Search found 1153 matches

by SRenaeP
Sat Mar 02, 2024 11:23 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: TaxAct. Reporting after-tax 401k --> In-plan Roth Conversion not correct. Bug, or user error?
Replies: 52
Views: 4558

Re: TaxAct. Reporting after-tax 401k --> In-plan Roth Conversion not correct. Bug, or user error?

Has anyone tried this with TaxAct for 2023 yet? I'm having the same issue as the OP and none of the tweaks in the thread seem to produce the correct outcome. I'm rounding numbers for simplicity but here are the inputs and the outcome. Note the funds were rolled out to a Roth IRA, NOT an IRR. 1099-R Box 1 $4900 Box 2 $0 Box 5 $4600 Box 7 G During the first pass, I let it carryover the $4900 amount (perhaps incorrectly) into the rollover field. This meant rollover correctly appeared on the 1040 line 5 but there was no taxable amount (which should be $300). After reading this thread, I changed the rollover field in the Q&A to $0. Then manually entered $4900 in the quick entry view under Roth conversions. Now the 1040 line 5 does NOT show r...
by SRenaeP
Thu Jan 18, 2024 12:29 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: HSA Excess Contribution Multiple Years Ago
Replies: 7
Views: 1054

Re: HSA Excess Contribution Multiple Years Ago

Did you erroneously report your contributions for 2021? Did you not receive a 1099-SA at that time?
by SRenaeP
Mon Jan 15, 2024 5:00 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Overcontribution to 401K
Replies: 5
Views: 733

Re: Overcontribution to 401K

Check your paystubs and 401k transactions to verify that you actually did go over. With my company, it typically takes a pay cycle or two for the 'system' to realize there was an overage. Any excess is subsequently returned to me. Thankfully this doesn't cause me to lose out on any of the match. Instead of going into my 401k, it goes into a NQDCP. Unfortunately, neither HR or the 401k administrators seemed to know this. I had to just wait a few weeks for the issue to resolve itself.
by SRenaeP
Mon Jan 08, 2024 10:41 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: The "Hot Upstairs" Topic
Replies: 90
Views: 13141

Re: The "Hot Upstairs" Topic

The summer sun is baking your attic. That heat transfers down to your upstairs rooms. Find a way to ventilate your attic so heat can escape. Easy test would be to go into your attic at 3pm and see if it feels like a dry sauna that'll melt your face. Ridge vents, whirlybirds, fans, etc. This. After about 4 years in our current house, a friend and myself put in attic storage as well as installing an attic fan. The temperature differential between the first and second floor was substantially reduced. RM +1 While our issue doesn't seem as drastic as the OP, an attic fan did wonders for our upstairs. It's not a whole house fan, pulling air from within the finished portion of the house. It simply exhausts the attic air to outside whenever the (u...
by SRenaeP
Sat Jan 06, 2024 4:47 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Should I remove college age son as dependent so that he can get EV credit?
Replies: 11
Views: 1470

Re: Should I remove college age son as dependent so that he can get EV credit?

It likely won't make difference. When he files his tax return, the question that is asked is if someone *can* claim him as a dependent. The answer to that question will be the same whether or not you actually claim him as a dependent on your return.
by SRenaeP
Tue Dec 12, 2023 10:44 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Buying a new car….pay cash?!
Replies: 57
Views: 10718

Re: Buying a new car….pay cash?!

While this is true, it's my understanding that the loan has to remain active for 4-6 months for the dealer to get credit for it. I did this recently and the dealer asked that I not pay the loan off too soon. I paid off all but ~$100 of the loan as soon as I could and let the remainder sit until the six month mark then paid off the remainder. Is the dealer a charitable organization? Why should the borrower pay interest just to make them happy? In my case, the dealer offered a significant price reduction to utilize their financing. The interest paid was much less than the incentive so using their financing resulted in a lower net cost than paying cash. Right, but the point is that if they lose some backend incentive because you pay off the l...
by SRenaeP
Tue Dec 12, 2023 8:57 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Buying a new car….pay cash?!
Replies: 57
Views: 10718

Re: Buying a new car….pay cash?!

