07/20/2026
"I'm in the 24% bracket, so a quarter of my income goes to taxes." It's one of the most common money myths out there, but it's not how taxes actually work. π
There are two important tax rates to know. Your marginal rate is the rate on your next dollar earned, your top bracket. Your effective rate is the average rate you pay overall (total tax Γ· income), and it's almost always lower.
Smart tax planning isn't necessarily about shrinking this year's bill. It's about lowering your tax bill over your lifetime. A move that saves you money today can quietly cost you more down the road. Sometimes paying a little more now saves far more later.
Timing income, choosing the right accounts, and planning across decades is where the real savings live.
π Want to understand your own marginal vs. effective rate and the lifetime picture? Comment "CLARITY" and we'll help you see it. The latest in our Metrix that Matter series.
Brackets shown reflect the 2026 tax year and are for educational purposes only, not tax advice. For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Neither Cetera Wealth Services LLC nor any of its representatives may give legal or tax advice.