The pursuit of wealth can lead to emptiness and anxiety, but scripture offers a better way. By living as stewards instead of owners, we can find peace and purpose in our financial journey, and learn to give generously and live with contentment. [... more]

Retirees must be aware of the new RMD rules for 2025, which can catch them off guard and lead to unexpected taxes and penalties. The rules require that RMDs be the first money out of retirement accounts, affecting rollovers and charitable distributions. Understanding the rules and having a long-term vision for retirement planning can help individuals optimize their tax strategy and avoid unintended consequences. [... more]

Honoring mothers is a biblical mandate, and their value can't be measured in dollars. Scripture calls us to honor them, and one way to do this is by expressing gratitude and speaking words of blessing over their lives. As mothers grow older, honoring them takes on a new shape, looking like care, practical, and intentional care. This is a biblical mandate, and Jesus addressed this directly in Mark 7:10-13. Honoring mothers is not just a holiday, but a way of living a life of gratitude, service, and responsibility. [... more]

Retirement planning requires a comprehensive approach, including a 401k, tax implications, and investment strategies. Tax deferred accounts can be beneficial, but also come with risks. A reliable income stream is crucial for financial confidence in retirement, and a well-planned strategy can help achieve this goal. [... more]

Roth conversions can provide tax-free income in retirement, but it's essential to consider current tax brackets, Social Security, and Medicare premiums when deciding whether to convert traditional accounts to Roth accounts while still working or after retirement. [... more]

Carrying debt into retirement can significantly reduce lifestyle choices and increase the likelihood of returning to work. Understanding biblical principles of finance and effective debt management strategies can help individuals avoid debt and achieve financial freedom. Additionally, making informed decisions about inherited IRAs and property investments can also impact one's financial future. [... more]

Jonathan, a bivocational pastor, struggles with feeling hypocritical about his financial situation, despite having a six-figure income. He seeks advice on how to manage his finances and give generously to his congregation. Rob West offers guidance on defining values, setting goals, and creating a spending plan to align with Christian principles. [... more]

Understanding the values and motivations behind financial decisions is crucial for a healthy marriage. Shanti Feldhahn and her husband Jeff share their insights on how to navigate financial conflicts and find unity in their marriage, highlighting the importance of communication, empathy, and biblical principles. [... more]

High-income earners can still benefit from a Roth IRA by exploring alternative strategies such as Roth conversions, backdoor Roth, and mega backdoor Roth. These approaches allow individuals to contribute to a Roth IRA despite income limits, but require careful consideration of tax implications and potential costs. [... more]

Rob West discusses various financial topics, including retirement planning, investment strategies, and biblical stewardship. He answers listener questions on topics such as IRA inheritance, life insurance, and divorce and finances, providing guidance on making wise financial decisions and living a life of stewardship. [... more]

Modeling generosity and teaching children the value of giving is crucial for their future well-being. By experiencing financial freedom, individuals can live a life free from the bondage of money. A donor-advised fund and other tools can help grandparents pass on the value of generosity to their grandkids. [... more]

Many people assume their taxes will be lower in retirement, but that's not always the case. With four key reasons to plan for higher taxes, retirees can take proactive steps to optimize their tax liability and avoid a significant tax bill in the future. [... more]

Teaching children about the dangers of debt and the importance of financial literacy is crucial for their future financial well-being. Parents can start by modeling good financial behavior, using verbal communication to teach their children about money, and providing practical opportunities for them to apply what they've learned. A systematic approach to teaching children about money can help them develop good financial habits and avoid debt. Additionally, understanding trusts and estates can help individuals avoid probate and ensure that their assets are distributed according to their wishes. [... more]

God's ownership of all things and our stewardship responsibility are key concepts in managing finances according to a biblical worldview. Understanding principles such as tithing, budgeting, and financial planning can help individuals make wise decisions with their resources and live in accordance with God's will. [... more]

Navigating identity theft protection plans and understanding their worth, making informed financial decisions with biblical wisdom, and exploring charitable giving options through qualified charitable distributions and estate planning strategies for efficient IRA distributions and effective financial stewardship. [... more]

Christian generosity is about serving a different Master, imitating God's love, and being radically, sacrificially, and joyfully generous. Cultivating a biblical attitude about giving, such as secret, open-handed, cheerful, loving, and sacrificial, can bring spiritual benefits and fill us with joy from the Holy Spirit. [... more]

Preparing for college requires careful financial planning, and biblical wisdom can guide decision-making. Art Rayner shares strategies for minimizing debt and avoiding costly misconceptions. Meanwhile, listeners seek advice on retirement planning, investment strategies, and faith-based investing, highlighting the importance of aligning financial decisions with one's values. [... more]

