"Will my taxes be higher, lower, or about the same when I retire?"
The answer to this question might shock you... 👇
Nobody wants to pay more than they have to in taxes, especially in retirement.
And a lot of people think they will pay less because they're exiting the workforce and losing their main source of income.
There are many factors at play though, and a few significant ones, that a lot of people don't realize.
Here are some of the significant ones that you should think of when tax planning:
1️⃣Tax Rate Changes
--- The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) which went into effect Jan. 1 2018 reduced tax rates at just about all levels of taxable income. This Act is set to expire Dec. 31, 2025, so we know rates will be going back up and who knows what they'll look like in the future.
--- Also, the fact that the US national debt is at all-time highs and continuously growing, and historically speaking, tax rates are at all time lows does not make future rates look promising.
2️⃣Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) Rules
--- In case you are unfamiliar with RMDs, they are the minimum amounts you must withdraw from tax-deferred retirement accounts, such as, 401ks, 457bs, traditional IRAs, etc..
--- This law has seen some recent changes, but to put it simply, you must start RMDs when you reach age 72 (73 if you reached age 72 in 2023) or you will be penalized with a 25% excise tax.😦
3️⃣Income Sources and Income Tax Deductions
--- Everyone is subject to the first two factors, however, #3 can vary a little more from person-to-person.
--- Depending on you job success and saving habits over the years, you may just find yourself in quite a strong financial position when you retire.
Possible income sources: Pension, retirement accounts, Social Security, taxable investments, rental properties, and part-time work.
--- You also tend to miss out on income tax deductions you would have had when younger, thus pushing you into higher brackets.
Some common deductions you may lose: IRA/401k/Retirement plan contributions, mortgage interest, dependents
So...
Will your taxes be higher, lower, or about the same in retirement?
Well, unfortunately, there isn't an exact answer for that.
However, if you strategize and plan out your finances correctly, you can certainly minimize the tax impact you will see when you do retire. 👍
For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Neither Cetera Advisor Networks LLC nor any of its representatives may give legal or tax advice.