Alex Stefanic: Financial Advisor at Mutual of Omaha

10/13/2026

The 2026 contribution limits are here, and several of them increased. 💰

• 401(k)/403(b): $24,500
• Age 50+ total: $32,500
• Ages 60–63 total: $35,750
• IRA: $7,500, or $8,600 at age 50+
• HSA: $4,400 self-only or $8,750 family

Higher limits create more planning opportunities, but maximizing every account is not automatically the right strategy for everyone. Your contribution level should fit your budget, tax situation, employer benefits, and long-term goals.

Check your payroll elections and make sure your 2026 savings strategy is intentional.



Disclosure: Figures are for the 2026 tax year and are subject to change. Contribution eligibility, deductibility, income limitations, employer contributions, and individual plan rules may affect the amounts available to you. Certain catch-up contributions may be required to be made on a Roth basis based on prior-year wages. This material is for general educational purposes only and is not investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Consult the appropriate professionals regarding your individual circumstances. Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.

10/06/2026

When it comes to safe money, many people automatically think of CDs.

And for short-term savings goals, that may make perfect sense.

But if you're comparing options for money you don't expect to use for several years, it may be worth looking beyond the local bank.

Some of the key differences between CDs and fixed annuities include:

✅ Taxation of earnings
✅ Potential interest rates available
✅ Retirement income options
✅ Liquidity considerations
✅ Long-term planning objectives

While CDs provide FDIC insurance and can be a great tool for short-term needs, fixed annuities may offer features such as tax-deferred growth and the ability to create guaranteed income streams during retirement, depending on the product and issuer.

The best choice isn't about which product is "better." It's about which tool aligns with your goals, timeline, income needs, and overall financial plan.

Want to see how these strategies may fit into your retirement plan? Send me a message.



Compliance Disclosure:
Rates referenced are illustrative averages as of early 2026 and will vary by carrier, financial institution, term, and date. They are not guarantees of future performance or any specific product offering. CDs are FDIC-insured subject to applicable limits. Annuities are not FDIC-insured and are backed solely by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Annuities are long-term investments designed for retirement purposes. Withdrawals of taxable amounts are subject to ordinary income tax and, if taken prior to age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal tax penalty. Early withdrawals may also be subject to surrender or withdrawal charges. This material is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, accounting, or investment advice. Individuals should consult their own advisors regarding their specific circumstances. Securities and advisory services are offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.

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09/29/2026

One of the biggest Medicare misconceptions I hear:

"I have to wait until the Annual Enrollment Period to apply for a Medicare Supplement plan."

Not necessarily.

The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP), which runs from October 15 through December 7, is primarily for Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies follow different rules. You may be able to apply for a Medicare Supplement plan throughout the year, depending on your situation.

Eligibility and pricing may depend on medical underwriting in many states, although certain life events can create additional guaranteed-issue opportunities. Rules can vary by state.

The key takeaway: understanding your enrollment window could help you make more informed Medicare decisions.

If you're approaching Medicare eligibility or evaluating your coverage options, now is a good time to understand what enrollment rules may apply to your situation.

Apply here: https://applyformedsupp.com?npn=21783422



Compliance Disclosure:
This content is for general educational purposes only and is not medical, legal, tax, or enrollment advice. Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance is separate from Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans. Guaranteed-issue rights, enrollment protections, underwriting requirements, and plan availability vary by state and individual circumstances. Outside protected enrollment periods, insurers may use medical underwriting where permitted by law. Rules, dates, benefits, and eligibility requirements are subject to change. Verify current information at Medicare.gov or through your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Insurance products are offered through appropriately licensed insurance professionals. Please consult a qualified professional regarding your specific situation.

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09/22/2026

Retirement planning isn't just about saving money. It's about avoiding the mistakes that can quietly derail an otherwise solid plan.

Here are 7 common retirement planning mistakes I see:

✅ Underestimating healthcare costs
✅ Ignoring tax diversification
✅ Claiming Social Security without a strategy
✅ Holding too much company stock
✅ Overspending early in retirement
✅ Forgetting to update beneficiaries and estate documents
✅ Trying to do it all alone

The good news? Every one of these challenges can be addressed with proper planning.

Retirement isn't won by finding the "perfect" investment. It's often won by making thoughtful decisions around taxes, income, healthcare, risk management, and legacy planning.

