IRMAA, Social Security, Tax Diversification, Delay Period, Inherited IRA: Q&A #2620

IRMAA, Social Security, Tax Diversification, Delay Period, Inherited IRA: Q&A #2620

May 16, 2026 · 1h 31m

About this episode

Jim and Chris answer listener questions about IRMAA, Social Security strategies, tax diversification, and inherited IRA rules.

Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on the SSA-44 and IRMAA process for a couple approaching Medicare, Social Security survivor benefit strategy, tax diversification for young investors, HSA vs. IRA prioritization and spending strategy during the delay period, and inherited IRA RMD rules for non-eligible beneficiaries. (15:30) A listener approaching Medicare asks how the SSA-44 process applies when one spouse is retiring while the other continues to work, and whether their planned Roth conversions could complicate the IRMAA appeal filing. (33:15) Georgette wonders whether she can start her own Social Security at 67, switch to a lower survivor benefit if her husband passes, and then return to her own larger benefit at 70. (41:00) The guys hear from a parent helping his adult children decide whether to convert their traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs or preserve a mix of account types for tax diversification in retirement. (57:45) Jim and Chris address two questions: (1) whether HSA contributions should be prioritized over IRA contributions for retirement savings, and (2) how to bridge a cash flow gap when brokerage funds run out during the delay period without undermining ongoing…

People in this episode

Hosts: Jim Saulnier, Chris Stein

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Keywords

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Social Security Administration

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