Retirement Tax Mistakes: Keep More of Your Money

Retirement was once synonymous with financial freedom from the IRS. Unfortunately, today’s retirees must navigate strategic withdrawals, timing income, and avoiding costly tax pitfalls.

Every summer, clients discover unexpected tax mishaps that could have been avoided. If you're newly retired or contemplating it, know this: effective tax planning in retirement is as crucial as it was during your working years. Perhaps even more vital.

Why Summer Is Essential for Retiree Tax Strategy

While summer isn't traditionally viewed as tax season, it's an ideal period to:

  • Adjust withdrawals before mandatory year-end RMDs

  • Rebalance income to minimize taxes

  • Avoid Medicare premium spikes from unknown income

Come December, alterations become limited, emphasizing the importance of mid-year planning.

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3 Common Retirement Tax Blunders (and How to Avoid Them)

1. Neglecting or Delaying RMDs

Once you reach age 73, Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from retirement accounts become mandatory. Failing to meet them incurs a 25% penalty.

Even if you're not reliant on the funds, a strategic approach is necessary to maintain compliance and minimize impacts.

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2. Drawing From Taxable Accounts First

Retirees often tap IRAs and 401(k)s first, neglecting Roth IRAs. This can inadvertently:

  • Push income into higher tax brackets

  • Trigger Medicare premium increases (IRMAA surcharges)

  • Miss out on tax-free growth opportunities

A planned withdrawal strategy extends the life of retirement savings.

3. Ignoring Capital Gains and Diverse Income

Selling assets or earning additional income, like consulting, counts as taxable income that can escalate your tax bracket, especially when coupled with Social Security benefits.

Mid-year planning facilitates smart gain or loss harvesting, preventing income overload within a single year.

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Bonus: Giving, Gifting, and Legacy without the Tax Burden

  • Want to financially support family?

  • Considering donations to causes you cherish?

  • Need to navigate estate taxes before 2026 changes?

There are strategic methods to assist loved ones and support charities while minimizing your tax liability.

Peaceful Retirement Includes Strategic Tax Planning

Your diligent retirement savings shouldn’t be eroded by taxation missteps.

Ensure your retirement income is optimized. Our team at Melvin P. Crilley EA Inc. offers comprehensive strategy assessments to anticipate gaps and enhance your financial longevity, minimizing your stress.

Reach out to us whether you’re retired, approaching retirement, or seeking a fresh perspective on your tax strategy.

Maximize the fruits of your labor by making your tax game plan benefit you, not just the IRS.

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