Search found 1474 matches

by snowman
Sun Feb 18, 2024 2:03 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: What's the best non-Vanguard brokerage to hold Vanguard ETFs, a Roth and a Solo-401k?
Replies: 14
Views: 1439

Re: What's the best non-Vanguard brokerage to hold Vanguard ETFs, a Roth and a Solo-401k?

Agree with your description of Vanguard, pretty pathetic. I have owned Vanguard ETFs for over 20 years now at all major brokerages (moving around collecting bonuses). Used to pay commissions but not any more since they've been eliminated pretty much everywhere. Also used to own solo 401k at Fidelity. Given all that, here is my recommendation. Decide on solo 401k first. There are some major differences among brokerages, not just the visual interface. If Fidelity fits your bill, consolidate everything there. If not, consider separating 401k from other accounts and consolidate those at Fidelity. My second choice would be ETrade. Nice platform, plus you get Vanguard funds for free (I buy VMFXX there). I don't care for Schwab's interface or how ...
by snowman
Sat Feb 17, 2024 8:57 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

Thank you all, this was the fastest, easiest, and most profitable bonus offer I have ever done! Here is this week's timeline that might be helpful to others. Traditional IRA partial transfer request from ETrade submitted Monday afternoon MT, transfer completed and bonus posted Wednesday evening. Roth IRA partial transfer request from ETrade submitted Wednesday morning MT, transfer completed and bonus posted Thursday evening. Incredible! Email received from ETrade on Friday morning confirming free delivery of securities (traditional IRA account). It looks like ET/MS does not charge for partial transfers out. Left few pennies in each account to keep access to statements etc. I'm also on ET. Is there any specific reason you decided to keep it...
by snowman
Fri Feb 16, 2024 11:55 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

Thank you all, this was the fastest, easiest, and most profitable bonus offer I have ever done! Here is this week's timeline that might be helpful to others.

Traditional IRA partial transfer request from ETrade submitted Monday afternoon MT, transfer completed and bonus posted Wednesday evening. Roth IRA partial transfer request from ETrade submitted Wednesday morning MT, transfer completed and bonus posted Thursday evening. Incredible! Email received from ETrade on Friday morning confirming free delivery of securities (traditional IRA account). It looks like ET/MS does not charge for partial transfers out. Left few pennies in each account to keep access to statements etc.
by snowman
Thu Feb 15, 2024 9:30 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

placeholder wrote: Wed Feb 14, 2024 8:45 pm
nalor511 wrote: Wed Feb 14, 2024 8:11 pm
snowman wrote: Wed Feb 14, 2024 7:22 pm
placeholder wrote: Wed Feb 14, 2024 6:04 pm Transfers are one of the reasons I don't reinvest or buy partial shares.
Yep, took me about 10 transfers to learn that lesson.
I just don't transfer my partial shares
I wouldn't want a batch of partials hanging around in the old brokerage.
Agreed. Not having partial shares means complete control and quick, clean transfers, partial or full depending on desired outcome. Like I said, took me a while to learn it, but better late than never.
by snowman
Wed Feb 14, 2024 7:22 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

placeholder wrote: Wed Feb 14, 2024 6:04 pm Transfers are one of the reasons I don't reinvest or buy partial shares.
Yep, took me about 10 transfers to learn that lesson.
by snowman
Mon Feb 12, 2024 1:02 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

Can someone please confirm what amount of money one can take out later without bonus clawback? Assume I transfer 500K and RH adds 15K bonus, for a total of 515K balance on the day of transfer. Can I take out anything in the next 5 years, as long as the new balance remains above 515K? That's my understanding of this deal. If that's not correct, please let me know what it is given above numbers. Thanks! That's my understanding, but I don't plan to take anything out, and if you do plan to take something out, you're kind of screwed if the market takes a nosedive. Thanks for confirmation. I don't plan to touch my IRA for another 10 years, so that's not an issue. Since many posters expressed concern about balances above SIPC coverage, I just wan...
by snowman
Mon Feb 12, 2024 11:19 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

Can someone please confirm what amount of money one can take out later without bonus clawback? Assume I transfer 500K and RH adds 15K bonus, for a total of 515K balance on the day of transfer. Can I take out anything in the next 5 years, as long as the new balance remains above 515K? That's my understanding of this deal. If that's not correct, please let me know what it is given above numbers. Thanks!
by snowman
Wed Feb 07, 2024 6:15 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

tj wrote: Wed Feb 07, 2024 5:36 pm
Out of curiosity, where do you add the beneficiary?
Account - Settings - Beneficiaries
by snowman
Wed Feb 07, 2024 5:20 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

OK so I decided to go for it despite not liking the lack of secondary beneficiary designation. I guess the greed has won. Just wanted to confirm next steps (I have done many bonuses but never with RH): 1. I opened brokerage account 2. I signed up for Gold 3. I opened traditional IRA and Roth IRA (both are showing 3% match) 4. I designated beneficiary in all 3 accounts (wasn't easy, there were hiccups but it's done) So what's remaining is to initiate transfers from ETrade to traditional and Roth. I assume ET will charge $75 ACAT fee for each account. Is my understanding correct that RH will reimburse $75x2 after assets land at RH and I contact them via chat? Second question - I assume I have 30 days to put little cash to brokerage acct so th...
by snowman
Fri Jan 26, 2024 9:22 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: Robinhood 3% IRA Match

theplayer11 wrote: Fri Jan 26, 2024 9:03 am TIRA and Roth were transferred with the 3% match last night, started the transfer this past Saturday.
Very simple process.
So you went ahead with this even though you cannot do your usual beneficiaries - wife primary, kids 50-50 secondary? What did you end up doing - just wife 100%?
by snowman
Mon Jan 22, 2024 10:34 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Best setup for getting yield on checking account? Currently w/ Schwab and Etrade
Replies: 49
Views: 4459

Re: Best setup for getting yield on checking account? Currently w/ Schwab and Etrade

Here is my setup that should work well for you if you are willing. I don't have Schwab, I only have Fidelity and ETrade (ended up there for bonus money and stayed so far). ETrade offers Vanguard funds for free, so I use VMFXX (federal MMF with 5.3% APR). I use Fidelity CMA for everyday banking, bill pay etc. and keep my money in SPRXX that auto liquidates for all payments. I also use Fidelity Visa which has 2% cashback on everything and 0% FTF (used to be 1% till August 2023). I use Fidelity ATM card when traveling, ATM fee reimbursed next day, never was charged 1% FTF. I have a link established between Fidelity and ET, so that if I want to earn higher interest on my cash, I move it to ET (VMFXX 5.3% vs. SPRXX 5.1%). Delta is roughly the sa...
by snowman
Mon Jan 22, 2024 10:03 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: 3% IRA transfer bonus at Robinhood: Worth it?

If it makes you feel better, when I first used them a year ago, they didn’t allow beneficiaries online at all if I recall correctly. Generally speaking, they seem to move pretty fast. Lots of new feature since I use my account about a year ago. Also, their documentation says “not yet “. Meaning, they will probably add at some point soon. Yeah, I noticed the "not yet" language, but that indicated you can assign percentages yourself. What I really want is designate wife as primary and kids 50/50 as secondary. I could just add my wife, but if we both die at the same time in an accident, my IRA would go through probate instead of going directly to my kids. I really don't want to split it 3 ways. My only explanation for not having suc...
by snowman
Mon Jan 22, 2024 9:39 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: 3% IRA transfer bonus at Robinhood: Worth it?

Someone who has done it, is it easy to add tod/beneficiary to RH accounts? Can you do it online or is there a form? I would really like to know as well before I pull the plug. Can you do it online, and can you have wife as primary, and kids as secondary beneficiaries? And if the answer is no, how exactly does it work? Thank you! Poking around their website, it looks to me like you can only have primary beneficiary/beneficiaries, and you cannot designate percentage among them, Robinhood will decide for you. At least that's how I understand their language: https://robinhood.com/us/en/support/articles/beneficiaries/ Can I adjust beneficiaries’ allocations? Not yet. Your assets will be split evenly across your named beneficiaries to the extent...
by snowman
Mon Jan 22, 2024 8:27 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: 3% IRA transfer bonus at Robinhood: Worth it?

Someone who has done it, is it easy to add tod/beneficiary to RH accounts? Can you do it online or is there a form? I would really like to know as well before I pull the plug. Can you do it online, and can you have wife as primary, and kids as secondary beneficiaries? And if the answer is no, how exactly does it work? Thank you! Poking around their website, it looks to me like you can only have primary beneficiary/beneficiaries, and you cannot designate percentage among them, Robinhood will decide for you. At least that's how I understand their language: https://robinhood.com/us/en/support/articles/beneficiaries/ Can I adjust beneficiaries’ allocations? Not yet. Your assets will be split evenly across your named beneficiaries to the extent...
by snowman
Mon Jan 22, 2024 8:11 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: 3% IRA transfer bonus at Robinhood: Worth it?

nalor511 wrote: Mon Jan 22, 2024 1:39 am Someone who has done it, is it easy to add tod/beneficiary to RH accounts? Can you do it online or is there a form?
I would really like to know as well before I pull the plug. Can you do it online, and can you have wife as primary, and kids as secondary beneficiaries? And if the answer is no, how exactly does it work?

Thank you!
by snowman
Sun Jan 21, 2024 2:23 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: 3% IRA transfer bonus at Robinhood: Worth it?

theplayer11 wrote: Sun Jan 21, 2024 2:15 pm
snowman wrote: Sun Jan 21, 2024 2:11 pm Very tempted! Just to confirm by the experts here: there are no tears, correct? You get 3% match on the exact amount you transfer? So if I transfer $488,258 for example, the 3% match will apply to that amount, not $400K, correct?

Second, do you open brokerage account first, transfer $60 there, sign up for Gold, and only then open IRA account and do the IRA ACAT? Is my understanding correct?

Thank you so much, this offer is unreal! Yes it's not major league but below $500K it seems to be a no brainer.
No tiers mentioned anywhere I read.
Gold is $6.99/mth for new accounts, so add at least $84
Yes, make sure you sign up for Gold before you initiate the transfer.
Perfect! And thank you for providing updated Gold number.
by snowman
Sun Jan 21, 2024 2:11 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Robinhood 3% IRA Match
Replies: 1459
Views: 110194

Re: 3% IRA transfer bonus at Robinhood: Worth it?

Very tempted! Just to confirm by the experts here: there are no tears, correct? You get 3% match on the exact amount you transfer? So if I transfer $488,258 for example, the 3% match will apply to that amount, not $400K, correct?

Second, do you open brokerage account first, transfer $60 there, sign up for Gold, and only then open IRA account and do the IRA ACAT? Is my understanding correct?

Thank you so much, this offer is unreal! Yes it's not major league but below $500K it seems to be a no brainer.
by snowman
Sun Jan 21, 2024 9:59 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Shatter my Van Life Dreams
Replies: 65
Views: 8427

Re: Shatter my Van Life Dreams

Not going to shatter your dreams, but call me skeptical based on 3 things in your OP: the fact that you prefer to drive fuel efficient vehicles, that you are not mechanically inclined, and that you are asking where to find some info when there are hundreds if not thousands of YT channels dedicated to this exact topic. BH forum is not the best place to ask, you need to visit RV shows, read articles and watch YT videos, and talk to your campground neighbors with campers/RVs. Having said that, if it's truly your dream, you will make it happen no matter what. If you have been tent camping all this time, any kind of camper/RV is going to be a luxurious upgrade so comfort is not an issue. I say just do it, you will experience very steep learning ...
by snowman
Mon Jan 15, 2024 7:05 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Our Plan To Sell Everything & Travel Full-Time - Plan & Portfolio Review Request
Replies: 65
Views: 11357

Re: Our Plan To Sell Everything & Travel Full-Time - Plan & Portfolio Review Request

Better yet, sign up with escapees, you will get permanent, real mailing TX address, and you can read and receive your mail anywhere in the world. Does the escapees address work for banks and brokerages? When I checked their address it is a CMRA according to the USPS. I personally do not use it because of ACA, but met several full time RVers who do and report zero issues with banking/investments. It's the most common mail service in the full time RV community (TX and FL), followed by Americas Mailbox out of SD. Why would ACA be affected by Escapees mailing address? And others report a CMRA mailing address is not acceptable to Vanguard/Fidelty and others. I don't know who others are and what they refer to. The whole point of Escapees RV Club...
by snowman
Mon Jan 15, 2024 4:03 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Our Plan To Sell Everything & Travel Full-Time - Plan & Portfolio Review Request
Replies: 65
Views: 11357

Re: Our Plan To Sell Everything & Travel Full-Time - Plan & Portfolio Review Request

anagram wrote: Mon Jan 15, 2024 3:51 pm
snowman wrote: Mon Jan 15, 2024 3:46 pm Better yet, sign up with escapees, you will get permanent, real mailing TX address, and you can read and receive your mail anywhere in the world.
Does the escapees address work for banks and brokerages? When I checked their address it is a CMRA according to the USPS.
I personally do not use it because of ACA, but met several full time RVers who do and report zero issues with banking/investments. It's the most common mail service in the full time RV community (TX and FL), followed by Americas Mailbox out of SD.
by snowman
Mon Jan 15, 2024 3:46 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Our Plan To Sell Everything & Travel Full-Time - Plan & Portfolio Review Request
Replies: 65
Views: 11357

Re: Our Plan To Sell Everything & Travel Full-Time - Plan & Portfolio Review Request

We have done something similar - sold the house and most possessions 3 years ago (renting small storage space as wife could not part with some stuff), and became full time RVers. Love the lifestyle, you could not pay me enough to go back to the house! Speaking from experience, I believe you have all the bases covered, here are some suggestions. Sell the house now, in the spring season, and downsize to RV or small condo. If wife resists RV idea, and condo is more expensive than the house, then stay in the house, but start selling stuff yesterday. It will take more time than you think, don't wait to the last minute. Having relative get your mail for the first couple of years is a great idea, just realize they may get tired of getting your jun...
by snowman
Mon Oct 23, 2023 9:07 am
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Portfolio Review- Active-Duty Military
Replies: 24
Views: 3273

Re: Portfolio Review- Active-Duty Military

I think you are doing great! You can tweak around the edges, but you are 95% there, congratulations! My son is active duty AF, currently O-3, and loves talking finances with me, so I am familiar with military pay structure and benefits. I agree with another poster that you don't really need dedicated emergency fund for reasons stated. You can tap taxable account any time, reduce or temporarily eliminate taxable savings if needed, take 0% APR loan etc. You will have options, and you will know which one is best if/when the time comes. To park your cash you don't want invested, I would choose a combination of Vanguard MMF and I bond. In MMF, you currently get 5.3% interest, 1% higher than your Amex HYSA. For money you will not need for several...
by snowman
Thu Sep 28, 2023 7:33 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: One Week In Calgary and Banff
Replies: 31
Views: 2852

Re: One Week In Calgary and Banff

To answer your specific questions: No toll road. I assume you will take I-15 North and cross the border at Coutts. If you plan to hike in the backcountry, take bear spray with you. Border agent will ask if you carry any weapon including pepper spray, say you have bear spray for hiking, you'll be good. Banff area is beautiful, but also very crowded and expensive. Don't expect Colorado hikes. Entry fee to National Parks in Canada is per person, not per vehicle as is the custom in the States. No need for cash. You can always get some from any ATM. Exchange rate is very favorable to us now, so don't let any business tell you they will gladly take your US dollars, pay with CC and it's like getting 25% off anywhere you go. American Costco Visa ca...
by snowman
Tue Aug 15, 2023 12:48 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses
Replies: 7737
Views: 1337485

Re: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses

https://banking.citi.com/cbol/investment/cpwm/default.htm?BT_TX=1&ProspectID=FD792B7588384181BCE78CEA6A66ADA4 $2k for a $500k deposit. From what I know, Schwab honors this Citi promo. That wasn't the case for me last month. The rep relayed that since I wanted a self-directed account, not a managed account, Schwab wouldn't match this Citi promo on a Schwab self-directed account. Schwab offered to have me talk with their managed accounts team with the idea that they might match Citi if I was interested in that, but I declined since I'm only interested in self-directed. Just got off the phone with Schwab, this is exactly how it went, and I declined to talk to them as well. Before contacting Schwab I asked ET for retention bonus which they...
by snowman
Mon Aug 14, 2023 8:54 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses
Replies: 7737
Views: 1337485

Re: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses

I wanted to move out of ETrade before the merger completes (just a self imposed deadline) but didn't see any good promo besides standard Merrill $600 one. So I waited and now even that one is no longer available! Given that, did anyone receive retention bonus from ETrade recently? If not, is Schwab referral bonus (1K bonus for 500K deposit) the best deal going now? I would be moving little over 500K split between traditional and Roth IRA accounts. I am not interested in any 2nd tier player. Thank you all! https://accountoffers.wellsfargo.com/premierbonus/?product_code=CHK&subproduct_code=PZ&sub_channel=SEM&vendor_code=G&collateral_code=23_Q1-Q4_CBD_WFP_NON_KT_COM_Conquesting&dm=chase+investments&gclid=Cj0KCQjwoeemBh...
by snowman
Mon Aug 14, 2023 8:46 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses
Replies: 7737
Views: 1337485

