize that QCDs must be made in cash; donations in-kind (like appreciated stock) from an IRA don’t qualify. We caution against using Roth IRAs for QCDs due to complexity and potential tax consequences. Traditional IRAs are the cleanest route.

Jason outlines several strategic reasons to use QCDs: reducing taxable income to protect Social Security benefits, avoiding IRMAA surcharges on Medicare, qualifying for the new 2026 senior deduction (between $150,000–$250,000 AGI), and preserving room for Roth conversions. These moves can result in substantial long-term tax savings.

Lastly, Alex explains a new IRS reporting feature: a “Code Y” in Box 7 of the 1099-R to identify QCDs. While optional for custodians in 2025, it becomes more prominent in 2026. 

It’s a helpful safeguard to ensure QCDs are properly reported as non-taxable — but documentation remains critical.

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

In this episode, we explore the upcoming Trump Accounts and what they could mean for American families. These accounts, born from the OBBBA legislation, will officially launch on July 4, 2026. Children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, will automatically receive a $1,000 federal contribution into their Trump Account. But the scope is much broader—children under 18 will also be eligible to have these accounts opened and funded by parents, grandparents, or even employers.

We break down how this initiative could help build a new generation of capitalists by allowing children to invest from birth and potentially accumulate significant wealth before adulthood. Unlike IRAs or Roth IRAs, which require earned income, Trump Accounts do not. This means tax-deferred investment growth for up to 18 years, an opportunity previously unavailable to most minors. Once a child turns 18, the account transitions to a traditional IRA, with all standard rules applying.

We also dive into how contributions—up to $5,000 per year from family and $2,500 from employers—can compound over time. That $5,000 is indexed for inflation, making this a long-term, scalable wealth-building tool. Investments are limited to low-cost U.S.-based index funds, such as the S&P 500 or Dow Jones, reinforcing the theme of investing in America.

There’s also a compelling policy angle here. Employers can contribute to these accounts as a benefit to attract talent, and those contributions won’t count toward the employee’s taxable income. Additionally, philanthropic involvement—like Michael Dell’s recent $6 billion pledge—could play a pivotal role. We discuss how charitable deductions could potentially apply if large donations are made to the Trump Account system, though specifics are still evolving.

We raise awareness about critical timing rules—particularly the need to fund these accounts before a child turns 18. Once that calendar year starts, eligibility ends. We emphasize that while withdrawals aren’t allowed before age 18, after that point, traditional IRA rules apply, including potential penalties for early withdrawals before age 59½.

Overall, this is more than just a savings account—it’s a transformative financial tool. We see this as a chance to teach kids about long-term financial planning, compound interest, and the power of deferred gratification. These accounts could lay the groundwork for financial independence, generational wealth, and a broader sense of ownership in the American economy.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps
(00:00) – Introduction and Episode Overview
(00:28) – What Are Trump Accounts?
(01:57) – Policy Background and Eligibility
(03:00) – Investment Options and Index Requirements
(05:11) – Legacy Planning and Generational Wealth
(06:57) – Contributions: Parents, Grandparents, Employers
(07:42) – Philanthropy and Charitable Deductions
(10:34) – Rules, Restrictions, and Early Withdrawal Penalties
(13:05) – Behavioral Benefits: Delayed Gratification
(14:35) – Contact Info and Final Thoughts

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

In this episode, we explore the expanded flexibility and potential of 529 plans in light of recent legislative changes. We begin with a refresher on how 529s have traditionally been used to fund college expenses, but quickly shift to how these accounts now offer broader applications thanks to evolving tax law, including updates from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the SECURE Act 2.0, and the newly enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

We discuss how 529s can now be used for K–12 education, not just for tuition but also for items like books, standardized tests, tutoring, and even educational therapy. This opens the door for families to apply these tax-advantaged funds toward private school and special needs services for younger children—services that are increasingly common among our clients.

We also highlight a major opportunity created by SECURE Act 2.0: the ability to roll over unused 529 funds into a Roth IRA in the name of the beneficiary. This means families can now provide their children or grandchildren with a financial head start—not just for education but also for retirement. The conversion limit is currently capped at $35,000 and must follow specific eligibility and timing rules, but it's a powerful long-term planning tool.

