
← Well Balanced5 Jan · 6 min
Six Tips for Retirees and Savvy Savers with Chris Wagner
Get a head start on your financial goals for 2026! In this episode, Chris Wagner, Wealth Advisor at Vector, shares six financial planning topics for the year ahead.
Financial Planning in the New Year
73+ in 2026? Plan for Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from pre-tax accounts
Maximize Giving with Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs)
Roth Conversion for tax-free growth once in a Roth IRA
Beneficiary Designations – Reminder to review and update
Fund a Donor-Advised Fund (DAF) with appreciated investments
Contribute to a 401(k) or HSA: Updated Limits in 2026
Plus, New Catch-Up Contribution Rule for High Earners
If you’re age 50 or older and earned more than $150,000 with the same employer last year, all of your 401(k), 403(b), or 457(b) catch-up contributions must go into a Roth 401(k) account. 2026 is a transition year for this rule, with full enforcement starting in 2027. Check with your employer or retirement account custodian to learn if your plan is eligible.
Whether you’re planning for retirement, looking to optimize your tax strategy, or simply want to stay informed about the latest changes, Vector is here to help.
Happy New Year!