<p>Expert insights and advice from industry leaders to help you navigate your path to retirement.</p>

Everything you need to know about Financial Freedom

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<p>Tons of professionals are unaware of all the options available to them in times of an employer merger. Get more out of your retirement savings!&nbsp;</p>

Has your employer  been acquired?

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Companies are acquired & merge all the time. What many employees aren't aware of are all of the options regarding their employer-sponsered plans & retirement savings. This blog explains the different options available so you are best prepared when your company transistions. 

<p><strong>By: Conor O'Malley</strong></p><p>From complete buyouts to Mergers &amp; Acquisitions, companies are always on the move. In most cases, this opens up opportunities for professionals like yourself! It could be a new role, new coworkers, new ideas-- some pretty exciting additions to your career. Lower on the priority list is usually the retirement benefits, but this unique transition could be the difference of tens to hundreds of thousands in retirement savings. In this article, we’re going to break down how an employer transition affects your 401(k) and how to benefit from it!&nbsp;</p><p>For years, our team of CFPs have helped countless families in times of job transition and made a significant impact on their retirement savings-- let’s dive into how:</p><h2>Will my 401(k) transfer to the new company?</h2><p>In the majority of cases, your account will move from your old 401(k) provider to the new one. Sometimes, though, the new company uses the same provider, so you get to keep the same login and account information.</p><p>&nbsp;In both cases, more often than not, the plans differ. Different employer matches, fund options, contributions, etc. It is extremely important to understand the new plan before making any decisions or changes to how you save for retirement.</p><p><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667808/image_2a31d90687.png" alt="image.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667808/thumbnail_image_2a31d90687.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667808/small_image_2a31d90687.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667808/medium_image_2a31d90687.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667808/large_image_2a31d90687.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></p><h2>Do I have to transfer my old 401(k) into the new one?</h2><p>The simple answer is NO. Many people think that it’s mandatory to keep your 401(k) savings in the new employer plan, but as a matter of fact, you can roll it out at little to no cost (and no tax consequences!!). This move is considered a 401(k) rollover.</p><p>&nbsp;If the acquiring company decides to move your old plan into their current one, you may have the option to follow suit and your savings go into the new plan. Alternatively, you could transfer the funds into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA). This decision depends on factors like the new plan's terms, investment options, and fees compared to those of an IRA.&nbsp;</p><p>Estimating retirement savings becomes crucial in such scenarios. As an individual planning for retirement, you need a clear picture of how much you should have for retirement and whether the changes post-acquisition align with your financial goals. Evaluate the new plan's investment options and fees to ensure they are similar or possibly better than the previous plan-- if not, it may make sense to go that alternative route of a 401(k) rollover.</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714145678/Frame_4076320_9725c1ba2d.svg" alt="Frame 4076320.svg"></a></figure><h2>Will I still get the Employer Match?</h2><p>No matter which option you choose, as long as you continue to contribute to your current 401(k), you’ll receive the employer match (if your company offers one). The 401(k) rollover option simply transfers your current 401(k) savings into an IRA, in which you can allocate the account with more diversification and fund options. If you choose to do so, future contributions will be with the new employer plan, receiving the matching contributions. Keep in mind, although, these future savings will be constrained to the plan’s specific options.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1704904370/Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_13_65269e32b6.png" alt="RetireUS Virtual Financial Planning _Page_13.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1704904370/thumbnail_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_13_65269e32b6.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1704904370/small_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_13_65269e32b6.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1704904370/medium_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_13_65269e32b6.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1704904370/large_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_13_65269e32b6.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Closing Thoughts&nbsp;</h2><p>When your employer is acquired, stay informed about the changes to your 401(k) plan. Evaluate the options available, including the possibility of a 401(k) rollover, and consider consulting a financial professional to ensure your retirement savings align with your goals.</p>

 How a Merger or Acquisition affects your 401(k) Plan

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Worried About A Market Crash?

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Discover how the Sequence of Returns risk can have a negative impact on your portfolio. Utilize our Portfolio DeepScan tool to help mitigate risk and increase your probability of success for financial freedom!

