Are you a baby boomer caring for parents who are having difficulty dealing with day-to day activities? Many boomers find themselves preparing for their retirement while caring for parents who, due to physical restrictions or mental impairment, are no longer able to maintain the independent life.
As our parents age it will be necessary to discuss with them the possibility that due to illness or injury they may no longer be able to live as independently as they had in the past. In the past, care was usually provided by a family member or if the care required skilled caregivers, a nursing home. Now, families are busier and more spread out geographically than in the past and the parent requiring the skill may not feel comfortable depending on their children for help.
Depending on the level of care needed many options for care are available, some of the more familiar options are:
1) Home Care, can be provided by a skilled care provider. This type of care can provide meals, transportation, assist with bathing and other daily functions. Trained professionals, nurses and therapists, can also provide home services as needed.
2) Adult Day Care can benefit those who are able to get around by providing daily social and health services in a supervised environment.
3) Assisted living facilities provide personal care, housekeeping and assistance with daily functions. Continuing Care Retirement Communities are communities that provide different levels of care from independent living to full-time care.
4) Nursing homes provide skilled nursing care, therapy, and personal care and assistance.
Make sure your parents are involved in the “due diligence” process, give them the opportunity to voice their concerns and pay attention to what they are saying. Remember, they are facing the realization that after spending a lifetime of caring for themselves and others they are the ones that need care.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Monday, December 7, 2009
Year-End Tax Thoughts
With a little less than a month left in 2009, you still have time to implement some year-end tax planning strategies for the year and review some options for next year.
Reviewing your investments is a good place to start if you have investments that have lost money now may be the time to sell. By selling at a loss, less than your purchase price, you can offset taxes on current or future capital gains. If you do not have gains or unused losses you are allowed to carryover the losses to future years, until exhausted.
If you qualify for a deductible IRA contribution you have until April 15, 2010 to make a 2009 contribution. Your ability to take a deduction will depend on income and qualified plan participation but it should be considered.
Contributing to a qualified charity either cash or property may qualify for a tax deduction. It is important to note detailed record keeping of the contribution including amount, date, and acknowledgement by the charity is necessary; gifts above $250 require stricter documentation.
First time homebuyers received an extension on the tax credit, up to $8000 that was set to end last month. Certain conditions must be met before you can qualify for the credit:
1) You must be a first time homebuyer. A first time homebuyer has not owned a home within the last three years and the purchase must be the buyer’s primary residence.
2) Income limits apply. The full credit is available to buyers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of up to $125,000 or $245,000 joint. The credit is reduced up to $145,000 and $245,000 and not available at higher incomes.
3) In order to qualify there has to be a contract to buy in place by May 1 and the sale must be closed by July 1. If the purchase completes in 2009, it can be applied to the buyers 2008 or 2009 income tax, if completed it 2010 it can be applied to either the 2009 or 2010 tax return.
4) Existing homebuyers can also take advantage of the credit. If they have lived in their existing, home for at least five out of the past eight years and use the purchase as a primary residence. The credit for existing homebuyers is lower, up to $6500.
Energy improvements to your home can provide up to $1500 in tax credits and up to $3400 may be available for the purchase of certain hybrid vehicles.
Year-end tax strategies require thought and planning, the decision to take the credit or deduction in the current year or waiting until the following year will depend on your situation. It is important you sit with your financial advisor and tax advisor to determine the correct strategy for you.
Reviewing your investments is a good place to start if you have investments that have lost money now may be the time to sell. By selling at a loss, less than your purchase price, you can offset taxes on current or future capital gains. If you do not have gains or unused losses you are allowed to carryover the losses to future years, until exhausted.
If you qualify for a deductible IRA contribution you have until April 15, 2010 to make a 2009 contribution. Your ability to take a deduction will depend on income and qualified plan participation but it should be considered.
Contributing to a qualified charity either cash or property may qualify for a tax deduction. It is important to note detailed record keeping of the contribution including amount, date, and acknowledgement by the charity is necessary; gifts above $250 require stricter documentation.
First time homebuyers received an extension on the tax credit, up to $8000 that was set to end last month. Certain conditions must be met before you can qualify for the credit:
1) You must be a first time homebuyer. A first time homebuyer has not owned a home within the last three years and the purchase must be the buyer’s primary residence.
2) Income limits apply. The full credit is available to buyers with modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of up to $125,000 or $245,000 joint. The credit is reduced up to $145,000 and $245,000 and not available at higher incomes.
3) In order to qualify there has to be a contract to buy in place by May 1 and the sale must be closed by July 1. If the purchase completes in 2009, it can be applied to the buyers 2008 or 2009 income tax, if completed it 2010 it can be applied to either the 2009 or 2010 tax return.
4) Existing homebuyers can also take advantage of the credit. If they have lived in their existing, home for at least five out of the past eight years and use the purchase as a primary residence. The credit for existing homebuyers is lower, up to $6500.
Energy improvements to your home can provide up to $1500 in tax credits and up to $3400 may be available for the purchase of certain hybrid vehicles.
Year-end tax strategies require thought and planning, the decision to take the credit or deduction in the current year or waiting until the following year will depend on your situation. It is important you sit with your financial advisor and tax advisor to determine the correct strategy for you.
Monday, November 9, 2009
Education - It is for Everyone
A couple of weeks ago Ellen Griffin, Dean of Continuing Education at Southern New Hampshire University, was a guest on my radio show. The discussion was the increase in baby boomers returning to the classroom, the reasons and the opportunities.
Many are returning to school to increase career opportunities in their current profession, graduate program enrollees have increased as well as certificate programs, others are returning to school in preparation for a career change. People are expecting to stay in the workforce longer, whether it is at their current job or a new career, and keeping current with your industry and increasing your value is necessary to remain competitive.
The ease of learning may also contribute to the rise in boomer enrollment, satellite campuses, workplace classrooms and online courses make it easier to participate and complete study programs. It is possible to complete a degree program online without leaving your house or setting foot in a classroom.
Boomers who attend a live classroom bring something to the table their younger classmate’s lack, real life experience with the subject matter. This can be a plus to someone, who is learning the theoretical workings of an issue, to have the opportunity to hear firsthand the actual application of the theory.
One area in particular that has attracted the attention of baby boomers is community service, this generation has a “give back” attitude and there is interest in bringing their management and leadership skills to the non-profit area.
A Boston Globe article on September 13, 2009 referred to the fact that people are expecting to stay in the workforce longer and fifty year olds consider themselves mid-career. The number of Americans over 65 is expected to grow to 20% of the population by 2030 and to continue to increase meanwhile the younger generations will grow at a slower pace. This will open up opportunities for older workers to continue to stay in the workforce, keeping current through education and training will strengthen their position value.
