Search found 64 matches

by RRJeff
Tue Mar 26, 2024 10:56 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 6053
Views: 1037364

Re: Should I move it all to Fidelity?

I moved everything I could to Fidelity. I have some accounts that I can't move, or would be more hassle than it's worth to move. I did not move my checking/savings accounts for fraud protection reasons others have brought up. It's nice having almost everything in one place.
by RRJeff
Tue Mar 26, 2024 9:33 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: IRS refunded to checking, not to iBonds
Replies: 19
Views: 3114

Re: IRS refunded to checking, not to iBonds

This happened to me this year. I just saw that the entire refund was direct deposited to my account. The refund amount was exactly as I had calculated. IBond amount was a multiple of $50. No other names other than my wife's and mine (filing jointly). No idea why IRS didn't buy ibonds as requested??? Oh well...better luck next year I guess.
by RRJeff
Tue Mar 19, 2024 5:07 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Rebalancing Yearly in Taxable - how to LTCG?
Replies: 15
Views: 1342

Re: Rebalancing Yearly in Taxable - how to LTCG?

You should not sell anything in taxable at a gain to rebalance your portfolio unless that is your only option. And only then if you are outside a reasonable band centered around your target percentage. For example if your target is 50% and you have 53%, no rebalancing is needed yet. Rebalancing should be done in tax-deferred accounts, not taxable, unless this is not possible. If it is not possible, see if you can rearrange your portfolio to make it possible. I am pondering the same question as OP. I am recently early retired. My equity position is over the 5% rebalancing band. My options for rebalancing from equity to fixed income are in my Roth or in taxable (IRA/401k are already full with FI). Preference is to keep my Roth 100% equity if...
by RRJeff
Sat Jan 13, 2024 4:16 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity free Turbotax 2023
Replies: 435
Views: 156999

Re: Fidelity free Turbotax 2023

I meet the requirements but do not see a free TT offer on the Portfolio Summary page. I see the 20% discount offer when I go to the 2023 Tax Information page...but that's it. :confused
by RRJeff
Wed Aug 09, 2023 9:39 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Does Everyone need a local Bank?
Replies: 69
Views: 6606

Re: Does Everyone need a local Bank?

We use an online bank exclusively. In the decade or more that we have banked this way, we have never had a need for a brick and mortar branch. We have purchased several vehicles with personal checks (no cashier's check required). We sold a vehicle this year and the buyers paid with Venmo. I guess we've never had a need for large amounts of cold hard cash, so everything could be taken care of with either Venmo/Paypal or planned trips to ATMs that allow larger withdrawals. Obviously, your son should do what is most comfortable for him and his situation.
by RRJeff
Thu Jul 27, 2023 12:05 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs
Replies: 10
Views: 583

Re: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs

Contact the 401k management company and see if you can rollover from other 401K to the preferred one. It is worth checking. As long as you have the 401K account, they may support you, but if you close that account, there will be no options in that account. A 401K has more legal protections than an IRA. Also one may be able to convert a 401K to a Roth 401K. I think IRAs in TX are afforded the same creditor protections as 401k (based on what I've read...but IANAL). I talked to Fidelity and they told me I am not allowed to add to the 401k since I have separated from the employer. But I would be interested to hear from anyone else who has rolled over one 401k into another while not being employed by either company. My goal is to consolidate ac...
by RRJeff
Thu Jul 27, 2023 11:55 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs
Replies: 10
Views: 583

Re: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs

Morgan22 wrote: Thu Jul 27, 2023 11:32 am Of course, if you want to continue to do backdoor Roth conversions (if you decide eventually to go back to work), then do not rollover everything to your IRA. Then I would just roll over the 2nd 401k to the Fidelity 401k.
My plan would be to hopefully roll the IRA back into the company 401k if I go back to work, which would allow backdoor Roth conversions. Is that a viable plan?
by RRJeff
Thu Jul 27, 2023 11:44 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs
Replies: 10
Views: 583

