Posts by dreed5n834
The Hidden Cost of Skipping Home Insurance: ‘You Could Lose Your Home’
By Jeanine Skowronski from Investopedia Many Americans are going without homeowners insurance, simply because they can no longer afford it. But this move can have devastating financial consequences, especially with extreme weather events on the rise. Uninsured homeowners may be responsible for most, if not all, costs incurred during disasters, thefts, and accidents in or around…
Read MoreLife Insurance: Changing Times, Changing Needs – Questions that all policyholders should ask themselves at least once a year
When Judy purchased her life insurance policy 10 years ago, she thought her insurance planning was complete. She assumed that if she paid her premiums on time, she could sit back and not think about life insurance anymore. Judy’s life insurance may help to protect her loved ones from future uncertainties, but her policy should…
Read More6 Ways To Maximize Your HSA Contributions in 2025
By Rebecca Rosenberg form Investopedia If you’re looking to save money that you can grow now and use for later, you could do a lot worse than a Health Savings Account (HSA). As the name implies, an HSA is a tax-advantaged savings account you can use to set aside pre-tax money for medical expenses. By using funds…
Read MoreAre Your Retirement Savings Really on Track? Regular reviewing and adjusting your plan can enhance your confidence
Retirement planning is a crucial aspect of personal finance, yet many individuals wonder whether they are saving enough. With rising living costs, increasing healthcare expenses, and the uncertainty of Social Security benefits, it’s essential to evaluate your retirement savings and make necessary adjustments to stay on track. Assessing Your Current Savings The first step in…
Read MoreUsing the 72(t) Rule for Early Retirement Income: IRS exception can become a strategic advantage in your retirement strategy
For many investors nearing retirement – or planning to exit the workforce earlier than expected – accessing retirement funds before age 59½ can present both opportunity and risk. The IRS’s 72(t) rule, which permits penalty-free early withdrawals under specific conditions, may appear attractive. However, from a financial advisor’s standpoint, effectively utilizing Rule 72(t) requires foresight,…
Read MorePlanning the Perfect Barbecue & Ideal Retirement: The principles of barbecue and retirement planning are strikingly similar
Planning the perfect summer barbecue and crafting your ideal retirement may seem worlds apart, but both require careful consideration, strategic thinking, and a dash of creativity. Imagine this: the sun is shining, the grill is hot, and you’re surrounded by friends and family, enjoying a well-planned barbecue. Now, picture your golden years – a time…
Read MorePlanning for a Longer Retirement is a Must-Do: Conduct a thorough longevity risk assessment using modern planning tools
Perhaps the most daunting challenge facing today’s retirees is longevity risk – the possibility that retirement savings will be depleted while the retiree is still living. With life expectancies steadily increasing, this is no longer a hypothetical concern. According to recent actuarial data, a 65-year-old couple in 2025 has a 50% chance that at least…
Read MoreHow to Plan Your Retirement in a Complex World: Ten insights to help you navigate your retirement with clarity and confidence
Retirement in the 21st century is evolving faster than ever. Gone are the days when retirees could count on a pension, a Social Security check, and a conservative bond portfolio to meet their needs. Today’s retirees face a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment shaped by policy uncertainty, market volatility, inflation pressures, and rapid technological change.…
Read MoreThe Future of Social Security: Time to Really Plan – Remember, Social Security was never intended to fully fund your retirement
For Gen X and Millennials, Social Security is both a foundation and a question mark. While it has long been a reliable component of retirement income, changing demographics and fiscal pressures are casting a shadow over its long-term stability. As of May 2025, projections show that without legislative reform, the Social Security Trust Fund could…
Read MorePros/Cons of Waiting Until 70 for Social Security: An informed choice can maximize your security and retirement dreams
As you approach retirement, the decision of when to claim Social Security benefits becomes increasingly crucial. While many retirees choose to start collecting benefits as soon as they are eligible, there is a growing trend toward waiting until age 70. This strategy promises a higher monthly check, but it’s essential to weigh both the advantages…
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