<p>As an investor, you've likely heard of the phrase "sequence of returns," but do you truly understand its importance? This fundamental concept can significantly impact your investment journey and ultimately determine whether you achieve your financial goals. Let's delve into the world of sequence of returns and discover why it matters.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064470/Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_06_9e799e283f.png" alt="Financial Planner Near Me_Page_06.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064470/thumbnail_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_06_9e799e283f.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064473/small_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_06_9e799e283f.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064473/medium_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_06_9e799e283f.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064473/large_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_06_9e799e283f.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>What is a Portfolio's “Sequence of Returns”?</h2><p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/retirement/sequence-of-returns-risk/#:~:text=What%20is%20sequence,of%20a%20portfolio.">Sequence of returns</a> refers to the order in which investment returns occur over time. It can vary greatly due to the volatile nature of financial markets, economic conditions, and other external factors. Essentially, it outlines the journey of your portfolio's performance, from the early years of investing to the maturity of your investments.</p><h3>Why it Matters:&nbsp;</h3><p>Sequence of returns is crucial because it can profoundly affect the final outcome of your investment portfolio. Two investors with identical average returns over a specific period can achieve vastly different results due to the timing and order of those returns.</p><h2>The Impact of Sequence of Returns Risk on Withdrawals:&nbsp;</h2><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699455778/sequence_of_returns_chart_withdrawals_da9fca0782.webp" alt="sequence of returns chart withdrawals.webp" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699455778/thumbnail_sequence_of_returns_chart_withdrawals_da9fca0782.webp 201w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699455778/small_sequence_of_returns_chart_withdrawals_da9fca0782.webp 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699455778/medium_sequence_of_returns_chart_withdrawals_da9fca0782.webp 750w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:13px;">Source: </span><a href="https://www.schwab.com/secure/file/P-7881626"><span style="font-size:13px;">Schwab Center for Financial Research&nbsp;</span></a></p><h3><strong>Consider two scenarios:</strong></h3><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Favorable Sequence of Returns: When positive returns happen early in your investment journey, compounding works in your favor, amplifying your wealth over time. The growth potential of your portfolio increases, allowing you to reach your financial goals more efficiently.<br><br>&nbsp;</li><li>Unfavorable Sequence of Returns: Conversely, negative returns occurring early in your investment tenure can severely hamper the compounding effect. This can lead to a significant reduction in your portfolio's overall value and may hinder your ability to meet your financial objectives.</li></ol><figure class="image"><a href="https://info.retire.us/get-instant-access-to-your-free-portfolio-deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714145678/Frame_4076320_9725c1ba2d.svg" alt="Frame 4076320.svg"></a></figure><h3><strong>This is especially key if you are retired or near retirement:</strong></h3><p>Failure to manage your sequence of returns can quickly lead to running out of savings when you're in the withdrawal phase of your financial journey.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699455778/sequence_of_returns_chart_2_fc3195c12f.webp" alt="sequence of returns chart 2.webp" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699455778/thumbnail_sequence_of_returns_chart_2_fc3195c12f.webp 237w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699455778/small_sequence_of_returns_chart_2_fc3195c12f.webp 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:13px;">Source: </span><a href="https://www.schwab.com/learn/story/timing-matters-understanding-sequence-returns-risk"><span style="font-size:13px;">Schwab Center for Financial Research</span></a></p><h2>How to use this knowledge:</h2><h4>Set More Realistic Expectations:</h4><ul><li>Understanding sequence of returns can help you set more realistic expectations about the performance of your portfolio over time.</li><li>It allows you to anticipate potential risks and uncertainties, thus helping you avoid making impulsive investment decisions during periods of market volatility.</li></ul><h4>Tailor Your Risk Management:</h4><ul><li>Knowing the impact of unfavorable sequences can prompt you to adopt a risk management approach in your investment strategy.</li><li>Diversifying your portfolio, balancing asset allocation, and aligning investments with your risk tolerance can all help mitigate the effects of market downturns.</li></ul><h4>Reframe Long-Term Planning:</h4><ul><li>By acknowledging the significance of sequence of returns, you can develop a more robust long-term financial plan.</li><li>This can include adjusting your saving and spending habits, reassessing your retirement goals, and fine-tuning your investment strategy to better navigate market fluctuations.</li></ul><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064375/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png" alt="Free Retirement Checkpoint Quiz _Page_02.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064376/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064376/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064376/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064376/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h3 style="text-align:center;"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong>This free tool can help you plan!</strong></span></a></h3><p>To help you better understand the potential impact of sequence of returns on your investment portfolio, we offer a powerful tool called Portfolio DeepScan®. This free tool employs advanced market simulations to analyze your portfolio's performance under various scenarios, including market crashes and economic downturns.</p><h3>With a Portfolio DeepScan® you will receive:</h3><p><strong>Asset Allocation Analysis:</strong> Comprehensive asset allocation analysis, offering you a clear breakdown of your portfolio's exposure to different asset classes.&nbsp;</p><p><i>Understanding your asset allocation is vital, as it directly influences your portfolio's risk and return potential.</i></p><p><strong>Loss Quantification:</strong> Gain insights into the estimated losses your portfolio may incur during market downturns.</p><p><i>Calculating&nbsp;the potential impact of negative sequences on your portfolio allows you to implement proactive risk management strategies.</i></p><p><strong>Estimated Portfolio Returns:</strong> Discover your portfolio's target return and assess to help assess sequence of returns risk.&nbsp;</p><p><i>By comprehending the potential consequences of different return sequences, you can make more informed decisions and take actions to optimize your investment outcomes.</i></p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span></p>