Many are returning to school to increase career opportunities in their current profession, graduate program enrollees have increased as well as certificate programs, others are returning to school in preparation for a career change. People are expecting to stay in the workforce longer, whether it is at their current job or a new career, and keeping current with your industry and increasing your value is necessary to remain competitive.
The ease of learning may also contribute to the rise in boomer enrollment, satellite campuses, workplace classrooms and online courses make it easier to participate and complete study programs. It is possible to complete a degree program online without leaving your house or setting foot in a classroom.
Boomers who attend a live classroom bring something to the table their younger classmate’s lack, real life experience with the subject matter. This can be a plus to someone, who is learning the theoretical workings of an issue, to have the opportunity to hear firsthand the actual application of the theory.
One area in particular that has attracted the attention of baby boomers is community service, this generation has a “give back” attitude and there is interest in bringing their management and leadership skills to the non-profit area.
A Boston Globe article on September 13, 2009 referred to the fact that people are expecting to stay in the workforce longer and fifty year olds consider themselves mid-career. The number of Americans over 65 is expected to grow to 20% of the population by 2030 and to continue to increase meanwhile the younger generations will grow at a slower pace. This will open up opportunities for older workers to continue to stay in the workforce, keeping current through education and training will strengthen their position value.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Make Sure Your Assets are Covered
Two weeks ago I invited Chuck Worcester, owner of Hometown Insurance, to be a guest on my radio show to talk about the importance of property, casualty and liability insurance. Having Chuck on was a good reminder to incorporate a risk management strategy as part of your total financial plan and, like the other strategies, needs monitoring and updating.
Often home and auto insurance coverage once established are put on autopilot and ignored until filing a claim becomes necessary. It is important to meet with your insurance agent and review the risk management strategy of your financial plan annually. Maintaining the proper coverage for you assets is critical to protect against damage, injury, or claims against you.
As part of the annual review of your coverage, you should:
1) Make sure your coverage is adequate for your assets and make sure all assets that need insurance coverage are covered. Your life changes and so do the assets you own, keep your agent aware of purchases that will require insurance and make sure they are covered.
2) Make sure your agent knows how certain properties will be used (business or property) and who will be using it (employees, family, etc). This is especially important when you are insuring vehicles and equipment or allowing others access to use your property.
3) Make sure you have adequate liability coverage. Insuring against a piece of property being damaged or stolen is not enough you need to have coverage for damage and injury to others. A large claim or lawsuit against you may exceed your policy’s coverage consider a separate liability umbrella policy for greater protection.
4) Make sure you are getting the best coverage for your dollar. Have your agent compare rates and coverage but remember cheapest is not always best.
Losing the use of property due to damage or a lawsuit against you due to negligence, injury or damage to other’s property can be devastating. You can’t control all the risks out there, accidents happen but you need to be prepared, and maintaining an active risk management strategy can offer protection. Don’t ignore this critical strategy from your financial plan.
Often home and auto insurance coverage once established are put on autopilot and ignored until filing a claim becomes necessary. It is important to meet with your insurance agent and review the risk management strategy of your financial plan annually. Maintaining the proper coverage for you assets is critical to protect against damage, injury, or claims against you.
As part of the annual review of your coverage, you should:
1) Make sure your coverage is adequate for your assets and make sure all assets that need insurance coverage are covered. Your life changes and so do the assets you own, keep your agent aware of purchases that will require insurance and make sure they are covered.
2) Make sure your agent knows how certain properties will be used (business or property) and who will be using it (employees, family, etc). This is especially important when you are insuring vehicles and equipment or allowing others access to use your property.
3) Make sure you have adequate liability coverage. Insuring against a piece of property being damaged or stolen is not enough you need to have coverage for damage and injury to others. A large claim or lawsuit against you may exceed your policy’s coverage consider a separate liability umbrella policy for greater protection.
4) Make sure you are getting the best coverage for your dollar. Have your agent compare rates and coverage but remember cheapest is not always best.
Losing the use of property due to damage or a lawsuit against you due to negligence, injury or damage to other’s property can be devastating. You can’t control all the risks out there, accidents happen but you need to be prepared, and maintaining an active risk management strategy can offer protection. Don’t ignore this critical strategy from your financial plan.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Health Planning is Retirement Planning
I try to keep a regular weekly exercise schedule, running 3-4 miles three times and lifting weights two or three days. I exercise because at fifty-five years old I understand the benefits of being healthy more energy, lower blood pressure, stronger heart, and hopefully the ability to live a long and active life.
All the talk and concern about health care costs makes me wonder why we aren’t more pro-active about taking control of our own healthy lifestyle. Watching what we eat, regular exercise, and following our doctors instructions can add to our “quality of life” as we get older.
Taking control of your lifestyle health is more than a handful of vitamins and a walk around the block. It takes work, changes, and maybe some sacrifice, but the rewards will be worth it. You will feel better, confident, and in control; imagine losing 20 pounds and shopping for a new outfit because your old ones are too big. How about having the energy to play catch with your children or grandchildren when they visit?
If you have already made the commitment to yourself to be healthy, don’t stop or slow down. If you are ready to make some changes to your lifestyle there are steps you should follow:
1. Before beginning any exercise program or lifestyle changes consult your physician. Discuss your intentions and ask about any restrictions, limitations or concerns the doctor may have, if diet changes are needed ask for a recommendation to a dietician or nutritionist.
2. Work with a trainer, if you are unfamiliar with setting up an exercise program. Let the trainer know what you want to accomplish, (lose weight, lower blood pressure etc), and any concerns from your doctor. Work together to set goals, short and long term.
3. Realize that creating a healthy lifestyle is more than dieting to lose ten pounds before your high school reunion. Just like a financial plan your plans to create a healthier lifestyle must have strategies that are implemented, monitored and tweaked as time goes on.
Exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t guarantee we will live longer or healthier but it certainly increases the odds. By taking care of our health we can extend the quality of life needed to enjoy the later years of life. I saw a great quote the other day “it is not how long you live, it is how you live long.”
All the talk and concern about health care costs makes me wonder why we aren’t more pro-active about taking control of our own healthy lifestyle. Watching what we eat, regular exercise, and following our doctors instructions can add to our “quality of life” as we get older.
Taking control of your lifestyle health is more than a handful of vitamins and a walk around the block. It takes work, changes, and maybe some sacrifice, but the rewards will be worth it. You will feel better, confident, and in control; imagine losing 20 pounds and shopping for a new outfit because your old ones are too big. How about having the energy to play catch with your children or grandchildren when they visit?
If you have already made the commitment to yourself to be healthy, don’t stop or slow down. If you are ready to make some changes to your lifestyle there are steps you should follow:
1. Before beginning any exercise program or lifestyle changes consult your physician. Discuss your intentions and ask about any restrictions, limitations or concerns the doctor may have, if diet changes are needed ask for a recommendation to a dietician or nutritionist.
