RPM Financial Group helps cleared cybersecurity and GovCon professionals in Maryland, Washington DC, and Northern Virginia plan around the taxes that come with a high income: bonuses, stock compensation, estimated payments, and where you live versus where you work. We are a financial planning firm, not a tax preparer, so we work alongside your CPA to make sure the plan and the tax return tell the same story.
Understanding why a bonus is often withheld at a flat rate that may not match your real bracket, and planning for the difference.
Planning for the tax effect of RSU vesting and ESPP sales so a big vest year does not turn into a surprise bill.
Checking whether your withholding is enough, and setting aside cash for estimated payments when it is not.
Understanding how DC, Maryland, and Virginia residency can affect which state returns you file, so you can raise the right questions with your CPA.
Coordinating 401(k), HSA, Roth, and taxable accounts with your income, so savings decisions support your tax picture.
Sharing the plan with your tax professional so decisions are made with the full picture, not one tax year at a time.
A free, no-obligation conversation to confirm we're a good fit.
A focused session on your income, bonuses, equity, and current tax situation.
Built in our planning software, then walked through together and shared with your CPA if you wish.
Revisited as your pay, equity, and household change.
Why is withholding on bonuses higher than on my paycheck?
Employers often withhold federal tax on bonuses at a flat supplemental rate rather than your actual bracket. Whether that is too much or too little depends on your total income for the year, which is why we look at it as part of your full plan and your CPA confirms it on your return.
Do I owe tax twice if I live in one state and work in another?
Generally you file based on where you live and may also need to file where you work, and some jurisdictions have agreements or credits that prevent paying twice. The details depend on your situation, so we help you organize the facts and your CPA determines what to file.
Should I contribute pre-tax or Roth?
It depends on your income now, your expected income later, and your other accounts. We walk through the tradeoffs for your situation. Annual contribution limits change, so we confirm the current figures with you.
When do quarterly estimated payments apply?
They can apply when your withholding does not cover your tax, which is more common with large bonuses, stock compensation, or side income. We help you spot the gap early and plan the cash; your CPA calculates the payments.
Founder & Financial Planner, RPM Financial Group LLC. Ryan founded RPM in 2022 after more than 25 years in financial services, to bring dedicated, individualized planning to government contractors, cybersecurity professionals, and federal employees.
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Book a Free CallRPM Financial Group LLC is an investment adviser. Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. RPM does not provide tax or legal advice; consult a qualified tax professional about your situation.