Re: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs

wwhan wrote: Thu Jul 27, 2023 10:59 am Keep the 401K with the lowest expenses, consolidate in one 401K.
I'm not sure I can do this since I am no longer employed by either company. I don't think I can. Why do you recommend this over consolidating into an IRA?
by RRJeff
Thu Jul 27, 2023 11:40 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs
Replies: 10
Views: 583

Re: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs

WhiteMaxima wrote: Thu Jul 27, 2023 10:22 am If your 401k has low fee index fund (like Vanguard), then leave it as is. 401k has better creditor protection.
Thanks for your response. I currently reside in TX and from what I've read, IRAs are protected from creditors in TX. For now, I am going to move the Roth 401k portions to my Roth IRA and mull over whether to move the rest into Trad IRA.
by RRJeff
Thu Jul 27, 2023 10:10 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: 401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs
Replies: 10
Views: 583

401k consolidation into Fidelity IRAs

I am considering myself semi-retired (left my job in 2023, not sure if/when I will work again). I want to consolidate 2 401k accounts from previous employers into traditional and Roth IRAs for pre-tax and post-tax portions. I have a couple of questions on best way to approach this: 1. First 401k is with Fidelity. I am planning to roll the pre-tax portion into an existing Fidelity trad IRA that I have already opened and have been using for backdoor Roth conversions. There is currently zero balance in that account. Will this cause any problems if I want to later roll this into another employer's 401k plan? Should I open a separate rollover IRA account instead? 2. Second 401k is with another administrator. Is it better to initiate the rollover...
by RRJeff
Mon May 08, 2023 8:59 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Virtual keyboard @ Treasury Direct going away?...finally!
Replies: 48
Views: 6314

Re: Virtual keyboard @ Treasury Direct going away?...finally!

dcabler wrote: Mon May 08, 2023 8:24 pm Anybody know if aggregators like Fidelity full view now require the otp for it to get access each time?

Cheers
DW and I have been getting unsolicited OTPs from TD the last 2 business days. I’m guessing it’s due to Fidelity Full View trying to update our iBond balances. Hope this doesn’t happen everyday. I hated the Virtual Keyboard, but a daily OTP email from TD might actually be worse.
by RRJeff
Fri Apr 21, 2023 8:34 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Getting laid off in July, best way to manage 2023 401k contributions?
Replies: 19
Views: 3187

Re: Getting laid off in July, best way to manage 2023 401k contributions?

Welcome BlueRunner!

I had a similar choice to make in early 2021. I chose to accelerate the 401k contributions. With 15 months of expenses coming in, it seems like you’re in good shape to do the same. One thing to consider is leaving a little extra 401k space. In the likely outcome that you land another position, you would potentially lose out on new company matching if you fully max out with current company. I was in a voluntary retirement situation and wasn’t sure I would be going back to work so I maxed it out. Ended up finding a job 6 months later, so I did miss out on a couple months of matching but I was ok with that. Good Luck!!!

-RRJ
by RRJeff
Mon Feb 27, 2023 5:11 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 529 Ownership Change and Rollover
Replies: 5
Views: 565

Re: 529 Ownership Change and Rollover

Read through this... https://www.savingforcollege.com/article/5-things-to-consider-before-doing-a-529-plan-rollover A couple things.. 1) State rules dictate a lot of this such as tax credit recapture, etc. 2) Fidelity has multiple 529 plans at different states Thanks...I did read through the link you provided. Unfortunately it did not answer my questions 1 and 2. I rechecked Fidelity and indeed I was mistaken on the plans offered. My son's other grandparents have another 529 in the AZ plan. It appears the only plan that allows ownership change before death or incapacity of owner (without tax consequences) is the Connecticut CHET plan (at Fidelity). Wondering if anyone believes the ownership change restrictions are a big enough deal to choo...
by RRJeff
Mon Feb 27, 2023 11:31 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 529 Ownership Change and Rollover
Replies: 5
Views: 565

