Max Novak Max Novak

How Much Life Insurance Do I Need? A Guide for Young Families (2026)

Most young families think they are covered because they have life insurance through work. They are not. Group coverage typically provides one to two times your salary. Most families need ten to twelve times. Here is what the gap actually looks like in dollars, four ways to calculate the right amount, and the mistake couples make by only insuring the working spouse.

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Max Novak Max Novak

Estate Planning Checklist: The 5 Documents Every Young Family Needs

Most young families put estate planning off until someday. But without the right documents, a court decides who raises your children and where your assets go. Here are the five documents every young family needs, why a trust matters more than a will alone, and the two mistakes that undermine even well-intentioned plans: an unfunded trust and a house with no beneficiary deed.

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Max Novak Max Novak

The Solo 401(k) Guide for 1099 Earners

A complete Solo 401(k) guide for 1099 earners in 2026. Why it beats a SEP IRA, how to use the mega backdoor Roth, and how to set it up correctly with the right provider.

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Max Novak Max Novak

When is a Financial Advisor Worth it?

A financial advisor is not right for everyone. Here is a practical framework for when it tends to make sense, what the value actually comes from, and what to look for before hiring one.

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Max Novak Max Novak

How RSUs are taxed (and what to do when they vest)

Your company withholds 22% in taxes when your RSUs vest. If you are in the 32% or 35% bracket, that gap comes out of your pocket in April. Here is exactly how RSUs are taxed, when it makes sense to sell, and the cost basis mistake that causes double taxation for thousands of people every year.

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Max Novak Max Novak

Mega backdoor Roth 2026: step-by-step guide for high earners

Most high earners max their 401(k) and call it a day. But if your plan allows after-tax contributions, you could be putting up to $47,500 more into a tax-free account this year. Here is exactly how it works, who it makes sense for, and the one mistake that costs people money every single year.

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