2. Work with a trainer, if you are unfamiliar with setting up an exercise program. Let the trainer know what you want to accomplish, (lose weight, lower blood pressure etc), and any concerns from your doctor. Work together to set goals, short and long term.
3. Realize that creating a healthy lifestyle is more than dieting to lose ten pounds before your high school reunion. Just like a financial plan your plans to create a healthier lifestyle must have strategies that are implemented, monitored and tweaked as time goes on.
Exercising and maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t guarantee we will live longer or healthier but it certainly increases the odds. By taking care of our health we can extend the quality of life needed to enjoy the later years of life. I saw a great quote the other day “it is not how long you live, it is how you live long.”
Monday, August 31, 2009
How Will They Remember You?
I have gotten into the habit of reading the obituaries in the newspaper each Sunday morning, I jokingly tell people I am checking to make sure my name isn’t listed. There are two types of listings; on the first page the listings are informational name, date of birth, family and arrangements, listings on the second page are more biographical, they mention accomplishments, honors and awards.
I rarely look at the names on the first page, I go straight to the second page, it isn’t that I am interested in who has died but what is written about them. As I read their obits, I think about how I would like to be remembered.
Last week my wife’s father died, his obituary mentioned his wife and family, his time in the military, and his work history, but not much about him.
At his wake, there were some tears but, a lot more smiles laughter and story telling. Children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews all had stories about Fred. How he started a fishing club with a disgusting initiation involving fish guts, and taught them limericks about the, “man from Dundee”. Camping trips, bonfires so big they could be seen from outer space, the annual golf outing (which still continues 24 years later) and more practical jokes and quotes than I can list, eighty-seven years worth.
There were no secrets about how his family felt, they will miss Fred, but whenever any members of his family get together they will remember one of his stories, or recite one of his famous sayings, and then they will laugh.
I didn’t have the chance to know Fred well, I met him after Karen and I had started seeing each other six years ago, his hell-raising days long past, most of what I know of Fred comes from the stories told.
Next week when I read the obits and think about how I’ll want to remember me when I’m gone I will think of this: it is nice to have a big fancy write-up about your life but will you be remembered a week later when the paper has been thrown out? I like the way people will remember Fred they will be telling his stories long after the newspapers have decomposed.
I rarely look at the names on the first page, I go straight to the second page, it isn’t that I am interested in who has died but what is written about them. As I read their obits, I think about how I would like to be remembered.
Last week my wife’s father died, his obituary mentioned his wife and family, his time in the military, and his work history, but not much about him.
At his wake, there were some tears but, a lot more smiles laughter and story telling. Children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews all had stories about Fred. How he started a fishing club with a disgusting initiation involving fish guts, and taught them limericks about the, “man from Dundee”. Camping trips, bonfires so big they could be seen from outer space, the annual golf outing (which still continues 24 years later) and more practical jokes and quotes than I can list, eighty-seven years worth.
There were no secrets about how his family felt, they will miss Fred, but whenever any members of his family get together they will remember one of his stories, or recite one of his famous sayings, and then they will laugh.
I didn’t have the chance to know Fred well, I met him after Karen and I had started seeing each other six years ago, his hell-raising days long past, most of what I know of Fred comes from the stories told.
Next week when I read the obits and think about how I’ll want to remember me when I’m gone I will think of this: it is nice to have a big fancy write-up about your life but will you be remembered a week later when the paper has been thrown out? I like the way people will remember Fred they will be telling his stories long after the newspapers have decomposed.
Monday, August 24, 2009
Reduce Debt to Improve Retirement Cash Flow
One of the simplest ways to improve your positive cash flow is to reduce the money going towards the repayment of personal debt. One of the most common forms of debt we carry is credit card balances, paying these balances off and controlling our use of the cards can increase our monthly income.
To see the benefit of paying down your cards and eliminating the payment simply add up the monthly payments of all the cards, major cards, gas cards, and store cards you carry balance on and put that money towards your income. How much money are you missing out on?
If the increase in income isn’t enough incentive take a look at your statement, look at the interest rate you are paying, and see how little is going towards principal and how much is being put towards finance charges (interest). Realizing that it will take several years of minimum payments to pay for last year’s weekend vacation should start you thinking.
The best way to use credit cards is to control the way they are used:
1) Pay balances off as quickly as possible, if it has to be carried set a
target date and stick to it.
2) If you currently have balances start paying them down. Start with the card with the highest rate, pay as much as you can until it is gone, then move to the next.
3) Look for card with low interest rates and transfer balances. Understand the terms before you commit. How long will the rate last what will it reset at, and what are the fees?
4) See if your current card will lower your rate. Will they match the competition?
5) Do not be late with payments. Many cards will increase interest rates substantially if you are late with a payment. Pay on time.
6) Don’t charge it if you can’t afford it. If you are using a card to facilitate a purchase, fine. If you are using a card to purchase something you cannot afford but will allow you to own with small payments forever and a day, don’t do it.
Eliminating your existing debt and rethinking the way you use your credit cards before you retire should be a priority strategy towards strengthening your financial position.
To see the benefit of paying down your cards and eliminating the payment simply add up the monthly payments of all the cards, major cards, gas cards, and store cards you carry balance on and put that money towards your income. How much money are you missing out on?
If the increase in income isn’t enough incentive take a look at your statement, look at the interest rate you are paying, and see how little is going towards principal and how much is being put towards finance charges (interest). Realizing that it will take several years of minimum payments to pay for last year’s weekend vacation should start you thinking.
The best way to use credit cards is to control the way they are used:
1) Pay balances off as quickly as possible, if it has to be carried set a
target date and stick to it.
2) If you currently have balances start paying them down. Start with the card with the highest rate, pay as much as you can until it is gone, then move to the next.
3) Look for card with low interest rates and transfer balances. Understand the terms before you commit. How long will the rate last what will it reset at, and what are the fees?
4) See if your current card will lower your rate. Will they match the competition?
5) Do not be late with payments. Many cards will increase interest rates substantially if you are late with a payment. Pay on time.
6) Don’t charge it if you can’t afford it. If you are using a card to facilitate a purchase, fine. If you are using a card to purchase something you cannot afford but will allow you to own with small payments forever and a day, don’t do it.
Eliminating your existing debt and rethinking the way you use your credit cards before you retire should be a priority strategy towards strengthening your financial position.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Time For a Plan Review
We are a little more than halfway through summer and it has been an odd one to say the least. Here in New England June and July were rainy and raw. Now that August has arrived, it seems as though summer is finally here, hopefully it will last into September and October.