Re: 529 Ownership Change and Rollover

Read through this... https://www.savingforcollege.com/article/5-things-to-consider-before-doing-a-529-plan-rollover A couple things.. 1) State rules dictate a lot of this such as tax credit recapture, etc. 2) Fidelity has multiple 529 plans at different states Thanks...I did read through the link you provided. Unfortunately it did not answer my questions 1 and 2. I rechecked Fidelity and indeed I was mistaken on the plans offered. My son's other grandparents have another 529 in the AZ plan. It appears the only plan that allows ownership change before death or incapacity of owner (without tax consequences) is the Connecticut CHET plan (at Fidelity). Wondering if anyone believes the ownership change restrictions are a big enough deal to choo...
by RRJeff
Mon Feb 27, 2023 9:35 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 529 Ownership Change and Rollover
Replies: 5
Views: 565

529 Ownership Change and Rollover

I'm hoping I can get some guidance on this so I don't make a mistake. My father recently transferred to me ownership of the 529 account he opened for the benefit of my son. This account is with American Funds (purchased through his advisor). I am not using the same advisor and I wish to rollover the account to a Fidelity 529 which will require me to open a new 529 account at Fidelity. My questions are: 1) Is the ownership change done by my father considered a rollover such that I would need to wait 12 months before rolling over to the Fidelity account? 2) Will opening a new Fidelity 529 account and rolling over the current 529 to Fidelity impact the future ability to contribute any excess funds to my son's Roth IRA (i.e. will it restart the...
by RRJeff
Sun Feb 12, 2023 9:55 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [Are you buying a car in 2023?]
Replies: 165
Views: 21956

Re: [Are you buying a car in 2023?]

Providing this as a data point. I’ve been in the market recently. Went on Friday to test drive a 2023 Venza. Had a “deposit” in at a dealer since October, but this car became available at another dealer when someone decided they didn’t want it. I‘m planning to pay cash, but in talking with the salesperson, I was shocked that they’re quoting over 8% rate for 36mo loan with no incentives. They had added almost $4k of distributor- and dealer-installed accessories. In the end, I couldn’t bring myself to pay for all the extras they added on, and didn’t really love the car. Now looking at CR-V hybrid which are starting to roll into my local dealers. Honda dealer today told me they are requiring $500 refundable deposit which was a recent change f...
by RRJeff
Sat Feb 11, 2023 4:48 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: [Are you buying a car in 2023?]
Replies: 165
Views: 21956

Re: [Are you buying a car in 2023?]

Providing this as a data point. I’ve been in the market recently. Went on Friday to test drive a 2023 Venza. Had a “deposit” in at a dealer since October, but this car became available at another dealer when someone decided they didn’t want it. I‘m planning to pay cash, but in talking with the salesperson, I was shocked that they’re quoting over 8% rate for 36mo loan with no incentives. They had added almost $4k of distributor- and dealer-installed accessories. In the end, I couldn’t bring myself to pay for all the extras they added on, and didn’t really love the car. Now looking at CR-V hybrid which are starting to roll into my local dealers. Honda dealer today told me they are requiring $500 refundable deposit which was a recent change fr...
by RRJeff
Mon Jan 09, 2023 8:23 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Investing Windfall
Replies: 6
Views: 948

Investing Windfall

Hello, My mother passed away just before the holidays after a long illness. I am the beneficiary of nearly $800k in life insurance. I have read through the windfall wiki that says to put the windfall in a savings account for at least 6 months. I have an IPS and have allocated my portfolio approximately 60/40 in primarily stock and bond index funds. Mortgage is paid off. Emergency fund is 1 year of salary (~$160k). This windfall brings our total investable assets to around $3.5M. My 2023 plans are to buy $10k of ibonds for spouse and myself. Contribute max to our Roth IRAs (likely backdoor). Max out 401k. Our cars are getting old (16 yrs on mine, 10 years on wife's), so looking to replace at least one in 2023. I would have done these things ...
by RRJeff
Tue Nov 08, 2022 11:38 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Gift Worthy Coffee
Replies: 116
Views: 10585

Re: Gift Worthy Coffee

My wife ordered me a bag of Cutbow Coffee from Los Poblanos in Albuquerque as a gift. Hands down the best coffee I’ve ever brewed at home (using Aeropress). I’ve been on a mission to find something comparable locally, but alas, haven’t found anything as good or better yet.

https://farmshop.lospoblanos.com/collec ... bow-coffee
by RRJeff
Sun Jul 03, 2022 7:29 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: "How Safe Are Stable Value Funds?"
Replies: 87
Views: 10144

Re: "How Safe Are Stable Value Funds?"