Another important change coming in 2026 is the increased annual limit for K–12 qualified distributions—from $10,000 to $20,000. This effectively doubles the amount that can be withdrawn tax-free for qualified expenses, making 529s even more practical for families with high educational costs early in a child’s schooling.

Finally, we talk about how the OBBBA expands 529 use to cover post-secondary credentialing programs. That includes trade schools, certifications, professional licenses, and even continuing education programs outside traditional colleges, as long as they’re recognized under federal law or by formal credentialing bodies. We emphasize how this change aligns with the current workforce needs, especially as more people pursue skilled trades or alternative career paths without accumulating student debt.

In short, 529 plans are no longer just for college. They're now a flexible, multigenerational financial tool that can support both education and retirement planning in more ways than ever before.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps
(00:00) – Introduction
(00:29) – What Are 529 Plans?
(01:08) – Real Client Example: Private School Funding
(02:01) – Roth IRA Rollovers from 529s
(03:26) – The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) Explained
(03:50) – Expanded K–12 Expenses (Effective July 2025)
(04:54) – Increased Withdrawal Limits Starting in 2026
(05:48) – Credentialing and Trade School Use of 529s
(08:02) – Closing Thoughts and Contact Info

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler 

In this episode, we dive into a growing concern for high-net-worth families: the impact of the $38 trillion national debt on future taxes, estate planning, and wealth preservation. We don’t dwell in fear — instead, we focus on smart, proactive steps that affluent individuals and families can take now while tax rates are still historically low.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps
(00:00) – Introduction: The National Debt Challenge
(02:00) – Misconceptions About Taxes and Debt
(03:45) – Missed Planning Windows
(05:30) – Strategies to Reduce Future Tax Exposure
(07:45) – Legacy Planning and Family Communication
(10:00) – Current Client Concerns in 2025
(12:00) – One-Sentence Advice for High-Net-Worth Families
(14:00) – Contact Information & Disclaimer

We begin by addressing a widespread misconception: that tax rates will stay low indefinitely. As Alex points out, the pattern of government backstopping during crises has led many to become complacent. But the math tells a different story. With increasing entitlement costs and an aging population, taxation on deferred assets like IRAs and 401(k)s is likely to rise. And that’s where the risk lies — not in the headlines, but in what families aren’t planning for.

Bruce walks us through how required minimum distributions (RMDs) can lead to unexpected tax exposure, especially for individuals in their 60s and 70s who haven’t yet evaluated the long-term impact of their tax-deferred accounts. A $3 to $5 million IRA could result in annual taxable RMDs of $300,000 to $500,000, triggering 30%+ tax rates unless actions like Roth conversions are taken early. Waiting feels safe, but it often becomes the most expensive decision.

We also explore overlooked tax-efficient strategies beyond retirement accounts. Jason emphasizes tools like life insurance, charitable remainder trusts, and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) for real estate owners. Bruce reminds us how critical it is to manage capital gains thresholds and investment income taxes through careful income control. Planning isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s about knowing which tool fits which scenario.

Legacy planning takes center stage as we discuss the emotional side of inheritance. Alex shares the common generational gap between financial assets and emotional preparedness. Too many families avoid money conversations, leaving heirs in the dark until it’s too late. We highlight how open dialogue and multigenerational planning — like Bruce’s two-generation tax-free legacy strategy — can ensure wisdom is transferred alongside wealth.

Looking at the year ahead, Jason flags AI and global uncertainty as top-of-mind concerns for clients in 2025. The episode closes with advice from each advisor: start planning now, prepare for contingencies, and don’t ignore old estate documents — revisit and revise them before it costs you or your heirs.

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team:  https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures:  https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you link to any of the websites provided here, you are leaving this website. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided at these websites. Nor is the company liable for any direct or indirect technical or system issues or any consequences arising out of your access to or your use of third-party technologies, websites, information, and programs made available through this website. When you access one of these websites, you are leaving our website and assume total responsibility and risk for your use of the websites you are linking to.

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved. 

Produced by JAG Podcast Productions - www.jagpodcastproductions.com. 

#ProtectingWealthPodcast  #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler