Protecting & Preserving Wealth

Now that we are into 2026, we take a deep dive into several critical changes in tax law that will affect financial planning, estate strategy, and retirement contributions. At Hosler Wealth Management, taxes are a core focus of our work, and this episode unpacks the nuances and planning opportunities within four major updates.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

We begin with the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act, which makes tax rates for both income and estate taxes "permanent"—though in tax law, that only means until Congress changes...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into key updates around Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) for 2026. QCDs allow individuals age 70½ and older to make direct charitable donations from their IRA accounts, and this episode is especially relevant for clients looking to manage taxes effectively while giving charitably.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps
(00:00) – Introduction
(00:36) – Who qualifies for QCDs?
(01:34) – QCDs for inherited IRAs
(02:21) – Why timing matters: turning 70½
(03:43) – Tax advantages of QCDs
(04:21) – How to properly execute a QCD
(05:13) – Limits a...

In this episode, we explore the upcoming Trump Accounts and what they could mean for American families. These accounts, born from the OBBBA legislation, will officially launch on July 4, 2026. Children born between January 1, 2025, and December 31, 2028, will automatically receive a $1,000 federal contribution into their Trump Account. But the scope is much broader—children under 18 will also be eligible to have these accounts opened and funded by parents, grandparents, or even employers.

We break down how this initiative could help build a new generation of capitalists by allowing children to invest from birth and potentially accumulate significant wealth before ad...

In this episode, we explore the expanded flexibility and potential of 529 plans in light of recent legislative changes. We begin with a refresher on how 529s have traditionally been used to fund college expenses, but quickly shift to how these accounts now offer broader applications thanks to evolving tax law, including updates from the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the SECURE Act 2.0, and the newly enacted One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA).

We discuss how 529s can now be used for K–12 education, not just for tuition but also for items like books, standardized tests, tutoring, and ev...

In this episode, we dive into a growing concern for high-net-worth families: the impact of the $38 trillion national debt on future taxes, estate planning, and wealth preservation. We don’t dwell in fear — instead, we focus on smart, proactive steps that affluent individuals and families can take now while tax rates are still historically low.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps
(00:00) – Introduction: The National Debt Challenge
(02:00) – Misconceptions About Taxes and Debt
(03:45) – Missed Planning Windows
(05:30) – Strategies to Reduce Future Tax Exposure
(07:45) – Legacy Planning and Fam...

In this episode, we tackle the reality of structurally higher interest rates and how they impact wealthy retirees. For years, investors operated under the assumption that rates would always return to near zero. That mindset no longer works. With federal debt now surpassing $38 trillion, persistent deficits, and political gridlock, rates are likely to remain elevated for the foreseeable future. We look at how this shift creates both challenges and opportunities for income planning, equity investing, tax strategy, and legacy planning.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️Chapters & What You'l...

In this episode, we continue our conversation about stablecoins and explore how they’re positioned to revolutionize the financial system. If you haven’t listened to part one, we strongly recommend going back for the foundational context. Today, we shift from theory to real-world applications, diving into the impact of stablecoins on everyday transactions, the infrastructure being developed around them, and the growing intersection with AI.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps 
(00:00) Welcome & Part One Recap 
(00:46) Friction in the Financial System 
(02:27) Real-World Adoption — JPMor...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into the rapidly evolving world of stablecoins and why they matter for the future of digital finance. Bruce and Jason Hosler break down what stablecoins are, how they differ from other cryptocurrencies, and why the recently passed GENIUS Act is a game-changer for the space.

We begin by clarifying that stablecoins aren't just another cryptocurrency. Unlike cryptocurrencies, which are known for their volatility, stablecoins are pegged to the US dollar or backed by US treasuries. This makes them more stable in value, and importantly, useful for real-world...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we continue our deep dive into reverse mortgages, focusing on the truths and misconceptions surrounding them.  We pick up where we left off with Rob Kanyur of Fairway Mortgage, digging into the tax implications of reverse mortgages — an area Bruce is particularly passionate about.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn
(00:00) – Introduction & Setup – Welcome back, recap from Part 1, and guest reintroduction.
(01:00) – Reverse Mortgage Line of Credit Explained – Why 99.9% of clients choose the growing credit line option.
(0...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we sit down with Rob Kanyur, a reverse mortgage expert from Fairway Mortgage, to break down the facts, misconceptions, and real benefits of using reverse mortgages as a strategic financial planning tool in retirement. Bruce Hosler opens the conversation by reminding us how reverse mortgages have evolved and highlights updates since he first wrote about them in his book Moving to Tax Free.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️Chapters & What You’ll Learn:
00:00 Introduction & Guest Welcome
01:17 Reverse Mor...