Thanks for the link to the article. I noticed Prudential is listed as an example of a “bad” stable value fund due to hidden fees. My 401k was with Prudential (since taken over by Empower). The stable value fund fee is listed as “NA”. Is it possible to find out what the hidden fees are? How would I do that?
by RRJeff
Fri Jun 24, 2022 8:32 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Any reason to NOT get the Apple Card?
Replies: 80
Views: 12869

Re: Any reason to NOT get the Apple Card?

I have some major Apple purchases coming up, totaling at least 2-2.5k. The Card gives 3% back on Apple items and has no fee so it's basically free money. My other credit cards are airline miles (Delta, AA) not cash back. Getting a different card with cash rewards would, of course, also give some money back (likely 2%) but those typically have a $100ish fee. I'd also save a few pennies per month on my other Apple items (Cloud storage, Apple TV+, around $10/mo for both). Aside from the credit pull, any other downsides? I have the Apple Card. My biggest gripe is that it doesn’t play nice with Personal Capital. On the flip side, they did give me a high credit limit, which was not the case with my Citi cards. I mostly use Citi Double Cash and C...
by RRJeff
Fri Jun 24, 2022 7:27 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Any Boglehead musicians out there?
Replies: 284
Views: 22083

Re: Any Boglehead musicians out there?

Sandtrap wrote: Tue Jun 21, 2022 10:41 pm
investingdad wrote: Tue Jun 21, 2022 6:16 pm This thread would be improved with photos of BH musicians’ instruments…
Ok.
Here's a few.

Gibson Les Paul (use mostly for jazz, setup for that plus Thomastik Flatwound strings.)
Image
Image
Image

Aloha
j :D
Amateur guitar player here…drooling over your gorgeous Les Paul! Got any amp photos to share? :sharebeer
by RRJeff
Tue Mar 29, 2022 12:42 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: A 401K question that seems so fundamental I’m struggling with it…
Replies: 10
Views: 1965

Re: A 401K question that seems so fundamental I’m struggling with it…

It’s not clear from your post what your goal is. Are you wanting to reduce risk (i.e. change your allocation)? Or are you wanting to find a target date fund that matches closely to your current AA? I would start by determining what you want your AA to be, then find a target date fund or funds that get you to your target AA (including any accounts outside your 401k). Then, just transfer from your other funds into the target date fund(s) within the 401k. Make sure to check fees for target date funds. Your current collection of index funds might have lower overall fees. If so, you’ll have to decide if the increased simplicity of the target date fund is worth the extra you’ll pay in fees. Also don’t pay too much attention to the actual date on ...
by RRJeff
Thu Mar 03, 2022 7:46 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 2021 Refund Times
Replies: 297
Views: 30404

Re: 2021 Refund Times

E-filed using OLT on 2/19
Return accepted 2/20 (no state)
Refund direct deposited 3/1
by RRJeff
Fri Feb 04, 2022 7:48 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Anyone wish they purchased a smaller house?
Replies: 112
Views: 11615

Re: Anyone wish they purchased a smaller house?

Our house is bigger than we need, which has been a blessing in the work from home environment (2 rooms converted to offices). Our retirement house will be a one-story with a smaller yard though!
by RRJeff
Thu Aug 26, 2021 8:45 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Dental and vision insurance in retirement?
Replies: 48
Views: 5712

Re: Dental and vision insurance in retirement?

Delta Dental has a plan for Costco members. A quote for my family of 3 was $317/yr (we are exec members). $366 for non-exec members.
by RRJeff
Tue Aug 03, 2021 1:29 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: What FootWear Has The Softest Souls In The Heel Area? Huge Thanks for your help.
Replies: 69
Views: 8341

Re: What FootWear Has The Softest Souls In The Heel Area?

