Retirement Savings – Another Victim of Today’s Inflation
Higher prices at the gas pump, the grocery store, the airport, and many other items affected by today’s high inflation are challenging us to stretch our dollars as far as they can go – and for some, their retirement savings are taking the hit.
Cash Is King – Isn’t It?
In times of market turmoil, some folks may decide that pulling funds from riskier, growth-oriented assets and putting it all into cash can safeguard their money. But in doing so, they just may be surrendering potential opportunities for meaningful growth.
Inflation – Could the Fed be Wrong Again?
Recently, I’ve had a few folks ask me about inflation, given how high it is right now and how much airtime the media is giving it. Inflation – at least as we’re currently experiencing – is an issue that doesn’t seem to have one clear, specific root cause, despite what you may hear from media pundits.
The Great Divide
Divorce is stressful enough on its own. The potential complications it creates around retirement can be mitigated with thoughtful planning.
Should You Enter Retirement Debt-free? I Am Not So Sure.
It’s always surprising to see recommendations to pay off all debt, including mortgages, before retirement. A one-size-fits-all approach like this can be dangerous, and possibly delay retirement much longer than necessary in search of this goal.
New IRS Life Expectancy Tables Will Lower Your RMDs in 2022
401k or IRA funds are what we call “tax-deferred”, not “tax-free”. IRS tax laws require funds invested in tax-deferred plans must start to be distributed by age 72, and taxable at your current tax rate when taken.
Retirees Are Spending More Money Than They Used To
We’re seeing some alarming trends regarding retiree spending these days and this has the potential to derail your ability to sustain your retirement lifestyle.
As Christmas Nears, Remember to Prepare — and Reflect
This week I’d like to use our time together to contemplate the joys of the season to maybe help us experience more meaning than just the inevitable gifts and good food. As Winston Churchill once said, “Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing but of reflection”. And he was a pretty smart guy.
Social Security Reform Bill Has Tough Hurdles to Overcome
I am regularly asked by folks how I feel about the future state of Social Security. The answer to this question is particularly important for those approaching retirement within the next 5-10 years, because time is simply not on their side if their anticipated benefits are cut.
Medicare Premiums Are Rising – Again
While it’s not unusual that Medicare premiums may increase over time, next year’s increase is the largest dollar increase in the health insurance program’s history. Why the steep increase?