You can find a lot of information on the Car Edge youtube channel. Yesterday's topic was that now until the end of the year is the best time to buy a car. Why? Inventories are relatively high. This, of course depends on the brand and model. You'll find way better deals with the traditional domestic makes where some have literally years worth of inventory in stock and the factories are whirring with new cars, still stuffing the dealers with them. Toyota and Honda have stocked up again, both with over a month of inventory but compared with a Ford Mach e, where dealers have half a year's worth, they don't have nearly as much. Now, on to financing. Car Edge also had a video on this in the past year where Ray (worked as a sales manager) tells y...
by SRenaeP
Tue Dec 12, 2023 8:27 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Buying a new car….pay cash?!
Replies: 57
Views: 10718

Re: Buying a new car….pay cash?!

You can find a lot of information on the Car Edge youtube channel. Yesterday's topic was that now until the end of the year is the best time to buy a car. Why? Inventories are relatively high. This, of course depends on the brand and model. You'll find way better deals with the traditional domestic makes where some have literally years worth of inventory in stock and the factories are whirring with new cars, still stuffing the dealers with them. Toyota and Honda have stocked up again, both with over a month of inventory but compared with a Ford Mach e, where dealers have half a year's worth, they don't have nearly as much. Now, on to financing. Car Edge also had a video on this in the past year where Ray (worked as a sales manager) tells y...
by SRenaeP
Mon Dec 11, 2023 3:46 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to sell DVC [Disney Vacation Club] points?
Replies: 2
Views: 796

Re: How to sell DVC [Disney Vacation Club] points?

First, I would search sold/closed listings on eBay to determine what the 'market value' really is for your points. Then post ads on both Timeshare Users Group (TUG) and Redweek. Those sites are timeshare-oriented and have classified sections for people wanting to buy and sell. From what I can tell, DVC has a decent value compared to the average 'no name' brand.
by SRenaeP
Wed Dec 06, 2023 6:32 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Pitfalls of withdrawing from 401k for a home loan but not using it?
Replies: 23
Views: 2340

Re: Pitfalls of withdrawing from 401k for a home loan but not using it?

Do you not already have an emergency fund? If not or you don't feel it's sufficient, it may not be the right time for you to purchase a home...

Also, why take a loan, and more importantly pay 9% interest, that you don't need yet? If you have some type of emergency, why not deal with it at that time?
by SRenaeP
Tue Dec 05, 2023 8:14 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Seeking Tax Reduction/Optimization Strategies for High AGI
Replies: 11
Views: 1349

Re: Seeking Tax Reduction/Optimization Strategies for High AGI

It's a bit late to do anything for this year. Why aren't you maxing out your wife's 403b?

Re the DAF, do you already (or have a desire) to make significant charitable contributions? If not, that's a bit of letting the tail wag the dog tax-wise.
by SRenaeP
Mon Dec 04, 2023 8:12 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Does this car exist? Sexy convertible with a backseat - NOV 2023 UPDATE
Replies: 83
Views: 9531

Re: Does this car exist? Sexy convertible with a backseat - NOV 2023 UPDATE

Posting an update only because I like to know what posters have decided. As you can see, it took me almost four years to ever buy another car. LOL. I put off the purchase due to the pandemic (couldn't justify a newer car when I was WFH but not really driving anywhere). I ended up getting a 2019 BMW M4 in June of this year (2023). My must haves were manual transmission, moonroof, heated seats and not white in color (exterior or interior). The body style/grille changed in either 2021 or 2022 and I wanted the older style as well which that made it surprisingly hard to find a car I wanted. I'm very happy with my purchase, no regrets at all, and smile every time I get in the car. It is not a convertible so the concession to that was that I kept...
by SRenaeP
Mon Dec 04, 2023 8:07 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Does this car exist? Sexy convertible with a backseat - NOV 2023 UPDATE
Replies: 83
Views: 9531

