Key Data
Five-step ETF fee reduction plan
| Step | Action | Time | Expected Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Inventory | List all funds and current expense ratios | 10 min | None yet — information gathering |
| 2. Calculate | Multiply each balance × ER for annual fee | 5 min | None — reveals current cost |
| 3. Identify alternatives | Find lower-cost equivalent for each fund | 20 min | Reveals potential savings |
| 4. Switch (tax-advantaged) | Execute switches in IRA/401(k) immediately | 15 min | Full savings start immediately |
| 5. Plan taxable switches | Model tax cost vs. fee savings; schedule | 20 min | Phased savings over 1-3 years |
ℹ️Every Month of Delay Has a Real Cost
On a $300,000 portfolio, each month spent in a 0.75% fund instead of a 0.03% fund costs $180. On a $1M portfolio, each month costs $600. The fee reduction plan pays for the time investment within the first week.
Deeper Analysis
Annual savings opportunity by portfolio size (0.75%→0.03% switch)
| Portfolio Size | Typical Current Fee (0.75%) | Fee After Switch (0.03%) | Annual Savings | Year-1 Action Priority |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $25,000 | $188/yr | $7.50/yr | $180/yr | Switch IRA immediately; taxable later |
| $100,000 | $750/yr | $30/yr | $720/yr | All switches high priority |
| $300,000 | $2,250/yr | $90/yr | $2,160/yr | Urgent — every month of delay costs $180 |
| $1,000,000 | $7,500/yr | $300/yr | $7,200/yr | Highest priority — $600/month in savings |
Calculate Your Fee Impact
Enter your expense ratios and timeline to see the real dollar cost.