Jim Miller is a registered investment advisor. This means that he is not beholden to a particular brokerage or financial institution. As such, he does not charge monthly fees for “money-managing”; instead, through a consultation fee he is free to give whatever advice will best benefit his clients; he doesn’t have to serve them whatever “flavor of the month” the brokerage or financial institution happens to like at that point in time. His investment advice in his book, “Retire Dollar Smart,” is clear and filled with common sense.

Miller argues that the biggest liability we face as investors is taxes. Further, many recommended investment plans and accounts ultimately require us to pay a lot of tax. Miller makes it a point to cut through much of the investing nonsense that clutters our minds today. For him, there are five main tenets of a solid investing plan—1) Use the smartest tax strategies; 2) Get independent, accurate, complete information; 3) Invest passively; 4) Ask for a discount (they’re there!); 5) Take your blinders off. These points form the outline for the rest of the book.

Miller’s basic argument is to find ways to reduce your taxes, use common sense, and be involved enough in your investments to make some decisions yourself (this will also allow you to reduce

Miller’s book is a very easy read, although the information is deep; this is a testament to his ability to explain complex ideas in simple terms. He truly does show us a new way to invest, unlike other books of the same genre that tell us via dry descriptive commentary. Miller shows us how to keep investing costs under control, make guaranteed income using proven strategies, manage risk, and prepare for retirement, which are valuable to both retirees and sometime-to-be-retirees. The book is perfect for those nearing retirement or for those simply contemplating their retirement. Miller’s advice is simple: take an active interest now, and when you need it, your money will be there.

The investing practices are presented clearly with examples to help us better understand. Miller’s expertise in personal finance management is on display through highly applicable tips and strategies. He also shows us how misconceptions of most financial plans could actually destroy our investments.

If you’re considering retirement (we all are), this book is all you need to begin. It’s practical and immediately useful. Start smart by reading this book, and then apply it immediately.

Jeremy M. Hoover is a book reviewer. To request a review, email him at jeremyhoover@gmail.com or visit his review site.

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