Re: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses

dual wrote: Mon Aug 14, 2023 6:01 pm Snowman
As far as Schwab goes, does anyone know if they aggregate total from 2 accounts to get the max bonus of 1K, or does the 500K in assets have to be in only 1 account?
My experience is that they will aggregate totals from several accounts.
Thank you!
by snowman
Mon Aug 14, 2023 8:45 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses
Replies: 7737
Views: 1337485

Re: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses

TomatoTomahto wrote: Mon Aug 14, 2023 6:01 pm
snowman wrote: Mon Aug 14, 2023 5:47 pm
As far as Schwab goes, does anyone know if they aggregate total from 2 accounts to get the max bonus of 1K, or does the 500K in assets have to be in only 1 account?
Schwab aggregated for me a year ago.
Thank you!
by snowman
Mon Aug 14, 2023 5:47 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses
Replies: 7737
Views: 1337485

Re: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses

I wanted to move out of ETrade before the merger completes (just a self imposed deadline) but didn't see any good promo besides standard Merrill $600 one. So I waited and now even that one is no longer available! Given that, did anyone receive retention bonus from ETrade recently? If not, is Schwab referral bonus (1K bonus for 500K deposit) the best deal going now? I would be moving little over 500K split between traditional and Roth IRA accounts. I am not interested in any 2nd tier player. Thank you all! https://accountoffers.wellsfargo.com/premierbonus/?product_code=CHK&subproduct_code=PZ&sub_channel=SEM&vendor_code=G&collateral_code=23_Q1-Q4_CBD_WFP_NON_KT_COM_Conquesting&dm=chase+investments&gclid=Cj0KCQjwoeemBh...
by snowman
Mon Aug 14, 2023 12:55 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Tastyworks 1099
Replies: 63
Views: 6132

Re: Tastyworks 1099

...last thing I want is to declare it in 2021, and then receive 1099 from TW in 2022, in which case I am looking at amending 2 tax returns with all the back and forth. I am thinking to not add it to 2021 income, and just wait till this time next year. If nothing comes, add it to 2022 MISC income. What do you guys think? Reasonable strategy? Seems perfectly reasonable to me. Guarantee others will disagree. Thanks for quick response, yobery. Your answer reminds me why I got a sense there was no consensus. Let's see if other members chime in. I'm in the same situation for an account opened in 2022 with the constructive receipt of the bonus in 2023. Can someone from the 2021 group chime in to confirm whether they ever received a 1099 for it th...
by snowman
Mon Aug 14, 2023 11:33 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses
Replies: 7737
Views: 1337485

Re: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses

I wanted to move out of ETrade before the merger completes (just a self imposed deadline) but didn't see any good promo besides standard Merrill $600 one. So I waited and now even that one is no longer available! Given that, did anyone receive retention bonus from ETrade recently? If not, is Schwab referral bonus (1K bonus for 500K deposit) the best deal going now? I would be moving little over 500K split between traditional and Roth IRA accounts.
I am not interested in any 2nd tier player. Thank you all!
by snowman
Sun Aug 06, 2023 12:20 am
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Disadvantages of dual citizenship?
Replies: 47
Views: 4707

Re: Disadvantages of dual citizenship?

Dual national here, though different EU country. I don't see any disadvantages for you, but I also don't see any real advantages beyond longer stay (over 90 days). Once you stay over 6 months, you are introducing tax issues (not sure how serious you are about that). If you are eligible, I say go for it, you have nothing to fear. As far as your daughter goes, your dual citizenship will not stand in her way to obtain top security clearance if she decides to go that route. Other things might, but not your dual citizenship. She can always apply (if eligible and actually interested) after her defense/foreign career is over. So my dual citizenship won't stand in the way of her receiving a top security clearance, but hers might? That is correct. ...
by snowman
Sat Aug 05, 2023 5:16 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Disadvantages of dual citizenship?
Replies: 47
Views: 4707

Re: Disadvantages of dual citizenship?

