Each year, certain topics rise to the top not because they’re trendy but because they reflect the real questions and decisions people face.
From tax surprises and retirement planning to career transitions and family dynamics, these were the top financial blogs on our website this year. Together, they offer a practical look at the issues we most often help clients think through at Spaugh Dameron Tenny.
The questions that caught the most readers off guard this year.
Blog Summary
Many investors are surprised to owe capital gains taxes even when they haven’t sold investments or made withdrawals. This commonly occurs in taxable accounts that hold mutual funds, which distribute gains from internal trading.
At Spaugh Dameron Tenny, this is one of the most frequent tax questions we address following strong market years.
Key Points
Written by: Shane Tenny, CFP®
Blog Summary
Many physician signing bonuses are structured as forgivable loans, which creates delayed tax consequences. This financial blog explains how these arrangements work and why tax bills can appear years later. We often see this issue affect early-career physicians navigating new contracts.
Key Points
Written by: Shane Tenny, CFP®
Blog Summary
High-income earners often use the backdoor Roth IRA to bypass income limits, but the reporting rules can be confusing. This financial education blog explains how to properly document the strategy and avoid unnecessary taxes.
We regularly see issues arise not from the strategy itself, but from incorrect tax reporting.
Key Points
Written by: Will Koster, CFP®
Timing, tradeoffs, and rules that shape long-term outcomes.
Blog Summary
Social Security benefits are calculated using a progressive formula, which affects high earners differently from others. Understanding how earnings caps, claiming age, and taxes interact is key.
At Spaugh Dameron Tenny, we view Social Security as one component of a broader retirement strategy, not the foundation.
Key Points
Written by: Shane Tenny, CFP®
Blog Summary
While Roth IRA contributions can be made up until the tax filing deadline, timing matters. Funding earlier can provide more opportunity for tax-free growth.
This is a frequent planning discussion for physicians and executives, balancing cash flow and competing priorities.
Key Points
Written by: Jordan Bilodeau, CFP®, CEPA
Blog Summary
Rule 72(t) allows penalty-free access to retirement funds before age 59½, but it comes with strict requirements. Once started, flexibility is limited.
We discuss this option with early retirees who need income before traditional retirement age.
Key Points
Written by: Jordan Bilodeau, CFP®, CEPA
Blog Summary
457(b) plans differ significantly from 401(k)s, especially when changing jobs. Understanding whether your plan is governmental or non-governmental is critical.
We often help clients navigate these decisions to avoid unintended tax consequences.
Key Points
Written by: Shane Tenny, CFP®
Strategies for investors with complex equity exposure.
Blog Summary
This financial planning blog covers exchange funds, which help investors diversify concentrated stock positions without triggering immediate capital gains taxes. They’re often used by executives with significant equity exposure.
This strategy requires careful consideration of liquidity and long-term commitment.
Key Points
Written by: Megan Robinson, FPQP™
Where finances intersect with relationships and family life.
Blog Summary
Financial infidelity occurs when one partner hides or misrepresents money decisions. While often overlooked, it can be just as damaging to relationships as other forms of secrecy.
At Spaugh Dameron Tenny, we see that money challenges are often rooted in communication and trust, not numbers.
Key Points
Written by: Shane Tenny, CFP®
Blog Summary
Helping college students gain financial independence is challenging but essential. Gradually shifting responsibility builds confidence and real-world money skills.
We often guide families through this transition to support long-term independence.
Key Points
Written by: Shane Tenny, CFP®
These financial planning blogs stood out this year because they reflect the real questions people are wrestling with, not just in theory, but in everyday life.
Whether the topic was taxes, retirement timing, career transitions, or family dynamics, each post underscores the value of thoughtful planning and informed decision-making over quick fixes. We hope that revisiting these conversations helps you feel more grounded and better prepared for the financial choices ahead.
If any of these financial blog topics raised new questions or sparked reflection, you can explore the full articles above — or learn more about how we approach financial planning at Spaugh Dameron Tenny.
Topics reflect readership interest and educational content, not personalized financial recommendations.
Any discussion of taxes is for general information purposes only, does not purport to be complete or cover every situation, and should not be construed as legal, tax or accounting advice. Clients should confer with their qualified legal, tax and accounting advisors as appropriate.
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This article was written in collaboration with the financial professionals at Spaugh Dameron Tenny. Our team features CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals, Certified Exit Planning Advisors, insurance specialists, investment coordinators, and experienced analysts – all dedicated to addressing the unique financial needs of physicians, dentists, executives, and retirees. With decades of collective experience, we provide clear and comprehensive guidance in all areas of financial planning, wealth management, retirement planning, investment strategies, and practice transitions.
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