Seniors

Do you have enough money to last you throughout your retirement? A cornucopia of circumstances could easily see your retirement plans landing in the gutter, but here we offer you a look at some ways to reduce your retirement risks and look forward to your golden years without worry!

1. Plan to live for a long time

According to Stephen Horan, head of private wealth management for the CFA Institute and co-author of “The New Wealth Management”, the average American is currently likely to live to the ripe old age of 78. This is a big improvement on the 61-year life expectancy we could expect in the 1930s, when the Social Security program was first created.

If you exercise regularly, have a healthy diet, and have a history of longevity in your family, then you may see yourself getting closer and closer to a century of life. You should plan your life accordingly, aiming to save enough money to cover yourself if you do indeed live a very long time.

As Ken Fisher, CEO of Fisher Investments says:

“Overwhelmingly, the biggest [risk] is the risk of outliving your money. Most people underestimate the amount of time they’re going to live, and they invest as if they’re going to die in 10 years.”

2. Take inflation into account

Let’s say that inflation occurs at a relatively low rate of 3% a year. Over 20 years, your money will have lost half of its total purchasing power. Cash amounts that sit in a bank account untouched simply lose their buying power as inflation inevitably marches on.

It is therefore very advisable to invest in inflation-protected securities or other investments (such as real estate) which will rise in value along with inflation. Investments such as stocks and housing allow your assets to remain valuable as prices increase, assuming that there isn’t a sudden economic crash.

3. Diversify your portfolio

Remember to diversify your portfolio, as this minimizes your potential losses if a sudden crash happens in one area, such as the housing market. Diversifying your portfolio leaves you with options in hard economic times!

4. Consider reinvestment strategies

It’s possible that your investments will mature at an inopportune moment, so remain prepared at all times. For example, a bond may be called earlier than expected, such as at a time when too-low interest rates cannot replace your investment with another similar and profitable investment.

Avoid having all your investments coming due simultaneously, and ensure that you have something coming due every year which can be repositioned into long-term interest rates.

5. Be aware of the sequence of returns

Set aside two years’ worth of living expenses, with it acting as a sort of buffer. You can draw down from this cash when the market is down, as opposed to selling parts of your portfolio. Similarly, you can sell your investment at a profit when the market is up and doing well.

If you’re looking to cover those essential living expenses, you can also purchase annuities and other investments with guaranteed returns. This allows you to only deal with the sequence of returns when it comes to your excess funds.

6. Protect yourself against fraud

Fraudsters (both online and offline) love to prey on the elderly, as they run the risk of being “behind the times” in terms of technology, and also run the risk of becoming cognitively challenged as they get older and older. Some fraudsters are also just incredibly good at tricking people, regardless of their age or health.

While you’re still fit and able, be sure to educate yourself on how the financial professionals in your life operate. How are they paid for their services? Are you paying them a fair amount? Are they incentivized to upsell you on things you don’t really need?

Ensure that you understand the processes that are going on concerning your money, and similarly ensure that you completely trust everyone who has access to (or control) of your finances in some way, shape, or form.

7. Understand tax implications

Good financial advisors will help you to withdraw from your investments without causing major damage to your financial portfolio. This financial advisor should also understand the tax implications of any investments of purchases too. Depending on where you live, your financial situation, and your circumstances, you could see yourself paying unreasonable amounts in taxes if you make unwise purchases and investments. Americans pay thousands of dollars in taxes every year, so you need to ensure that the pros outweigh the cons when it comes to your assets’ tax implications.

Trying to find more ways to protect your retirement nest egg? The economy can take unexpected turns, so it’s important to have a foolproof financial plan in place for your golden years. Get in touch today for more advice about hedging your retirement risks!

Those of us who have had lengthy careers with good employers have most likely never needed to worry about health insurance plans, as good employers will consistently reward their loyal employees with health benefits. If you’re approaching retirement age, however, you may need to evaluate your options when it comes to a health insurance plan for your retirement.

Below we offer a few tips to help you in this process!

1. Compare your options

The Affordable Care Act means that those retiring before the age of 65 cannot be denied health coverage for any pre-existing medical conditions. Despite being named the “Affordable” Care Act, its supposed affordability may seem rather steep to some people. Although you can get coverage, retirees between the ages of 55 and 64 will usually be paying at least $1,000 per month in costs. Although President Trump may modify the healthcare system, this aspect is likely to stay the same. This is potentially good news for those planning to retire between the ages of 55 and 64.