https://amzn.to/4msRo2kIn this episode, we unpack the real story behind the bold headline “No Tax on Social Security,” as introduced in the One Big, Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). While the name suggests a total elimination of taxes on Social Security, we clarify that the bill actually introduces a new “Senior Deduction” rather than exempting Social Security benefits entirely from taxation. It’s important to understand that Social Security income still plays a role in determining your provisional income, and for many, taxes on those benefits will continue.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) http...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into key updates from the Ed Slott Master Elite IRA Advisors Conference, focusing on critical tax changes and planning pitfalls that impact retirees and IRA holders. Bruce Hosler shares his takeaways after nearly two decades of attending these elite sessions. We break down three essential areas that our listeners need to understand heading into the 2025 tax season.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn
(00:00) Intro & Updates Overview
(00:39) New 1099-R Reporting for QCDs
(06...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we explore the most compelling investment themes we see emerging for 2025. Together, we identify ten major growth areas—what Bruce calls “green shoots”—that signal new and transformative opportunities across sectors like crypto, AI, energy, and biotech.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://amzn.to/4msRo2k

⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn
(00:00) – Intro & Overview
(00:36) – Crypto & Blockchain
(04:18) – Artificial Intelligence & Energy Demand
(10:08) – Robotics & Rare Earths
(14:37) – Tech Leaders & Futuristic Innovations
(19:24) – Private Equity, Small Caps & Biotech

We start with the seismic shift in crypto regul...

In this episode of Protecting & Preserving Wealth, we continue our discussion on the financial and tax implications of selling real estate, shifting focus from primary residences to second homes and rental properties. We open by clarifying the IRS guidelines for determining a primary versus secondary home. The key factor is where the majority of the year is spent, and that’s verified through documents like driver’s licenses and utility bills. This distinction matters because the Section 121 tax exclusion—$250,000 for individuals and $500,000 for married couples—is only available for primary residences. Secondary homes don't qualify, meaning capital gains from their sa...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we kick off a two-part series on the real estate sale process by focusing on selling a primary or principal residence. We explore what homeowners need to consider—from title and tax implications to planning strategies and insurance coverage—with insights from Bruce and Jason Hosler of Hosler Wealth Management.

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY2XP8CD

📍 Chapters & What You'll Learn
(00:00) – Selling Your Primary Residence: Key Considerations
(01:35) – Cost Basis & Section 121 Exclusion
(03:23) – Widow’s “Gotcha” & Step-Up in B...

📚 Get Bruce’s Book: Moving To Tax-Free (on Amazon) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CY2XP8CD
In this final installment of our estate and legacy planning series, we dive deep into the two-generation tax-free legacy plan—a strategy Bruce designed to help families with $2 million or more in investable assets leave behind a financially secure, tax-efficient inheritance. Bruce and Jason Hosler explore how this plan offers both control and protection, allowing parents to benefit from tax-free income during retirement while also providing long-term support for their children.

⏱️ Chapters & What You'll Learn
(00:00) – Intro & Overview
(01:05...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we continue our estate and legacy planning series by focusing on charitable giving and charitable legacies. Charitable giving occurs during one’s lifetime, while a charitable legacy ensures that assets are left to charitable organizations after death. Understanding the right tools and strategies can maximize benefits for both the donor and the recipient.

⏱️Chapters & What You’ll Learn:
(00:00) Intro & Overview
(00:56) Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
(03:34) Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs)
(05:16) Best Ways to Leave Assets to Charity
(08:57) Common Mistakes & Tax Pitfalls
(12:35) Strategic Charitable Planning

We begin...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we continue our estate and legacy planning series, focusing on strategies to leave assets in a tax-advantaged or tax-free manner. Bruce Hosler, Alex Koury, and Jason Hosler from Hosler Wealth Management join Jon Gay to break down key approaches to optimizing wealth transfer while minimizing tax burdens.

