It’s time to open up the mailbag! In this episode, Ross and Dan dive into your financial questions, tackling everything from early retirement strategies to the interpersonal dynamics of shared household finances.

First up, we break down the Rule of 55. If you’re looking to retire or step away from your job early, this IRS provision sounds like a dream—allowing you to tap into your current 401(k) penalty-free before the magical age of 59½. But is it actually as simple as it sounds? We look at the fine print, the common traps people fall into, and why your employer’s specific plan documents hold all the power.

We later transition from tax code to relationship dynamics. How much can you or your spouse spend without asking for permission? We discuss how to establish "no-questions-asked" spending limits, and whether a wheel of cheese could actually be a good investment.

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In this episode of Check Your Balances, we dive deep into the haunting parallels between the modern financial landscape and the most infamous market collapse in history. We explore Andrew Ross Sorkin’s thoughtful insights and historical analysis surrounding the Great Crash of 1929.

Is a century of economic "progress" enough to save us from ourselves, or are we just 1929 investors with faster internet? Let's get into it.

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Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com
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In financial planning, we often talk about "the numbers," but behind every projection lies a set of assumptions. Whether it’s an estimated rate of return, a projected inflation figure, or even how long you expect to live, these inputs are the foundation of your entire strategy. But what happens when you pull on a single thread?

This week on Check Your Balances, we dive into the sensitivity of financial plans. We discuss how making an assumption that feels conservative in one way can have completely unintended consequences, and vice versa. In a world where more people are turning to AI to ask their financial questions - can the wrong assumptions have a major impact for you?

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Send your questions for upcoming show to checkyourbalances@outlook.com
@checkyourbalances on Instagram