Dual national here, though different EU country. I don't see any disadvantages for you, but I also don't see any real advantages beyond longer stay (over 90 days). Once you stay over 6 months, you are introducing tax issues (not sure how serious you are about that). If you are eligible, I say go for it, you have nothing to fear.

As far as your daughter goes, your dual citizenship will not stand in her way to obtain top security clearance if she decides to go that route. Other things might, but not your dual citizenship. She can always apply (if eligible and actually interested) after her defense/foreign career is over.
by snowman
Fri Aug 04, 2023 1:07 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Integrity of Soc Sec
Replies: 100
Views: 9919

Re: Integrity of Soc Sec

History is a far better guide to what changes might occur versus "under current law". In the last major reform in 1983 the most significant cut to benefits (increasing the full retirement age) exempted anyone age 40 and older at the time. And then only gradually increased it for others. It only fully applied (increased to age 67) to those age 23 and younger at the time! In contrast increased revenue for the program was implemented quite rapidly, mainly in the form of increased payroll taxes. I wouldn't expect anything different this time around. The low hanging fruit is jacking up the level of income subject to the payroll tax. Personally I think that is the way it will go too, little tweaks. Up full retirement to 69, slightly in...
by snowman
Thu Aug 03, 2023 5:41 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Dual USA/Canadian citizen thinking of moving to Canada to start a family - soliciting feedback!
Replies: 56
Views: 5783

Re: Dual USA/Canadian citizen thinking of moving to Canada to start a family - soliciting feedback!

I read this twice and literally can't tell if it's a troll. If you want to move to Canada, go nuts. But virtually none of these reasons make a lick of sense. I’m in my late 20s and am looking to start a family with my spouse. We’re thinking of moving to Canada (specifically Victoria or Vancouver) to have our family, and wanted to get some feedback from the Bogleheads community on whether this is a good/bad idea and things we should consider but haven’t. We currently live in San Francisco and both grew up in the bay area. I’m a dual Canadian/US citizen and my spouse is a US citizen. Here are the pros/cons we’ve thought about which seem to make Canada more ideal for us (all money figures are in USD): Pros Healthcare - The companies we work f...
by snowman
Sun Jul 23, 2023 11:23 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Best Fidelity fund for savings account?
Replies: 14
Views: 2617

Re: Best Fidelity fund for savings account?

I set both of my kids with Fidelity while they were still in college. They also use Fidelity Visa as their primary card and get free checks with free checking account. The "slush fund" money as they call it sits in MMF. SPRXX currently yields 4.83%. Your D can open new CMA account in less than a minute. Single login and great user interface is a cherry on the cake.
by snowman
Tue Jun 27, 2023 10:45 am
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses
Replies: 7737
Views: 1337485

Re: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses

OK guys, time to find next best place for our investments, and would appreciate the words of the wise on this thread. Collected several ETrade bonuses (assigned rep bent backwards to bring more money to ETrade) little over a year ago. 12 month holding period expired 3 months ago. I figured I would just email my rep to see what kind of retention bonus he could get us. Well, it seems like he is no longer with the company. Does it make sense to email/call "customer service"? Or just cut that step out, and move elsewhere? Total across all ETrade accounts is about 800-850K. I cannot do WF 2.5K bonus as that requires personal branch visit. I don't see anything on Schwab or TDA. Have done ME several times but only see the usual 600 offe...
by snowman
Mon Jun 26, 2023 8:25 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: [E*TRADE Accounts Transfer to Morgan Stanley]
Replies: 208
Views: 26211

Re: E*Trade --> Morgan Stanley

Maybe I don't understand. I thought it is just a change in back office operation. From my (admittedly very quick) reading of the E*TRADE online transfer information, seems like there is some paperwork for E*TRADE account holders in connection with the transfer to the MS platform. I was disappointed to read in a thread here that E*TRADE had fired 90% of the account managers a couple weeks ago and eliminated account managers for $1 million+ accounts (there’s now a platinum 800#). I never received notice of this from E*TRADE and turns out my excellent account manager’s name came off my account and he no longer responds to emails. My guess is the MS Wealth Advisors will be calling all such E*TRADE account owners which is unappealing to me. Bot...
by snowman
Mon Jun 26, 2023 5:17 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses
Replies: 7737
Views: 1337485

