A Christmas Gift You Can’t Wrap: Financial Peace in Retirement
As Christmas draws near and the season of giving fills the air, it’s a good time to pause and reflect on what truly matters. Sure, the gifts under the tree are exciting, but the most valuable gift you can give yourself and your loved ones this year? Peace of mind in retirement. While it may […]
Shopping Season Reminder: Don’t Overspend Your Retirement Goals
December is the season of deals, discounts, and doorbusters. But while it’s tempting to go all out during the holidays, retirees and pre-retirees should tread carefully. Here’s how to enjoy the season without compromising your long-term financial health. 1. Set a Holiday Spending PlanJust like your retirement income plan, your holiday shopping list should have […]
Winter Is Coming: Is Your Retirement Income Plan Built to Withstand It?
Winter isn’t just a season—it’s a metaphor for the unexpected challenges that can arise in retirement. From market dips to rising healthcare costs, your income plan needs to be built like a warm, well-insulated home. 1. Layer Your IncomeDiversify your income sources just like layers in winter clothing: Social Security, annuities, IRAs, and taxable investments […]
End-of-Year Financial Checklist for Retirees
December isn’t just the end of the year—it’s the last chance to take advantage of powerful financial planning strategies before the calendar resets. Here’s your retirement-ready year-end checklist: 1. Complete Your RMDsIf you’re 73 or older, don’t miss the December 31 deadline. The penalty for missing an RMD can be steep. Even if you’re just […]
Gratitude and Goals: What Thanksgiving Teaches Us About a Secure Retirement
As families across the country gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s a time for connection, reflection, and gratitude. But beyond the turkey and traditions, this season offers something more — a powerful reminder of what matters most as you plan for and live through retirement. Whether you’re newly retired or preparing to take that […]
The Hidden Costs of Early Retirement—and How to Outsmart Them
Retiring early sounds like a dream. No alarm clocks, no meetings, no commute. But for those stepping away from work before 65, the financial hurdles can sneak up fast. Let’s break down the hidden costs early retirees face—and how smart planning helps you enjoy more and worry less. 1. Health Insurance Gap Medicare doesn’t kick […]
What High-Earning Retirees Get Wrong About Roth Conversions in 2025
Roth conversions can be powerful—but only when done right. And for high-income retirees, a single misstep can lead to massive, unexpected tax bills. In 2025, with new tax legislation and shifting brackets, many affluent retirees are rushing to convert pre-tax dollars to Roth accounts without fully understanding the long-term implications. Here’s what they’re getting wrong—and […]
The Emotional Side of Retirement: Why Financial Confidence Matters More Than You Think
You planned. You saved. You made it. But even after a lifetime of smart financial decisions, many retirees find themselves asking: “Am I really okay?” That feeling isn’t about the size of your nest egg. It’s about confidence—and it’s one of the most overlooked aspects of retirement planning. 1. Uncertainty Breeds Anxiety When you go […]
Retiring in Louisiana? 5 Surprising Tax Perks You Shouldn’t Overlook
When most people think of retirement destinations, they picture Florida, Arizona, or maybe the Carolinas. But for savvy retirees who want a balance of culture, climate, and tax advantages, Louisiana is an underrated gem. Here are five Louisiana-specific perks that can help you enjoy more of your retirement savings. 1. Social Security Isn’t Taxed Louisiana […]
National Retirement Security Week: 5 Powerful Moves to Strengthen Your Retirement Plan Right Now
What Is National Retirement Security Week? Each year, during the third full week of October, National Retirement Security Week serves as a reminder to pause, check in on your retirement readiness, and take steps that help secure your future. Whether you’re newly retired or just a few years out, this week is a powerful opportunity […]
What the SECURE 2.0 Updates Mean for Your Retirement Withdrawals in 2025
Retirement planning never stands still, and 2025 is no exception. Thanks to the SECURE Act 2.0, several new rules are now in full effect that could significantly impact your retirement strategy—especially when it comes to how and when you withdraw your money. If you’re already retired or planning to retire soon, this legislation may offer […]
Social Security Strategy: Why Timing Your Benefits Is More Crucial Than Ever
Social Security may feel like a given—but how and when you claim it can make or break your retirement plan. In 2025, the stakes are higher than ever. With inflation adjustments, longer lifespans, and shifting retirement ages, the decision to claim early, at full retirement age, or delay to 70 can dramatically affect your lifetime […]