Ask HTM - Break-Even Bank Switch, Doubling Down on a 457b, & Financing an ADU for Extra Cash #1042

Ask HTM - Break-Even Bank Switch, Doubling Down on a 457b, & Financing an ADU for Extra Cash #1042

Author: iHeartPodcasts September 29, 2025 Duration: 56:42

Let’s kick off the week with some fresh listener questions we have lined up for you! And don't just stand on the sidelines- if you have a question you’d like us to answer, toss your voice memo our way. It only takes about 90 seconds to record and you can find a step by step guide over at HowToMoney.com/ask . Regardless of how random or bizarre you might think it is, we want to hear it!

 

1 - Switching banks and HSAs: what’s the break-even dollar amount for it to be worth it?

2 - Best early retirement accounts: should I prioritize a 457b over a 403b?

3 - Social Security timing: do I start drawing down at 62 and let my retirement portfolio grow or vice versa?

4 - Building an ADU: should I tap a HELOC or save up the cash to build?

5 - Affordable healthcare: what are actual costs if we opt out of actual health insurance?

 

Want more How To Money in your life? Here are some additional ways to get ahead with your personal finances:

  • Paying the $50 might be worth it for a detailed Social Security analysis.
  • If you’re looking for a very affordable health care alternative (like by a factor of 6x) that isn’t technically insurance, then you definitely need to check out Medi-Share.
  • Knowing your ‘money gear’ is a crucial part of your personal finance journey. Start here. 
  • Sign up for the weekly HTM newsletter. It’s fun, free, & practical.
  • Join a thriving community of fellow money in the HTM Facebook group.
  • Massively reduce your cell phone bill each month by switching to a discount provider like Mint Mobile.

 

During this episode we enjoyed a Cordial Offering: Peanut Butter Cup by Edmund’s Oast! And please help us to spread the word by letting friends and family know about How to Money! Hit the share button, subscribe if you’re not already a regular listener, and give us a quick review in Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts. Help us to change the conversation around personal finance and get more people doing smart things with their money!

 

Best friends out!

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.


Joel and Matt, two best friends who happen to be your guides through the world of personal finance, host this practical and approachable How to Money podcast. They cut through the noise and intimidation that often surrounds money topics, focusing instead on actionable strategies for everyday life. You'll hear straightforward conversations about getting out of debt, building an investment portfolio on your own terms, and mastering those small financial habits that add up to significant change over time. The core idea is that managing your finances shouldn't require a special degree or a wall of confusing terminology. This show from iHeartPodcasts is built on the belief that clear, unbiased guidance is a powerful tool for anyone. Each episode serves as a resource, offering knowledge you can apply immediately, whether you're just starting to budget or looking to optimize your long-term plans. Tune in for a down-to-earth discussion that makes business, education, and investing feel not only accessible but genuinely relevant to your journey toward financial confidence.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 100

How to Money
Podcast Episodes
Can Love Survive a Budget!? w/ Doug & Heather Boneparth #1052 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:47
Figuring out your money is tough enough if you’re flying solo. Doing it with your partner ramps up the difficulty level because you're throwing in varied money history, habits, and goals. It can create a lot of friction!…
Money Truths You Won’t Hear Anywhere Else w/ Len Penzo #1049 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 53:33
Our guest today is a self professed personal finance oddball! Len Penzo spent 35 years in the aerospace industry before retiring at age 58 as an electrical engineer. Along the way he launched LenPenzo.com in December 200…
The Demographic Dilemma and Your Dollars w/ Melissa Kearney #1046 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 57:48
“Demographics are destiny” is a phrase we’ve all heard. And while the future of America isn’t a foregone conclusion, declining birth rates, rising inequality, and the dramatic increase of single-parent households are hav…