Throughout 2010 you will be bombarded with solicitations to “Convert” your traditional IRA to a Roth IRA,  with the appeal of having Tax-Free retirement income. Now I like Tax-Free money just as much as the next Guy, but this “conversion” comes at a price; one that may or may not benefit you.

When you convert any portion or your IRA,457, or 403(b) plan, you in essence take a taxable withdrawal. The amount you “convert” is reported as taxable income, which is in addition to your other soucres of income: wages, interest income,pension, etc.  Bottom line - you will pat taxes on this money for the benefit of having it grow again, this time tax free.

What gives me pause here is the matter of time. Just how many years will it take for your new “Roth Conversion” account to grow beyond the taxes you’ve paid? For instance, if you converted $10,000 to a Roth IRA, and you are in the 25% Federal Income Tax bracket, essentially it would cost you $2,500 in taxes. How many years do you think it would take for your account to gain another $2,500? Conservatively speaking, I’ve estimated between 5-7 yrs depending on what type of investing vehicle you place your money in.

So what does all this mean? If you have many years before you plan to take this money out as retirement income, the Roth Conversion may be a benefit to you. However if you only have a handful of years prior to retirement, you may not have enough time to earn back the money you paid in taxes.

It’s important to note that with this Tax Relief Plan, the Feds are allowing you to spread out the paying of the taxes on your Roth Conversion over the tax years 2011 and 2012. As with any IRA or Roth IRA decision, it is recommended that you consult your tax professional prior to “converting” or contributing to an IRA or Roth IRA.

My take on the “appeal” to invest in Gold

Your 401(k) could supplement, but not replace your retirment income planning. Here’s why...

The Financial Media is always looking for the next “Hot Tip”, listen to Mark’s response to Alexis’ question.

You know the “Itch” right? After the new car smell fades and the tires have been replaced, the “itch” for a new car surfaces. My wife still gets that itch and it took awhile to learn to say “No.”

If you took a moment and considered  what the money you are now  spending on car payments can do for you in the future, you just might hold onto that vehicle a little longer.

By paying yourself that car payment (Once the loan is paid off), say for example, $500 a month at a conservative rate of return of 6%; you would have over
$84,400 in your account after 10 years!

When we consider that the average person between the ages of 48 and 62 has less than $60,000 saved up for Retirement, $84,400 makes a huge difference.

Something to think about……..

It was a packed house last night as I taught my clients the truths of investing and the misconceptions and investor illusions to avoid.