Give Adidas Ultraboost a try. Very comfortable, squishy soles. I threw away my orthotic inserts after wearing them. My sister swears by her Hoka Ones. The soles look very cushioned on those, but I haven’t tried them personally.
by RRJeff
Wed Jun 16, 2021 9:34 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Acoustic Guitar Help
Replies: 65
Views: 7210

Re: Acoustic Guitar Help

I'm a sax player so I can't help you much regarding guitars. But I would suggest getting out of your cocoon and start playing with others. You will progress MUCH more rapidly and you will love playing much more. It doesn't matter what level you are at. Maybe where you live they have student ensembles that you can pay to join. Maybe you could just find local jam sessions or friends to play with. Maybe you could find a workshop to jump into. Playing and interacting with a bassist, drummer and other musicians will teach you much more than you can ever learn playing on your own. Plus it's way more fun and it will force you to practice more. Just my humble opinion based on my own experience.... Now I'm going to practice myself. Thanks for this ...
by RRJeff
Mon Jun 14, 2021 8:54 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Acoustic Guitar Help
Replies: 65
Views: 7210

Re: Acoustic Guitar Help

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. I am going to take my time and find the right guitar for me. I spent last Friday afternoon trying guitars at local Guitar Center and another local music shop. I found that most of the guitars I played were no better (to me) than my Ovation. I tried some Martin Road Series models and several Taylors, as well as Takamine, Epiphone, Gibson, Breedlove, Seagull and Guild. The Martins all sounded pretty much the same compared to each other, but different from everything else, with a nice complex tone. The best “feeling” guitar was a Taylor 214ce deluxe. It felt different from every other guitar I tried (including several other Taylors)…the strings felt live when I strummed it. The tone was not quite as good as...
by RRJeff
Mon Jun 14, 2021 8:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Acoustic Guitar Help
Replies: 65
Views: 7210

Re: Acoustic Guitar Help

munemaker wrote: Sun Jun 13, 2021 9:25 pm
FRT15 wrote: Sun Jun 13, 2021 8:26 pm I am wanting to learn to play. I have an older guitar from a family member. Would you have recommendations for good online courses or a website containing teachers for hire. Thanks
Justinguitar.com Widely recognized and he works for voluntary contributions (or not).
+1 on JustinGuitar.com. Even though I had lessons 30+ years ago, I am going through Justin’s beginner courses to refresh my skills and I find them very good.
by RRJeff
Fri Jun 11, 2021 10:17 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Acoustic Guitar Help
Replies: 65
Views: 7210

Re: Acoustic Guitar Help

Thanks all for the recommendations and advice! I found a used Martin Centennial cutaway model in “great” condition that falls at the lower end of my price range. It has a spruce top and solid rosewood back/sides. This model was only manufactured in 2016, so finding one to play before buying is probably not going to happen. Anyone know anything about this model, good or bad?
by RRJeff
Wed Jun 09, 2021 6:33 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Acoustic Guitar Help
Replies: 65
Views: 7210

Re: Acoustic Guitar Help

1. Do you really need the electronics if you only play for yourself or (maybe) record at home? For around the same price premium you might pay for the pickup/preamp etc., you can buy a cheap import condenser microphone which will give much better recorded sound than an under saddle pickup or sound hole mic. I’d say, if the electronics are included, then fine - but it’s absence wouldn’t deter me from buying an otherwise great guitar. This is an excellent point. Unless you're playing live with a drummer, the sound will be much better with a mic on the guitar rather than any sort of electronics. (Once you involve drums, you need some type of device that won't pick them up.) Pickups are useful for what they do, but they just can't capture all ...
by RRJeff
Wed Jun 09, 2021 3:11 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Non Chlorine Staining Pool Furniture
Replies: 6
Views: 723

Re: Non Chlorine Staining Pool Furniture

Another vote for Sunbrella. I just bought some bleach today after reading their website to get mildew cleaning instructions. We have been very happy with our Sunbrella cushions. Minimal fading after several years uncovered in the hot Texas sun!
by RRJeff
Wed Jun 09, 2021 2:52 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Acoustic Guitar Help
Replies: 65
Views: 7210

