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 even educational therapy. This opens the door for families to apply these tax-advantaged funds toward private school and special needs services for younger children—services that are increasingly common among our clients.

We also highlight a major opportunity created by SECURE Act 2.0: the ability to roll over unused 529 funds into a Roth IRA in the name of the beneficiary. This means families can now provide their children or grandchildren with a financial head start—not just for education but also for retirement. The conversion limit is currently capped at $35,000 and must follow specific eligibility and timing rules, but it's a powerful long-term planning tool.

Another important change coming in 2026 is the increased annual limit for K–12 qualified distributions—from $10,000 to $20,000. This effectively doubles the amount that can be withdrawn tax-free for qualified expenses, making 529s even more practical for families with high educational costs early in a child’s schooling.

Finally, we talk about how the OBBBA expands 529 use to cover post-secondary credentialing programs. That includes trade schools, certifications, professional licenses, and even continuing education programs outside traditional colleges, as long as they’re recognized under federal law or by formal credentialing bodies. We emphasize how this change aligns with the current workforce needs, especially as more people pursue skilled trades or alternative career paths without accumulating student debt.

In short, 529 plans are no longer just for college. They're now a flexible, multigenerational financial tool that can support both education and retirement planning in more ways than ever before.

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

⏱️ Chapters & Timestamps
(00:00) – Introduction
(00:29) – What Are 529 Plans?
(01:08) – Real Client Example: Private School Funding
(02:01) – Roth IRA Rollovers from 529s
(03:26) – The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) Explained
(03:50) – Expanded K–12 Expenses (Effective July 2025)
(04:54) – Increased Withdrawal Limits Starting in 2026
(05:48) – Credentialing and Trade School Use of 529s
(08:02) – Closing Thoughts and Contact Info

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team: https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures: https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.

#ProtectingWealthPodcast #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

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 Family Communication
(10:00) – Current Client Concerns in 2025
(12:00) – One-Sentence Advice for High-Net-Worth Families
(14:00) – Contact Information & Disclaimer

We begin by addressing a widespread misconception: that tax rates will stay low indefinitely. As Alex points out, the pattern of government backstopping during crises has led many to become complacent. But the math tells a different story. With increasing entitlement costs and an aging population, taxation on deferred assets like IRAs and 401(k)s is likely to rise. And that’s where the risk lies — not in the headlines, but in what families aren’t planning for.

Bruce walks us through how required minimum distributions (RMDs) can lead to unexpected tax exposure, especially for individuals in their 60s and 70s who haven’t yet evaluated the long-term impact of their tax-deferred accounts. A $3 to $5 million IRA could result in annual taxable RMDs of $300,000 to $500,000, triggering 30%+ tax rates unless actions like Roth conversions are taken early. Waiting feels safe, but it often becomes the most expensive decision.

We also explore overlooked tax-efficient strategies beyond retirement accounts. Jason emphasizes tools like life insurance, charitable remainder trusts, and Delaware Statutory Trusts (DSTs) for real estate owners. Bruce reminds us how critical it is to manage capital gains thresholds and investment income taxes through careful income control. Planning isn’t one-size-fits-all — it’s about knowing which tool fits which scenario.

Legacy planning takes center stage as we discuss the emotional side of inheritance. Alex shares the common generational gap between financial assets and emotional preparedness. Too many families avoid money conversations, leaving heirs in the dark until it’s too late. We highlight how open dialogue and multigenerational planning — like Bruce’s two-generation tax-free legacy strategy — can ensure wisdom is transferred alongside wealth.

Looking at the year ahead, Jason flags AI and global uncertainty as top-of-mind concerns for clients in 2025. The episode closes with advice from each advisor: start planning now, prepare for contingencies, and don’t ignore old estate documents — revisit and revise them before it costs you or your heirs.

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team: https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures: https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.

#ProtectingWealthPodcast #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler

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'll Learn
(00:00) Introduction & Overview of the “Interest Rate Trap”
(01:50) National Debt and Structural Interest Rates
(04:39) Impact of Higher Rates on Stock Valuations
(05:45) Retirement Income Planning in a High-Rate World
(07:02) Estate Planning & Tax Strategies in the New Environment
(08:41) Action Steps for Wealthy Retirees
(12:55) Closing Thoughts & Contact Information

We begin by outlining why rates are unlikely to return to their pre-2020 lows. The bond market is demanding higher yields in response to runaway government spending and global infrastructure investment. Those hoping for a return to 2% inflation and near-zero borrowing costs are ignoring the structural changes underway. For retirees, this higher-rate world changes how we view asset allocation, borrowing, and risk. Bonds now offer reliable income, but equity valuations face downward pressure—especially for smaller companies with thin profit margins and high capital costs.

From there, we shift focus to how retirees should build portfolios in this environment. A ten-year income ladder using high-yield fixed income allows for predictable cash flow, but that strategy needs to be balanced with equities to hedge long-term inflation. Strategic tax planning becomes even more critical. We advocate for converting pre-tax accounts into Roth IRAs while tax rates remain low under current law. This preserves flexibility, reduces future tax burdens, and supports cleaner estate transitions.

The conversation moves into legacy strategies. Wealthy families are acting now, taking advantage of a $15 million per-person estate tax exemption and a $19,000 annual gift exclusion. Advanced tools like life insurance retirement plans and Roth conversions are helping them leave tax-free inheritances. Beneficiary planning also plays a bigger role, with disclaimers and contingent strategies enabling tax-efficient, multi-generational transfers.

Finally, we emphasize the importance of a foundational financial plan. Before making large gifts or reallocating capital, families need to define how much is required to support their lifestyle and how much can be safely transferred. The key takeaway is to act now, with tax windows open and interest rates providing both headwinds and opportunities. Doing nothing is no longer a viable plan.

For more information about anything related to your finances, contact Bruce Hosler and the team at Hosler Wealth Management: Visit us online at https://www.hoslerwm.com/

Contact Our Team: https://hoslerwm.com/contact-us/

Or call them in their Prescott office at (928) 778-7666 or their Scottsdale office at (480) 994-7342.

For more podcast episodes, visit our podcast website at https://hoslerwm.com/protectingwealthpodcast/

Limitation of Liability Disclosures: https://www.hoslerwm.com/disclosures/

Copyright © 2022-2026 Hosler Wealth Management | All Rights Reserved.

#ProtectingWealthPodcast #ProtectingandPreservingWealthPodcast #HoslerWealthManagement #BruceHosler