February 2026
Moving Forward With Confidence
This February issue of Smart Tips is all about clarity and opportunity. From helping parents understand new savings tools for children to exploring tax-smart gifting and retirement strategies, we’re covering topics that can make a meaningful difference over time. Whether you’re laying a financial foundation for the next generation or fine-tuning your own plans, these insights are designed to help you move forward with purpose and confidence.
In This Issue:
- Understanding Trump Accounts: what parents need to know about the new child-focused IRA
- Building a financial foundation for your child: strategic moves for parents
- A smart gifting strategy: why the annual gift tax exclusion matters more than you think
- The mega backdoor Roth: a straightforward strategy for high earners locked out of Roth IRAs
Understanding Trump Accounts: what parents need to know about the new child-focused IRA
Trump Accounts are a new type of tax-advantaged retirement account for children, created under 2025 legislation and clarified by recent IRS guidance. While contributions can’t begin until mid-2026, families can begin preparing now. This article explains what is currently known, what remains uncertain, and how Trump Accounts compare to other common savings tools like Roth IRAs and 529 plans.
Building a financial foundation for your child: strategic moves for parents
For many parents, providing financial security for their children is a top priority. But building that security involves more than funding college or opening a savings account. The real goal isn’t just to transfer wealth – it’s to prepare the next generation to manage, grow, and protect it.
A smart gifting strategy: why the annual gift tax exclusion matters more than you think
When we talk about gifting as part of a tax strategy, many people assume it’s something only the ultra-wealthy need to worry about. But gifting is actually one of the simplest and most powerful financial planning tools available – and a thoughtful gifting strategy can make a meaningful difference for your family, both now and in the long run.
The mega backdoor Roth: a straightforward strategy for high earners locked out of Roth IRAs
For high-income professionals locked out of traditional Roth contributions, mega Roth conversions offer a powerful alternative. By contributing after-tax dollars to fill unused space under the $72,000 annual 401(k) limit and immediately converting them to Roth, eligible savers can funnel tens of thousands annually into tax-free growth.
