Insights & Financial News | Oak Road Journal

Insights

What Assets Should Not Be in a Will?

A missing beneficiary on your 401(k) can cause serious problems. Find out what assets should not be in a will before it's too late to fix it.

What Is the Major Disadvantage of a Trust?

Everyone assumes a trust is the smart move. Sometimes it's overkill. Discover the major disadvantage of a trust — and what actually works better.

A gavel, scales of justice, and legal document on a desk — illustrating the main purpose of having a trust in estate planning.

What Is the Main Purpose of Having a Trust?

Trusts aren't just for the wealthy. The main purpose of having a trust is simpler than you think — and it could save your family months of legal headaches.

What Shouldn’t You Put in a Trust?

Your trust won't protect everything—and putting the wrong assets in could trigger a massive tax bill. Find out what to keep out, including IRAs and retirement accounts.

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!