The 4% rule gets talked about like gospel in retirement planning. But let’s be honest, it’s always been more of a rough guess than a golden rule. Now, its original creator is revising it to 4.7%. So, does that mean your retirement paycheck just got a raise, or is this just another headline that oversimplifies a complex decision? In a world of volatile markets, tax surprises, and rising longevity, the idea that one percentage could work for everyone isn’t always the best default approach.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

🔍 What the original 4% rule really was and why it went viral

❓The “new number” everyone’s talking about

💰 The critical difference between gross and net withdrawal needs

⏳ How timing, market swings, and income sources impact sustainability

📊 Why planning beats rules of thumb, especially in volatile times

For more, visit us online: http://philstaxhacks.com

Watch the video podcast on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3WdDG96

Target-date funds seem like the ultimate “set it and forget it” retirement strategy, but are they really as simple and safe as advertised? In today's episode, Phil unpacks these popular, automatic investment options that now hold over $4 trillion in assets. If you’re like many people, your 401k automatically funnels your money into these funds based on your retirement date. Convenient? Definitely. Optimal? Maybe not.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

🎯 How target-date funds became the default 401k option

⚖️ How they automatically rebalance, but not always in your favor

📉 Why your funds might be more aggressive than you think

🧐 When a “set it and forget it” approach could cost you

💡 Why target-date funds might not fit your complete financial picture

For more, visit us online: http://philstaxhacks.com

Watch the video podcast on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3WdDG96

Graduation season is an exciting milestone, not just for the grads, but for parents and grandparents who have supported them along the way. Today, Phil wants to share practical ways you can help your graduate make smart financial decisions early, along with actions that could have a lasting impact on their future.

Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode:

📊 The tools that make budgeting easier

📈 How Roth IRAs offer lifelong tax benefits

🔧 Debt management without shame or fear

💰 Why early saving beats bigger saving later

For more, visit us online: http://philstaxhacks.com

Watch the video podcast on YouTube: https://bit.ly/3WdDG96