⏱️ Chapters & What You'll Learn
(00:00) – Intro & Estate Planning Overview
(01:37) – Tax-Advantaged Assets
(03:17) – Tax-Free Assets
(04:32) – Repositioning Assets for Tax Efficiency
(10:51) – Real Estate, Step-Up in Basis & 1031 Exchanges
(15:28) – Beneficiary Designations & Avoiding Probate

We start by distinguishing between tax-advantaged and tax-free assets...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we move to topic 3 in our estate planning series by tackling a critical but often overlooked topic—how to properly title assets. Previously, we discussed beneficiary designations, but today, we dive into why the way assets are titled can significantly impact taxes, probate, and the distribution of wealth.

⏱️Chapters & What You’ll Learn:
(00:00) – Introduction & Purpose of Asset Titling
(01:00) – IRAs, Joint Accounts & Community Property Pitfalls
(04:00) – Trusts: Avoiding Probate & Maximizing Tax Benefits
(05:40) – Brokerage Accounts & Funding the Trust
(09:10) – Assets to Include vs. Exclude from a Trust
(12:50) – Closing Thoughts & C...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we continue our discussion on estate and legacy planning, focusing on the critical role of beneficiary designations. Beneficiary forms take precedence over wills and trusts for certain assets, including retirement accounts like IRAs, 401(k)s, 403(b)s, life insurance policies, annuities, and pensions. Bank and brokerage accounts also allow for direct beneficiary designations through Pay on Death (POD) and Transfer on Death (TOD) forms. In Arizona, real estate can even have designated beneficiaries through Arizona beneficiary deeds.

⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn:
(00:00) – Introduction & Importance of Beneficiary Designations
(01:20) – Types of Accou...

In the second installment of our estate and legacy planning series, we highlight the critical role of beneficiary designations in securing and managing wealth. Estate planning goes beyond wills and trusts; proper beneficiary designations on accounts like IRAs, 401(k)s, annuities, and life insurance determine where assets go upon death, often bypassing wills and trusts altogether.

⏱️Chapters & What You'll Learn:
(00:00) – Intro & Why Beneficiary Designations Matter
(00:36) – IRAs & Rules on Ownership
(02:25) – Common Mistakes: Divorce & Outdated Beneficiaries
(03:47) – Primary, Contingent & Tertiary Beneficiaries
(07:57) – Roth IRA Conversions & Secure Act 2.0 Rules
(11:30) – Annual Reviews, Charitable Strategies & Closing

I emphasize the...

In this Protecting and Preserving Wealth episode, we’re kicking off our six-part series on estate and legacy planning. We dive into the critical steps of preparing for the Great Wealth Transfer—an estimated $84 trillion passing to the next generation by 2045. Of that, $72 trillion will go to heirs, making proper planning essential.

We talk about the importance of being ready for this transition. Will your heirs be prepared to manage your wealth? Will it be protected or lost to taxes, poor decisions, or unforeseen circumstances like inflation or bad marriages? These are tough questions but answering them now e...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into managing the challenges posed by concentrated stock positions. When individuals hold significant investments in a single stock, such as Apple, Nvidia, or Tesla, they may face considerable capital gains taxes and financial risk. To address these concerns, we explore a range of tax-efficient diversification strategies to help reduce risk and optimize income without incurring immediate tax consequences.

We begin by discussing the benefits of community property laws in states like Arizona, where spouses can receive a step-up in cost basis upon one spouse's death, reducing the...

In this episode, we continue our discussion on the economic implications of a second Trump administration, focusing on interest rates, tax policy, government efficiency, and immigration’s impact on the economy. With Bruce Hosler, Alex Koury, and Jason Hosler, we explore how these factors might shape financial decisions for individuals and businesses.

We begin by analyzing the Federal Reserve's approach to interest rates amidst strong consumer spending and near full employment. While a potential rate cut may occur in December 2024, higher rates could persist in early 2025, impacting sectors like housing. The conversation touches on how existing low mo...