Re: Does this car exist? Sexy convertible with a backseat - NOV 2023 UPDATE

This update is clearly not a boglehead solution. Keeping 2 cars seems like a non frugal solution. I once did a similar, but slightly more frugal solution when I kept an Avalon when I bought my Camaro convertible. DW thought it was a good solution for winter transportation. I think prior comments were unfair to the Camaro. Now that it is being discontinued I think the values will only increase, especially the convertible. Yes there is no trunk room with the top down but you can fit enough luggage for weekend and 2 golden retrievers. The journey is priceless. While I wasn't specifically looking for a Boglehead solution, I don't think it's *not*. This was obviously a planned purchase that was within my means. As far as keeping two cars, the i...
by SRenaeP
Mon Nov 27, 2023 1:08 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Mega Backdoor to Roth 401k to Roth IRA
Replies: 10
Views: 1235

Re: Mega Backdoor to Roth 401k to Roth IRA

Verify with your 401k plan documentation that you're allowed in-service withdrawals from your Roth 401k. My plan only allows it for the after-tax portion. If I were to convert the after-tax to Roth 401k, it would be 'stuck' there in my 401k with no way to remove/rollover prior to separation from the company.
by SRenaeP
Mon Nov 27, 2023 10:18 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Does this car exist? Sexy convertible with a backseat - NOV 2023 UPDATE
Replies: 83
Views: 9531

Re: Does this car exist? Sexy convertible with a backseat - NOV 2023 UPDATE

Posting an update only because I like to know what posters have decided. As you can see, it took me almost four years to ever buy another car. LOL. I put off the purchase due to the pandemic (couldn't justify a newer car when I was WFH but not really driving anywhere). I ended up getting a 2019 BMW M4 in June of this year (2023). My must haves were manual transmission, moonroof, heated seats and not white in color (exterior or interior). The body style/grille changed in either 2021 or 2022 and I wanted the older style as well which that made it surprisingly hard to find a car I wanted. I'm very happy with my purchase, no regrets at all, and smile every time I get in the car. It is not a convertible so the concession to that was that I kept ...
by SRenaeP
Thu Oct 19, 2023 9:37 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Are there any different financial considerations/rules for a childless couple?
Replies: 102
Views: 13097

Re: Are there any different financial considerations/rules for a childless couple?

Now contemplating early-retirement, I struggle with this question: "If I have no one for whom to provide, why do I spur myself to keep working? Is there some higher-truth, that I'm missing"? As someone in a similar situation, I've had similar thoughts. I was very close to pulling the trigger when an interesting position/opportunity arose at my workplace. I decided to go for it because I'd rather try it and not like it and have worked an extra year than to live with the what if of not applying. I got the position and haven't regretted the decision for one moment. For me the tipping point will likely be wanting to do more things than my allotment of PTO will allow. I feel like I'm teetering on the edge of that chasm now. LOL.
by SRenaeP
Fri Oct 06, 2023 10:58 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 50K Deck - Do or Don't
Replies: 53
Views: 9624

Re: 50K Deck - Do or Don't

Wolfpack2463 wrote: Sun Jan 23, 2022 8:30 am I would look to cover/screen in at least a portion of it so you can enjoy it more.
+1

We expanded our original deck several years ago. While we did use it slightly more, we should have gotten it screened in as well. We recently did so and have used the deck more in a few months than in any other whole year. One or both of us (no kids) is out there multiple times a week. On days it's not too hot (we're in the south), I sometimes take the laptop out and WFH on the deck. It wasn't cheap but is money well spent. I wish we'd done it years ago.
by SRenaeP
Sun Aug 13, 2023 2:54 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Confused on why I have a Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan?
Replies: 20
Views: 2525

Re: Confused on why I have a Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan?

knightrider wrote: Sun Aug 13, 2023 2:13 pm
SRenaeP wrote: Thu Aug 10, 2023 9:24 pm so yes pretty much like a traditional 401k.
If it's much like a traditional 401k then why does the IRS even have this $61k limit? Sounds like one can exceed it and still reap the main benefits of 401k via the NQDCP ? Is it loophole somehow?
The 401k limit is to try to prevent highly compensated people from getting (even) more of a tax benefit than 'average joe'. As far as NQ plans, not every employer offers them and even those that do, don't necessarily allow everyone to utilize. At my MegaCorp, only higher level employees can contribute (with the exception of those who are hitting the 401k max). Also, NQ plans aren't 'protected' funds. If the company goes under, you can lose those funds with little recourse.
by SRenaeP
Thu Aug 10, 2023 9:24 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Confused on why I have a Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan?
Replies: 20
Views: 2525

Re: Confused on why I have a Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan?

