The 10 Most Popular Advance Capital Articles of 2025

Thank you for your dedicated readership this past year. It’s been an eventful period in both the market and the broader economy, affecting us all in various ways. We’ve explored numerous topics and shared a wealth of insights throughout the year.

As our annual tradition, we compile a list of our top articles. This year, we’re highlighting the ones that resonated the most with you. If you haven’t had the chance to read them yet, now’s the perfect opportunity to catch up. These selected articles are not just to be read, they’re resources to be revisited and referenced as needed.

Happy reading!

1. Good News, Michigan Retirees: Understanding the Retirement Tax Repeal
   
   Learn how Michigan’s retirement tax repeal could impact your pension, Social Security, and other retirement income. We break down who qualifies, what’s changing, and how to plan ahead. Use this guide to make more confident decisions about your post‑retirement cash flow.
   
   
2. Saving for College: 529 vs Brokerage Account
   
   Not sure whether to save for college with a 529 plan or a regular brokerage account? We compare the tax benefits, flexibility, and tradeoffs of each option in plain language. Learn which approach—or combination—may be best for your family’s education goals.
   
   
3. RMD Rules Explained
   
   Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) can create unexpected taxes in retirement if you’re not prepared. This article explains when RMDs start, how they’re calculated, and strategies to manage their impact. Get practical tips to help you avoid penalties and keep more of your savings.
   
   
4. Capital Gains vs. Ordinary Income: What Retirees Should Know About Investment Taxes
   
   Investment income in retirement isn’t all taxed the same way. This article explains the difference between capital gains and ordinary income, how each is taxed, and why it matters for retirees. Learn strategies to structure withdrawals and investments more tax‑efficiently.
   
   
5. How to Save for the Three Different Types of Financial Goals
   
   Short‑, medium‑, and long‑term goals each require a different saving strategy. This article walks through how to prioritize and fund each goal type so you can balance retirement, big purchases, and everyday needs. Use these guidelines to create a more intentional savings plan.
   
   
6. The Role of Bonds in a Retirement Portfolio
   
   Bonds can help add stability and income to a retirement portfolio, but they’re not all the same. We explain how bonds work, the risks to watch, and how they can complement your stock holdings. Learn when and why retirees might tilt more toward fixed income.
   
   
7. The SECURE 2.0 Act Catch-Up Contribution Changes: What’s New for 2026
   
   The SECURE 2.0 Act introduces important changes to retirement catch‑up contributions starting in 2026. This article breaks down who’s affected, new limits, and how to adjust your savings strategy. Stay ahead of the rules so you can maximize last‑minute retirement contributions.
   
   
8. Is the 4% Rule Still the Gold Standard for Retirement?
   
   The classic 4% rule has guided retirement withdrawals for decades—but does it still hold up? We review what the rule means, its assumptions, and when it might fall short. Discover alternative approaches to building a sustainable withdrawal strategy.
   
   
9. Estate Planning Documents Everyone Needs
   
   A solid estate plan starts with a few core documents that protect you and your family. We explain the purpose of wills, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and more. This checklist helps you identify what you have, what’s missing, and where to start.
   
   
10. How Can I Avoid Running Out of Money in Retirement

Outliving your retirement savings and investments in scarier than death, according to many Americans. Fortunately, you can quell those fears with the right financial planning steps. Here are some steps that can help people manage their retirement assets as they age.