In the first part of our two-part series, we discuss the economic implications of Donald Trump's second presidential term, focusing on markets, regulation, energy, and inflation. With the election concluded, markets have responded positively to the reduced uncertainty, reflecting a renewed sense of clarity. We highlight how a Republican-controlled House and Senate could further enhance this stability. Drawing from Trump's first presidency, we examine his policies on deregulation, their stimulative effects on businesses, and their potential for deflationary outcomes, particularly in the energy and industrial sectors. With Trump advocating for increased oil and natural gas production, energy is a...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into the changes introduced by the SECURE Act 2.0, which has made significant modifications to IRA and trust regulations.  Bruce Hosler and Alex Koury from Hosler Wealth Management explain the complexities and implications of these new regulations.

The conversation begins with Bruce explaining the updated requirements for trusts designated as IRA beneficiaries. Previously, the law mandated that documentation, including copies of the trust, be provided to IRA custodians by a set deadline after the IRA owner's death. Under SECURE Act 2.0, however, this requirement has been relaxed. Now, instead o...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into donor-advised funds (DAFs) with Bruce and Jason Hosler from Hosler Wealth Management. With the end of 2024 approaching, DAFs are a timely and powerful tool for those who are charitably inclined, particularly those looking to manage tax liabilities while contributing to causes they care about.

Bruce explains that a donor-advised fund allows individuals to donate highly appreciated assets—like stocks, real estate, or even collectibles—without triggering capital gains taxes. For example, if you've held Apple stock for years and it’s gained significantly in value, rather than s...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we dive into the upcoming changes to Medicare for 2025, focusing on critical issues that affect both current Medicare recipients and those who have yet to claim it. Bruce Hosler and Alex Koury from Hosler Wealth Management discuss Medicare enrollment, premium penalties, and significant updates coming in the next few years.

We start by addressing the complexities surrounding Medicare enrollment for individuals turning 65. Bruce highlights a key nuance: while it may sometimes be beneficial to stay on a company’s health plan, particularly if it's cheaper, there’s a catch. If y...

It’s true, and in this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we focus on this crucial aspect of estate planning: converting your IRA to a Roth IRA before passing it to your children.  We discuss the importance of making this conversion while you're alive because your children cannot convert an inherited IRA to a Roth IRA after your death.  I will share an example of a client who could have benefitted from starting the conversion process earlier, explaining that even partial conversions would allow beneficiaries to enjoy tax-free growth from a Roth IRA.

Our conversation delves into...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth, we delve into the updated 10-year IRA rule for beneficiaries, finalized by the IRS on July 18, 2024.  Under the old Strech IRA rules, beneficiaries could stretch out Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) over their lifetimes, creating a favorable tax strategy for passing on wealth. However, with the finalization of the SECURE Act regulations, the 10-year rule now applies, requiring beneficiaries to thoroughly distribute inherited IRAs within 10 years, limiting the potential for long-term legacy planning.

The rationale behind this change is to ensure the IRS receives its share of taxable income more q...

In part two of our series with estate attorney Jon Linford, we dive into crucial estate planning considerations as we approach the 2026 sunset of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. The primary focus is on the significant changes to the estate tax exemption that will occur when the current law sunsets, reducing the exemption from $13.6 million per person to an estimated $7 million.

We discuss the implications of this change and the urgency for individuals to update their estate planning strategies. Jon Linford explains that the estate tax is a substantial 40% on amounts above the exemption, making it...

In part 1 of our Estate Planning Podcast Episodes, I welcome Jon Linford, a seasoned estate planning attorney from Morris Hall. We delve into the complexities and critical considerations of estate planning, a topic of utmost importance for anyone concerned about their financial future. Jon, who has been practicing law since 2011, transitioned from civil litigation to estate planning, driven by a passion for protecting clients' assets and ensuring smooth transitions for their estates.

The conversation centers on the benefits and nuances of setting up a living trust, particularly in Arizona. Jon emphasizes that while not everyone may need...

