Insights & Financial News | Oak Road Journal

Insights

Blue paper torn open to reveal the word 'disadvantage,' illustrating the hidden disadvantages of an IRA

What Are the Disadvantages of an IRA?

Taxable distributions, a 10% early withdrawal penalty, and rising Medicare premiums can catch retirees off guard. A fiduciary firm in Lee's Summit, MO breaks down the trade-offs before you contribute another dollar.

Hand placing a $100 bill into a glass savings jar labeled 'Saving,' representing the choice between a CD and an IRA for growing savings

What's Better, a CD or an IRA?

Comparing a CD and an IRA head-to-head? They're not actually competitors. See how these two tools work together, plus real pros and cons of each.

Businessman stacking wooden blocks spelling 'RISK' beside falling dominoes, illustrating how risky a Roth IRA really is

How Risky Is a Roth IRA?

A Roth IRA isn't risky — your investments are. Learn what actually drives Roth IRA risk, why avoiding stocks can backfire, and how to build the right mix for you.

Chalkboard drawing of a stock market chart rising then sharply crashing downward, illustrating a market downturn and its effect on retirement accounts like an IRA.

Can I Lose My IRA If the Market Crashes?

Market drops feel personal when it's your retirement on the line. See how diversification and asset allocation shape what actually happens to your IRA.

Woman celebrating her 65th birthday with a white frosted cake topped with number 65 candles, representing the age when many retirees ask about IRA taxes

Do I Have to Pay Taxes on My IRA After Age 65?

Still paying taxes on your IRA after 65? Here's exactly how Traditional and Roth IRAs are taxed in retirement — and the RMD rule most retirees miss.

Coin jar with a "Retirement" tag, representing the 401(k) or IRA savings decision

Is It Better to Have a 401(k) or an IRA?

401(k) or IRA — which one wins? The honest answer: it depends on your stage of life. See the pros, cons, and how a fee-only fiduciary weighs both.

Papers labeled Roth IRA, 401(k), and IRA (Individual Retirement Account) on a desk with a calculator, pen, and question mark sticky note

What Is an IRA? A Complete Guide to Traditional and Roth IRAs

Traditional or Roth IRA — which actually saves you more? A fee-only fiduciary breaks down taxes, contribution limits, and 401(k) trade-offs, plainly.

Person withdrawing cash from an ATM, representing an IRA withdrawal above the required minimum distribution (RMD)

What Happens If You Take More Than Your RMD?

Withdrawing extra from your IRA won't trigger a penalty — but it could bump you into a higher tax bracket. Here's the RMD rule most retirees miss.

Can I Reinvest My RMD Money?

Don’t need your RMD for expenses? See where the money can go, why taxes still apply, and how to invest it with your retirement plan in mind.