Recent writings.
General-purpose pieces on the tax and planning rules that affect federal firefighters, military servicemembers, federal employees, and small business owners. Read what's relevant, then come to us with the specifics.
All writing
Recently Asked: Federal Firefighter Overtime Deduction Under PL 119-21
Were you paid an overtime premium, and why? That's the question. Here's the framework for understanding what qualifies. And what to discuss with your tax pro.
Read →DFAS Overtime Reporting is Confusing: Why Federal Firefighters Are Owed More Than What's Shown
DFAS isn't required to report your full qualified overtime for 2025. Learn why YOU are responsible for calculating your in-tour 7(k) overtime deduction.
Read →Trump Accounts for Kids: Grab the Free $1,000, Then Move On
If you've got a kid born between 2025 and 2028, the government will give you $1,000 for free. Should you take it? Yes. Should you dump more money into it? Probably not. Here's why custodial accounts are likely a better bet.
Read →IRS Dirty Dozen 2025: The 12 Tax Scams Targeting You This Filing Season
From TikTok tax advice to ghost preparers, the IRS releases its annual list of the most dangerous tax scams. Learn which scams are targeting military families, landlords, and small business owners. And how to protect yourself.
Read →IRS Issues New Guidance on Federal Firefighter Overtime Deduction: Here's What You Need to Know
The IRS released Notice 25-69 confirming federal firefighters can divide total overtime pay by 3 to calculate their qualified deduction. Learn the calculation method, documentation requirements, and how to save over $1,000 in taxes for 2025.
Read →Is the Market Overvalued? Three Indicators Say Yes. And Why You Should Care About Your Portfolio Draw Date
The Shiller PE is at 40, the Buffett Indicator shows 230%, and gold is surging to record highs. Learn what three major valuation indicators are telling us about the market, what Warren Buffett just did with $4.9 billion, and why your Portfolio Draw Date matters more than any of these metrics.
Read →Three Simple Steps to Protect Your Finances Online (That Most People Skip)
Americans lost $12.5 billion to scams and fraud in 2024, a 25% increase from the previous year. Learn three essential, free strategies that can dramatically reduce your risk of becoming a victim: using credit cards online, freezing your credit, and monitoring your IRS transcripts.
Read →What is Tax-Gain Harvesting?
In the world of investing, we often hear about "tax-loss harvesting," but there's another powerful strategy that many investors overlook: tax-gain harvesting. Learn how to pay 0% tax on investment gains during low-income years, especially beneficial for military members with CZTE and early retirees.
Read →Educational content disclaimer. Articles on this site are for general informational purposes only and do not constitute personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Tax outcomes depend on individual circumstances and current law. Investment decisions should be based on your own financial situation in consultation with a qualified professional. Stellar Wealth Management LLC and Stelmaszek Company Ltd disclaim any liability for actions taken based on the content of these articles. Consult an appropriately credentialed professional regarding your specific situation.
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