Money Girl

1005. Is your company "returning" your retirement savings? In this episode, Laura answers a listener question from Jay P., who is frustrated that his contributions keep getting bounced back as taxable income. If you’re a high earner or a diligent saver, nothing is more frustrating than seeing your hard-earned 401(k) contributions returned to your checking account. But why does the IRS penalize you just because your coworkers aren’t saving enough? In this episode, Laura breaks down the "Highly Compensated Employee" (HCE) rules and explains exactly why your retirement plan might be failing its annual nondiscrimination tests. More importantly, she shares the specific steps you can take to keep your momentum going even when your workplace plan hits a ceiling. Laura goes over: The HCE Threshold: The specific 2026 income and ownership limits that trigger these IRS rules. The "Safe Harbor" Solution: How to pitch a plan upgrade to your HR department that eliminates testing forever. Tax Fallout: How to handle the tax liability of returned pre-tax vs. Roth contributions. Pivot Strategies: Three powerful "Plan B" accounts—including HSAs and Roth IRAs—to house your returned cash so it stays invested for the long haul. Find a transcript here. Have a money question? Send an email to money@quickanddirtytips.com or leave a voicemail at (302) 364-0308. Money Girl is a part of Quick and Dirty Tips.

1004. This week, Laura explains how to identify and fix overcontributions to your 401(k), IRA, and HSA. You’ll learn the specific deadlines for 2026 to remove excess funds penalty-free and how to handle the tricky tax paperwork that follows.

1003. Is one missed payment going to haunt your mortgage application forever? On this Finance Friday, host Laura answers a listener's question about a recent late payment and the fear that it might ruin their chances of buying a home. If you’ve ever seen your credit score plummet due to a mistake, this episode is for you.

1002. Taxes don’t have to be a source of shame or a "black box" of confusion. Whether you’re a lifelong artist, a side-hustler, or a traditional employee, understanding the tax code is the ultimate power move for your bank account. In this episode, Laura sits down with Hannah Cole, an Enrolled Agent, working artist, and founder of Sunlight Tax. Hannah specializes in bringing "tax literacy to the humans"—specifically those who feel like the "black sheep" of the business world. They dive into the mindset shifts needed to conquer financial fear and the tangible steps you can take to legally pay less to the IRS.

1001. On this Finance Friday, I’m clearing up the massive confusion surrounding "gift taxes." Many people are terrified to help their loved ones because they fear a surprise tax bill, but the reality is that the thresholds are much higher than you think. Whether you're helping with a down payment, paying for a grandchild’s tuition, or simply sharing your wealth while you're around to see them enjoy it, there are a few "golden rules" you need to know to stay on the right side of the IRS.

1000. We made it to 1,000! To celebrate this massive milestone, Laura Adams is sticking with the "1,000" theme to help you make the most of your next windfall. Whether it’s a tax refund or a work bonus, discover seven high-impact ways to manage an extra $1,000—from building a bulletproof emergency fund to the power of a Roth IRA. Plus, stay tuned for special guest appearances and tips from long-time listeners and financial experts who have been part of the “Money Girl” journey!

999. Laura reviews what you should know about using a high-yield savings account (HYSA) and six tips for choosing the best one.

998. How much do you really need to retire? Should you always buy term life insurance? In episode 998, Money Girl Laura Adams audits 8 popular financial rules of thumb to see if they hold up in today’s economy.

997. A single swipe could drain your checking account. Laura Adams reveals 10 dangerous situations where using a debit card exposes you to unlimited liability and how to protect your hard-earned cash from cybercriminals and skimmers.

996. This week, Laura reviews nine things you should never carry in your wallet to protect your identity and finances.

995. Laura explains how to protect your expensive jewelry or any new Valentine’s Day bling you received.

904. Laura reviews strategies to resist impulsive spending so you can save more money and achieve your financial goals faster.

836. Laura answers a listener’s question about whether to invest extra money or use it to pay down a mortgage for the best long-term benefits.

994. This week, Laura reviews updated rules for using a spousal IRA, who can use one, and how they help keep your own retirement account growing.

993. Laura answers a listener's question about stopping retirement contributions to get out of debt faster.

992. This week, Laura reviews how being a homeowner in 2026 allows you to build wealth despite affordability challenges.

991. Laura answers a listener's question about using a 529 plan versus a Trump Account and reviews which is better for a child’s education.

990. This week, Laura interviews Jocelyn Pearson from The Scholarship System about how to reduce the cost of college and graduate debt-free.

989. Laura answers a listener's question about choosing a traditional or Roth retirement plan by reviewing the pros and cons of each and a new Roth rule for those over 50.

988. This week, Laura reviews how to use a 1031 exchange to legally defer capital gains taxes when selling an investment property. You’ll learn the strict IRS rules for "like-kind" properties, the critical deadlines you must meet, and how to keep 100% of your profits working for you.