A Christian finance expert discusses the importance of understanding mortgage closing costs, permanent endowments, and stewardship in giving. He also answers listener questions on financial planning, retirement accounts, and whole life insurance. [... more]

Financial planners discuss the implications of the Medicare tax, known as ERMA, and how it can be appealed. They also explore the benefits of Roth conversions and the importance of planning for retirement, including managing Required Minimum Distributions. [... more]

Proactive planning can help control tax liability in retirement by understanding required minimum distributions, optimizing tax brackets, and strategically managing withdrawals to reduce the impact of RMDs. [... more]

Christian parents can train their children in financial discipleship by modeling, verbal instruction, and practical opportunities. A biblical worldview is essential for making financial decisions, and understanding Social Security benefits and retirement planning can help individuals make informed choices. [... more]

Rob West discusses the qualified charitable distribution, a tax benefit for individuals over 70 and a half with an IRA, allowing them to transfer funds directly to charity without reporting the income, and the potential to satisfy required minimum distributions. He also answers listener questions on retirement planning, financial decisions, and stewardship, providing biblical wisdom and guidance on managing finances. [... more]

Rob West discusses financial wisdom from King Solomon's money moves, including being disciplined, denying oneself, and being determined. He also answers listener questions on long-term care insurance, investment portfolios, and the national debt, while exploring the impact of artificial intelligence on the economy. [... more]

Considering a Roth conversion in your 70s can be a smart move, especially with taxes set to increase in 2026. By converting your IRA to a Roth IRA, you'll pay taxes upfront, but your beneficiaries will have tax-free withdrawals. However, there are pros and cons to consider, including the impact on Social Security taxation and Medicare premiums. It's essential to weigh the benefits of paying taxes now versus deferring to the IRS's plan. A professional can help you determine the best approach for your specific situation. [... more]

Ron Blue discusses biblical finance and the importance of giving, even when in debt. He shares insights on managing God's money and prioritizing giving, while also addressing listener questions on debt, IRAs, and required minimum distributions. [... more]

Helping your teenager navigate the college transition requires open communication about finances, budgeting, and credit cards. As they enter adulthood, discuss career choices, life in the real world, and the importance of financial independence. Meanwhile, for those nearing retirement, consider annuities and long-term care to ensure a secure income stream and peace of mind. [... more]

Carolyn Kolupka discusses the parable of the rich fool and its relevance to modern financial decisions. She emphasizes the importance of making God one's treasure and using money as a tool to serve others. The hosts also answer listener questions on reverse mortgages, inherited property, and retirement account requirements. [... more]

The Bible offers wisdom for putting money in its proper place, and Christians are called to flee from foolish desires, stay faithful to God, and hold on to their hope of eternal life. Financial advisors can help clients make a kingdom impact by aligning their financial decisions with Christian values. [... more]

Rob West discusses wise ways to make year-end giving, exploring IRA charitable distributions and charitable gift annuities. He also addresses home affordability, mortgage rates, and financial stewardship, offering practical advice for listeners to make informed decisions about their finances and align them with their faith. [... more]

Understanding the financial implications of various birthdays, from Social Security eligibility to retirement planning, and learning how to make the most of your money, whether it's investing for your children or making smart decisions about your own finances. [... more]

Understanding biblical financial principles and applying them to everyday life can lead to financial freedom and peace of mind. A biblical worldview of retirement is different from the cultural concept, and it's essential to have a plan in place to manage finances effectively. Investing wisely and being a good steward of one's resources can lead to a secure financial future. [... more]

Deciding between traditional and Roth IRAs can be a complex process, especially with new tax laws in place. Mark Biller, executive editor at Sound Mind Investing, joins Rob West to discuss the pros and cons of each option and how to create a diversified tax strategy. They explore the benefits of having both traditional and Roth accounts, including flexibility and reduced tax liability, and provide a rule of thumb for determining the right balance between the two. [... more]

Rob West discusses three ways to avoid losing money, including not contributing enough to a 401k, not taking full advantage of a flexible spending account, and lending too much to Uncle Sam through excessive tax withholding. He also answers listener questions about selling gold coins, capital gains tax, and rolling over a 401k to an IRA or current employer's 401k plan. [... more]

Rob West discusses the Legacy IRA, a new retirement account option that allows individuals to make charitable donations while reducing their tax liability. He also answers listener questions on topics such as refinancing car loans, annuities, and whole life insurance policies. [... more]