Do nothing (if your plan works the way mine does). You didn't exceed the 401k limits because they put those funds in the NQ account instead. Check your 401k account to confirm. What about taxes in this Non-Qualified account? I don't recall if the money went in tax-free or not. And do the earnings grow tax-free? If so, isn't that basically operating like a regular 401k? The money goes in tax-free. The earnings grow tax-free (meaning no taxes along the way). However, withdrawals are treated as standard income, so yes pretty much like a traditional 401k. The downside is the limitation on how to withdraw the funds in the future. I had to make an election in the beginning that can only be changed annually IIRC. The choices were lump sum upon se...
by SRenaeP
Thu Aug 10, 2023 9:19 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: If/when to fly business class? (Length of flight vs. cost)
Replies: 207
Views: 26592

Re: If/when to fly business class? (Length of flight vs. cost)

Neat exercise. I happen to be searching for flights in the winter to Japan and below are samples: 1 week in end of Nov to early Dec, round trip flights from LAX to Narita: Economy: $1100 Prem Economy: $2000 Business: $4900 First/Suites: $17,000 I'm in my early 40's, base pay of $220k and NW of $2M. I can't get myself to buy business for sure. Doesn't seem worth it for a 10 hour flight or even 16 hour flight. Prem economy, maybe but again. Not worth it. What I find myself doing is book economy then pay extra, usually $50-100, to reserve emergency exit rows or bulk head. They have sufficient leg room for me. First class is just lol. I can see myself booking business upon retirement. MAYBE go first class using credit card points. But I cannot...
by SRenaeP
Thu Aug 10, 2023 9:11 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Confused on why I have a Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan?
Replies: 20
Views: 2525

Re: Confused on why I have a Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan?

knightrider wrote: Mon Jul 31, 2023 1:16 pm
SRenaeP wrote: Tue Jul 25, 2023 3:42 pm Did you hit the $66k overall 401k limit? My company puts matching funds into a NQ plan once you hit that limit because they're not allowed to let you exceed it.
Yes, that seems to be what happened. I looked up my statements and contributed around 64k total last year. So I guess next step is what should I do? A quick google search says I can get a 6% penalty every year:

https://www.northwesternmutual.com/life ... a-or-401k/
Do nothing (if your plan works the way mine does). You didn't exceed the 401k limits because they put those funds in the NQ account instead. Check your 401k account to confirm.
by SRenaeP
Wed Jul 26, 2023 4:53 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: If/when to fly business class? (Length of flight vs. cost)
Replies: 207
Views: 26592

Re: If/when to fly business class? (Length of flight vs. cost)

Of course the above likely doesn’t apply for someone worth 7-8 figures. Earlier in this thread, someone said that they would need a NW of at least $50M to even consider buying a business class ticket. I am curious: what would be your threshold comfort to be able to pay for an international business class ticket out of your own pocket . [This question aimed at everyone on this forum.] My threshold was when we hit $5M with fully paid off house, all children's college costs set aside and we were still adding substantially to our savings. We recently started paying out of pocket for some business class flights. We're DINKS with less than you and a paid off house. We're FI but haven't RE'd yet. I decided spending now for comfort is better than ...
by SRenaeP
Tue Jul 25, 2023 3:42 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Confused on why I have a Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan?
Replies: 20
Views: 2525

Re: Confused on why I have a Non-Qualified Defined Contribution Plan?

knightrider wrote: Mon Jul 24, 2023 10:45 am
Firemenot wrote: Tue Mar 21, 2023 9:40 am At my company if you are eligible for the NQDC plan, they put the 401k match “true up” payments into it at the end of the year. If you’re not eligible, you lose out on the money. This comes up if you max out your 401k plan prematurely. Which for me always happens as I don’t know what my bonus will be and they apply 401k percentage to bonus.
Yes, that seems to be my case. But why can't they put the "true up" in the regular 401k plan? Why create more paperwork and confusion by putting into a NQDC? Right now I only have $5k in there so will just leave it alone.
Did you hit the $66k overall 401k limit? My company puts matching funds into a NQ plan once you hit that limit because they're not allowed to let you exceed it.
by SRenaeP
Tue Jun 27, 2023 3:21 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Lost Interest in Dream Car? UPDATED
Replies: 147
Views: 18239

Re: Lost Interest in Dream Car? UPDATED

To the OP - congrats on the new ride!

