Insights & Financial News | Oak Road Journal

Insights

Wooden blocks spelling RMD, representing required minimum distribution rules and the biggest RMD mistake retirees make

What Is the Biggest RMD Mistake?

The biggest RMD mistake isn't what most people think — and it can trigger IRS penalties or push you into a higher tax bracket. Here's how to avoid it.

Close-up of a "Latest Updates" file folder tab among other filed documents

What Are the New 2026 RMD Rules?

Turning 73 in 2026? Here's exactly what changed (and what didn't) with RMD rules this year — explained by a fee-only fiduciary advisor.

Required Minimum Distributions binder next to a financial report with pie charts and a calendar, representing 401k RMD planning at age 73

How Much Do I Have to Withdraw From My 401k at Age 73?

RMDs start at 73 or 75, depending on your birth year — and the required amount climbs each year. See the formula, IRS tables, and how to shrink it.

A paper titled 'RMD — Required Minimum Distributions' resting on financial statements, with reading glasses and a pen — representing retirement account withdrawal rules.

Required Minimum Distributions: How They Work, How They're Taxed, and How to Lower Them

Required Minimum Distributions can push you into a higher tax bracket — and raise your Medicare premiums — without warning. Here's how RMDs work, how they're taxed, and the strategies Oak Road Wealth Management uses to lower them.

Senior man working on a laptop at home, representing someone who continues working full time while collecting Social Security at age 70.

Can I Collect Social Security at 70 and Still Work Full Time?

Yes — and your benefit won't shrink. Oak Road Wealth Management explains why age 70 is the magic number, plus the real (non-math) reason so many retirees keep working.

Empty leather wallet held open by two hands, symbolizing reduced income from claiming Social Security at age 62

How Much Do I Lose If I Take Social Security at 62?

Claiming Social Security at 62 cuts your check by 30% for life — but is that actually the wrong move? Fiduciary advisors break down the real numbers, and when early really does make sense.

Calculator, glasses, and financial charts with rising line graph, illustrating the word 'Benefits' — representing analysis of potential Social Security benefit cuts and retirement planning.

Are Our Social Security Benefits Going to Be Cut?

Are our Social Security benefits going to be cut? Yes—unless Congress acts, the trust fund runs dry in 2032. Here's what retirees need to know.

Financial advisor signing retirement tax planning documents, representing Big Beautiful Bill Social Security tax changes

What Does the Big Beautiful Bill Do for Social Security?

Wondering what the Big Beautiful Bill does for Social Security? It doesn't cut the tax directly — but a new senior deduction could still shrink your bill. Here's how it actually works.

Yellow 'Retirement Ahead' road sign in a rural field, symbolizing the decision of when to claim Social Security at 62, 67, or 70

Is It Better to Take Social Security at 62 or 67 or 70?

Is it better to take Social Security at 62 or 67 or 70? The honest answer: it depends. See the real trade-offs, break-even math, and how delaying can fit a Roth conversion strategy.