What is Sequence of Returns Risk? 

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Have you tested against a market crash?

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<p>By: Brian Gassway</p><p>At RetireUS, we use a multitude of investment products to ensure you are on pace to <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">accomplish your goals</a>. Our Open Architecture Investment Platform has access to anything from mutual funds, Structured Products, life insurance to ETFs, custom built portfolios, and annuities.&nbsp;</p><p>In this article specifically, we'll explore the world of annuities, dissect their various types, weigh their pros and cons, and spotlight the benefits of how some annuities may work better than others for your goals.</p><p><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png" alt="Frame 4076667.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/thumbnail_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/small_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/medium_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/large_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></p><h2>Understanding Annuities</h2><p><a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/annuity.asp#:~:text=KEY%20TAKEAWAYS,variable%2C%20or%20indexed.">Annuities&nbsp;</a>serve as financial instruments engineered to furnish a reliable income stream during retirement, offering peace of mind and financial stability. These versatile products come in multiple forms, catering to diverse retirement needs and preferences.</p><blockquote><h3><a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/annuity.asp#:~:text=Immediate%20annuities%20are%20often%20purchased%20by%20people%20of%20any%20age%20who%20have%20received%20a%20large%20lump%20sum%20of%20money%2C%20such%20as%20a%20settlement%20or%20lottery%20win%2C%20and%20who%20prefer%20to%20exchange%20it%20for%20cash%20flows%20into%20the%20future.">Immediate Annuities</a>:</h3><p>Commence payouts soon after the initial investment.</p><h3><a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/annuity.asp#:~:text=Deferred%20annuities%20are%20structured%20to%20grow%20on%20a%20tax%2Ddeferred%20basis%20and%20provide%20annuitants%20with%20guaranteed%20income%20that%20begins%20on%20a%20date%20they%20specify">Deferred Annuities:</a></h3><p>Allow for accumulation over a specific period of time.&nbsp;</p><h3><a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/annuity.asp#:~:text=Fixed%20annuities%20provides%20a%20guaranteed%20minimum%20rate%20of%20interest%20and%20fixed%20periodic%20payments%20to%20the%20annuitant.">Fixed Annuities:</a></h3><p>Guarantee a predetermined payout.</p><h3><a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/annuity.asp#:~:text=Indexed%20annuities%20are%20fixed%20annuities%20that%20provide%20a%20return%20that%27s%20based%20on%20the%20performance%20of%20an%20equity%20index%2C%20such%20as%20the%20S%26P%20500%20index.">Fixed Indexed Annuities:&nbsp;</a></h3><p>Provides steady retirement income payments that are based on the performance of an underlying stock market index.</p><h3><a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/a/annuity.asp#:~:text=Variable%20annuities%20allow,their%20fund%27s%20investments.">Variable Annuities:</a></h3><p>Offer investment options tied to market performance, subjecting investors to market volatility.</p></blockquote><h2>Exploring Fixed Index Annuities</h2><p>Amidst the array of annuity options, Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs) stand out as a compelling choice for retirees seeking stability and growth potential. FIAs provide a unique blend of principal protection and opportunity for enhanced returns linked to the performance of a specified stock market index.</p><p>Unlike variable annuities, which expose investors to market risk, FIAs shield against downside losses while capturing the upside potential of the market, making them an attractive option for risk-averse investors.</p><h2>Advantages and Disadvantages Of Annuities</h2><p>As with any financial product, it's crucial to weigh the advantages and drawbacks before incorporating them into your retirement strategy. Annuities can offer guaranteed income for life, tax-deferred growth, and the potential to mitigate longevity risk. However, they may entail surrender charges, administrative fees, and limitations on liquidity-- impacting your ability to access funds when needed. Evaluating the trade-offs and consulting with a RetireUS financial advisor can help you navigate the complexities and make informed decisions aligned with your financial goals.