Those aged 65 years and older are eligible for Medicare, though there will be options that you will have to decide between. You have regular Medicare or the Medicare Advantage Plan, for example, each of which has their own associated advantages and disadvantages depending on your circumstances. Medicare.gov is full of information, though talking to an insurance agent will help you to make an informed decision.

As you compare your retirement healthcare options, be sure to account for general healthcare costs every year. Your insurance coverage may cover a lot of things, but you should leave an additional $10,000 per person per year for other costs such as dental and premiums.

2. Discover group health retirement benefits

Before you do anything else, make sure that you examine your existing healthcare benefits and find out how they change (or go away entirely) upon retirement.

You may, for example, find that you have to option of continuing with your group plan. Sometimes you may have worked with an employer for enough years to receive retirement benefits. Additionally, you may reach an age which makes you eligible for certain health insurance benefits regardless of your past service. If necessary, go to insurance workshops and study the fine print on your employer’s health insurance policies for retired former employees. If you find that your employer doesn’t offer health benefits to retirees, you should check to see whether you can stay on the current plan in accordance with COBRA provisions.

3. Frequently review your plan choices

When fall’s open enrolment comes around, you should check to make sure that you’re getting the best bang for your buck with your health insurance plan. Plans change all the time, along with their fees and associated health benefits. An insurance agent can help you to find a plan that fulfills your retirement needs without plunging your bank account into the red.

4. Speak with an agent

If you need help, you can always speak with a health insurance agent who has ties to your area’s major health plan providers. Many health insurance agencies have retirement specialists who assess retirees’ health insurance options for a living. An insurance agent will compile information about your medical records and income, providing you with a list of recommendations based on your needs and annual budget. Working with a health insurance agent allows you to feel at ease, knowing that you’re working with someone who understands all the nuances of insurance policies and documents.

We’re always looking out for insurance information that affects your finances and your health too. Get in touch with us 24/7 and we will answer any insurance-related questions you may have.

 

There’s a new way to save for retirement. For years, many experts have suggested saving for retirement utilizing life insurance policies. The challenge is, most of these strategies are tailored for those with incomes in the millions. The average American is left searching for an alternative retirement savings vehicle. The good news is, there’s a new way to save money for retirement while utilizing life insurance. Selecting a term-life policy with the cheapest rate can help save for retirement, and unlock additional funds for investment. Here’s how the process works.

Shop Around for Term Life Insurance

Those with dependents ought to explore life insurance as a means to preserve income should a tragedy occur. This holds true for single-income homes as well as multi. Mortgage obligations, college planning, retirement and more can be secured with the right life insurance policy. Surviving family members deserve the security they’ve come to rely on.

Life insurance comes in many forms with options available to suit nearly any lifestyle. Rate vary yet term policies consistently have the lowest. Term life insurance is often purchased by those too young to retire, as a measure to secure income in case of early death. Rates and policies for term life will vary based on age, health, and other influences. In some cases, the annual rate for whole life insurance can be almost ten times than term life. a 30-year-old male may spend approximately $750 annually for a 1,000,000 term life policy, while whole life coverage can range over $9000. That’s over $8000 in annual savings which can be otherwise invested.

With numbers like that, term life may be the right decision for those trying to save more for retirement. Term length and coverage amounts will depend on personal needs, wants, and desires. Age, health, and lifestyle will also affect term length, payout, and rates. Those over 65 may encounter challenges obtaining term life insurance. Review any employer-offered life insurance to reveal coverage limitations and determine if additional coverage may be appropriate. To help preserve a term life policy and its rate, opt for guaranteed-renewable term life with a non-cancellation clause. This can help manage rates and coverage, freeing up attention for other investments.

Adding Layers of Financial Security

With annual savings in the thousands, it may be tempting to go on a shopping spree. While that may satisfy a short-term desire, investing savings into intelligent savings vehicles can achieve more.

• Emergency Savings Funds

Creating an emergency savings fund is one of the smartest ways to immediately invest savings. Most recommendations suggest a savings account of 3 to 6 month’s income; personal requirements will dictate. An emergency fund is a barrier between the unexpected and debt. Debt can lead to late charges, interest accumulation, and adverse credit ratings.

Any number of life changes can affect income. Rest assured with the security an emergency savings account can offer. While creating an account may place a short delay on saving for retirement, the added layer of security will more than make up the difference.

• Long-Term Disability Insurance

Long-term disability insurance can help toward securing retirement. Persons below the age of 65 are more likely to become disabled than perish, leaving many people each year unable to earn an income. Relying on government assistance will likely result in high debt, and that’s for the percentage able to claim those benefits at all. There are nuances to disability insurance. Speak with a financial advisor to find out more about preserving income with long-term disability insurance. For those living alone, disability insurance can still be a necessary protection to help cover individual expenses, should a disability occur.

Disability insurance may be carried as part of an employer insurance package and is available for individual purchase. For those with disability insurance through an employer, be sure to review policy limits to ensure adequate protection. Oftentimes, employer-offered disability insurance lacks sufficient levels of protection. Loss of income can derail any retirement savings plan. Preserve income stability with long-term disability insurance and stay on track.

Start Investing

With term life in place to protect loved ones, the cushion of an emergency savings fund, and the assurance of long-term disability insurance it’s time to invest the remaining savings into retirement savings vehicles.

With annual savings reaching into the thousands a number of investment strategies become available. Speak to a financial advisor on ways to save for retirement utilizing annual life insurance savings. Taking more control over life insurance decisions and investing savings can have a significant impact on achieving retirement savings goals.

For more on saving for retirement, additional information on term-life insurance, or questions call today. Check back often for more on this, and other ways to improve health and wealth.

More people are working during retirement. For an increasing number of retirees, working a part-time job post-retirement is becoming the norm. A Merrill-Lynch survey found over 70% of those planning to retire were planning to find a job afterward. For those already retired, almost half reported holding a part-time job while retired. For many, it’s simply a matter of keeping busy. Others may go back to work for social interaction, or to regain a sense of purpose. For almost a third of those surveyed, part-time work after retirement offers additional income. For most retirees, the best part-time jobs draw from their previous careers. Regardless of the motivation, today there are a number of part-time jobs available for retirees.

Accountant/Bookkeeper

Those with a financial background can earn working from home as an accountant or bookkeeper. Many small business owners utilize bookkeeping services. Become a tax preparation agent and offer more services. Bookkeepers and accountants can typically create their own schedules and often, their own wages.

A working knowledge of financial software and Microsoft Excel is helpful for those interested in this position. An interest in numbers and a keen eye for detail are beneficial traits. In some cases, formal education in finance may be required.

Customer Service

Companies are always looking for great customer service help. Depending on the position, customer service positions can be on-site or remote, working from home. Retirees telecommuting from home can typically expect to answer phone calls and emails, while retirees working on-premise may speak to customers directly.

Patience is a plus for those interested in customer service. Telecommuters may benefit from previous computer experience.

Driving

Today a number of options are available for driving part-time. Ride-sharing services are appearing in more cities, enabling seniors to control their schedules while supplementing retirement income. In many cities, school districts and community organizations are hiring part-time drivers for buses and deliveries. Many of these positions offer flexibility perfect for retirees.

Depending on the (pardon the pun) route you take to become a driver, a commercial drivers license (CDL) may be required.

Tutor

For those looking to share their lifetime of experience, becoming a tutor can be a great part-time job for retirees. Tutoring comes in many forms. In this position, retirees can help both kids and adults overcome academic challenges, and aid with test preparation. There may be other positions available in education. Contact the local school district and ask about part-time positions for former educators.

Experience and formal education is a plus for this position, yet depending on the employer the requisites will vary. Tutors can work for families, as part of a larger organization, and anywhere between.

Tour Guide

For those interested in an active position interacting with the public, becoming a tour guide can be incredibly rewarding. More than just museums (amazing places to work) tour guides are found in park, wineries and breweries, local walking tours and more. Earn income, experience history, and stay active as a tour guide.

Tour guides are found across a number of industries performing a diverse variety of functions. Starting locally is perhaps the best way to find the right tour guide position for you.

Many opportunities for part-time employment are available for retirees. For many, there may the option of returning to a previous position as a part-time employee. Retirement is the beginning of an exciting part of life. Get the most from yours.

A growing number of retirees are struggling to make ends meet. An estimate by the National Institute for Retirement Security places the average retirement savings at just over $30,000. With even the best investment strategies, it will still be challenging making that last years or decades. The numbers support this. According to the National Senior Citizens Law Center, over six million retirees live below the poverty line; that number continues to grow.

It’s still possible to save for retirement. At any stage in life, creating a financial plan to prepare for the future can help create savings and security for the future. The right savings strategy will vary depending on goals and ability, yet there are some tips that apply to nearly all. Start saving with a goal in mind. Here are 5 tips for saving enough to retire.

1. Determine Annual Expenses

Each year of retirement has set expenses. These will vary for the individual yet for most people these include healthcare, housing, meals and other daily necessities. Be sure to include ongoing utility payments, HOA memberships, and all regular debits regardless of obscurity. Sufficient retirement savings will cover these obligations plus any increases over time due to inflation. Speak to a financial planner for help determining the monthly cost of retirement and creating a budget to meet it.

2. Plan for Entertainment

Creating financial plans, many people often forget to include budgeting entertainment expenses. This can lead to a dull retirement or to spending money outside the prescribed budget. Either way, planning for entertainment expenses helps balance a financial plan for retirement. Regardless of how you want to spend your time, experts recommend adding 10% to the estimated cost. This creates a buffer, allowing you to get out and enjoy retirement.

3. Distribute Savings

The right savings vehicles for retirement depend on goals, ability, and much more. Planning for a successful retirement requires more than a savings account. Speak to a financial advisor about opportunities to boost retirement savings with stocks, bonds, and other investment options. With distributed savings and assets, personal income reserves are better protected from shifts in the market.

4. Postpone Social Security

Social Security payments increase at age 70. For those able to sustain on alternate sources of income before then, they stand to gain. Full Social Security benefits begin at age 66 yet a mere four years can add 32% more to the payout. A financial plan can help make this happen. Research shows 97% of Americans draw benefits before age 70. This means the overwhelming majority of people are missing out on retirement benefits. Start planning today to take advantage of increased Social Security payments each month.

5. Think About Taxes

Each year, the amount of income drawn from retirement savings is subject to taxation. Depending on the amount of income accessed the applicable tax bracket may shift. This can lead to higher tax payments than originally planned for. Speak to a financial professional about the smartest ways to draw retirement income while managing taxes.

Call today more on how to prepare for successful retirement. Regardless of age, it’s still possible to start planning for an enjoyable retirement. Take the first step, contact a financial planner today.

Retirement is supposed to be a life of leisure, or at least so the commercials say. While retirement signals the transition from the workforce there are still challenges to overcome each day. Despite years of planning and research, there are some things about retirement that may surprise you. Straight from the source, here are 5 surprises about retirement:

1. You can have too much spare time.

It’s safe to assume most people prefer time off. While some may be able to golf each day, most will find too much downtime to be redundant. After years in the workforce, retirement can feel lacking in structure and routine. Before long, they may experience a longing for simple water-cooler conversation again. For those with too much time on their hands, part-time employment or a volunteer position may be the answer. Retirement is simply the transition into a new phase of life; find ways to stay active and engaged.

2. You can spend too much time together.

After retirement, there is a lot of extra time for spending with your spouse. Too much of anything can be grating, including the people we love. If spending too much time together is leading to tension be proactive and ask for some space. Previously, personal meditative time may have been the morning commute or lunch break. Being home all the time is a big change. Find ways to decompress. This can be a walk or hobby, or as with the first surprise a job or volunteer position.

3. You may need to move.

Retirement is a big lifestyle change. This means the home that made sense for the hustle and bustle of before may become too much. For some, this could be keeping a large lawn. For others, the home may feel too large. Moving to a smaller home, apartment, or retirement community can ease the burden of home and lawn care, and replace lost social interactions.

4. You may face financial challenges.

With all their careful planning it’s surprising many retirees grapple with financial challenges. Retirement may last years, and that’s a good thing! Saving enough to last can be challenging and many find themselves pinching pennies, afraid to run out. A budget, alternative savings vehicles, and active frugality can help stretch dollars. Keep medical and life insurance current for a layer of protection.

5. You may pay increased rates for healthcare.

Planning for retirement should take into account rising healthcare costs, inflation, and more. Many retirees find as time goes on they pay in increased percentage of savings on healthcare expenses. According to a survey of retired couples by RetiredBrains.com, retirees need to think bigger. Half those surveyed anticipated only 10% of actual health care costs. Healthcare through retirement can range into the hundreds of thousands; plan for adequate protection.