Which Tax-Advantaged Account Should You Fund First? A 2026 Guide for Savers
Not sure where to put your savings? A 2026 order of operations for your 401(k) match, HSA, Roth or traditional IRA, 529 plan and taxable brokerage account.
The Mercer Street blog
Insights
Practical writing on tax, business, estate, and investment decisions from a CPA and CFP® in Houston.
The U.S.–Canada Cross-Border Financial Planning Guide for 2026–2027
Moving between the U.S. and Canada? A 2026–2027 guide to tax residency, departure tax, RRSPs, TFSAs, Roth IRAs, FBAR, estate planning and insurance.
Do Employers Have to Report Overtime on the 2026 W-2? What Houston Business Owners Should Do Before Year-End
Starting with 2026 W-2s, employers must report qualified overtime in box 12, code TT, with no penalty relief. What to check before the Feb. 1 deadline.
What Are the 2027 Tax Brackets? What the New IRS Numbers Mean for Your Year-End Plan
The IRS released the 2027 tax brackets: the 24% bracket now runs to $416,650 for couples. Here's what changed and how to use it before December 31, 2026.
What Does the 2027 Social Security COLA Mean for High Earners? The 3.6% Raise, the $192,300 Wage Base and the Earnings Test
Social Security benefits rise 3.6% in January 2027, and the wage base climbs to $192,300. Here's what changes for retirees, high earners and business owners.
Are Credit Card Rewards Taxable? What High Earners and Business Owners Should Know for 2026
Most credit card rewards aren't taxable because the IRS treats them as discounts. Learn the exceptions: no-spend bonuses, business cards and the $2,000 1099 rule.
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