I bought my fun car when I hit my quarter-life crisis. :mrgreen: I bought a BMW Z4 in 2007 that has been my daily driver since then. That car is starting to show it's age plus my age is also greater. Haha. I actually posted a question here a year or so ago about what my next vehicle would be. I ended up with a BMW M4, which is more practical/comfortable but still scratches the itch. I still get a thrill from driving a fun and/or powerful vehicle. I suspect (and hope) that I will always feel this way and will come back in another 15 years in search of suggestions.
by SRenaeP
Mon May 15, 2023 2:49 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Deductions: Donor Advised Fund
Replies: 14
Views: 1159

Re: Deductions: Donor Advised Fund

I guess a question for me is: "Is Fidelity Charitable Donor-Advised Fund a 50% limit organization?" Yes, except when it's 60%. The IRS has a tax exempt org search tool - https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/tax-exempt-organization-search Here is what comes up for the Fidelity DAF (emphasis mine). Fidelity Investments Charitable Gift Fund EIN: 11-0303001 | Boston, Massachusetts, United States Publication 78 Data Organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions. Users may rely on this list in determining deductibility of their contributions. On Publication 78 Data List: Yes Deductibility Code: PC The IRS also tells you what that code means - https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/tax-exempt-organiza...
by SRenaeP
Mon May 15, 2023 2:39 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Maximize 401K employer match and avoid Excess Contribution
Replies: 16
Views: 1890

Re: Maximize 401K employer match and avoid Excess Contribution

I have unusual circumstance problem ( Good problem to have) as I will be working for 3 different employers in 2023, with matching employer 401K contribution. Would like to get some clarify from experts. Employer # 1: Employee Contribution: 7500 Employer match: 7500 After-Tax contribution within Plan Roth Conversion: 6000 Total contribution: 21,000 Employer # 2: Employee Contribution: 13,000 Employer match: 13,000 Total contribution: 26,000 Now, ready to shift to Employer #3 who will provide 5% match. Four questions would help me resolve this issue. #1 : I have contributed 20.5K so far and limit is 22.5K. it is hard to reach maximum level with out excess contribution. Any suggestions on what would be optimal approach? Distribution of excess...
by SRenaeP
Mon May 15, 2023 12:20 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Deductions: Donor Advised Fund
Replies: 14
Views: 1159

Re: Deductions: Donor Advised Fund

Did you go through the worksheet in Pub 526?

https://www.irs.gov/publications/p526#i ... 2994708176
by SRenaeP
Sat May 13, 2023 3:25 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Suggestion for best fitness/health tracking watch (non-Apple)
Replies: 5
Views: 836

Re: Suggestion for best fitness/health tracking watch (non-Apple)

I've had the Garmin Venu 2S since March with no complaints or issues. I replaced a Vivoactive 3 because I wanted something more stylish/less clunky. I like the Garmin app. The interface is attractive and relatively easy to use. I've never used any of the trackers/apps so I don't know how they compare.
by SRenaeP
Thu Apr 27, 2023 11:00 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: International Travel - ATM / Credit Card Strategy
Replies: 16
Views: 1951

Re: International Travel - ATM / Credit Card Strategy

You need to research the availability of ATMs and whether or not credit cards are commonly accepted in the specific place(s) you're going. Africa is a huge continent and the situation will be different depending on if you're going to Cape Town or Accra or Stone Town (random examples).
by SRenaeP
Mon Mar 20, 2023 10:44 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: 529 as gift for child of niece/nephew
Replies: 16
Views: 1497

Re: 529 as gift for child of niece/nephew

Rex66 wrote: Wed Mar 15, 2023 9:08 pm Some people worry that a 529 will decrease financial aide