Re: The Final, Definitive Thread on Brokerage Transfer Bonuses

OK guys, time to find next best place for our investments, and would appreciate the words of the wise on this thread. Collected several ETrade bonuses (assigned rep bent backwards to bring more money to ETrade) little over a year ago. 12 month holding period expired 3 months ago. I figured I would just email my rep to see what kind of retention bonus he could get us. Well, it seems like he is no longer with the company. Does it make sense to email/call "customer service"? Or just cut that step out, and move elsewhere? Total across all ETrade accounts is about 800-850K. I cannot do WF 2.5K bonus as that requires personal branch visit. I don't see anything on Schwab or TDA. Have done ME several times but only see the usual 600 offer...
by snowman
Sun Jun 25, 2023 6:39 pm
Forum: Investing - Theory, News & General
Topic: Always Turn Off Taxable Dividend Reinvestment In Retirement?
Replies: 73
Views: 11114

Re: Always Turn Off Taxable Dividend Reinvestment In Retirement?

I will try to help by saying essentially the same thing other posters did by using slightly different angle. In taxable, in general, you don't want to auto reinvest dividends, whether you are accumulating or decumulating. So you turn it off if you had it on till now.

But I think that's not your question. I think you are asking if it ever makes sense to buy more shares with dividends when you are retired (which you just became this week - congratulations!). And the answer is it depends on whether you need dividends to cover your living expenses. If you do, then you transfer them to your checking account and spend the money. If you don't, you could buy more shares manually next day or whenever you feel like it.
by snowman
Tue Jun 20, 2023 7:12 pm
Forum: Personal Investments
Topic: Work is Dicey - Can I Retire Now?
Replies: 97
Views: 17532

Re: Work is Dicey - Can I Retire Now?

As already mentioned, make sure you are looking at correct SS numbers if you stop working now. Also, try to play with this calculator, it's easy to use and very flexible:

https://cfiresim.com/

Make sure your 40K covers health insurance. Finally, if the work environment is unbearable, you can also plan on getting some PT gig you might enjoy if you exit your FT job now.

I think you can do it, but if you are flexible on spending and/or PT gig you most definitely can do it.
by snowman
Tue Jun 06, 2023 2:45 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: State Income taxes for nomads
Replies: 12
Views: 972

Re: State Income taxes for nomads

I don't see any problem in your situation. What exactly are you afraid of? You are a NC resident and you will remain one while being a nomad. Everything works the same way as before. Thousands of people are doing it. The only issue you will need to figure out is getting mail - do you have a friend or relative whose address you can use and who is willing to be your mailbox? If not, you sign up for a mail service. Am I missing anything?
by snowman
Mon May 22, 2023 10:16 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: In Law Advice - What do I do if anything?
Replies: 29
Views: 2383

Re: In Law Advice - What do I do if anything?

As an owner of a large RV, I am really surprised to read this. Most HOAs in the country prohibit RV storage/parking in the residential driveway or on the residential street. The more upscale the neighborhood, the stricter the rules. It's usually 24 hours, though some HOAs allow 48 hours. Every RV owner knows this, so the decision where to store the RV has to be made before the purchase. Really surprised your in laws don't know this, and even more surprised you are afraid to tell them. It's a giant eyesore in the neighborhood that's specifically prohibited by HOA rules. You will first hear about it through the grapevine, followed by the warning letter from your HOA. Next will be the fine. You need to clue in your wife, who will presumably in...
by snowman
Mon May 22, 2023 8:12 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: How to sell our motorhome?
Replies: 29
Views: 3961

Re: How to sell our motorhome?

RVTrader as others have said. Also post question about pricing/market conditions on your manufacturer/model online forum. Lots of members are clued in on pricing in general, and will let you know if you are at least in the ballpark.
by snowman
Thu May 11, 2023 11:22 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 5973
Views: 1008256

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

The Big Apple wrote: Thu May 11, 2023 7:25 am
Lyrrad wrote: Wed May 10, 2023 9:55 pm
The Big Apple wrote: Wed May 10, 2023 9:02 pm No, because in Canada, they only accept MasterCard (and debit).
I don't think that's right.

Just like US Costco locations accept Canadian (CIBC) Costco MasterCard cards, Costco Canada locations accept American (Citi) Costco Visa cards.