Since many of us take advantage of down time to recharge and regroup during the summer, this is a good time to set aside a bit of time to review your life/financial plan. Some of the areas you want to touch on are:
1. Personal goals and timelines; are you still on track or do you need to extend or adjust your original thoughts?
2. Finances; are your investments and savings strategies aligned with your goals? Have you reviewed your current cash flow; is it in line or are you running a deficit each month? Do you foresee any major expenses or windfalls in the near future?
3. Are you maintaining enough insurance on your life and property?
4. Have you created an estate plan and have you reviewed it recently? Review your wills, trusts, and beneficiaries every few years to make sure they are current with your wishes.
5. Have you considered a Power-of Attorney for finances, Power-of Attorney for health care, and Living Will?
These are just a few of the topics that make up a life/financial plan, your situation and needs determine priority. Remember your plan is not a static document, life changes, tax and law changes, good events, and bad events will all cause an adjustment in your plan.
Since many of us take advantage of down time to recharge and regroup during the summer, this is a good time to set aside a bit of time to review your life/financial plan. Some of the areas you want to touch on are:
1. Personal goals and timelines; are you still on track or do you need to extend or adjust your original thoughts?
2. Finances; are your investments and savings strategies aligned with your goals? Have you reviewed your current cash flow; is it in line or are you running a deficit each month? Do you foresee any major expenses or windfalls in the near future?
3. Are you maintaining enough insurance on your life and property?
4. Have you created an estate plan and have you reviewed it recently? Review your wills, trusts, and beneficiaries every few years to make sure they are current with your wishes.
5. Have you considered a Power-of Attorney for finances, Power-of Attorney for health care, and Living Will?
These are just a few of the topics that make up a life/financial plan, your situation and needs determine priority. Remember your plan is not a static document, life changes, tax and law changes, good events, and bad events will all cause an adjustment in your plan.
Monday, August 3, 2009
Living Longer and Retirement Planning
Last week I watched a video about the oldest practicing lawyer in India, he is 99 years and has been practicing law for 74 years. He will not take any new cases, but he has 15 left to finish this year then, at the age of 100 begin a “long and happy retirement.”
Today this is considered an oddity but, could it become the norm at some point? The world population is getting older, the number of people 65 and older is expected to increase from 516 million in 2009 to 1.53 billion in 2050, according to data released by the US Census Bureau.
The number of centenarians (100 years) has increased to more than 340,000 worldwide versus a few thousand in the fifties. By midcentury, the number of centenarians in the US could grow from 75,000 to 600,000.
Advances in medicine, healthcare and education concerning lifestyle choices have been big factors in longer living. Problems like heart disease, and many types of cancer a few years ago were the beginning of the end, now with proper treatment and monitoring they have become health issues rather than life-ending.
As a segment of the population grows fast another slows down, while the age group over 65 is expected to see a jump by 2050, the group under 15 years old will grow at a much slower rate, from 1.83 billion to 1.93 billion. In 2017, the number of people over 65 will exceed the number under age 5.
The aging population will stress Social Security, Medicare and health services, while the disappearance of pensions and lack of savings for retirement will them modifying their original thoughts of retirement. Longer and healthier life expectancies will find people working longer at their current job or starting a new career to provide income, benefits, or to remain active will be the norm rather than the exception.
Today this is considered an oddity but, could it become the norm at some point? The world population is getting older, the number of people 65 and older is expected to increase from 516 million in 2009 to 1.53 billion in 2050, according to data released by the US Census Bureau.
The number of centenarians (100 years) has increased to more than 340,000 worldwide versus a few thousand in the fifties. By midcentury, the number of centenarians in the US could grow from 75,000 to 600,000.
Advances in medicine, healthcare and education concerning lifestyle choices have been big factors in longer living. Problems like heart disease, and many types of cancer a few years ago were the beginning of the end, now with proper treatment and monitoring they have become health issues rather than life-ending.
As a segment of the population grows fast another slows down, while the age group over 65 is expected to see a jump by 2050, the group under 15 years old will grow at a much slower rate, from 1.83 billion to 1.93 billion. In 2017, the number of people over 65 will exceed the number under age 5.
The aging population will stress Social Security, Medicare and health services, while the disappearance of pensions and lack of savings for retirement will them modifying their original thoughts of retirement. Longer and healthier life expectancies will find people working longer at their current job or starting a new career to provide income, benefits, or to remain active will be the norm rather than the exception.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Retirement Planning - 3 Keys to a Complete Plan
Retirement planning is more than the value of your 401k, there is more to it. Too many people benchmark their account balance to their ability to enjoy life. I have been involved in the financial services industry for close to twenty years and during my career I have never heard anyone retire because his or her 401k had reached a certain dollar amount.
Retirement means different things to different people; for some it may mean a new career, others may want more time for themselves and family, and in some cases, a change in attitude is all it takes.
Regardless of your definition, there are three keys to maintaining a full and satisfying retirement:
1) Lifestyle- This is who you are, how you want to live your life. What you want to do and when you want to do it.
2) Wealth-These are your financials your 401k, savings, income, expenses and taxes. What you own and what you owe. How you take care of yourself and your family during your lifetime and the arrangements you make to take care of your family when you are gone. The strategies and adjustments you need to make if there is a shortfall or excess.
3) Health-maintaining good health will keep you active, motivated and inspired. Understanding how to deal with health issues when they pop-up will reduce stress, and speed recovery.
Three keys to retirement, with may sub-groups and strategies, that work together to create a plan for your retirement.
** The views and strategies described may not be suitable for investors and many not ensure profit or protect against possible loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing herein constitutes legal or tax advice
Retirement means different things to different people; for some it may mean a new career, others may want more time for themselves and family, and in some cases, a change in attitude is all it takes.
Regardless of your definition, there are three keys to maintaining a full and satisfying retirement:
1) Lifestyle- This is who you are, how you want to live your life. What you want to do and when you want to do it.
2) Wealth-These are your financials your 401k, savings, income, expenses and taxes. What you own and what you owe. How you take care of yourself and your family during your lifetime and the arrangements you make to take care of your family when you are gone. The strategies and adjustments you need to make if there is a shortfall or excess.
3) Health-maintaining good health will keep you active, motivated and inspired. Understanding how to deal with health issues when they pop-up will reduce stress, and speed recovery.
Three keys to retirement, with may sub-groups and strategies, that work together to create a plan for your retirement.
** The views and strategies described may not be suitable for investors and many not ensure profit or protect against possible loss. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Nothing herein constitutes legal or tax advice
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Working Without a Net-The Disappearing Pension
At 45 years old, after 15 years at her current job, Mary received a notice that her employer was discontinuing it's defined benefit pension plan. She would not lose the accumulated value up to this point however, the company would no longer be contributing to the plan. This meant that Mary and the other employees were now wholly responsible for funding their retirement.