Now this typically is loans but without a lot more details I’d be hesitant to do this in secret
The 529 belongs to the account owner. If the owner isn't the parent/guardian or student, the existence of the account will NOT impact financial aid. However, once the student (beneficiary) starts drawing from the 529, that is considered income. As such, that can impact financial aid. For that reason, some planners recommend not making 529 withdrawals until junior year, after the FAFSA for the senior year has already been submitted.
by SRenaeP
Mon Mar 20, 2023 9:49 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Restaurant recommendations for Rome/Florence
Replies: 27
Views: 2088

Re: Restaurant recommendations for Rome/Florence

It's been several years now but I enjoyed the restaurant below. They were a little mom and pop place with cute sidewalk tables.

La Locanda di Eugenio
Via Crescenzio, 43 bis
00193 Roma
tel 06 68806804
by SRenaeP
Mon Mar 13, 2023 12:43 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How do I find a reputable CPA/CFA?
Replies: 2
Views: 527

Re: How do I find a reputable CPA/CFA?

It seems like you're looking for two different things - tax preparation and investment advice.

For the first, unless you have a complex situation or a business, you're unlikely to need a CPA. I would look for an Enrolled Agent (EA).

For the second, a fee-only CFP is preferable over a CFA. You want someone with a fiduciary obligation. If you're primarily a DIY investor and just want a second set of eyes, consider PlanVision. You can search the forum for reviews.
by SRenaeP
Mon Mar 13, 2023 8:37 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Booking International Flights With Stop Overs
Replies: 43
Views: 3468

Re: Booking International Flights With Stop Overs

Booking a multi city flight is different from booking two separate flights. Booking it as multi city puts it on the same itinerary, which is the point. You may not get your pick of stopover cities but I would imagine any route would allow for a multi city itinerary. You have to choose a connecting point that is serviced by a partner carrier. Use whatever the default connecting point for simplicity. I think part of the problem is that it requires me two flights just to reach the west coast, LAX specifically where the direct flight to my destination serves daily. If I type in a multicity in Expedia and put LAX as my connecting point, it just errors out. I think because there are no direct flights from here to LAX. I haven't tried inputting a...
by SRenaeP
Mon Mar 13, 2023 8:20 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Booking International Flights With Stop Overs
Replies: 43
Views: 3468

Re: Booking International Flights With Stop Overs

I believe there are two ways to do what you would like. Option 1 would be to book a multi city flight (eg. ORD-LAX then LAX-HND instead of booking ORD-HND). Option 2 would be use a site like ITA Matrix that allows you to 'force' a stopover into your itinerary. Both of those options would allow the flights to be ticketed on the same carrier/itinerary. This would give you leverage if the flights change. From what I have found, option one, because the two routes are on non-partner airlines means that they are separate itineraries and carries risks if one itinerary changes and effects the second one. I have not heard of option two but will check out that site. Booking a multi city flight is different from booking two separate flights. Booking ...
by SRenaeP
Mon Mar 13, 2023 8:09 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Open Ear/Bone conducting headphones with MP3 player
Replies: 5
Views: 774

Re: Open Ear/Bone conducting headphones with MP3 player

They're not inexpensive but DH swears by this brand.

https://shokz.com/

He has the higher priced sports model but I do see they have a ~$70 option.
by SRenaeP
Mon Mar 13, 2023 8:04 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Booking International Flights With Stop Overs
Replies: 43
Views: 3468

Re: Booking International Flights With Stop Overs

I believe there are two ways to do what you would like.

Option 1 would be to book a multi city flight (eg. ORD-LAX then LAX-HND instead of booking ORD-HND).

Option 2 would be use a site like ITA Matrix that allows you to 'force' a stopover into your itinerary.