You can also use the electronic and physical "Shop" cards in the other country for purchases, though the electronic ones probably aren't accepted at gas pumps.
I never knew that, that is very interesting to know! I just assumed when in Canada, a MasterCard is required and my US (Citi) Costco Visa card would not be accepted.
I had no idea, thank you for that!
by snowman
Thu May 11, 2023 11:19 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 5973
Views: 1008256

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

Do you by any chance know if 4% cashback on gasoline purchases with Costco Visa also apply to gasoline purchases in Canada? No, because in Canada, they only accept MasterCard (and debit). But that only applies to purchases at Costco, correct? I meant any gas station in Canada, just like in the US. According to the guide I got with the card, the 4% cash back on gas applies worldwide: 4% cash back on eligible gas worldwide, including gas at Costco, for the first $7,000 per year in gas purchases and then 1% thereafter. You will only earn 1% cash back, not 4%, for gas purchased at superstores, supermarkets, convenience stores and warehouse clubs other than Costco or for fuel used for non-automobile purposes. Thank you! That's good to know. Rea...
by snowman
Wed May 10, 2023 10:01 pm
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 5973
Views: 1008256

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

The Big Apple wrote: Wed May 10, 2023 9:02 pm
snowman wrote: Wed May 10, 2023 9:27 am Do you by any chance know if 4% cashback on gasoline purchases with Costco Visa also apply to gasoline purchases in Canada?
No, because in Canada, they only accept MasterCard (and debit).
But that only applies to purchases at Costco, correct? I meant any gas station in Canada, just like in the US.
by snowman
Wed May 10, 2023 9:27 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 5973
Views: 1008256

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

For those of you that travel internationally and use Fidelity Visa as your primary CC at home - do you continue using it abroad, or do you switch to no FTF card? It seems to me that with 2% cashback and 1% FTF, the net is 1% cashback. My other card is Costco Visa which has 1% cashback and no FTF, so net 1% cashback as well. So it appears to be a wash, but maybe I am missing something. Is one better than the other abroad? Fidelity pays cash back monthly (assuming you've accrued $25 minimum rebate). Costco pays cash back annually, on the second statement close after the end of the year (could be up to 14 months before you see the rebate check). Not a wash if you believe there is a time value to money. Costco's 3% on travel and dining with no...
by snowman
Tue May 09, 2023 9:35 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 5973
Views: 1008256

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

For those of you that travel internationally and use Fidelity Visa as your primary CC at home - do you continue using it abroad, or do you switch to no FTF card? It seems to me that with 2% cashback and 1% FTF, the net is 1% cashback. My other card is Costco Visa which has 1% cashback and no FTF, so net 1% cashback as well. So it appears to be a wash, but maybe I am missing something. Is one better than the other abroad? I would assume that people would find a card with better cashback and no FTF. Not necessarily. We are full time RVers, and our international travel this year involves spending the summer in Alaska, which means we are driving through Canada on the way up and down. We will not be spending money on airfare, hotels, restaurant...
by snowman
Tue May 09, 2023 8:16 am
Forum: Personal Finance (Not Investing)
Topic: Fidelity as a one stop shop
Replies: 5973
Views: 1008256

Re: Fidelity as a one stop shop

For those of you that travel internationally and use Fidelity Visa as your primary CC at home - do you continue using it abroad, or do you switch to no FTF card? It seems to me that with 2% cashback and 1% FTF, the net is 1% cashback. My other card is Costco Visa which has 1% cashback and no FTF, so net 1% cashback as well. So it appears to be a wash, but maybe I am missing something. Is one better than the other abroad?
by snowman
Sun May 07, 2023 2:20 pm
Forum: Personal Consumer Issues
Topic: Early retired global traveler, best states to domicile from
Replies: 30
Views: 3447

Re: Early retired global traveler, best states to domicile from

stocknoob4111 wrote: Sun May 07, 2023 1:56 pm SD has been mentioned many times in retirement circles but I am not sure what the benefits are over TX and FL.
The main benefit of SD is for full time RVers, that's why you see so many SD plates all around the country. It's super easy to acquire, and you pay lowest vehicle registration fees compared to alternatives. Plus, you don't have to show up in the state for annual vehicle inspection. Basically, you arrive to SD in the evening, spend the night at a campground/hotel/motel, and by noon next day you leave with SD vehicle plates and driver license, not having to return for years. It's a great deal for RV nomads. If you already are resident of TX or FL, I don't think it makes any sense to change it to SD.