06/22/2026
DIVERSIFICATION is NOT defined accurately enough today! Tax diversification very important.
When saving for retirement, assets generally fall into three different tax buckets:
• Tax-Deductible Accounts
Examples include Traditional IRAs and many 401(k) plans. Contributions may reduce taxable income today, but future withdrawals are generally taxable.
• Tax-Free Accounts
Examples include Roth IRAs and Roth 401(k)s. Contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but qualified withdrawals can be tax-free.
• Taxable Accounts
Examples include brokerage accounts, savings accounts, CDs, etc. These accounts offer flexibility and may receive favorable tax treatment depending on the type of income or gains generated.
A balanced approach among all three buckets may provide greater flexibility when creating retirement income and adapting to future changes in tax laws, income needs, or personal circumstances.
The goal isn't to predict future tax rates. The goal is to avoid being dependent on any single tax strategy.
Diversification isn't just about what you own. It's also about how your money is taxed.