Your Guide to Roth Conversions
When Paying Taxes Early Can Pay Off
A Roth conversion can be one of the most powerful tax-planning opportunities in retirement – but also one of the most misunderstood. In this 30-minute webinar, Parkwoods CPAs Jay Bumbalough and Josh Brumbaugh will break down what a Roth conversion actually does, when it can make sense, and what to watch out for.
You’ll learn how to think about the trade-off between paying taxes now or later, how to identify “low-tax windows,” and how Roth conversions fit into a broader retirement plan. The goal isn’t to convince you that a conversion is always the right move – it’s to give you the clarity to make an informed decision.
We’ll cover:
- What a Roth conversion really is (and isn’t)
- When a conversion can reduce lifetime taxes
- Key pitfalls like IRMAA, the 5-year rule, and bracket creep
- How to coordinate conversions with Social Security, RMDs, and other planning strategies
If you’ve ever wondered whether converting part of your IRA to a Roth might make sense – or just want to understand how this strategy works – this session will help you cut through the jargon and get the facts.
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About the Presenters
Jay Bumbalough, CPA, PFS
Wealth Advisor
With more than 35 years of experience across public accounting, investment advisory, and business development, Jay Bumbalough helps clients build wealth with purpose – bringing together technical expertise and a deep understanding of the real-world challenges business owners face.
Jay began his career at Ernst & Young, one of the largest accounting firms in the country, before gaining hands-on business experience in a family-owned company. He later returned to his hometown of New Castle, Indiana, where he partnered with Bud Shore to build a firm that integrates tax-aware financial planning with evidence-based investment strategies. Now at Parkwoods Wealth Partners, Jay continues to serve clients with the same grounded, relationship-driven approach.
Jay specializes in working with business owners and professionals – helping them grow and preserve wealth, manage tax liabilities, and establish compliant, well-structured retirement plans. His work reflects a long-standing commitment to simplifying complexity and delivering planning that supports both professional and personal goals.
Jay earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting from Ball State University and holds the CPA and Personal Financial Specialist (PFS) designations. He is a member of the Indiana CPA Society and the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.
Outside the office, Jay enjoys attending sporting events, spending time with family and friends, and mentoring local youth in the areas of finance and investing. He is a member of the Foursquare Church.
Josh Brumbaugh, MPA, CPA
Wealth Advisor
Josh Brumbaugh brings nearly two decades of experience in public and corporate accounting to his role as a wealth advisor. With a background grounded in technical precision and practical planning, he helps clients align their financial strategies with their goals – integrating evidence-based investment management with proactive tax planning.
At Parkwoods Wealth Partners, Josh works with individuals and business owners through a holistic, goals-based approach. He also plays a key role on the 401(k) team, helping companies design and manage retirement plans that meet the highest fiduciary standards – from plan evaluation and investment selection to ongoing oversight and compliance.
Josh holds bachelor’s degrees in accounting and finance, as well as a Master of Professional Accountancy, all from the Indiana University Kelley School of Business. He is a Certified Public Accountant and has held his Series 65 license since 2014.
Originally from Huntington, Indiana, Josh now lives in Fishers with his wife Meggan and their three children. Much of his free time is spent at sporting events and school activities, but he also enjoys hunting, fishing, attending church, and watching just about any game.