Both of those options would allow the flights to be ticketed on the same carrier/itinerary. This would give you leverage if the flights change.
by SRenaeP
Fri Mar 10, 2023 1:48 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Re-casting a mortgage
Replies: 24
Views: 2113

Re: Re-casting a mortgage

Yes, recasting is a thing. I was able to do it for no fee with my bank. The only stipulation was it could only be done with at least $5000 principal payment. I never paid the lower recast amount, instead choosing to continue with my existing payment. However, I liked the fact that I had lowered my required payment in case of job loss or other financial issues.
by SRenaeP
Mon Feb 27, 2023 8:37 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: How to report 1099K from Ticketmaster sales in TurboTax
Replies: 4
Views: 1259

Re: How to report 1099K from Ticketmaster sales in TurboTax

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/form-1099-k-frequently-asked-questions-general#collapseCollapsible1673473764284 The loss on the sale of a personal item is not deductible. For calendar year 2022 tax returns, if you receive a Form 1099-K, for the sale of a personal item that resulted in a loss, you should make offsetting entries on Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Schedule 1, Additional Income and Adjustments to Income, as follows: Report your proceeds (the Form 1099-K amount) on Part I – Line 8z – Other Income, using the description "Form 1099-K Personal Item Sold at a Loss." Report your costs, up to but not more than the proceeds amount (the Form 1099-K amount), on Part II – Line 24z – Other Adjustments, using the descri...
by SRenaeP
Mon Feb 27, 2023 8:29 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: [Leftover money in 529 accounts. Can we gift it?]
Replies: 21
Views: 2138

Re: [Leftover money in 529 accounts. Can we gift it?]

Given the new Secure 2.0 changes, have you considered utilizing the leftover money to fund your children's Roth IRAs? This may be a better solution than trying to gift unborn grandchildren.
by SRenaeP
Mon Jan 30, 2023 8:27 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Impossible for New hire to be HCE in first year?
Replies: 1
Views: 630

Re: Impossible for New hire to be HCE in first year?

It depends on how your company elects to define HCE. There is the IRS limit, then companies have the option of limiting to those who are also in the top 20% of compensation across the company. Your company will notify you if you're categorized as HCE. My employer does an estimate in October for the next calendar year. However, I have heard of companies who don't provide notification until *after* the calendar year and return any excess contributions at that time.
by SRenaeP
Thu Jan 26, 2023 9:53 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Highly compensated employee (HCE) thresholds
Replies: 3
Views: 929

Re: Highly compensated employee (HCE) thresholds

"Highly Compensated Employee - An individual who:

Owned more than 5% of the interest in the business at any time during the year or the preceding year, regardless of how much compensation that person earned or received, or
For the preceding year, received compensation from the business of more than $125,000 (if the preceding year is 2019, 130,000 if the preceding year is 2020 or 2021, $135,000 if the preceding year is 2022), and $150,000 (if the preceding year is 2023) and, if the employer so chooses, was in the top 20% of employees when ranked by compensation."

https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/pl ... efinitions
by SRenaeP
Mon Jan 23, 2023 2:57 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Advice for spending 3 weeks in Costa Rica
Replies: 5
Views: 690

Re: Advice for spending 3 weeks in Costa Rica

I enjoyed the Quepos/Manuel Antonio area. Tamarindo is nicknamed Tama-gringo so avoid that area if you want non-touristy. It was definitely a different vibe from Quepos. I used VRBO both times for nice villas. However, I was with a group so that would be overkill for a solo traveler.
by SRenaeP
Mon Jan 23, 2023 6:44 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Regarding TSA pre-check
Replies: 78
Views: 7610

Re: Regarding TSA pre-check

Depending on the amount of future travel you may consider Global Entry which includes TSA pre-check. I was just in yesterday getting my photo taken for pre-check. The guy there said he's heard the backlog for getting Global Entry now stands at about 18-24 MONTHS. Pre-check is expected to take 3-5 days. I suspect it depends on how 'risky' you are/how comprehensive your background check needs to be. My senior citizen parent who has only traveled internationally a handful of times was approved in ~1 week for Global Entry. I think global entry is highly dependent on the interview location. Both my wife's and my pre-check expired during the pandemic, so we decided to get global entry this time, mid-2022. Our "local" international airp...
by SRenaeP
Thu Jan 19, 2023 3:53 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Regarding TSA pre-check
Replies: 78
Views: 7610