Re: Acoustic Guitar Help

My advice is to ignore brands. You absolutely MUST play the actual guitar you're considering purchasing. With an electric, there are brands you don't have to do this with (Music Man, PRS) but with acoustics, an Ovation S771 mid bowl next to another Ovation S771 mid bowl at the guitar store, both with brand new, identical strings could play completely different. Yes, what he said. I have played for 35 years. For an acoustic guitar purchase that you want to keep for the long term, you really have to play several and choose the one that speaks to you, and feels good in your hands. For example, my Dad has 4 expensive Martins and only 1 of them is enjoyable for me to play (he says I have "feminine hands"). The very first time I played...
by RRJeff
Wed Jun 09, 2021 2:32 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Acoustic Guitar Help
Replies: 65
Views: 7210

Re: Acoustic Guitar Help

El Greco wrote: Wed Jun 09, 2021 10:04 am

Down the line, I'd love to own a Martin D-28, but at $7K it's a little rich for me at the moment. Unless I get to be a dramatically better player. Practice, practice, practice! :D
Thanks for your advice! Btw, just checked the price of D28 at a local guitar shop and it is around $4k...just in case that changes your mind on getting one. :sharebeer
by RRJeff
Wed Jun 09, 2021 9:16 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Acoustic Guitar Help
Replies: 65
Views: 7210

Acoustic Guitar Help

Seeking help from fellow Bogleheads on a potential acoustic-electric guitar purchase. Like many, I have picked up guitar playing again during the pandemic and after my recent “retirement”. I am in my early 50s and learned basic guitar playing as a teen, but have played only sparingly over the last 30 years or so, with a few time periods of more intense playing. I consider myself an intermediate player (or maybe advanced beginner). I currently own a Fender Jimmie Vaughan Signature Stratocaster purchased off Craigslist maybe 7 years ago, which I love. My current acoustic is a circa-1985 Ovation Celebrity CC-11 that has been battered around pretty badly. It has a lot of dings and at some point developed a crack in the top. Still plays OK, but ...
by RRJeff
Sun Feb 07, 2021 8:26 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Strange Meeting with Fidelity Consultant - Private Debt?
Replies: 7
Views: 1638

Re: Strange Meeting with Fidelity Consultant - Private Debt?

BogleWogle wrote: Sun Feb 07, 2021 7:57 pm Seems like an odd referral.

The logical FC objective there would normally (should?) have been asset retention via the rollover... More surprising they didn’t push for consolidation to Fidelity.

I’d wager the FC is in the process or trying to move to the company they referred you to.
Oh...I didn't mention it, but he definitely is pushing me to consolidate investments at Fidelity.
by RRJeff
Sun Feb 07, 2021 7:36 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Strange Meeting with Fidelity Consultant - Private Debt?
Replies: 7
Views: 1638

Strange Meeting with Fidelity Consultant - Private Debt?

I met with my Fidelity consultant last week to discuss the early retirement package I will be taking in March. I have my 401k and HSA with Fidelity, but other investments elsewhere (Vanguard, UBS). I really wasn't expecting too much from the meeting, but wanted to discuss strategies for possibly rolling over my 401k to IRA. He wasn't really helpful with that, but that's when things got weird (to me). When my FC learned that I was taking the retirement package, he started talking about the income I would need. He suggested private debt, where I could make "7-10% income". I had never heard of this before so I asked him more about what investing in private debt entails. He didn't give any details about the actual investments. He said...
by RRJeff
Sun Dec 20, 2020 11:16 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: After tax 401k (to Roth) - any regrets/endorsements?
Replies: 6
Views: 968

Re: After tax 401k (to Roth) - any regrets/endorsements?