Whether you're five years from retirement or already retired, taking time to review your strategy today could make a meaningful difference in your future.

📌 Save this post as a retirement planning checklist.



Compliance Disclosure:
This content is for general informational purposes only and is not tax, legal, accounting, or investment advice. Individual results and strategies vary by situation, and individuals should consult their own professional advisors regarding their specific circumstances. The approximately 8% figure discussed relates to Social Security delayed retirement credits between full retirement age and age 70 and is not an investment return. Roth conversions are taxable events in the year completed. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss in declining markets. Securities and advisory services are offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.

09/16/2026

On this , I discuss how changing jobs is a great time to re-evaluate your investments and retirement goals. Did you recently change jobs?

If you live and work in the DMV: whether you’re navigating the glass towers of Tysons, the tech hubs in Reston, or the policy corridors of D.C.

09/15/2026

Starting a new job is exciting. New title. New paycheck. New opportunities.

But one of the biggest financial mistakes I see is treating a job change like only a career decision instead of a financial planning event.

When your employment changes, it may be time to:

✅ Review old retirement accounts
✅ Evaluate your new 401(k) plan and benefits package
✅ Reassess your tax strategy based on your new income
✅ Review life and disability insurance coverage

Too often, old 401(k)s get forgotten, investment allocations go unchecked, and protection gaps emerge without anyone noticing.

A new job can be the perfect opportunity to perform a complete financial audit and make sure your strategy still aligns with your goals.

If you've recently changed jobs and want a second set of eyes on your retirement accounts, benefits, or overall financial picture, send me a message.



Compliance Disclosure:
Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. No investment strategy, including asset allocation or dollar-cost averaging, can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in declining markets. Before rolling over a 401(k), consider all available options and their respective fees, features, and protections. This material is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, or accounting advice. Individuals should consult their tax and legal advisors regarding their specific circumstances. Securities and advisory services are offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.

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09/09/2026

In today's post, I discuss what might be the most misunderstood word in retirement planning: Annuities. 🏰

"Too expensive." "Just a commission grab." "Your money's locked away forever." I hear these myths every week — and most are based on outdated products, not the math.

So I broke down the 4 biggest annuity myths and what the reality actually looks like. Because you deserve clarity, not a sales pitch.

Annuities aren't "bad." They're a tool — and for the right person, they can be the personal pension that guarantees income for life.

Read the full breakdown 👇

In today's post, I discuss what might be the most misunderstood word in retirement planning: Annuities. 🏰 "Too expensive." "Just a commission grab." "Your money's locked away forever." I hear these myths every week — and most are based on outdated products, not the math. So I bro...

09/08/2026

Are annuities actually as bad as some people make them out to be? 🤔

Like most financial tools, the answer depends on how they're used.

In this video, I break down three common annuity myths:
✅ "They're too expensive"
✅ "They're all about commissions"
✅ "Your money is locked up forever"

The reality is that annuities can provide benefits such as principal protection, tax-deferred growth, and lifetime income guarantees for some investors. But they're not the right fit for everyone.

The key isn't whether an annuity is "good" or "bad"—it's whether it aligns with your financial goals, time horizon, income needs, and overall retirement strategy.

If you've ever wondered whether an annuity deserves a place in your retirement plan, let's have a conversation.



Compliance Disclosure:
Annuities are long-term investments designed for retirement purposes. Withdrawals of taxable amounts are subject to income tax, and if taken prior to age 59½, a 10% federal tax penalty may apply. There are charges and expenses associated with annuities, including expenses for optional riders and deferred sales charges for early withdrawals. Guarantees are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Securities and advisory services offered through Mutual of Omaha Investor Services, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC.

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09/07/2026

Here’s to the hard work behind every success story. Hope you’re enjoying a restful and refreshing Labor Day weekend!

09/02/2026

In today's post, I discuss the important rule affecting Virginia small businesses. Do you have a plan for your employees? Are you interested in learning more about alternatives to the RetirePath plan? Let me know in the comments

Is your business ready for the biggest shift in Virginia employment law in a decade? If you’ve built a team of five or more people here in the Commonwealth, you’ve likely heard whispers about a new retirement mandate. Maybe you’ve seen the name "RetirePath" floating around your inbox or heard ...