Mary had counted on that pension; the expense of raising a family, managing a household, and saving for college made it difficult for her and her husband Joe to commit money towards their retirement. They had hoped Mary's pension income along with Social Security, the small amount of savings in their 401k, and part-time work would cover their expenses during retirement. Would they have to work forever just to pay their bills? What would happen if they ran out of savings, or felt they were no longer able to work?
The defined benefit pension provides a benefit at retirement; an ongoing stream of income, often based on a formula of compensation and length of employment. The employer funds the plan, calculated to determine the amount needed to provide the benefit. Several options for distribution are usually available including a single life distribution that ends at the death of the pensioner or a survivorship option that provides a reduced benefit that continues through the lifetime of the surviving spouse.
The income is usually a percentage of actual compensation during the years of employment. Some plans have cost-of-living adjustments to safeguard against rising costs while others are vulnerable to the loss of purchasing power caused by inflation. Personal savings, IRA's and 401k's are still important to help fill the gaps between income and expenses, as well as providing for lump sum withdrawals and emergency resources.
The responsibility of making sure the plan benefit is available at retirement is the responsibility of the employer. The value of the plan is subject to periodic review by an actuary to ensure it is on track to meet the obligations. During prosperous times with strong investment performance, the plan might become over funded, exceeding the obligations due. Other times, poor performance could cause the plan to become underfunded. The employer would be responsible for bringing it back to funded status.
During the 1990’s a shift began to occur regarding retirement benefits provided by employers. The costs of funding and the complicated administration caused many employers to begin freezing these plans and offering only defined contribution (401k) plans. These plans do not provide a defined benefit, it is unknown; only the contribution has a value. Investment performance and contributions determine the plan value; it may be more or less than the contributions at any time, including retirement.
By making the move from a defined benefit plan to a defined contribution plan the security of a no-cost continuous income stream escapes us. The responsibility of funding retirement moves from the employer to the employee. The employee makes pre-tax contributions to the plan through payroll deductions and directs it to the investment sub-accounts offered. The employer may or may not choose to contribute to the plan.
There is much discussion at this time concerning new retirement options; the decline of the pension, concerns about the longevity of Social Security, and the cyclical market declines will require us to be pro-active towards our retirement. Working longer, saving throughout our career and more employee education concerning retirement planning are steps in the right direction.
Mary had counted on that pension; the expense of raising a family, managing a household, and saving for college made it difficult for her and her husband Joe to commit money towards their retirement. They had hoped Mary's pension income along with Social Security, the small amount of savings in their 401k, and part-time work would cover their expenses during retirement. Would they have to work forever just to pay their bills? What would happen if they ran out of savings, or felt they were no longer able to work?
The defined benefit pension provides a benefit at retirement; an ongoing stream of income, often based on a formula of compensation and length of employment. The employer funds the plan, calculated to determine the amount needed to provide the benefit. Several options for distribution are usually available including a single life distribution that ends at the death of the pensioner or a survivorship option that provides a reduced benefit that continues through the lifetime of the surviving spouse.
The income is usually a percentage of actual compensation during the years of employment. Some plans have cost-of-living adjustments to safeguard against rising costs while others are vulnerable to the loss of purchasing power caused by inflation. Personal savings, IRA's and 401k's are still important to help fill the gaps between income and expenses, as well as providing for lump sum withdrawals and emergency resources.
The responsibility of making sure the plan benefit is available at retirement is the responsibility of the employer. The value of the plan is subject to periodic review by an actuary to ensure it is on track to meet the obligations. During prosperous times with strong investment performance, the plan might become over funded, exceeding the obligations due. Other times, poor performance could cause the plan to become underfunded. The employer would be responsible for bringing it back to funded status.
During the 1990’s a shift began to occur regarding retirement benefits provided by employers. The costs of funding and the complicated administration caused many employers to begin freezing these plans and offering only defined contribution (401k) plans. These plans do not provide a defined benefit, it is unknown; only the contribution has a value. Investment performance and contributions determine the plan value; it may be more or less than the contributions at any time, including retirement.
By making the move from a defined benefit plan to a defined contribution plan the security of a no-cost continuous income stream escapes us. The responsibility of funding retirement moves from the employer to the employee. The employee makes pre-tax contributions to the plan through payroll deductions and directs it to the investment sub-accounts offered. The employer may or may not choose to contribute to the plan.
There is much discussion at this time concerning new retirement options; the decline of the pension, concerns about the longevity of Social Security, and the cyclical market declines will require us to be pro-active towards our retirement. Working longer, saving throughout our career and more employee education concerning retirement planning are steps in the right direction.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
The Mike Bonacorsi Show
My radio show based on my award winning book "Retirement Readiness; Creating Your Vision, Knowing Your Position, & Preparing for Your Future" is broadcast every Tuesday at Noon til 1 pm EST on WSMN Radio AM 1590.
To hear my broadcast live go to http://www.wsmnradio.com/ Tuesdays at Noon.
You can also listen on PodBean.com at http://mikebonacorsi.podbean.com/
The podcast is new so check back for updates as I will be adding more shows to the list.
To hear my broadcast live go to http://www.wsmnradio.com/ Tuesdays at Noon.
You can also listen on PodBean.com at http://mikebonacorsi.podbean.com/
The podcast is new so check back for updates as I will be adding more shows to the list.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Financial Planning is More Than Money: How strategies fit into Plans
What is the difference between a strategy and plan in charting your course for retirement? Strategies are the options you might follow to meet different goals. A plan is a global document that encompasses a number of goals equally and consists of action steps that help you to meet those goals.
I was reminded of this difference recently when reviewing the “plan” created by Lou, a friend of mine. Lou asked if I would, “take a look” at his plan and offer an opinion. He handed me a document that was several pages long, which contained the results of a risk analyzer and portfolio recommendations. I could see that he had spent some time creating this.
I immediately thought of the difference between strategies and plans and said, “This is interesting as a strategy, but lacking as a plan.” He looked puzzled at my comment and I went on to explain, a true financial plan is a life plan. It starts with a vision of how you see your future, creating goals, setting priorities.
Once your goals are set, then you develop strategies. These should consist of more than building a portfolio. Strategies are the engine that drives you to your vision. They are the action steps that lead you to meet your goals. They must be comprehensive to be truly effective. Like an engine, which cannot run efficiently on a few cylinders, throwing together various strategies, without a global plan, will only get you spotty results and ultimately misfires. Strategies include creating timelines, understanding all areas of money management, insuring and protecting against catastrophe, and creating a Plan B for the unexpected.
A plan is an active document--an evolving project--which requires monitoring, tweaking and updating. Changes in your job, relationships, health, and financials will necessitate updates and adjustments. When priorities change, one goal may be accomplished, while another is added to replace it. For instance; the birth of a child or grandchild, may add college planning to the plan, or health issues may require additional care costs. Changes in relationships may require revamping your estate planning goals.
When the plan is active and not set in stone, you can easily readjust and keep moving forward. Making sure you stay on target to your goals will require vigilance. You will be updating and rebalancing your accounts, making adjustments in your strategies, and revisiting your timelines.
Try thinking of building a life, or financial, plan along the lines of taking a long journey. First, you have a vision of the trip, decide upon the various stops along the way, and then chart the route you will travel. Your vision becomes stronger, once you have that map out, the car goes into the garage for a tune-up, and the hotels are booked. Once begun, the journey is likely to follow twists and turns you didn’t plan for and yet they add to the value of the experience. The restaurant you found on the back street when you took a wrong turn, the bad weather that caused you to postpone the canyon hiking for a trip to an antique shop full of bargains, all contribute to the evolving nature of an active journey. It’s always changing and that allows you to make the best of whatever comes your way.
As you build your life/financial plan, keep these thoughts in mind:
Start with a vision.
1. Set timelines for goals.
2. Create strategies that align with your goals.
3. Monitor, adjust, rethink, tweak.
4. The destination you reach may be more wonderful than you ever imagined.
About Mike Bonacorsi, CFP®
Mike Bonacorsi is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, public speaker and award-winning author of Retirement Readiness: A Guide to Creating Your Vision, Knowing Your Position, and Preparing for Your Future. You can listen to his radio show, The Mike Bonacorsi Show, at WSMN, 1590AM or on your computer at http://wsmnradio.com on Tuesdays from noon – 1:00 PM. For additional information, visit http://mikebonacorsi.com/. Reprinted with permission of the author. 2009© Mike Bonacorsi CFP® All Rights Reserved.
I was reminded of this difference recently when reviewing the “plan” created by Lou, a friend of mine. Lou asked if I would, “take a look” at his plan and offer an opinion. He handed me a document that was several pages long, which contained the results of a risk analyzer and portfolio recommendations. I could see that he had spent some time creating this.
I immediately thought of the difference between strategies and plans and said, “This is interesting as a strategy, but lacking as a plan.” He looked puzzled at my comment and I went on to explain, a true financial plan is a life plan. It starts with a vision of how you see your future, creating goals, setting priorities.
Once your goals are set, then you develop strategies. These should consist of more than building a portfolio. Strategies are the engine that drives you to your vision. They are the action steps that lead you to meet your goals. They must be comprehensive to be truly effective. Like an engine, which cannot run efficiently on a few cylinders, throwing together various strategies, without a global plan, will only get you spotty results and ultimately misfires. Strategies include creating timelines, understanding all areas of money management, insuring and protecting against catastrophe, and creating a Plan B for the unexpected.
A plan is an active document--an evolving project--which requires monitoring, tweaking and updating. Changes in your job, relationships, health, and financials will necessitate updates and adjustments. When priorities change, one goal may be accomplished, while another is added to replace it. For instance; the birth of a child or grandchild, may add college planning to the plan, or health issues may require additional care costs. Changes in relationships may require revamping your estate planning goals.
When the plan is active and not set in stone, you can easily readjust and keep moving forward. Making sure you stay on target to your goals will require vigilance. You will be updating and rebalancing your accounts, making adjustments in your strategies, and revisiting your timelines.
Try thinking of building a life, or financial, plan along the lines of taking a long journey. First, you have a vision of the trip, decide upon the various stops along the way, and then chart the route you will travel. Your vision becomes stronger, once you have that map out, the car goes into the garage for a tune-up, and the hotels are booked. Once begun, the journey is likely to follow twists and turns you didn’t plan for and yet they add to the value of the experience. The restaurant you found on the back street when you took a wrong turn, the bad weather that caused you to postpone the canyon hiking for a trip to an antique shop full of bargains, all contribute to the evolving nature of an active journey. It’s always changing and that allows you to make the best of whatever comes your way.
As you build your life/financial plan, keep these thoughts in mind:
Start with a vision.
1. Set timelines for goals.
2. Create strategies that align with your goals.
3. Monitor, adjust, rethink, tweak.
4. The destination you reach may be more wonderful than you ever imagined.
About Mike Bonacorsi, CFP®
Mike Bonacorsi is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, public speaker and award-winning author of Retirement Readiness: A Guide to Creating Your Vision, Knowing Your Position, and Preparing for Your Future. You can listen to his radio show, The Mike Bonacorsi Show, at WSMN, 1590AM or on your computer at http://wsmnradio.com on Tuesdays from noon – 1:00 PM. For additional information, visit http://mikebonacorsi.com/. Reprinted with permission of the author. 2009© Mike Bonacorsi CFP® All Rights Reserved.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Reviewing and Understanding Your Cash Flow
Revisiting Your Cash Flow Before You Retire
Reviewing and understanding your cash flow, income streams versus expenses, is an important part of retirement planning that is frequently overlooked. The lifestyle you have created based on your income during employment may require some modification when you leave your current position.
Let’s start with understanding income; I define income as a consistent, scheduled, reliable stream of payment, for a determined amount of time. Social Security is an example of income; you receive your check at the same time each month, for the same amount, for life. If you have a Defined Benefit Pension with your employer, you can choose an option that will provide income to you based on your life expectancy or one that will continue to provide an amount to your surviving spouse.
Bond and CD interest fit the definition of income however; an issue may present itself at maturity. These products have a shelf life and at maturity and renewal, there is no guarantee the same opportunities will exist. Annuities can also provide a lifetime stream of income.
The key to these sources is in the definition, consistent, scheduled, and reliable for a determined period. If you receive a check on January 2 and you run out of money on February 1 you know there is another check coming on the third. Your income sources will not run out, they may stop after a pre-determined date, but not run out.
Drawing down on savings to supplement your income is a strategy to offset a shortfall but does not provide income. One reason is that savings can run out; if you spend it too quickly, it will be gone. Unless you are able to add to savings or, receive a high enough return to replace your withdrawal, you will eventually run out. As a strategy this requires careful consideration, drawing down on savings too early can have a negative impact in later years.
Once you have determined your income flow the next step is to list your outflow, expenses. Expenses fall into one of two categories, necessary or lifestyle.
Necessary expenses are those you need to survive, shelter, food, medical, insurance utilities, transportation. These are bills that if not paid will have a direct negative effect on your ability to live, or function day-to-day.
Lifestyle expenses are not necessary for us to live but, they are the ones that we like best, these expenses are fun and make us feel good. They can be impulse or emotional purchases, planned or unplanned, practical or not, but expenses that are not needed for survival. They include your daily out-of-pocket expenses that add up each time you swipe your debit or credit card.
