Redstone Wealth Management, LLC

02/19/2026

Ahead of the 2026 tax season, the IRS announced a leadership shake-up and internal changes as the agency prepares to begin processing millions of returns.

Updates like these can matter because IRS operations affect more than just when a return is filed — they can also influence processing timelines, customer service capacity, and how issues like identity verification or error resolution are handled during peak season.

It’s also a reminder that filing season is shaped by more than tax rules alone. Staffing levels, technology systems, and agency priorities can all affect how smoothly returns are processed and how quickly taxpayers receive responses when questions arise.

For many households, staying informed about these operational shifts can help set expectations for the filing process this year.



Source:

The head of the IRS is announcing a shake-up he says will improve taxpayer service and modernize the agency.

02/17/2026

Health insurance costs may be shifting for millions of Americans.

Recent changes to Affordable Care Act premium subsidies mean many households are facing significantly higher monthly costs. As a result, some individuals may decide to drop coverage, which could affect pricing and participation across the broader insurance market.

For those who remain enrolled, experts note that a smaller, less diverse pool of participants may contribute to higher premiums over time. These developments highlight how policy changes can influence both individual household budgets and the overall healthcare landscape.



Source:

Some experts warn of a potential "death spiral" in the Affordable Care Act marketplace if young, healthy consumers drop coverage amid soaring costs.

02/12/2026

Mortgage refinancing activity jumped again last week, marking the second straight surge as borrowers responded to a brief dip in interest rates. Applications to refinance rose sharply compared with both the prior week and the same period last year.

That momentum may be short-lived. Mortgage rates have since moved higher, driven in part by bond market volatility and renewed geopolitical tensions, raising questions about how long refinancing demand can hold.

Recent dynamics in the market include:

▪️ A spike in refinance applications following modest rate declines
▪️ Increased sensitivity to rate movements after a prolonged period of higher borrowing costs
▪️Continued affordability challenges for homebuyers despite more inventory coming to market

The latest data highlights how quickly mortgage activity can shift as interest rates and broader market conditions evolve.



Source:

Mortgage refinancing jumped sharply higher for the second straight week, as interest rates fell further, but that boom may be about to bust.

02/10/2026

Homeownership can bring added considerations during tax season.

As the IRS begins accepting 2026 tax returns, homeowners may be reviewing whether to itemize deductions or take the standard deduction. Depending on individual circumstances, certain expenses tied to owning a home may still be eligible for tax treatment under current rules, including mortgage interest and property-related costs.

Because tax situations vary, it may be helpful to review what applies to you before filing.

If you have questions about how these items show up in your overall financial picture, feel free to reach out. For specific tax guidance, it’s best to connect directly with your qualified tax professional. I’m happy to coordinate with them to ensure your financial strategy is aligned.



Source:

It will mostly be business as usual for homeowners this tax season. However, new changes introduced under the "big, beautiful bill" may affect how they file.

02/05/2026

As the U.S. enters 2026, economists are watching several key factors that may influence the economic landscape in the year ahead. While growth held up better than expected in 2025, many households continue to feel pressure from elevated costs.

Among the biggest questions are whether inflation will continue to cool, how the Federal Reserve may respond to changes in employment, and whether housing affordability will improve gradually over time. Experts are also monitoring how the adoption of artificial intelligence could affect job growth and productivity, as well as whether stock market gains can be broadened beyond a small group of leading companies.

Taken together, these factors suggest a year shaped less by dramatic shifts and more by gradual adjustment, as businesses and consumers respond to evolving economic conditions.



Source:

From stubbornly high living costs to a softer labor market, economists say these are the forces that will shape the year ahead.

02/03/2026

Do you know the origins of Black History Month? Join us as we learn about the inspired legacy of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, a man who saw the value of history and the lessons we can learn for the future.

This month, the movement he founded turns 100 years old. This celebration is an opportunity to admire the brilliance and passion of those who have come before us.

01/29/2026

🚀 Big News for Your 2026 Retirement Plans! 🚀

The IRS announced new contribution limits for 2026 in November, and there's a lot to look forward to! Here's a quick breakdown:

🔹 401(k), 403(b), 457 Plans & TSP: Contribution limit increased to $24,500 (up from $23,500 in 2025). If you're 50 or older, you can contribute up to $32,500 annually!

🔹 IRA Contributions: Limit increased to $7,500. Catch-up contributions for those 50 and older are now $1,100.

🔹 Roth IRA & Saver’s Credit: Income phase-out ranges have increased, making it easier to qualify and maximize your savings.

🔹 SIMPLE Accounts: Contribution limit up to $17,000, with higher limits for certain accounts.

🔹 Medicare Part B: Monthly premiums will rise to $202.90, impacting how much of your Social Security COLA you'll see.

Stay up-to-date with details about your retirement savings! For full details, check out Notice 2025-67 on the IRS website.

With most retirement accounts, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions. Roth accounts are the exception. Withdrawal penalties may apply if you take the money before age 59½. Roth IRA distributions must meet a 5-year holding requirement and occur after the account holder reaches age 59½.



Sources:
IRS.gov, November 13, 2025
CNBC, November 17, 2025

01/27/2026

Inflation can erode your purchasing power over time. Planning for rising costs of essentials like healthcare and utilities can help you set more accurate retirement savings goals.

01/23/2026

Thinking about retirement? You're not alone—and the numbers might give you something to think about.

From how much people rely on Social Security to what retirees actually spend, these stats highlight why it’s important to look at the full picture. It’s not about having every answer—it’s about starting a conversation that helps you feel more confident about what’s ahead.

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💬 Questions? I’m always here to talk things through

01/21/2026

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act extends the 2017 tax cuts, making some rules permanent. The bill also creates several new tax laws for individuals while addressing other tax issues for businesses.

It might be a good time to check with your tax, legal, or accounting professional about the changes in the law. Like previous tax laws, some new rules are scheduled to expire, while others are permanent. Here’s a look at changes expected to impact most tax filers shortly.

Sources:
CNBC.com, July 3, 2025.
Congress.gov, August 21, 2025.

01/17/2026

In early February, don’t be surprised if you feel like you've "gone back to the future" with talk once again of a government shutdown. Investors should expect some stock market volatility in the weeks ahead as Congressional leaders start to show support—or form opposition—to the new funding proposals.