Episodios

  • If You Earn $145K+, This Affects You
    Dec 2 2025

    For high income earners, new rules for 2025 mean you might not be able to put your catch-up money into tax-deferred or traditional TSP or 401k for that matter. This video breaks down what this means for your retirement planning and highlights the importance of understanding these changes. Understanding these new rules is crucial for maximizing your tax benefits and managing your retirement accounts effectively.

    High-income earners risk losing the traditional tax break on catch-up contributions — and the 2026 Roth-only rule can change your retirement strategy entirely.

    🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
    IRS official update on catch-up contributions: https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/treasury-irs-issue-final-regulations-on-new-roth-catch-up-rule-other-secure-2point0-act-provisions

    FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube

    Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

    Socials:
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

    👋 WHO AM I?
    CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS
    0:00 Introduction and the new catch-up contribution restrictions
    0:35 Why high-income earners may lose access to traditional catch-up contributions
    1:13 Income thresholds by grade and step for federal employees
    2:03 Why mandatory Roth catch-up can be a long-term tax advantage
    2:35 Planning for high earners: splitting traditional and Roth contributions
    3:01 How Roth contributions benefit spouses and heirs
    3:35 City-by-city breakdown: Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Austin
    4:08 Strategy decisions: step increases vs. bonuses and their impact on TSP
    4:40 What happens if payroll contributions are made incorrectly
    5:24 Final planning reminder and guidance for next steps

    Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
    Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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    6 m
  • Watch This If You're A Federal Worker Facing the 2025 Shutdown Aftermath
    Nov 27 2025

    In this episode, Chuck D and Marcus C discuss the recent government shutdown, its effects on employees and retirees, and the importance of having a financial plan. They explore the challenges faced by those returning to work, the uncertainty for retirees, and the mental health benefits of planning and communication in relationships. The conversation emphasizes the need for preparation in the face of potential future shutdowns and the value of having a solid strategy for retirement.

    The government shutdown lasted 43 days, the longest in history.
    1.4 million employees were unpaid during the shutdown.
    Essential employees had to work without pay, affecting their finances.
    Retirees faced uncertainty with delayed pension checks and processing.
    Many employees drained savings and incurred credit card debt during the shutdown.
    Having a financial plan is crucial for retirement readiness.
    Mental health benefits arise from having a plan and open communication.
    Walking with loved ones can improve both physical and mental health.
    The importance of family meals without distractions for relationship building.
    Future government shutdowns may require better preparation and planning.

    🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
    FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
    Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

    Socials:
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

    👋 WHO AM I?
    CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS
    0:00 Government Shutdown Ends – What It Means for Federal Workers & Retirees
    1:57 “Essential” but Unpaid – Stress, Uncertainty, and the Real Cost of Furloughs
    3:39 Back Pay, Savings Drain, and Credit Card Debt After the Shutdown
    6:11 Night Shifts, Contractors, and How Work Changes After a Government Shutdown
    10:38 Retirees in Limbo – Pension Delays, TSP Access, and Annual Leave Payouts
    12:51 “I Think I’m Done” – How the Shutdown Pushed Some Federal Workers Toward Retirement
    14:59 Eligibility Basics – MRA + 30, Buying Back Military Time, and the Rule of 55 for TSP
    16:36 DRP, VERA, and Early Retirement Options for Federal Employees
    17:56 The Parachute Story – Why You Shouldn’t “Jump” Without a Written Retirement Income Plan
    20:57 What a Real Plan Includes – Expenses, Income Sources, Assets, and Longevity
    22:19 Mental & Family Health – Walks, Connection, and Managing Stress in Uncertain Times
    24:35 Final Thoughts, Next Steps, and How CD Financial Can Help

    Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
    Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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    26 m
  • Shutdown's Over—Are You Ready to Retire Now?
    Nov 25 2025

    If you’re done working in uncertain shutdown-zones instead of on your own terms, now’s the time to lock in your retirement freedom— the longest federal shutdown in history just highlighted what it means to wait.

    🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
    FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
    Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

    Socials:
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

    👋 WHO AM I?
    CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS
    0:00 Intro – Why this shutdown matters for your federal retirement plan
    0:35 43 Days Unpaid – How the longest U.S. government shutdown exposed your risk
    1:00 Credit-card debt & savings wiped out – real stories from federal employees
    1:33 The wake-up call – “I want out of this cycle”
    2:01 Retirement triggers – 30 years @ 57 vs. 20 years @ 50 for federal service
    2:57 Why you need a parachute – the danger of walking away without a plan
    3:32 The rules you must know – penalty-free retirement options explained
    4:05 Putting together your exit strategy – step-by-step guide for federal employees
    4:38 Get a second opinion – why one wrong election can cost you years
    5:12 Wrap-up & next steps – your path from views to value

    #FederalRetirementPlanning #GovernmentShutdownImpact

    Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
    Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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    6 m
  • Evaluating the Pros and Cons of Leaving TSP as Is
    Nov 20 2025

    Should you leave your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) untouched, roll it to an IRA, or turn it into a lifetime income stream? In this episode, we break down the real-world pros and cons of each TSP retirement option so you don’t accidentally trade away flexibility, tax control, or your spouse’s future security. Most federal employees pick the “simple” choice with TSP—and it can quietly cost them in taxes and lost options later.

    👉 FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
    Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

    Your FERS pension and Social Security are already annuities—so before you annuitize your TSP, make sure you’re not giving up control, flexibility, and future tax planning opportunities you may really need in retirement.

    Socials:
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

    👋 WHO AM I?
    CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS
    0:00 3 Options for Your TSP in Retirement
    3:45 Option 1 – Annuitizing Your TSP for Lifetime Income
    7:30 The Hidden Downsides of TSP Annuitization (Loss of Control & Spousal Protection)
    12:45 Option 2 – Leaving Your Money in TSP: “Simple and Cheap” Explained
    17:30 Why “Simple and Cheap” Can Be a Problem in Retirement (No Real Plan)
    21:30 Option 3 – Rolling TSP or 401(k) to an IRA for More Flexibility
    26:00 Tax Planning, RMDs, and Why Uncle Sam Shouldn’t Write Your Retirement Plan
    30:00 Health Tip – Why Morning Exercise Supports a Strong Retirement Lifestyle
    32:20 Final Thoughts, Getting Help, and Next Steps with CD Financial

    #TSPRetirement #FederalRetirement #CDFinancial #ThriftSavingsPlan #retirementplanning

    Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
    Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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    34 m
  • 3 Surprising TSP Choices for Retirement!
    Nov 18 2025

    Unlock the most overlooked Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) strategies for federal retirees! This video covers three powerful—but often missed—TSP retirement options that can increase your financial security. Discover:

    The unique benefits and risks of TSP annuitization

    Smart TSP withdrawal strategies for lasting retirement income

    How to avoid costly mistakes with TSP rollovers

    Whether you’re a federal employee or near retirement, you’ll get actionable insights to make confident decisions for your future.

    🔗 FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
    📰 Exclusive newsletter & resources: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

    Socials:
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

    👋 WHO AM I?
    CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS
    0:00 — Intro
    0:07 — Option #1: Annuitize Your TSP (Why Most Don’t)
    0:30 — Impact of Adding a Spousal Benefit
    2:37 — Life Happens: Why Dynamic Income Matters
    3:07 — Option #2: Leave Your Money in the TSP
    4:06 — Required Minimum Distributions & Loss of Control
    4:29 — Option #3: Roll Your TSP Into an IRA
    8:00 — Mistakes to Avoid With Your TSP
    8:30 — Key Takeaways & Next Steps

    Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
    Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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    34 m
  • Charitable Donations: Tax Strategies & Smart Giving for Retirees and Business Owners
    Nov 13 2025

    Discover how charitable donations can maximize your tax benefits and support causes you care about. In this video, we unpack:

    Strategies for effective charitable giving
    Tax deductions for retirees and business owners
    Donor-advised funds and philanthropy tips
    Common mistakes to avoid when giving
    IRS rules and documentation best practices

    Key Links & Resources:

    Book a FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube

    Subscribe for weekly tips on retirement, taxes, and financial planning.

