Resources

Retirement planning articles: Social Security, Medicare & taxes

Clear, practical guides to the decisions that shape retirement: Social Security, Medicare, taxes, and turning savings into income. Written by James Mayo, CFA, CFP®, EA, RICP®.

Medicare & Healthcare

What Does Long-Term Care Cost?

Estimate the cost of long-term care in your area, including in-home care, assisted living, and nursing home care, with the CareScout (Genworth) Cost of Care calculator.

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Social Security

Changed Your Mind About Social Security? Withdrawal vs. Suspension Explained

Learn how to withdraw or suspend your Social Security retirement benefit, what each option costs, and which one applies depending on how long you've been receiving payments.

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Medicare & Healthcare

How Much Does Healthcare Cost in Retirement?

Wondering how much healthcare costs in retirement? This guide breaks down Medicare Parts A, B, D, and Medigap supplement costs in 2026, with a real-world example of what comprehensive Medicare coverage might actually cost per year.

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Medicare & Healthcare

How Does Medicare Work?

Medicare has multiple parts, enrollment windows, and cost structures that interact with your retirement income in ways that are worth understanding before you turn 65. This guide explains how Medicare works, what each part covers, and what decisions matter most.

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Tax Planning

What Are Roth Conversions?

A Roth conversion moves pre-tax retirement savings into a Roth IRA, creating a taxable event now in exchange for tax-free growth later. Learn how conversions work, what triggers higher costs, and how they fit into a retirement income and tax plan.

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Medicare & Healthcare

What Is IRMAA?

IRMAA is a Medicare surcharge that increases Part B and Part D premiums for higher-income retirees. Learn how it is calculated, what triggers it, how the two-year lookback works, and how it connects to Roth conversions, RMDs, and retirement income planning.

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Social Security

How Are Social Security Benefits Taxed in Retirement?

Up to 85 percent of your Social Security benefit may be subject to federal income tax, depending on your combined income. Learn how the rules work, what counts toward combined income, and how it interacts with RMDs, Roth accounts, and retirement income planning.

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Social Security

When Should I Claim Social Security?

The right age to claim Social Security depends on your health, tax situation, spouse's benefit, and overall retirement income plan. This guide explains the key tradeoffs clearly so you can make a more informed decision.

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