Open Window's Insight Articles

Could a new, tax-advantaged account become the foundation for your child's future retirement savings? New 530A accounts, scheduled to launch July 4, 2026, are designed to help families begin investing for children before they have earned income. Eligible children born between 2025 and 2028 may receive a $1,000 federal seed contribution, giving long-term compounding an early boost. While annual contributions are capped at $5,000 and some implementation questions remain, these accounts could offer a compelling new way to harness decades of tax-advantaged compounding.

The negative effect of holding too much cash (or bonds) for even a short time can be profound. Missing a period of strong returns can drastically impact overall performance. Fortunately, markets tend to do just as well (maybe better) after a new high than before, as we show in our updated article.

Paying taxes is part of life, but did you know that when you choose to pay them might make a difference in your tax bill, and in your quality of life? Consider these must-know facts about your taxes, especially if you owe "quarterlies" or estimated "voucher payments."

Reliable transportation is a cornerstone of independence. Giving that up can be devastating, but is a reality, especially for older adults, veterans, and those with mobility challenges. In Washoe County, Nevada, a little-known program is helping residents stay connected, active, and self-sufficient through subsidized rides with Lyft or Uber. Our special thanks to Bob and Laurie for alerting us to this program! Here is how to apply.

Your tax bracket didn’t go up. But for many retirees, the cost of the next dollar has. Phaseouts like the enhanced senior deduction or SALT relief can quietly raise the effective rate on additional income. Here’s why it matters, and what you can do about it.

Do you see tax season as a chore—something to endure, not optimize? When done right, filing your tax return isn’t just about compliance, it’s a chance to celebrate the tax-smart moves you made last year and uncover new ways to maximize your future financial success. From strategic planning to hidden savings, your tax return holds valuable insights that can shape your financial future. Don’t just file, plan. Here’s how smart tax planning can put more money in your pocket now and for years to come.

Spring is an ideal time to clean up clutter. To assist you, Open Window is offering free document and hard drive destruction from April 6th to 24th. Drop your items by any time, or schedule a 'Secure Recycling' timeslot at www.openwindow.com/connection.

A tax-aware understanding of your finances is a crucial component of preserving and growing wealth, regardless of your age or income-level. Here are a few tips to get around the myths we see tripping up high-earners and good savers.

It is not whether your financial professional is your fiduciary or not - it's how their fiduciary status actually works (and when).

An illustrated world review of capital market results in 2025, along with timeless advice for informing investment decisions in the years ahead.

Learn how Required Minimum Distributions work, why the IRS requires them, how penalties apply, and how they can be used strategically for taxes and charitable giving.

Each year, the IRS reviews and adjusts specific tax provisions for inflation. Below are the latest updates for the 2026 tax year, including common income, dividend, and capital gain tax brackets. What is your strategy to make the most of these brackets (in 2026 and beyond)?

Whatever your reason for giving this year, it’s important to be intentional. With a little strategic planning, your existing charitable contributions can go further, while creating tax benefits for both you and your chosen charity. A donor-advised fund can supercharge your existing giving. Here's how.

Were you surprised to receive a Medicare IRMAA letter from the Social Security Administration? Beware that certain income levels can increase your Medicare premium by up to 286% - an increase called "IRMAA." And yet, some people might still pursue this increase. If you're among the 8% of all Medicare participants who received an "IRMAA" letter, here's what you need to know.

As private equity, private credit, and other “alternative” investments become more accessible, many investors feel the pull to join in. The promise of higher returns and diversification is appealing, but the reality is more complex. Before chasing what’s new, it’s worth asking whether these opportunities truly fit your goals, liquidity needs, and ability to evaluate them. Sometimes, the smartest move isn’t the trendiest one, it’s staying steady with what’s proven.

Scams are getting smarter, using AI and social media to sound more personal and convincing. It can happen to anyone, even the smartest among us, because scams prey on trust, urgency, and fear. Here are some of the most common ones we’re seeing right now. By learning what to watch for, you can stay a step ahead and help keep your loved ones safe.

Government may pause, but your finances don’t have to. Here’s how to stay steady, invested, and clear-headed through another shutdown.

As of October 1, 2025, the federal government will stop accepting and issuing most paper checks. Tax payments, refunds, Social Security, Medicare, and VA benefits will all move to direct deposit or electronic payment systems. While this may feel like one more digital hurdle, it brings faster processing, fewer delays, and less risk of fraud. Now is the time to review your setup and make sure you’re ready.

Each fall, Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15 to December 7. Even if you’re satisfied with your current plan, it’s worth a quick check—many people find lower premiums or better coverage for the year ahead. Let's review options and look at changes to Medicare for 2026.

Talking about end-of-life care ranks right up there with cleaning out the garage or finally opening that mysterious Tupperware in the back of the fridge. Nobody wants to do it, but avoiding it only makes things harder later. Having "The Conversation" is one of the greatest gifts you can give to yourself and your loved ones. Here’s how to take action to talk about your wishes for care through life’s end.