    CD Financial helps federal employees, retirees, and business owners create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. For more, visit our website or follow us on social

    Socials:
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

    👋 WHO AM I?
    CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS
    0:00 Intro – Why smart giving matters for retirement & business
    1:45 Understanding the standard deduction shift & itemizing challenges
    4:30 Strategy #1 – Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) explained
    7:15 Strategy #2 – Donating appreciated assets to avoid capital gains
    10:00 Strategy #3 – Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) for retirees 70½
    12:50 Strategy #4 – Charitable Remainder Trusts (CRTs) for business owners
    15:20 Strategy #5 – Bunching contributions and timing gifts for maximum impact
    18:05 How to align your giving strategy with your business and personal legacy
    20:30 Next steps & how to leverage this for compliant content and growth

    Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
    Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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    23 m
  • IRMAA Surprise! Are You Paying More for Medicare? How Taxes Affect Your Premiums
    Nov 11 2025

    Confused about why your Medicare Part B premium is higher? Discover how IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) impacts your Medicare costs and what federal employees and retirees can do about higher premiums. This video covers:

    What is IRMAA and why it matters for Medicare Part B & D

    How taxes affect your Medicare premiums and retirement budget

    Planning strategies for federal retirees, including FERS, TSP, Social Security

    Real-world tips on managing healthcare costs and avoiding surprises
    🔗 FREE 15-minute retirement call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
    📰 Get our newsletter and resources: cdfinancial.com/newsletter

    Connect: Instagram @cdfinancial.llc | LinkedIn | Facebook

    Socials:
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

    👋 WHO AM I?
    CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS
    0:00 – What is IRMAA and why you might pay more for Medicare Part B
    0:43 – How your income determines Medicare premium brackets
    1:13 – Why Roth conversions can trigger higher Medicare costs
    1:47 – Examples: pensions, Social Security, and working income
    2:13 – TRICARE and mandatory Medicare enrollment at 65
    2:33 – How timing your retirement can affect IRMAA penalties
    3:01 – Why exceeding income thresholds can double your premiums
    3:26 – What to ask your advisor — and finding a fiduciary who knows IRMAA
    3:45 – Final thoughts: plan smarter, not longer

    Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
    Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

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    4 m
  • How Do Financial Advisors Really Make Money? Fees Explained
    Nov 6 2025

    Curious about how financial advisors actually earn their income—especially for federal employees and retirees? This video demystifies how advisors are paid, explains fee structures, and helps you choose the best financial guidance for your retirement planning.

    KEY TOPICS COVERED:
    Financial advisor fees explained
    Commission, fee-only, and hybrid models
    Pros and cons for federal employees and retirees
    401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing tips
    How to avoid common advisor pitfalls

    🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES
    FREE 15-minute call: https://calendly.com/charlesdzama/complimentary-15-minute-phone-call-youtube
    Newsletter: https://cdfinancial.com/newsletter

    Socials:
    Instagram: https://instagram.com/cdfinancial.llc/
    Facebook: https://facebook.com/cdfinancial
    LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/cd-financial

    👋 WHO AM I?
    CD Financial helps federal employees and near-retirees create sustainable, tax-smart retirement income. Expect weekly strategies on 401K, FERS, TSP, Social Security timing, tax planning, and health-meets-wealth habits—clear, practical, compliant.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS
    0:00 How do financial advisors get paid? (overview & why it matters)
    1:08 Fee-Only Planning (hourly/flat retainers, complexity & scope)
    3:58 Fee-Based / AUM Explained (typical 1% example, billing in arrears, breakpoints)
    6:52 Fiduciary Duty vs. Suitability (what standard protects you)
    7:46 Commission-Based Models (insurance, annuities, broker-dealer spreads)
    10:18 Real-World Story: Long-Term Care & why commissions may still appear
    13:02 Case Study: Preferred stock issue & when clients captured “the spread”
    15:06 Performance-Based Fees (the ‘2 and 20’ hedge fund model)
    15:58 DIY vs. Hiring an Advisor (tax plan, income plan, sequencing risk)
    21:03 Wrap-Up + Health Tip: 4-4-4 (and 4-7-8) breathing for stress

    Advisory services are offered through CD Financial LLC dba CD Financial, an Investment Advisor in the State of California. Insurance products and services are offered through CD Financial & Insurance Services LLC, an affiliated company.
    Opinions expressed herein are solely those of CD Financial and our editorial staff. The information contained in this material has been derived from sources believed to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to accuracy and completeness and does not purport to be a complete analysis of the materials discussed. All information and ideas should be discussed in detail with your individual adviser prior to implementation.

    Support the show

    Más Menos
    24 m