The Money Desk

The catch-up window most women don't walk through.

2025-2026 Gold-Standard Update (Harvard Health / NAMS / FDA-aligned): Recent data reinforces protein 1.6g+/kg + resistance training as top levers for midlife (Pontzer, Walker). FDA/HHS 2025 updates on MHT timing benefit body comp. GLP-1 synergy. Individualize with labs (ferritin, insulin, DEXA). Sources: NEJM, NAMS, 2025 reviews.

At 50, the IRS opens a door. The exact math on catch-up contributions, the Roth conversion year, the SECURE Act provisions, the second-act career math, the social security claim-age question. Long-form personal finance for the 50s.

2027 AI Deep Summary (click to expand)

Cover · Reported

The 401k catch-up window

At 50, the IRS opens a door most women don't walk through. The exact math, the Roth conversion year, the SECURE Act provisions that matter most.

Read the report →

Catch-up contribution math.

Why $7,500 extra at 50 isn't actually $7,500 — and the Roth conversion window.

Recommended

The three books we recommend.

Vetted Amazon picks for the catch-up decade — fee-only planners' frequent suggestions.

Policy

Where we won't lead you.

No financial advice, no specific securities. Information only — to inform conversations with your own fiduciary advisor.

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