The Ins & Outs of Roth Conversions, Ep 184

Retirees usually think the tax decisions are done once they stop working. But the truth is, many are sitting on large pre-tax balances that can quietly lead to bigger tax bills later—especially when required minimum distributions kick in or a spouse passes away. It's not just about saving money, it's about how that money is taxed when you actually need to use it.

Roth conversions offer a way to shift those tax liabilities earlier, on your terms. I explain when that tradeoff makes sense and when it doesn’t, using clear, real-world examples. You’ll hear how a couple with zero current tax liability converted money without paying a dime, and why converting in a year with lower income or a temporarily down market might open the door to big savings. I’ll also break down why legacy plans, filing status changes, and Social Security taxation are key pieces of the puzzle.

You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...

• (0:00) The ins & outs of Roth conversions
• (1:55) The three tax buckets that shape retirement
• (6:32) When conversions are a no-brainer (and when they’re not)
• (9:54) How your tax bracket—and filing status—change the math
• (17:05) Roths as a better inheritance for your kids
• (24:57) Clearing up common Roth misconceptions

Resources & People Mentioned

• 3 Steps to Retirement Planning

Connect With Gregg Gonzalez

• Email at: [e-mail]
• Podcast: https://RetirementMadeEasyPodcast.com
• Website: https://StLouisFinancialAdvisor.com
• Follow Gregg on LinkedIn
• Follow Gregg on Facebook
• Follow Gregg on YouTube

Subscribe to Retirement Made Easy
On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts