We’ve received some questions lately regarding joint ownership of an annuity, and why it can’t be done in qualified accounts. Joint ownership of an annuity allows two individuals, usually spouses, to co-own a contract, ensuring income continues for the survivor. This offers security in that it provides income for two people while either is alive. […]
Joint and Why Not? Read More »
Choosing a senior living community is a life-changing decision that can have a significant impact on physical health, emotional well-being, and overall happiness. Whether you’re planning for yourself or helping a loved one with the move, it’s critical to pay close attention to the details. Understanding your options when it comes to senior living communities
What to Look for in a Senior Living Community Read More »
It is not surprising that the thought of retiring is overwhelming to many due to major life shifts. This could include financial uncertainty, loss of identity, and lack of structure. Studies show that high anxiety regarding outliving savings and maintaining one’s lifestyle is one of the more common reactions to anticipating retirement. We can help
Since January is a popular month for email scams, here are some tips to help avoid them and keep the good times going all year long. Call us if you’d like more tips on how to avoid getting caught in a scam; we’re always here to help.
It’s That Time of Year Read More »
Some clients have asked us what the difference is between having a life insurance policy that benefits their family, and having an annuity policy that has beneficiaries connected to it, in addition to the annuity having a specific death benefit feature. And that’s a good question, because it addresses the differences between each situation, even
Preparing for the Future Read More »
One of the most difficult challenges when planning for retirement is grappling with uncertainty. Markets fluctuate, tax laws change, healthcare costs rise unpredictably, and perhaps most challenging of all, no one knows exactly how long they will live. Yet longevity—the number of years a person may spend in retirement—is one of the most important assumptions
Have you heard this phrase before? It is an interesting one often used when simulations are run with hundreds of possible scenarios, using varying market returns, inflation levels, health costs, extended family financial needs, income levels, employment assurance, and the like, in order to see what the range of potential outcome is for your specific
Monte Carlo Simulation Read More »
Traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and other similar retirement accounts enable you to save money before taxes, allowing your savings to grow for decades. However, the IRS will eventually require you to begin withdrawing a portion of your savings on an annual basis. These withdrawals are known as required minimum distributions, or RMDs, and the income you
New RMD Rules For 2025 Read More »
There is no one “ideal retirement.” But there are many ways to have a happy retirement if you have reflected on the choices you have, and what you are willing to leave to chance. The way you answer the following questions may help you decide what may need more thought before you begin your retirement:
Several significant changes to the Social Security system will go into effect beginning in January 2026. These changes will affect benefit amounts, retirement age rules, taxes, and the minimum income required for future benefits. Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA): 2.8% Increase On October 24, the Social Security Administration (SSA) announced a COLA of 2.8% for 2026. This
Changes Coming to Social Security in 2026 Read More »
