Insights & Financial News | Oak Road Journal

Insights

A well-lit suburban home at dusk representing estate planning and transferring a house to your children.

What Is the Best Way to Leave Your House to Your Children?

Your home. Your biggest asset. Don't let the wrong plan cost your kids thousands. Here's exactly how to transfer it the right way.

A calculator and notebook with "401k" written in red ink — illustrating the question of at what age a 401(k) withdrawal is tax-free and how retirement income planning works.

At What Age Is a 401(k) Withdrawal Tax-Free?

Your 401(k) withdrawal is never tax-free — but age does matter. Learn exactly when the 10% penalty disappears and how to keep more of your money in retirement.

Couple meeting with a financial advisor to discuss the average cost of financial planning services — Oak Road Wealth Management, Lee's Summit MO

What Is the Average Cost of Using a Financial Advisor?

Is 1% worth it? Learn what financial advisors actually charge — and what you should be getting for it. Oak Road Wealth Management breaks it all down.

What Is a Red Flag for a Financial Advisor?

Your financial advisor could be costing you thousands — and you'd never know it. Learn the red flags that expose bad advisors before it's too late.

Can I contribute to a Roth IRA if I make over $200,000?

If you earn over $200,000, the IRS may say "no" to direct Roth IRA contributions—but we say "yes." Discover the 2026 Backdoor Roth strategy at Oak Road Wealth Management in Lee's Summit. Learn the rules before you over-contribute!

What are the Disadvantages of a QCD?

For many retirees, the Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) feels like a “tax cheat code.” It allows

What are Common QCD Mistakes to Avoid?

Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) are a powerful tool for retirees in Lee’s Summit to support

What Qualifies as a Qualified Charitable Distribution?

Stop paying taxes on your RMD. Discover exactly what qualifies as a qualified charitable distribution in 2026. See how to use the new $111,000 limit to donate tax-free. Don't overpay the IRS—read the rules now.

Overhead photograph of a tax planning desk set with a 2021 Form 1040, glasses, wooden blocks spelling "TAX", a vintage orange alarm clock, and a stack of money. A green overlay box asks: "HOW DOES THE IRS KNOW YOU MADE A QCD?". Includes the Oak Road Wealth

How does the IRS know you made a QCD?

How does the IRS know you made a QCD? Avoid a surprise tax bill with our 2026 guide to reporting gifts on Form 1040. Learn why the new "Code Y" might be missing from your 1099-R and how to prove your gift is tax-free.