Financial advisors discuss strategies for a 26-year-old couple making $250k/year, exploring options like pre-tax 401k contributions, backdoor Roth strategies, and maximizing financial potential at a young age. They also delve into topics like financial resilience, Tesla ownership, decision making on car repairs, and optimizing tax benefits in retirement savings.
Prioritize pre-tax 401k contributions if tax rate exceeds 30% for significant benefits.
Utilize backdoor Roth or conversion strategy for tax-free contributions when exceeding income limits for direct Roth contributions.
Deep dives
Optimizing 401k Contributions for Tax Efficiency
Considering a household income of $250,000, it is suggested to review last year's tax return to determine the marginal tax rate. If the combined federal and state tax rate is over 30%, prioritizing pre-tax 401k contributions may offer significant tax benefits. This approach allows for immediate tax savings, especially advantageous at a younger age.
Utilizing Backdoor Roth Contributions for High Earners
For individuals like Vincenzo who exceed income limits for direct Roth contributions, the backdoor Roth or conversion strategy offers an alternative. By making non-deductible contributions to a traditional IRA and converting them to a Roth, tax-free contributions can be achieved, exploiting the benefits of Roth investing.
As wealth accumulates and retirement accounts are maximized, considerations shift towards after-tax investment accounts to enhance financial flexibility. Establishing a taxable brokerage account allows for diversified investments like index funds, offering advantageous tax treatment and easier accessibility to assets, crucial for early retirement plans.
"My wife and I make $250k a year at 26 years old, and we have lost the ability to put money into our Roth IRA. We have a fully funded emergency fund, Roth 401(k), and were funding Roth IRA. What do you suggest we do now?"
We'll walk you through that question and more in today's Q&A episode!
Bring confidence to your wealth building with simplified strategies from The Money Guy. Learn how to apply financial tactics that go beyond common sense and help you reach your money goals faster. Make your assets do the heavy lifting so you can quit worrying and start living a more fulfilled life.
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