It's almost a new year (bring it on 2021) and I now have access to an after tax 401k at my new employer. If I read the docs right (the plan is administered by Fido), I can make after tax contributions to my 401k and Fidelity handles the backdoor to a Roth on a month-by-mont basis. All this is subject to the various caps etc (i.e. turning 50 this year). My thinking is that I'll - do the standard 401k contribution to get the... - match - HDHP HSA to the Fed limit - after tax 401k to the Fed limit - TIRA to the Fed limit Question for the BH hive - anyone committed $ to after tax 401k/backdoor Roth for a 5-10 year hold (starting in their 50s) and regretted it? Anyone done the same and highly endorse it? I assume the trade-off is taxable $ toda...
by RRJeff
Wed Dec 16, 2020 12:18 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Voluntary Retirement Package - Help with Decision
Replies: 50
Views: 5059

Re: Voluntary Retirement Package - Help with Decision

Thank you all for your responses so far! Definitely a lot to think through. One question I have is regarding front loading 2021 401k contributions.

My company allows contributions up to 75% of salary (50% pre-tax, 25% post-tax), plus catch-up contribution to the annual limit. I am looking at probably 5 2021 pay periods if I take the package. I know pre-tax contributions come out before tax is figured, but what about medical insurance, life insurance, HSA, etc.?

I assume I need to figure how much I need to cover those deductions first before I can determine how much I can front load into 401k. Does that sound correct? Any strategy on how to go about front loading, or if I am planning to find other work, is it even necessary?
by RRJeff
Sat Dec 05, 2020 2:32 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Voluntary Retirement Package - Help with Decision
Replies: 50
Views: 5059

Re: Voluntary Retirement Package - Help with Decision

I am 59 and just took the ER package from my Megacorp about 3 weeks ago. One thing to check would be if your Megacorp offers RMAP (Retiree Medical Access Plan) which would allow you to stay in their group coverage for health care. Mine offers that and the premiums are $1750 per month for my wife and I. While certainly not cheap this is much less expensive than comparable unsubsidized covered from the ACA (Affordable Care Act AKA "Obamacare") here in TX. Definitely price out health care options because that may be enough to increase your $65K expenses to high enough that your nest egg plus deferred Social Security (as others have suggested) isn't quite enough. In that case, one option might be to take a part time job (hopefully so...
by RRJeff
Fri Dec 04, 2020 3:58 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Voluntary Retirement Package - Help with Decision
Replies: 50
Views: 5059

Voluntary Retirement Package - Help with Decision

Hello Bogleheads! I received notification yesterday that I am eligible for my Megacorp's voluntary retirement package. I'm looking for advice from the knowledgeable and experienced Bogleheads on whether I should accept. The package includes: 52 weeks of base salary less withholdings for taxes (~$100k). $30k lump sum that can be used for healthcare (or anything else, but I would likely need it for health insurance). Also included is cash payment for RSUs that are due to vest in 2022 which as of now would amount to about $28k less tax withholding. I would be walking away from another ~$28k of RSUs that are due to vest in 2023-2024. I have until mid-January to decide and exit day would be in March, just before my 51st birthday. What things do ...
by RRJeff
Wed Oct 21, 2020 7:44 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Where do you buy coffee beans?
Replies: 200
Views: 22435

Re: Where do you buy coffee beans?

arsenalfan wrote: Wed Oct 21, 2020 7:27 am Ok need ideas for my Oxo Cold Brew - uses about 12 oz per week to make the concentrate.
Costco Starbucks roast too burned for my taste.
Anyone have a (preferrably available at Costco) medium to light roast worth buying?
You might try Ruta Maya medium roast From Costco. It is roasted in Austin and I know it’s available in Texas Costcos and online (though I don’t drink enough coffee fast enough to order 2 bags at a time). I find it to be much better than the Costco Colombian Supremo, which was terribly bitter no matter how I brewed it.
by RRJeff
Sun Jun 28, 2020 5:15 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Need Help - College Funding Plan
Replies: 2
Views: 345

Need Help - College Funding Plan

Seeking help from the experienced Bogleheads out there! My son is planning to attend college as a freshman in the fall at a state university. Estimated expenses per year are $24k (tuition, room and board, books). This number was provided by the university. We have ~$50k in a 529 that we started when DS was born (he is our only child). Grandparents have significantly more $ in a 529 with son as beneficiary. We are blessed that son's undergraduate expenses should be completely covered by 529 funds. Now for the questions: I have been reading about the AOTC and have seen recommendations about paying the first $4k tuition expenses out of pocket to capture the $2500.00 per year credit. Does it still make sense to do this if there are enough 529 f...
by RRJeff
Sat Mar 21, 2020 7:29 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Are you in the mood to buy anything?
Replies: 62
Views: 6062

Re: Are you in the mood to buy anything?

