Harmon Smith

10/27/2026

Many people assume taxes will go down in retirement. Sometimes they do. Sometimes they do not.

The “retirement tax bomb” can gradually build when tax-deferred assets accumulate without a plan for how those assets may eventually be taxed.

Swipe through to learn about factors that can affect your tax picture in retirement. Then, head to our blog to take a deeper dive: https://harmonsmith.nm.com/the-retirement-tax-bomb?utm_source=facebook&utm_content=_&agentid=0K5680

10/26/2026

One of the benefits of retirement planning is creating flexibility for the future.

For some people, a Roth conversion may help reduce future tax exposure and provide greater flexibility when creating retirement income strategies.

Understanding the potential benefits and tradeoffs is an important part of evaluating whether a conversion fits into your broader financial plan.

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A market decline is a good time to consider a Roth conversion because you may benefit from potential tax savings. Learn more about a Roth conversion.

10/21/2026

A Roth conversion isn't the right solution for everyone, but under certain circumstances it may provide valuable tax planning opportunities.

Understanding when a Roth conversion makes sense requires looking at current tax rates, future retirement income needs, and long-term planning goals.

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Converting some or all of your traditional IRA funds to a Roth can have big tax advantages. Here’s when a Roth conversion makes sense.

10/16/2026

Understanding what an RMD is, is only the first step. Knowing how RMDs may affect taxes, retirement income, and long-term planning decisions can help people prepare for future financial needs and avoid unnecessary surprises.

Understanding more about the required withdrawals for most of your retirement plans can help you plan ahead.

10/08/2026

Employee Ownership Month reminds us that building wealth through an ESOP is only part of the journey.

The next challenge is understanding how taxes, investments, retirement planning, and future financial goals work together.

Comprehensive planning helps ensure today’s decisions support tomorrow’s opportunities.

10/05/2026

: “The decisions you make today may influence the income, taxes, and flexibility you'll have tomorrow." –Harmon Smith Financial Group

Financial planning isn’t just about building wealth. It’s about making thoughtful decisions that support your future income, tax strategy, and financial flexibility.

Throughout October, we’ll be exploring retirement planning topics including Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) and Roth conversions.

10/01/2026

Financial planning is about more than numbers. It's about relationships, trust, family, and helping people make informed decisions about their future.

This video shares a glimpse into who we are, what we value, and why we do the work we do.

Welcome to Harmon Smith Financial Group.

09/28/2026

Retirement planning isn’t just about how much you’ve saved. As you transition from working and accumulating wealth to retirement, the focus shifts to how your assets can help support your income for the years ahead.

From RMDS and taxes to investment strategy and long-term income needs, these decisions can all play a role in building a retirement plan designed for what’s next.

09/23/2026

As retirement approaches, understanding Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) becomes increasingly important.

Once you reach the required age (Age 73 – DOB between 1921-1959 or Age 75 – DOB 1960 or after), the IRS generally requires you to begin taking withdrawals from certain retirement accounts, whether you need the income or not.

These distributions can affect your taxable income, retirement cash flow, and overall financial strategy. Understanding the rules before they apply can help avoid surprises and support more informed retirement planning decisions.

Learn more:

What is an RMD? Recent legislation has changed some of the rules pertaining to retirement accounts. Here's what to know about required minimum distributions.

09/18/2026

For ESOP participants approaching retirement, understanding how your company benefits and required minimum distributions fit into your overall financial picture can be an important part of planning ahead. If you have questions about your ESOP, RMDS, or preparing for retirement, contact Harmon Smith Financial Group to learn more.

Harmon Smith Financial Group is an office of Northwestern Mutual based in Boise, ID. We work closely with our clients to develop customized financial plans to help reach lasting financial success.