Reasons to Update Your Retirement Account Beneficiaries
Your retirement account has a long life, and it doesn’t necessarily end when yours does. If you’ve contributed to a 401(k) or IRA throughout your career, you’ve probably accumulated a substantial nest egg. Then once you turn 59 ½ you can start withdrawing. And at 70 ½ you must start withdrawing. Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)…
Read MoreWhat Makes a Blue Zone Special?
Have you heard of “Blue Zones”? No, they’re not places where everyone is a Democrat. They’re places in the world where there is an unusually high number of people living into their 90’s and even 100’s. Specifically, these people are relatively healthy in their old age. These populations are known for having lower instances of…
Read MoreA Social Security Claiming Strategy to be Eliminated
Updated Thursday, September 12th, 2019 Did you know that there are many ways you can claim Social Security benefits? On one hand, this means that people may choose a strategy based on their unique lifestyle, income needs, and family situation. On the other hand, it means that there can be potential room for error: A…
Read MoreYou Don’t Have to Downsize to Declutter
Friday Blogs If your nest isn’t as full as it once was, or you have more time on your hands in retirement, consider decluttering. Even if downsizing in the near future isn’t part of your desired retirement lifestyle, having less clutter in your living space and better organizing the remaining stuff can help make a…
Read MorePreparing for a Bear Market
Between the trade war heating up, and the recent market volatility, there’s no telling what kind of market we’re heading into. After enjoying a 10 year long bull market, there could be rougher times ahead in the near future, or down the road after you’re retired. Many experts are looking at the fact that China…
Read More5 Essential Items to Pack on Your Next Trip
If you’re traveling this summer, or plan to travel often in retirement, there are certain staples you can bring wherever you go. When packing for a trip, everyone immediately thinks of underwear and a toothbrush, but there are other essentials that don’t come to mind as easily. And besides, you can buy a new toothbrush…
Read MoreCommon Social Security Scams
Turning 65 means a lot of great things – you’re eligible for Medicare, you’re at or near your full Social Security age, and of course you can get into some museums, buy Amtrak tickets, and eat at certain restaurants for a discounted price. Unfortunately, you may also be targeted by criminals trying to steal your…
Read MoreWhat is Your Desired Retirement Lifestyle?
Even though finances are important, life isn’t just about money. Rather than have your finances dictate your retirement lifestyle, your retirement lifestyle can help dictate how you plan for your finances. After all, two people with similar amounts of money could have completely different concepts of what constitutes their desired retirement lifestyle. No matter if…
Read MoreWhen it Comes to Taxes, Plan for Your Future Self
Retirement is a major event that can drastically change your day-to-day life, your financial strategies, and even your tax burden. Retirees may no longer receive taxable income from an employer, but they will likely receive income from other sources which can be taxed. This is why when it comes to taxes, it’s important to help…
Read MoreSpending Your Free Time in Retirement
If you’re planning on taking a vacation, it’s probably something that you’ve looked forward to for a while now. And, that’s what retirement is about… It’s your 30 or more year vacation. Whether you’re traveling, volunteering, taking up new hobbies, or relaxing with friends and family, retirement is a time to unwind and do something…
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