Retirement Guides
IRA strategies, 401(k) rollovers, HSA investing, and recession-proofing — built on real tax code math, not generic advice.
Retirement Planning Without the Jargon
The Roth vs Traditional IRA decision isn't about contribution limits — it's about your marginal tax rate now versus at retirement. The HSA isn't just a medical fund — it's a second 401(k) that beats both on tax treatment. The 401(k) rollover has a 60-day clock with a 10% penalty if missed. These details matter and most retirement guides skip them.
Our retirement guides go deep on 2026 IRS rules, MAGI phase-outs, and real scenarios — so you arrive at retirement with the maximum account balance, not the most tax receipts.
Essential Retirement Guides
Retirement FAQ
Should I choose a Roth or Traditional IRA?
The choice depends on your current vs. future tax rate. If you expect your tax rate to be higher in retirement, a Roth IRA (post-tax contributions) is better. If you need a tax break today and expect a lower rate later, a Traditional IRA (pre-tax) is typically better.
What should I do with my old 401(k) when I change jobs?
You typically have four options: leave it where it is, roll it into your new employer's 401(k), roll it into an IRA, or cash it out (not recommended due to taxes and penalties). Rolling into an IRA often provides the most investment flexibility and lowest fees.
Can I use an HSA as a retirement account?
Yes. An HSA is often called a 'stealth 401(k)' because it offers triple tax advantages: contributions are tax-deductible, growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for medical expenses are tax-free. After age 65, you can withdraw for any reason (paying ordinary income tax), similar to a Traditional IRA.
All Retirement Guides
9 guides
Investing What Is Coast FIRE? The Number That Lets You Stop
Coast FIRE means your investments will grow to your retirement target without another dollar of contributions. Here's the exact math, by age, and how to know if you've hit it.
Personal Finance Which Financial Account Do You Actually Need?
401k, Roth IRA, HSA, brokerage, HYSA — what's the right order and combination? This guide explains every major account type, who it's for, and when to open what.
Investing How to Invest $500 in 2026: The Exact 4-Step Strategy
You don't need $10,000 to start investing. Here's the precise 4-step framework for investing $500 in 2026 — account choice, fund selection, automation, and what to do next.
Retirement Planning Roth IRA 2026: Contribution Limits, Rules & Who Opens One
2026 Roth IRA contribution limit: $7,000 ($8,000 if 50+). Phase-out starts at $146k (single) / $230k (married). Here's who qualifies, who shouldn't, and how to open one.
Retirement Planning Traditional vs Roth IRA for $100k+ Earners (2026): Tax Math
At a $100k+ income, the choice between Roth and Traditional IRA isn't obvious. We run the actual 30-year numbers on tax drag and show you which account wins.
Retirement Best Platforms to Roll Over Old 401k Accounts (2026)
Leaving an old 401(k) behind costs more than you think. Here are the 5 best places to roll it over in 2026, ranked by low fees and rollover simplicity.
Retirement How to Roll Over Your 401k Without a Tax Bill (2026)
A wrong move on a 401(k) rollover triggers a 10% penalty plus income tax. Here's the exact IRS-compliant process to transfer your account with zero tax bill.
Investing Vanguard vs Fidelity vs Schwab 2026: Fidelity Wins for Most
Fidelity wins for most investors in 2026. Vanguard wins for large accounts ($500k+). Schwab carries a $2,375/year cash drag. Our analysis of 1,242 accounts.
Retirement HSA: The Secret Second 401k You're Probably Ignoring
You can invest your HSA balance like a 401(k). After 65, it converts to a standard IRA. This is the most underused wealth-building tool in the tax code — here's how to use it.