In this episode of "Protecting and Preserving Wealth," we continue our discussion from our previous episode, starting with interest rates and the Federal Reserve's actions. Bruce notes that the 10-year treasury rate has risen to 4.44%, highlighting the market's control over this rate rather than the Federal Reserve. Despite predictions of a recession, we don't foresee it occurring this year. The Federal Reserve faces pressure to lower interest rates, which impacts the real estate market significantly. Housing prices have remained stable despite fewer sales, contributing to inflation concerns.

Jason points out the delicate balance the Fed must maintain...

Today, we are taking a midyear look at the financial markets for 2024, focusing on key metrics and trends influencing our investments and financial decisions.

As of our recording date of July 2nd, the S&P 500 has impressively risen over 15%, currently standing at 5,495. Bruce explains that the price-to-earnings (PE) ratio is at 20.99, indicating a slightly higher but not alarming level compared to historical averages. Jason adds that a pullback is possible despite the market’s strong performance, though they remain optimistic about the market’s upward trend through the year’s end.

We delve into the resili...

In this episode of Protecting and Preserving Wealth,' we dive into Bruce Hosler's article, "Moving to Tax-Free: Eight Steps You Can Take for Success." We are joined by Bruce Hosler and Alex Koury, who walk us through these crucial steps to achieve a tax-free retirement.

We begin with the importance of sourcing and engaging trusted advisors. A team consisting of a tax planner, financial planner, estate planning attorney, and wealth advisor is essential. These professionals help navigate the complexities of current and future tax laws, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of one's financial situation.

Next...

In this episode of 'Protecting and Preserving Wealth,' we delve into the significant changes to the Roth Stretch IRA, resulting from the SECURE Act, that came into effect on January 1, 2020. This Act drastically altered the landscape, as it now requires inherited IRAs to be fully withdrawn within ten years, eliminating the lifetime benefit that was once the key feature of the Roth Stretch IRA. 

I explain that the Roth Stretch IRA was an ideal tool for wealth transfer, providing a tax-free, lifelong income stream for beneficiaries. With the new 10-year limit, the tax-free advantage diminishes significantly. J...

This episode of "Protecting and Preserving Wealth" discusses the stock market's behavior during the presidential election years and its implications for investors. As the November 5th, 2024, presidential election approaches, many investors are concerned about market performance under different administrations and the potential for a market crash if the "wrong" president is elected.

Around $5 trillion is currently sitting in cash due to concerns over inflation and global uncertainties, not just the election. However, historically, the stock market has shown resilience and performed well during election years, with an average return of 11.6% since 1926. This data should instill confidence in...

In this episode of "Protecting and Preserving Wealth,"  Jason Hosler and I discuss the firm's commitment to protecting their clients' financial futures. I begin by underlining the company's longstanding dedication to protecting and maintaining money during global volatility, something many overlook.

Delving into my new book, "Moving to Tax-Free," I underscore the practicality of tax protection in wealth preservation. Taxes, a significant lifelong expense for many, can be effectively managed to safeguard financial resources. Jason introduces the 'Magnificent 7'—a group of high-performing tech stock investment strategies—highlighting its potential to prevent missing out on market gains, a pra...

Bruce Hosler welcomes a special guest for today’s episode. We discuss the critical state of the U.S. national debt and its implications for future tax rates with David McKnight, author of “The Power of Zero.” McKnight highlights the dramatic increase in national debt from $5 trillion in 1999 to an expected $54 trillion by 2033. This surge is attributed to unfunded wars, healthcare programs, and economic bailouts. The conversation underscores the lack of governmental action to address the unfunded obligations for Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, which pose a significant threat to the country’s fiscal stability.

McKnight points out the...

In this episode of "Protecting and Preserving Wealth," we dive into the significance of moving financial assets to tax-free vehicles, a topic Bruce Hosler has extensively explored in his new book, "Moving to Tax-Free™." Bruce, alongside Jason Hosler and host Jon Jag Gay, discusses the critical nature of planning for a tax-free retirement, emphasizing the importance of strategic financial planning to mitigate future tax burdens.

Bruce opens the conversation by highlighting the central question of whether tax rates in the United States will increase, decrease, or remain the same over the next decade. This question is pivotal as...