When reaching age 73, individuals with multiple IRAs and 401ks must take required minimum distributions, which can be aggregated for traditional IRAs but not for 401ks. Consolidation and annuities can simplify the process, but it's essential to understand the rules and consult a professional to avoid penalties. [... more]

Historically low tax rates and the potential expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act create a compelling argument for paying taxes now and converting traditional IRAs to Roths. This strategy can help manage tax liability, take advantage of lower tax rates, and pass on wealth to heirs tax-free. [... more]

If you unretire and go back to work, you may not lose your Social Security benefits, but there are implications, including the potential for penalty and reduced benefits. Additionally, you may still have to take required minimum distributions from your tax-deferred retirement accounts, and your Medicare premiums may increase based on your income. [... more]

The Secure Act 2.0 has introduced changes to required minimum distribution rules, affecting individuals who inherit IRAs and those who delay their RMDs. Proactive planning and tax management strategies can help minimize tax liabilities and maximize wealth transfer. [... more]

Hans Scheil, a certified financial planner, discusses the importance of having a strategy for required minimum distributions from IRAs and 401ks, and how it can be used to leverage resources for the kingdom, for children, and for one's spouse, while also considering tax planning and estate planning. [... more]

The SECURE Act 2.0 brings significant changes to retirement account rules, affecting almost everyone. Key takeaways include the new RMD age table, expanded qualified charitable distributions, and changes to 529 plans. It's essential to review and update retirement plans to ensure compliance with the new laws and to make informed decisions about tax and estate planning. [... more]

Proper planning is vitally important when it comes to required minimum distributions from tax-deferred accounts. By understanding the rules and strategies, individuals can reduce their tax burden and keep more of their hard-earned money. This includes considering early distributions, Roth conversions, and qualified charitable distributions to minimize tax liability and maximize retirement savings. [... more]

Donating to your favorite charity while reducing your taxes can be a win-win situation. By utilizing a Qualified Charitable Distribution, you can satisfy the Required Minimum Distribution from your IRA and make a tax-free gift to your charity. This strategy can also help minimize estate taxes and ensure that your beneficiaries are not burdened with a large tax bill. [... more]

Inherited IRAs and 401ks can be complex, especially with the SECURE Act's 10-year rule. Beneficiaries must take required minimum distributions, which can impact tax rates and income needs. Financial planners like Hans Scheil can help strategize around this, including using annuities to evenly distribute funds over 10 years. [... more]

Certified financial planner Hans Scheil discusses the importance of understanding required minimum distributions, or RMDs, in retirement planning. He explains how RMDs can impact tax bills and suggests strategies for managing RMDs, including IRA conversions to Roth IRAs and qualified charitable distributions, or QCDs, which can provide tax benefits and support charitable giving. [... more]

Discover how qualified charitable distributions can help you leverage your IRA for the kingdom, reduce your tax bill, and make a lasting impact on your church and community. Learn from certified financial planner Hans Scheil as he shares expert advice on how to plan for and live in retirement, and how to use QCDs to maximize your charitable giving and minimize your tax liability. [... more]

Calculating your RMD, or required minimum distribution, is crucial for a smooth retirement. The IRS requires distributions from traditional IRAs and 401ks starting at age 72, but a smart strategy can minimize taxes and create a sustainable income stream. By understanding the concept of RMDs and developing a distribution plan, individuals can ensure a comfortable retirement and make the most of their IRA assets. [... more]

Preparing for required minimum distributions can be a complex process, but understanding the options and planning ahead can make a significant difference in retirement. Certified financial planner Hans Scheil discusses the importance of tax planning, leveraging resources, and considering alternative distribution plans to maximize the use of IRAs and 401ks. By starting early and exploring options such as Roth IRAs, annuities, and qualified charitable distributions, individuals can create a more secure financial future and avoid unnecessary taxes. [... more]

Qualified charitable distributions allow individuals to give directly to charity from their IRA, avoiding taxes on money they've never paid taxes on. This can be a tax-efficient way to give to charity, especially for those who are required to take minimum distributions from their IRA. A financial planner can help individuals understand the rules and benefits of QCDs and create a plan for their charitable giving. [... more]

Taxes are a certainty in retirement, and failing to plan can lead to a significant reduction in retirement income. A proactive tax planning approach can help individuals save thousands, tens of thousands, or even hundreds of thousands of dollars in unnecessary taxes. By understanding the differences between tax preparation and tax planning, and implementing strategies such as maximizing tax brackets and using tax-free growth, individuals can take control of their tax liability and secure a more confident financial future. [... more]