The release of the 2026 Tax Rate Schedule is more than a technical update — it’s an important reminder that smart tax planning is rarely about a single year. For investors, retirees, and advisors alike, the real value comes from understanding how evolving tax structures fit into a long-term financial plan.

While headlines often focus on marginal rate changes, the bigger opportunity lies in how tax brackets, income thresholds, and deduction rules influence multi-year decisions. Retirement income strategies, portfolio realization planning, and timing around distributions all become more effective when tax awareness is built into the process early.

For those approaching or already in retirement, 2026 highlights the importance of coordinating income sources — taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free — in a way that preserves flexibility. Decisions around when to recognize income, how to manage capital gains, and how to align charitable or legacy goals can have a meaningful impact over time.

From an investment perspective, tax-aware portfolio construction continues to play a growing role. Asset location, turnover management, and the timing of realizations can help reduce unnecessary drag and support more durable outcomes across market cycles.

At LSA, we view the 2026 tax framework as an opportunity to reinforce disciplined planning — not reactive adjustments. The most effective strategies are built with intention, aligned across investment, tax, and retirement decisions, and revisited regularly as conditions evolve.

As always, thoughtful planning today can create greater clarity and confidence tomorrow.

Visit the LSA website to download the latest Tax Rate Schedule.