Innovative tax planning strategies start with understanding your options before tax season arrives. In this episode of Metcalf Money Moment, hosts Jeb, Ethan, and Eric welcome enrolled agent Christine Nosbush to discuss essential tax deductions, HSA benefits, and planning opportunities for 2026. Christine explains the difference between an enrolled agent and a CPA, shares insights on avoiding IRMAA Medicare surcharges, and reveals why tax extensions can actually reduce audit risk. Whether you're a high-income earner looking to optimize Roth IRA conversions or simply want to understand current tax code changes, this conversation provides actionable strategies for working with your financial advisor to minimize tax liability and maximize retirement planning success.

What you will Learn in this Episode:

The key differences between an enrolled agent and a CPA, and why tax planning strategies require specialized expertise in tax code rather than just accounting knowledge.

How to maximize HSA benefits with triple tax advantages and use them strategically to avoid IRMAA Medicare surcharges while creating tax-free retirement income.

Why tax extensions don't increase IRS audit risk and can actually improve accuracy, plus essential tax deductions that high-income earners often miss.

Smart strategies for Roth IRA conversions, 529 plans, and account consolidation to work effectively with your financial advisor for optimal retirement planning.

Tune into the Metcalf Money Moment podcast for expert insights on wealth management and retirement planning! Join Jeb, Ethan, and Eric for practical Estate Planning strategies that you can implement to unlock financial clarity and confidence. Listen now to inspire your financial journey!

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 Christine, an enrolled agent, explains the role of a CPA versus an enrolled agent and how it relates to tax code expertise

03:31 Tax planning strategies for the affluent families

05:39 Tax deductions for high-income earners, including HSA benefits, Roth IRA contributions, and 529 plans

07:53 Managing IRMAA Medicare surcharges through strategic income planning and capital gains planning

13:26 Discussion of representing clients through the audit process, red flags to avoid, and the increase in fees charged by CPAs

22:00 Why tax extensions reduce audit risk and scheduling tips for tax preparation

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

HSA benefits provide the best tax deductions available—money goes in pre-tax, grows tax-free, and comes out tax-free for medical expenses, making it superior to both traditional IRA and Roth IRA accounts for triple tax advantages.

IRMAA Medicare surcharges are based on income from two years prior, so strategic Roth IRA conversions and capital gains management with your financial advisor can help high-income earners avoid significant premium increases in retirement.

Tax extensions don't increase IRS audit risk—they actually decrease it by allowing more time for accurate tax preparation, and enrolled agent representation covers all audit levels except criminal investigations.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Christine Nosbush is an Enrolled Agent and the founder of Nosbush Tax, a Kansas City–based tax firm serving individuals and small businesses since 2018, with clients across the United States. Known for her experience, clarity, and client-first approach, Christine helps clients navigate tax preparation and planning with confidence, earning a strong reputation for professionalism, responsiveness, and making complex tax topics easy to understand.

Nosbush Tax - Website

Nosbush Tax & Accounting Services, LLC | Kansas City MO

Nosbush Tax & Accounting Services, LLC | LinkedIn

Metcalf Partners - Website

Jeb Graham - LinkedIn

Ethan Hutchison - LinkedIn

Eric Wymore - LinkedIn

DISCLAIMER:

This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax or legal advice. We recommend discussing your particular situation with a qualified tax or legal advisor. Christine Nosbush and Nobush Tax & Accounting Services, is not affiliated with or endorsed by LPL Financial and Metcalf Partners Wealth Management.

Ep 25 - Innovative Tax Planning Strategies For 2026 With Christine Nosbush ​​

Ep 25 - Innovative Tax Planning Strategies For 2026 With Christine Nosbush