Broker Check

Proactive Tax Planning

proactive tax planning albany, ny You've worked hard through the accumulation phase of your life -- working and saving towards a retirement dream. Now with retirement on the horizon, you need to switch gears and think about the distribution phase - a completely different ballgame.  Without careful planning, it’s possible to have a higher tax bill in retirement than when you were working. 

Keep in mind that tax planning is different from tax preparation. Many CPAs offer tax preparations, but few offer tax planning advice. By delivering proactive tax planning strategies, we can help you avoid costly mistakes and minimize tax surprises.  Our planning strategies include: 

Proactive Tax Planning Strategies

  • Annual tax return analysis
  • Social Security timing  
  • Roth IRA conversions
  • Coordination and timing of income streams (e.g. pension, required minimum distributions, etc.)
  • Step-Up in basis strategy
  • Inherited IRAs
  • Implementing strategies to help avoid Medicare’s IRMAA



How to Make the Tax Code Work for You

How to Make the Tax Code Work for You

When you take the time to learn more about how it works, you may be able to put the tax code to work for you.
Learn More
What Do Your Taxes Pay For?

What Do Your Taxes Pay For?

Here's a breakdown of how the federal government spends your tax money.
Learn More
What If You Get Audited?

What If You Get Audited?

The chances of an IRS audit aren't that high. And being audited does not necessarily imply that the IRS suspects wrongdoing.
Learn More

How is tax planning different from tax preparation?

Tax preparation focuses on reporting what has already happened. Tax planning looks ahead and helps you decide how to structure income, withdrawals, and investment moves to potentially lower your long-term tax burden.

Why can taxes be higher in retirement than during my working years?

Retirement income can come from multiple sources—Social Security, pensions, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and investment withdrawals. Without a coordinated strategy, these can stack in ways that push you into higher tax brackets.

What tax strategies do you help with?

We can help you with annual tax return analysis, Social Security timing, Roth IRA conversions, coordinating income streams, step-up in basis considerations, inherited IRA planning, and strategies to help avoid Medicare IRMAA.

Can you help me decide when to claim Social Security?

Yes. Social Security decisions can meaningfully affect taxes and retirement income. Planning helps you coordinate your claiming strategy alongside other income sources so the timing works for your overall plan.

How do Roth IRA conversions fit into retirement tax planning?

Roth conversions may reduce future RMDs and create more tax flexibility later in retirement. The right timing depends on your income, tax bracket, and long-term goals.

What does it mean to “coordinate income streams”?

Coordinating income streams helps you plan when and how you take money from pensions, IRAs, brokerage accounts, and other sources. The goal is to create a reliable income while potentially managing tax brackets and avoiding unnecessary penalties or higher Medicare costs.

What is Medicare IRMAA, and why does it matter?

IRMAA is an additional surcharge some retirees pay for Medicare Part B and Part D when income crosses certain thresholds. Tax planning can reduce the chance of triggering higher premiums when possible.

Can you help with inherited IRA tax planning?

Yes. Inherited IRAs often come with complex distribution rules. A proactive approach can help you plan withdrawals in a way that fits your broader tax and retirement strategy.

What is a step-up in basis, and how does it affect my plan?

A step-up in basis can reduce capital gains taxes on inherited assets under current rules. Planning around this can help align investment and legacy decisions with your tax goals.

Is tax planning only for wealthy retirees?

Not necessarily. Anyone with multiple income sources, pre-tax retirement accounts, or questions about Social Security and Medicare can benefit from a coordinated plan—even if their finances feel “average” for retirement savers.

Learn More About Our Tax Planning Services
Schedule a Complimentary Meeting

Thank you!
Oops!