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Tax Optimization

Everything About Tax Optimization

7 articles

Net Unrealized Appreciation: The 401(k) Tax Strategy That Saves Six Figures

The Net Unrealized Appreciation election lets retirees pay long-term capital gains rates on employer stock distributed from a 401(k) instead of ordinary income, often saving more than $144,000 on a $1 million position. Covers eligibility under IRC 402(e)(4), the lump-sum distribution rule, and the most common mistakes that destroy the strategy.

Tax Loss Harvesting: The Year-Round Strategy That Can Save You Thousands in Capital Gains Taxes

Year-round tax loss harvesting can add 0.5%–1.5% in annual after-tax returns to a taxable portfolio. This guide explains the IRS netting order, the wash sale rule across taxable and IRA accounts, and a practical framework for harvesting short-term losses without losing the deduction.

The Backdoor Roth IRA: A Step-by-Step Guide for High Earners in 2026

The Backdoor Roth IRA lets high earners contribute up to $7,500 a year to tax-free retirement growth by pairing a nondeductible traditional IRA contribution with a Roth conversion. Covers the five-step process, the pro-rata rule that derails most attempts, Form 8606 filing, and the recordkeeping that prevents being taxed twice.

Mega Backdoor Roth: How High Earners Stash $47,500+ Per Year in Tax-Free Retirement Accounts

In 2026, the Mega Backdoor Roth can move up to $47,500 of after-tax 401(k) money into Roth above the $24,500 elective deferral limit. This guide covers how the strategy works, the three plan features it requires, how the 401(k) pro-rata rule differs from the IRA version, and the mistakes that quietly erode its value.

Cryptocurrency Tax Compliance Guide: Mastering IRS Requirements with Beancount.io

Complete guide to cryptocurrency tax compliance using Beancount.io. Master IRS requirements, automate tax reporting, optimize capital gains, and ensure accurate crypto tax filing.