Tracking lifestyle expenses on a daily basis can be key factor in understanding where your money goes and where spending habits need to be changed.
Understanding your income and expenses will become critical when you decide to leave your current job and paycheck. You no longer will have the regular paycheck you have grown accustomed to, and your lifestyle may require some modifications. Reviewing your situation and preparing for these changes will make the adjustments easier when the time comes.
About Mike Bonacorsi, CFP®
Mike Bonacorsi is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, public speaker and award-winning author of Retirement Readiness: A Guide to Creating Your Vision, Knowing Your Position, and Preparing for Your Future. You can listen to his radio show, The Mike Bonacorsi Show, at WSMN, 1590AM or on your computer at http://wsmnradio.com on Tuesdays from noon – 1:00 PM. For additional information, visit http://mikebonacorsi.com/. Reprinted with permission of the author. 2009© Mike Bonacorsi CFP® All Rights Reserved.
Reviewing and understanding your cash flow, income streams versus expenses, is an important part of retirement planning that is frequently overlooked. The lifestyle you have created based on your income during employment may require some modification when you leave your current position.
Let’s start with understanding income; I define income as a consistent, scheduled, reliable stream of payment, for a determined amount of time. Social Security is an example of income; you receive your check at the same time each month, for the same amount, for life. If you have a Defined Benefit Pension with your employer, you can choose an option that will provide income to you based on your life expectancy or one that will continue to provide an amount to your surviving spouse.
Bond and CD interest fit the definition of income however; an issue may present itself at maturity. These products have a shelf life and at maturity and renewal, there is no guarantee the same opportunities will exist. Annuities can also provide a lifetime stream of income.
The key to these sources is in the definition, consistent, scheduled, and reliable for a determined period. If you receive a check on January 2 and you run out of money on February 1 you know there is another check coming on the third. Your income sources will not run out, they may stop after a pre-determined date, but not run out.
Drawing down on savings to supplement your income is a strategy to offset a shortfall but does not provide income. One reason is that savings can run out; if you spend it too quickly, it will be gone. Unless you are able to add to savings or, receive a high enough return to replace your withdrawal, you will eventually run out. As a strategy this requires careful consideration, drawing down on savings too early can have a negative impact in later years.
Once you have determined your income flow the next step is to list your outflow, expenses. Expenses fall into one of two categories, necessary or lifestyle.
Necessary expenses are those you need to survive, shelter, food, medical, insurance utilities, transportation. These are bills that if not paid will have a direct negative effect on your ability to live, or function day-to-day.
Lifestyle expenses are not necessary for us to live but, they are the ones that we like best, these expenses are fun and make us feel good. They can be impulse or emotional purchases, planned or unplanned, practical or not, but expenses that are not needed for survival. They include your daily out-of-pocket expenses that add up each time you swipe your debit or credit card.
Tracking lifestyle expenses on a daily basis can be key factor in understanding where your money goes and where spending habits need to be changed.
Understanding your income and expenses will become critical when you decide to leave your current job and paycheck. You no longer will have the regular paycheck you have grown accustomed to, and your lifestyle may require some modifications. Reviewing your situation and preparing for these changes will make the adjustments easier when the time comes.
About Mike Bonacorsi, CFP®
Mike Bonacorsi is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional, public speaker and award-winning author of Retirement Readiness: A Guide to Creating Your Vision, Knowing Your Position, and Preparing for Your Future. You can listen to his radio show, The Mike Bonacorsi Show, at WSMN, 1590AM or on your computer at http://wsmnradio.com on Tuesdays from noon – 1:00 PM. For additional information, visit http://mikebonacorsi.com/. Reprinted with permission of the author. 2009© Mike Bonacorsi CFP® All Rights Reserved.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Introduction to Retirement Readiness, Creating Your Vision, Knowing Your Position, & Preparing for Your Future
This is not a book about a great investment strategy, a hot new product, or a guarantee of any kind. I wrote it to get you thinking about retirement before it happens.
Too many times over the years, I've met with people who've already made the leap into retirement without any real direction or thought. They want a lifestyle that doesn't match up with their finances; they make decisions based on what may or may not be working for someone else.
As you read this book, I want you to create a retirement life that is yours. Your dreams, goals, and ambitions should be based on your situation. To do this, we’ll create a vision, asses your situation, and prepare for the unexpected.
Read this book a few times- throw it in your briefcase, on your nightstand, in a desk drawer. Make sure it’s somewhere accessible. This is an interactive book. Answer the questions at the end of each section, be honest, and share your answers with your spouse.
More important, read this book before you retire, so you can hit the ground running on the day you declare yourself retired.
Last, I want this book to get you thinking. You have to make these decisions once in your life, and there are pros and cons for each decision. Don’t hesitate to seek out the advice of a financial professional for further input on creating a retirement plant that will fit your needs.
This book is available on Amazon.com at a 22% discount!
http://www.amazon.com/Retirement-Readiness-Creating-Position-Preparing/dp/193180771X
Too many times over the years, I've met with people who've already made the leap into retirement without any real direction or thought. They want a lifestyle that doesn't match up with their finances; they make decisions based on what may or may not be working for someone else.
As you read this book, I want you to create a retirement life that is yours. Your dreams, goals, and ambitions should be based on your situation. To do this, we’ll create a vision, asses your situation, and prepare for the unexpected.
Read this book a few times- throw it in your briefcase, on your nightstand, in a desk drawer. Make sure it’s somewhere accessible. This is an interactive book. Answer the questions at the end of each section, be honest, and share your answers with your spouse.
More important, read this book before you retire, so you can hit the ground running on the day you declare yourself retired.
Last, I want this book to get you thinking. You have to make these decisions once in your life, and there are pros and cons for each decision. Don’t hesitate to seek out the advice of a financial professional for further input on creating a retirement plant that will fit your needs.
This book is available on Amazon.com at a 22% discount!
http://www.amazon.com/Retirement-Readiness-Creating-Position-Preparing/dp/193180771X
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Who Says You Have To Retire At 65?
Do you want your retirement years to be lively? Is your current job or career, fulfilling for you? If so, then maybe you are going to be joining the happy, busy ranks of those, more than 70% according to a recent A.A.R.P. survey, who are planning a "working retirement." If working past your retirement date seems grim, then cheer up. There is a silver lining if you know where to look.
1) Continuing at your current job has its positives - you know the job. There are no learning curves, or the awkwardness of being the new kid.
2) If you have personal debt or you are close to paying off your mortgage, working a few more years at your current income can go a long way to eliminating expenses.
3) Continuing to draw a paycheck will allow you to delay Social Security, for a higher benefit in the near future. Your benefit will continue to increase up to age 70. Keeping that weekly paycheck coming will also prevent you from drawing down your savings too early.
