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Are You Overpaying Taxes in Retirement? Optimize for Savings!

In the past, retirement might have meant leaving the IRS behind.
But today, retirement is increasingly about strategically managing withdrawals, timing your income, and sidestepping costly tax pitfalls.

Yet, every June, clients come to us completely unaware that they are making such errors.

If you've recently retired—or are on the brink of retirement—here's a fact:
Tax planning remains as crucial—if not more so—during retirement as it was in your working years.

Why Summer Is Ideal for Retirees' Tax Planning

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While summer might not scream tax season, it's actually the optimal time to:

  • Adjust withdrawals to accommodate year-end RMDs

  • Rebalance your income streams to minimize taxes

  • Avoid unexpected Medicare premium hikes due to hidden income

Come December, it's often too late to rectify issues.

3 Common Retirement Tax Blunders (You Can Still Remedy)

1. Procrastinating on RMDs (or Overlooking Them)

For those 73 and older, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from IRAs and certain retirement plans are mandatory. Forgetting or delaying them results in a massive 25% penalty on the amount you should have taken out.

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Even if you do not need these funds, having a strategy can help you comply and mitigate any adverse effects.

2. Withdrawing from Less Efficient Accounts First

Starting withdrawals from IRAs or 401(k)s while leaving Roth IRAs untouched might seem savvy, but based on your tax bracket, it might:

  • Push you into higher tax brackets

  • Escalate Medicare premiums (via IRMAA surcharges)

  • Miss out on tax-free growth potential

A synchronized withdrawal strategy can extend your retirement savings.

3. Ignoring Capital Gains and Other Side Incomes

Selling assets? Rebalancing portfolios? Engaging in side consults?
Such activities constitute income and may tip you over critical thresholds, particularly if you are drawing Social Security.

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Mid-year planning facilitates strategic gain or loss harvesting, mitigating income concentration within any single year.

Bonus Insight: Smart Gifting, Legacy, and Tax-Efficient Charitable Giving

  • Aiming to support your children or grandchildren?

  • Considering donations to causes you cherish?

  • Need to manage estate taxes before 2026 changes?

There are avenues to achieve these goals without increasing your tax liabilities.

Retirement Deserves Serenity. Let Your Tax Plan Reflect That.

You've diligently built your nest egg over the years. Don’t let unwarranted tax hiccups erode what you've accumulated.

If you wish to solidify your retirement income strategy, we're here to assist. We’ll evaluate your current approach, highlight gaps, and proactively strategize—ensuring the longevity of your savings and minimizing stress.

Reach out to our office whether you're newly retired, approaching retirement, or simply desire a comprehensive review of your tax strategy.

You've accomplished the challenging part—now let's ensure it serves you, not just the IRS.

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