Weekly Rounds: Issue #024

Week of 10/12/2025

Welcome, colleagues! 📊 As physicians, our financial decisions carry unique implications beyond the exam room. This week, we're tackling critical wealth-building concerns from tax implications of gifts from abroad to practice expansion strategies. I've personally navigated these waters and curated insights to help you maximize retirement planning opportunities and optimize educational investments for your family. Let's build financial resilience together. 💼

💵 What Doctors Need to Know About Receiving Gifts from Abroad: Tax Traps and Filing Requirements

Source: WCI
Published: October 11, 2025

Physicians receiving foreign gifts must understand tax implications and filing requirements to avoid legal complications. These international transfers require proper documentation and adherence to specific regulations. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in significant penalties from tax authorities.

👴 This tax move is one of the IRS’ ‘best-kept secrets for retirees,’ advisor says

Source: Financial Advisor
Published: October 8, 2025

Retirees can achieve greater tax benefits through qualified charitable distributions (QCDs), allowing direct transfers from IRAs to charities. This tax-efficient strategy helps satisfy required minimum distributions while avoiding income recognition, making it one of the IRS's best-kept secrets for philanthropic seniors.

👨‍⚕️ Assessing the financial viability of expanding your physician practice

Source: Medical Economics
Published: October 10, 2025

Evaluating financial viability before expanding a medical practice requires analyzing essential indicators and implementing strategic planning. Physicians should examine revenue projections, overhead costs, and market demand while avoiding common expansion pitfalls. Thorough financial assessment ensures sustainable growth and long-term practice success.

👨‍⚕️ How to Fund a 529 Plan in 2025: Complete Guide for Physicians and Families

Source: Physician on FIRE
Published: October 9. 2025

This comprehensive guide outlines 529 plan funding strategies for physicians and families in 2025, highlighting the new OBBBA rules that permit using funds for physician licensing exams, board certifications, and CME expenses, expanding educational investment opportunities beyond traditional college costs.

💵 Charitable giving and inheritance tax: 7 tips to avoid complications

Source: MoneyWeek
Published: October 10, 2025

Strategic charitable giving can significantly reduce inheritance tax while supporting worthy causes. Avoid complications by understanding proper donation procedures and legal requirements. Careful planning ensures your chosen charities receive intended benefits and prevents your family from facing unnecessary administrative burdens after your passing.

As physicians, our financial decisions demand the same precision as our clinical judgment. The articles this week highlight a common thread: strategic planning—whether handling international gifts, expanding practices, or maximizing education savings—requires foresight and expert guidance. Remember, proactive financial management isn't just about wealth preservation; it's about creating flexibility for your future and legacy. 💼