4) Chances are if you are near retirement, you may be close to peak earning and benefit levels. Perhaps you want to boost your 401k levels by maxing out your contribution and taking advantage of the over 50 catch-up contribution. Your employer may even contribute to your account adding to your total. Health benefits will probably continue and can provide continued coverage for you, your spouse and possibly other family members. It can also provide as a bridge to Medicare or act as a supplement.
5) You might not be ready to quit working. You may need income, require some benefits, or just like to work. There are many people out there, who enjoy the challenges work brings and going out there each day to meet them. For you "retirement" may the beginning of a new career!
You may be feeling like "George." His wife Linda says, "George is in his sixties and while all our friends are talking about retiring, he doesn't want to quit. George likes his job, he has the option to continue full-time, or work in a per diem arrangement, as long as he wants. He's the kind of person that needs to be busy. The income and flexibility in his job will allow us plenty of opportunity to enjoy ourselves without worrying about money. I have already stopped working, but this doesn't mean that my husband will. As long as we can enjoy more time together, then I am satisfied with his decision to stay in the workforce, for now." Linda and George have different dreams about retirement, but they have created a plan that works for them. Where do your dreams fit into your plans for retirement?
1) Continuing at your current job has its positives - you know the job. There are no learning curves, or the awkwardness of being the new kid.
2) If you have personal debt or you are close to paying off your mortgage, working a few more years at your current income can go a long way to eliminating expenses.
3) Continuing to draw a paycheck will allow you to delay Social Security, for a higher benefit in the near future. Your benefit will continue to increase up to age 70. Keeping that weekly paycheck coming will also prevent you from drawing down your savings too early.
4) Chances are if you are near retirement, you may be close to peak earning and benefit levels. Perhaps you want to boost your 401k levels by maxing out your contribution and taking advantage of the over 50 catch-up contribution. Your employer may even contribute to your account adding to your total. Health benefits will probably continue and can provide continued coverage for you, your spouse and possibly other family members. It can also provide as a bridge to Medicare or act as a supplement.
5) You might not be ready to quit working. You may need income, require some benefits, or just like to work. There are many people out there, who enjoy the challenges work brings and going out there each day to meet them. For you "retirement" may the beginning of a new career!
You may be feeling like "George." His wife Linda says, "George is in his sixties and while all our friends are talking about retiring, he doesn't want to quit. George likes his job, he has the option to continue full-time, or work in a per diem arrangement, as long as he wants. He's the kind of person that needs to be busy. The income and flexibility in his job will allow us plenty of opportunity to enjoy ourselves without worrying about money. I have already stopped working, but this doesn't mean that my husband will. As long as we can enjoy more time together, then I am satisfied with his decision to stay in the workforce, for now." Linda and George have different dreams about retirement, but they have created a plan that works for them. Where do your dreams fit into your plans for retirement?
Social Security-when and Why Should I Start
As you get closer to retirement, it is important to realize that there are decisions you have to make regarding certain benefits that will become available to you. One decision that affects all but a few groups is when to begin your Social Security benefit.
Three milestones require consideration when choosing your benefit, age 62, full retirement age (between 65 and 67) and age 70. At each of these ages your benefit amount changes and it is important to understand which age and amount is most advantageous to your needs and situation.
Age 62, the age where Social Security first becomes available, offers you a benefit amount approximately 75% of the amount you would receive at full retirement age. The common thought for many people is to begin benefits at this time, the idea being, “the longer I take the benefit the more lifetime benefit I will receive”. Starting benefits at age 62 made more sense when life expectancies were shorter; the “break-even” age for taking benefits at 62 versus your full retirement age is between 78 and 80 years old.
Another factor in your decision is whether you will continue to work between age 62 and your full retirement age. Earnings from employment may reduce your benefits if they exceed certain amounts. In 2008 if you have not reached full retirement age and earned over $13,560.00 your benefit reduction is $1 for every $2 earned. If you will reach full retirement age during 2008, your earning limit is $36,120.00 and benefits are reduced $1 for every $3 earned. The month you reach full retirement age you can relax, from that point on you are able to earn as much as you want with no reduction in benefit. One important note is that these limits are on income earned from employment, not pensions, annuities, IRA’s, or 401k withdrawals.
A third consideration is delaying you benefit. Social Security provides delayed retirement credits up to 8% per year to age 70 for those who can wait to take their benefit.
These options will determine the benefit you receive during your lifetime. An often, overlooked part of the decision process is what affect will my choice have on my surviving spouse? Your surviving spouse at full retirement age will receive a benefit equal to yours if it is higher than his or her own. If you chose to delay your benefit beyond your full retirement age, your surviving spouse will receive your benefit plus the additional delayed retirement credits.
It is important to realize that decisions like these should not be automatic or determined by the “if it works for him it should work for me” process. You need to determine the pros and cons of each option and understand how it satisfies your needs in your unique situation.
Three milestones require consideration when choosing your benefit, age 62, full retirement age (between 65 and 67) and age 70. At each of these ages your benefit amount changes and it is important to understand which age and amount is most advantageous to your needs and situation.
Age 62, the age where Social Security first becomes available, offers you a benefit amount approximately 75% of the amount you would receive at full retirement age. The common thought for many people is to begin benefits at this time, the idea being, “the longer I take the benefit the more lifetime benefit I will receive”. Starting benefits at age 62 made more sense when life expectancies were shorter; the “break-even” age for taking benefits at 62 versus your full retirement age is between 78 and 80 years old.
Another factor in your decision is whether you will continue to work between age 62 and your full retirement age. Earnings from employment may reduce your benefits if they exceed certain amounts. In 2008 if you have not reached full retirement age and earned over $13,560.00 your benefit reduction is $1 for every $2 earned. If you will reach full retirement age during 2008, your earning limit is $36,120.00 and benefits are reduced $1 for every $3 earned. The month you reach full retirement age you can relax, from that point on you are able to earn as much as you want with no reduction in benefit. One important note is that these limits are on income earned from employment, not pensions, annuities, IRA’s, or 401k withdrawals.
A third consideration is delaying you benefit. Social Security provides delayed retirement credits up to 8% per year to age 70 for those who can wait to take their benefit.
These options will determine the benefit you receive during your lifetime. An often, overlooked part of the decision process is what affect will my choice have on my surviving spouse? Your surviving spouse at full retirement age will receive a benefit equal to yours if it is higher than his or her own. If you chose to delay your benefit beyond your full retirement age, your surviving spouse will receive your benefit plus the additional delayed retirement credits.
It is important to realize that decisions like these should not be automatic or determined by the “if it works for him it should work for me” process. You need to determine the pros and cons of each option and understand how it satisfies your needs in your unique situation.
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