Bought an office chair the other day. We needed one since I have invaded DW’s home office for the next couple of weeks (at least). Other than that, no real desire to buy anything other than food.
by RRJeff
Wed Feb 05, 2020 5:27 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Can’t reach my doctor
Replies: 8
Views: 1545

Re: Can’t reach my doctor

Kenkat wrote: Wed Feb 05, 2020 5:16 pm Have you tried sending a message to the doctor through the patient portal if that’s an option? That often works well for me.
I have not. Thanks for the suggestion! I’ll give that a try.
by RRJeff
Wed Feb 05, 2020 5:14 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Can’t reach my doctor
Replies: 8
Views: 1545

Re: Can’t reach my doctor

fru-gal wrote: Wed Feb 05, 2020 4:24 pm He said he was going to be away and he called you and you did not answer his call. So it looks like 1-2 days this week when he was back, probably swamped from being away, and did not call you yet.

I would call back and make sure the nurse understands you are waiting for results, and I would also try for an appointment.

Last week your meeting was more important than getting results. This week the doctor is unresponsive...
Last week, my meeting was important and if I knew that 3 calls and 7 days later I would still not have a response, I certainly would have done everything possible to take his call. I guess ultimately you are saying I should not expect better. Got it...thanks!
by RRJeff
Wed Feb 05, 2020 4:06 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Can’t reach my doctor
Replies: 8
Views: 1545

Can’t reach my doctor

I know there are many physicians on this forum. I have a question about expectations. Without going into too much detail, I have a primary care doctor that I generally like and is very convenient to my house. I went in last Tuesday for some pain I was having, and doc ordered lab work. He told me to call him Thursday morning if I hadn’t heard from him as he would be out of office Thursday p.m. through the following Monday. To his credit, he called last Wednesday, but I was in an important meeting and could not take his call. I called back Thursday morning and left a message with the nurse, and spoke to the nurse Thursday afternoon (she said he left no notes so she could tell me nothing). I did not hear back from him Thursday. Meanwhile, I su...
by RRJeff
Wed Jul 10, 2019 10:49 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car Dilemma
Replies: 20
Views: 2233

Re: Car Dilemma

mpnret wrote: Wed Jul 10, 2019 10:28 am Have your wife test drive a new 2019 Forester. They have come a long way since 2014 XT. She will love it. Trade in XT for new Forester. This would have been a lot easier sell before she drove the ES350.
I tried to get her interested in an Outback as I really liked the ride in the loaner she brought home one night...she says she doesn't want another Subaru. She's not happy that the "leather" steering wheel in the Forester is peeling, and is worried there are potential future issues with the CVT (even though Subaru extended the warranty to 10yrs or 100k miles). I kind of talked her into the Forester XT when we bought it...I want her next car to be 100% her decision (or at least 95%)! :wink:
by RRJeff
Wed Jul 10, 2019 10:38 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Car Dilemma
Replies: 20
Views: 2233

Re: Car Dilemma

Son gets the old Lexus You drive the Forester Wife gets whatever she wants. [was the old accord] Otherwise, you're talking spending multiple 10's of thousands of dollars needlessly. Fixed it for you. Snore. A rougher-than-preferred ride on a 6 year old car with less than 60k miles is no reason to spend tens of thousands of additional dollars on a new vehicle. Can the Forester be traded in and the 2015 ES be gotten for roughly the same amount of money? I'd give up the SUV thing in order to not lay out a substantial amount of money for a silly reason. The ES350 we found has less than 27k miles for $25k. It is the color combination my wife prefers. So, if we traded the Subie, would be ~$9k out of pocket. Which reason do you find to be "s...