Summer often brings vacations, family activities, and unexpected expenses, making it easy to lose sight of financial goals.

Taking a few proactive steps before spending ramps up can help you avoid unnecessary taxes, overlooked opportunities, and preventable financial headaches.

In this episode, Josh Leonard and Pete Belcastro explore five financial questions to ask before summer gets into full swing. They explain why reviewing tax withholding, checking beneficiary designations, evaluating insurance coverage, maximizing tax-advantaged accounts, and planning seasonal expenses can help retirees and those approaching retirement make more informed financial decisions.

They also clarify the difference between tax preparation and tax planning while sharing practical ways to make retirement spending more intentional throughout the year.

Key takeaways:

• Reviewing tax withholding before large withdrawals may help reduce unexpected tax surprises later
• Checking beneficiary designations after life changes helps retirement assets reflect current wishes
• Evaluating insurance coverage before traveling may help avoid duplicate policies and extra costs
• Using HSAs, Roth accounts, and employer matches can improve long-term tax efficiency over time
• Planning summer expenses ahead of time helps reduce financial stress during vacations and family activities
• And more!

Resources:

• Schedule a meeting with the team

Connect with Josh Leonard:

• jleonard@leonardadvisorygroup.com
• LinkedIn: Josh Leonard
• Leonard Advisory Group
• 412-998-PLAN
• YouTube: Leonard Advisory Group
• Facebook: Leonard Advisory Group

Connect with Pete Belcastro:

• LinkedIn: Pete Belcastro