</p><h4>Advantages:</h4><ul><li>Possibility for guaranteed income for life.</li><li>Tax-deferred growth potential based on a fixed or indexed rate.</li><li>Option to protect your principal investment.</li><li>Mitigation of longevity risk.</li></ul><h4>Disadvantages:</h4><ul><li>Surrender charges.</li><li>Administrative fees.</li><li>Limitations on liquidity and investment flexibility.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png" alt="600 x 314-2.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/thumbnail_600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/small_600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/medium_600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/large_600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></p><h2>Tailoring Annuities to Your Needs</h2><p>When considering annuities for retirement planning, customization is key. As an advisor with RetireUS, if an annuity makes sense for your plan, my job is to tailor annuity solutions to your unique circumstances and objectives.&nbsp;</p><p>I will assess factors such as income requirements, time horizon, risk tolerance, and estate planning goals to determine the most suitable annuity type and structure. Our 3-Bucket investment approach often integrates annuities for a Protected Growth part of your portfolio. Protected Growth aims to ensure correct pacing for your&nbsp;</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Annuities play a pivotal role in retirement planning, offering a spectrum of options to suit varying needs and preferences. In most cases, Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs) emerge as a standout choice, providing stability, growth potential, and downside protection in a volatile market environment.</p><p>By understanding the nuances of annuities and working with a knowledgeable team spearheaded by a team of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™, you can navigate the complexities of retirement planning with confidence and get on a path towards financial freedom.</p><h3>Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</h3><blockquote><p>What is the significance of annuities in retirement planning?</p><ul><li>Annuities serve as valuable tools to generate guaranteed income during retirement, garner steady returns, and/or shielding against the risk of outliving one's savings.</li></ul><p>How do Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs) differ from Variable Annuities?</p><ul><li>FIAs offer principal protection and growth potential tied to an index, while variable annuities may fully expose investors to market risk.</li></ul><p>Are there any tax implications associated with annuities?</p><ul><li>Most annuities offer tax-deferred growth, meaning taxes are deferred until withdrawals are made, providing potential tax advantages during retirement.</li><li>There are Roth options with certain annuities.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Can annuities be customized to accommodate specific retirement goals?</p><ul><li>Yes, annuities may be tailored to address individual needs, including income requirements, risk tolerance, and legacy planning objectives.</li></ul><p>How can I determine if annuities are suitable for my retirement plan?</p><ul><li>Consulting with a licensed financial professional with RetireUS can help assess your unique circumstances and determine whether annuities align with your long-term financial objectives.<br>&nbsp;</li></ul></blockquote><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.&nbsp;</span></p><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This represents a very general comparison and may not include all the information related to the product, security, investment shown or pros and cons. Please review the provided product prospectus for full details regarding the specific investments or strategies presented.</span></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

How do Annuities Work? 

<p>Use our FREE Financial Checkpoint to see if you are taking on too much market risk. In 5 minutes or less, you get a personalized planning assessment to gauge your current progress towards retirement.&nbsp;</p>

Worried about a Market Crash?

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The Rate of Return Myth explains how chasing high returns each year may not be worth the risk. The high return doesn't matter if the dollar amount in the account is low. Use this blog to understand how a low volatility account can grow further in the long run.

