Michael Custer Michael Custer

Not Sure What You’ll Spend in Retirement? Start Here

Wondering how much income you'll actually need in retirement? You're not alone. In this episode of Common Curiosities: Retirement, we explore two practical methods to help you estimate future expenses (without spreadsheets or complicated budgets) Learn why many people overestimate their retirement needs, how to track spending simply, and how to factor in inflation, taxes, and those early "freedom years."

Whether you're detail-oriented or just want a clearer picture, this episode will help you avoid surprises and plan with confidence.

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

Don’t Fear the 1040: It Might Just Help You Retire Sooner

Most people overlook their tax return, but your 1040 could be a goldmine for smarter financial planning. In this episode, we break down key sections of the 1040 to help you uncover strategies that may lower your lifetime tax bill, boost retirement readiness, and try to keep more of your hard-earned money. Learn how filing status, deductions, income types, and planning moves like Roth conversions and QCDs can shape your financial future.

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

401(k) Setup Made Simple: What You Should Know!

Confused when signing up for your 401(k)? This video breaks down common employee questions from real plan meetings. Including Roth vs. pre-tax contributions, employer matches, target date funds, contribution limits, catch-up rules, automatic enrollment, and ways to potentially reduce lifetime taxes.

Whether you're just starting out or rethinking your retirement strategy, you'll gain clarity, confidence, and actionable tips to make your 401(k) work harder for you.

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

Retiring with $2.5 Million. How Much Can I Spend?

Many retirees worry about running out of money, but thoughtful planning may ease those fears and lead to more confident, purposeful spending. In this video, we explore the emotional and strategic side of retirement, covering everything from how much you could spend with $2.5 million, to evaluating large purchases, managing taxes, and building a flexible budget that supports travel, lifestyle, and peace of mind. Whether you’re navigating income flows or considering Roth conversions, this is about spending wisely—not just saving endlessly.

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

Simple vs. Compound Interest: What Every Investor and Borrower Should Know

Interest can be a great ally or a major financial hurdle. This blog breaks down the difference between simple and compound interest, showing how each works and where they show up in real life. Learn how time, strategy, and smart investing can turn compound interest into a powerful wealth-building tool, while understanding when simple interest may be the better choice for managing debt.

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Stephanie Vail Stephanie Vail

New Tax Break for Retirees 65+: What It Means for Your Wallet and Your Strategies

If you’re 65 or older, a new federal tax deduction could lower your tax bill and open doors for smarter retirement planning. Learn how this extra $6,000–$12,000 deduction works, who qualifies, and how it can impact Roth conversions, capital gains, and lifetime tax strategy. Don’t miss this limited-time opportunity to give your retirement budget more breathing room.

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

“Big Beautiful Bill” Updates and Strategies We're Paying Close Attention To

Learn how recent tax law changes could impact your financial strategy in this client-focused breakdown. This video covers updates from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act of 2025, including new rules around tax brackets, child tax credits, overtime and tip income, standard deductions for individuals 65+, and car loan interest deductions.

Whether you’re a retiree, working professional, or small business owner, understanding these changes may help you make more informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

📌 Topics covered:

•  2025 standard deduction increase

•  Strategic planning around the 12% and 22% tax brackets

•  Potential Tax-free treatment of overtime and tips

•  Expanded child tax credits

Watch now to stay informed and explore how these updates could fit into your financial plan. For personalized guidance, visit www.custerfinancialadvisors.com

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

Why We Find it Helpful to Set Specific Goals (And How to Do It)

Learn how to set clear financial goals with the SMART method. Discover the importance of setting specific, measurable, and achievable financial goals, like "setting financial goals" for paying off debt or saving for retirement. Boost motivation, focus, and success with well-defined financial strategies.

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

Why You May Not Want to Skip Health Insurance

Learn how deductibles in health insurance impact your out-of-pocket costs and decision-making. Discover how choosing a high-deductible plan can reduce premiums and help protect your finances during medical emergencies. Understand the importance of health insurance and how to help select the best plan for your needs.

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

The Shifting Landscape of Retirement

Discover strategies for help navigating inherited IRA withdrawal rules and required minimum distributions (RMDs). Learn how near-retirees can boost their savings, leverage HSAs, and make informed decisions on Social Security and Medicare to secure a financially stable retirement.

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Stephanie Vail Stephanie Vail

Separating Fact from Fiction: The Truth About Retirement

Discover the real truths behind common retirement myths and learn how to help prepare for a rewarding retirement. From productivity to financial planning, get the insights you need for a smoother transition into this exciting life chapter.

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Stephanie Vail Stephanie Vail

Avoiding the Pitfalls: 3 Common Early Retirement Mistakes

Discover some of the common retirement mistakes and get helpful retirement planning ideas. Learn about the importance of tax planning, managing support for adult children, and balancing your investment strategy to protect against inflation. Learn helpful retirement tips with our professional insights.

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Stephanie Vail Stephanie Vail

Stock Splits - What are they and why are they a thing?

Learn more about stock splits. Are they a big deal? Is it good or bad for investors? Our Zeeland fiduciary financial planner breaks down this concept in an easy-to-understand way to help you make informed investment decisions.

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Michael Custer Michael Custer

Using Roth and After-Tax Investing to Your Advantage

Discover considerations of what to buy in Roth accounts with our guide to Roth IRA investments. Learn about Roth 401(k)s, after-tax 401(k) contributions, Roth IRAs and the investment choices for your tax-free growth potential. Start planning your retirement with informed decisions today from a Fiduciary Financial Planning team.

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Stephanie Vail Stephanie Vail

Bonds And Interest Rates Effects

Looking for a financial planner near you to understand how interest rates impact bonds? Dive into Bonds 101: Learn the essential relationship between interest rates and bond prices, how credit quality, maturity dates, and market conditions effect your bond investments. Get professional insights to build your investment knowledge today.

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Stephanie Vail Stephanie Vail

Designing an Investment Portfolio Aligned with Your Goals

Learn to balance risk and inflation, use tax-smart investing, diversify effectively, and understand fees to enhance your investment portfolio. Our professional tips help you navigate the financial landscape with more confidence and align your investments with your unique goals. Discover crucial strategies for retired investments and beginner stock investing

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