Re: Regarding TSA pre-check

FireAway wrote: Thu Jan 19, 2023 1:45 pm
260chrisb wrote: Wed Jan 18, 2023 12:46 pm Depending on the amount of future travel you may consider Global Entry which includes TSA pre-check.
I was just in yesterday getting my photo taken for pre-check. The guy there said he's heard the backlog for getting Global Entry now stands at about 18-24 MONTHS. Pre-check is expected to take 3-5 days.
I suspect it depends on how 'risky' you are/how comprehensive your background check needs to be. My senior citizen parent who has only traveled internationally a handful of times was approved in ~1 week for Global Entry.
by SRenaeP
Mon Dec 19, 2022 8:50 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Mega backddor from from 401k after-tax limit =
Replies: 23
Views: 2315

Re: Mega backddor from from 401k after-tax limit =

calimero wrote: Sat Dec 17, 2022 11:25 am thank you all for going into the details here.
I am assuming the 401k after-tax need to be credited to my Roth-IRA by Dec 31st?
In practical terms: after tax contributions in December likely will have to be moved next year given time constraints?
Conversions can be done whenever you choose. Why do you think it needs to happen by 31 December?
by SRenaeP
Sun Dec 18, 2022 2:56 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Costa Rica this winter - suggestions?
Replies: 19
Views: 3030

Re: Costa Rica this winter - suggestions?

keith6014 wrote: Sat Dec 17, 2022 11:02 am Planning to do 2023 February to Costa Rica with 2 kids [6 and 9 yrs]. Planning to go for 1 week. Arriving from NYC. Any suggestions for people who like nature and some beaches (only for kids). (Planning to rent a SUV).
I enjoyed the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area. Manuel Antonio is a national park with lots of fauna and flora. We were a group so we opted for a villa rental over a hotel. Accordingly, the villa concierge took care of everything for us including transportation so we didn't bother to rent a vehicle.
by SRenaeP
Mon Dec 12, 2022 10:25 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Any early retirement stories you can share?
Replies: 128
Views: 23691

Re: Any early retirement stories you can share?

"Are all your estate documents in order?" You mean a will? I am alone, so SOL (Simply Out of Luck!) if I get seriously ill. That will have to count as death in my life. It's over then. I'd like to live a little while I still can. I don't understand. Being ill doesn't count as death. I ask these questions, since you indicate you are still worried. Sometimes, having a great handle on your finances entering retirement can reduce the worry. Good luck. Well, I think, for me, being seriously ill will have to count as death (and will soon be followed by death). I took care of my hunband and went to bat for him to prolong his life. Nobody will do that for me (from where I stand now) and so I don't think I will last long with all the mist...
by SRenaeP
Wed Nov 23, 2022 12:42 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Buy a car before retirement or after retiring?
Replies: 34
Views: 3801

Re: Buy a car before retirement or after retiring?

I'd buy a new car when the old one has expensive problems that aren't worth fixing. Depending on the make/model and mileage of your current car, that could be five years from now.
by SRenaeP
Mon Nov 21, 2022 4:00 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Should I hire a professional resume writer to update my resume?
Replies: 51
Views: 4273

Re: Should I hire a professional resume writer to update my resume?

I am being given the opportunity to interview for a position at my workplace that I am excited for. This is an informal interview, not a formal one. The first step is the manager making the decision would like to see my resume. For background, I created my resume template about 20 years ago. I like it very much, but it's black and white and rather drab. When I recently had the opportunity to review resumes, I was suprised that the formatting of resumes today appears to be colorful, exciting, and interesting. Some people inlcuded QR codes, some people include many colors, and even the paper size of the resume is no longer standard. I'm wondering if it would be of any benefit for me to hire a professional resume writer to update the template...
by SRenaeP
Mon Sep 19, 2022 6:41 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Travel Insurance Medical Only
Replies: 12
Views: 1568

Re: Travel Insurance Medical Only

MGBMartin wrote: Sun Sep 18, 2022 12:59 pm You should also look at GeoBlue.
They are part of Blue Cross Blue Shield and act as primary insurance.
https://www.geo-blue.com/
I previously had GeoBlue (never had to file a claim). However, I have switched to Seven Corners as they offer higher coverage ($1MM, IIRC). I've never had to file a claim with them either.