<p>Did you know that two accounts can average the same return over a fixed period of time and actually end in very different results. &nbsp;Confused? &nbsp;That's OK, let us explain.&nbsp;But first, in one of our other articles, we explain a concept called Sequence of Returns Risk. The Rate of Return Myth builds on this information to further illustrate why average return may not tell the whole story-- so we're going to dive a little deeper.&nbsp;</p><p><i>For our example, take the following into consideration:</i></p><ul><li>We have two accounts, each starting with $1 million.</li><li>One account is tracking the S&amp;P 500 and is taking on the full ups and downs of the market during an 22-year period.&nbsp;</li><li>Another account focuses on less volatility across the same timeline.</li><li>Both accounts average the same return over the 22 year period.</li></ul><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699896352/Rate_of_Return_Myth_Chart_2022_3532993f62.jpg" alt="Rate of Return Myth chart. " srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699896352/thumbnail_Rate_of_Return_Myth_Chart_2022_3532993f62.jpg 157w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699896352/small_Rate_of_Return_Myth_Chart_2022_3532993f62.jpg 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699896352/medium_Rate_of_Return_Myth_Chart_2022_3532993f62.jpg 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699896352/large_Rate_of_Return_Myth_Chart_2022_3532993f62.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p><span style="font-size:11px;">[Disclosure: Hypothetical performance results have been provided for general comparison purposes only. Past performance may not be indicative of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. Therefore, it should not be assumed that future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy will be profitable or equal the corresponding indicated performance level(s). Hypothetical returns using S&amp;P 500 annual returns for respective years listed above.]</span></p><p>Surprisingly, despite both accounts showing an average return of almost 9.49%, the low volatility account ends up with nearly 20% more at the end of the period. The chart above helps illustrate the Rate of Return Myth--The idea that average return in a given year is the primary factor influencing account growth. In reality, it is the amount of principal in the account in the beginning of each year that truly drives long-term success.</p><h4>Simply put; It is not about the return received in a given year, it is about the amount of money you are getting the return from.&nbsp;</h4><h2>How does a Low Volatility Account work?</h2><p>By adopting the low volatility approach in parts of your portfolio, you may miss out on exceptional years that generate high returns of <span style="color:hsl(120,75%,60%);">25-30%</span> or more. The trade-off is that you also avoid the devastating lows of <span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);">-23%</span> and <span style="color:hsl(0,75%,60%);">-38%</span>. Many people tend to misunderstand is the "Break-even Burden" that follows some of these market corrections and downturns:</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699896922/NA_Break_even_burden_452773aefc.jpg" alt="The concept of the Break even Burden. If you lose a certain amount in a given year, you are goiing to have get earn a larger return the next year to breakeven" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699896922/thumbnail_NA_Break_even_burden_452773aefc.jpg 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699896923/small_NA_Break_even_burden_452773aefc.jpg 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:13px;">Source: </span><a href="https://www.producersxl.com/wp-content/uploads/BreakEven-Burden-Flyer.pdf"><span style="font-size:13px;">Copyright North American, all rights reserved.&nbsp;</span></a></p><p>Downside protected strategies uses many techniques outside of traditional bond investments to limit losses and help safeguard your hard-earned savings from significant losses. This low volatility approach aims for a much smoother and consistent growth trajectory for accounts you wish to protect.&nbsp;</p><h3>High Risk Investing:</h3><ul><li>Takes on extreme highs and extreme lows of the market.</li><li>Tied to more uncertainty.&nbsp;</li></ul><h3>Low Volatility Approach:&nbsp;</h3><ul><li>Focuses on stability</li><li>Provides peace of mind</li><li>Allows you to weather market downturns without losing sleep</li></ul><h2>Do I need to be taking on a lot of risk?&nbsp;</h2><p>Consistency and discipline play pivotal roles in achieving your most important financial goals.&nbsp;If you're only a few years to retirement, prioritizing preservation of capital and minimizing downside risk, you can build a solid foundation for future growth.</p><p>It may be time to reevaluate your investment options, don't be lured by the Rate of Return Myth.&nbsp; Consider the bigger picture and choose a strategy that aligns with your current goals and timeline.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span></p>

What is the Rate of Return Myth?

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Thus blog explains how to start planning for retirement and utilizing our Resilient Retirement strategy. 

