Retirement

Demystifying the Backdoor Roth IRA: What You Need to Know

By Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA® / April 14, 2025

If you’ve heard of a Backdoor Roth IRA but find the details confusing, you’re not alone! At Pearl Planning, we frequently recommend this strategy to clients who earn too much […]

Navigating Inherited RMDs: What You Need to Know for 2025 and Beyond

By Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA® / March 20, 2025

Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) can be complex, especially if you’ve inherited a retirement account. With recent regulatory changes, understanding when and how much you must withdraw is crucial. Old Rules […]

U of M health savings accounts explained

Know Your Health Savings Account Options

By Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA® / October 14, 2024

Listen up University of Michigan employees! 📢 👉 Are you taking full advantage of the health savings account (HSA) option? HSAs can be a powerful financial tool. Not just for […]

Understand your U of M retirement savings strategies

Find Your Best U of M Retirement Strategy

By Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA® / October 7, 2024

Retirement planning has more nuances than most people realize. 😳 Do you know whether you’re under or over-contributing to your savings? 📉 This month we’re focusing on University of Michigan […]

Accounts to Withdraw Retirement Savings Without Penalties

By Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA® / August 26, 2024

When it comes to retiring early (like in your 50s!), the first question I often hear is, “Where will my monthly income come from?” I’m glad you asked! Because when […]

Health Insurance Options For Retirement

By Melissa Joy, CFP®, CDFA® / August 19, 2024

Dreaming of retiring in your 50s? Walking away from your company’s health insurance can be a major roadblock ⛔️. Finding the right health insurance can be a scary proposition because […]