<p>The term “resilient retirement” is likely something that you have heard once or twice if you have been following our social accounts, but what is retirement planning? What is a Resilient Retirement?&nbsp;</p><p>To start, a common misconception is that retirement planning is something that is prepared 2 or 3 years prior to ending the working years. This could not be farther from the truth. Retirement planning is important to start by getting ahead of the curve and beginning to plan during your career.&nbsp;</p><p><i>Looking for answers on your own financial situation?&nbsp;</i><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><i>Take our FREE Retirement Checkpoint quiz</i></a><i> to find out where you stand.&nbsp;</i></p><h2>Paint a Picture: Planning for Retirement</h2><p>Think about traveling on a plane. You create an itinerary, buy a ticket, know when you need to arrive and where. This is a plan! Can you just arrive at an airport, purchase a ticket and go somewhere? Sure! But it is likely you will spend more than you need and may forget some things along the way.&nbsp;</p><p>The same goes for retirement planning. Can you just pick a date and hope for the best? Sure-- but in reality, planning in advance will help you to plan for the unexpected.</p><h2>A Retirement Account is different from a <i>Retirement Plan</i></h2><p>A Resilient Retirement®&nbsp;is a plan that has longevity and has planned for multiple scenarios. Again, this starts during your working years. Let’s start with understanding the benefits you are receiving through your employer.&nbsp;</p><p><i>What is your 401(k) match? What are the available fund options?</i></p><p>Your&nbsp;<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/1/401kplan.asp#:~:text=usually%20mutual%20funds.-,KEY%20TAKEAWAYS,1,-Under%20the%20CARES">401(k)</a> is a great way to save for retirement, but it can’t be the only way. A 401(k) is simply a retirement asset used to:</p><ul><li>Generate savings on a pretax basis (sometimes there are Roth options, depending on your employer)</li><li>Earn a free contribution match from your employer.&nbsp;</li></ul><p><i>Will you receive a&nbsp;</i><a href="https://www.fool.com/retirement/2017/11/05/4-ways-to-take-your-pension-money-which-should-you.aspx#:~:text=4%20Ways%20to%20Take%20Your%20Pension%20Money%3A%20Which,a%20better%20choice%20than%20a%20lump-sum%20payout.%20"><i>pension</i></a><i>?</i></p><p>Most pension plans offer several options between a lump-sum distribution and different types of annuities given your marital or life status.&nbsp;</p><p><i>Are you compensated in equity? If so, how? RSUs? ESPP?</i></p><p>Employee compensation in the form of equity can be a great long-term vehicle. But, always keep in mind, there are several different&nbsp;<a href="https://www.svested.com/resources/what-is-the-difference-between-esop-rsu-and-phantom-stocks#:~:text=Key%20Takeaways,the%20cash%20benefit.">types of stock options</a>, all with unique tax consequences.&nbsp;</p><p><i>What insurance do you receive? Is it truly enough given your salary and dependents?&nbsp;</i></p><p>Majority of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thebalance.com/should-i-buy-my-life-insurance-through-work-2386080#:~:text=Key%20Takeaways,rate%20you%20can.">life insurance</a> through your employer is relatively cheap and offers low coverage. You have the ability to ensure whether you need more coverage or not.&nbsp;</p><p style="text-align:center;">--</p><p><strong>These are all part of a plan but are just that - one part.</strong> Once you have a grasp on how to maximize these benefits they can be leveraged in conjunction with additional investments and strategic planning.&nbsp;</p><p>Now it’s time to ask yourself questions around how you envision retirement.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>What is my retirement age?&nbsp;</li><li>When do I want to retire?&nbsp;</li><li>Am I on pace to retire at that age?</li><li>How much do I need to save for retirement?</li></ul><hr><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:#434a59;font-family:Lato,sans-serif;"><i>Need help analyzing your current financial situation? Our Free Retirement Checkpoint quiz can assess your retirement timeline, tax planning &amp; red flags in 4 minutes.&nbsp; </i></span><a href="https://retire.us/intro"><span style="background-color:transparent;color:#1155cc;font-family:Lato,sans-serif;"><i><u>CLICK HERE TO USE THE TOOL FOR FREE</u></i></span></a></p><hr><p>Oftentimes families have multiple accounts that aren't really working in tandem with another-- they aren’t part of a <i>retirement plan</i>. Your investment accounts and their allocations should be built around your timeline to retirement. Ask yourself:</p><p><i>What returns am I targeting?</i></p><p>Looking at all your accounts together: 401(k), IRAs, annuities, brokerage, etc. how are they working together?</p><p><i>How much risk am I taking on?</i></p><p>There are plenty of investment strategies that focus on protected growth. Annuities and structured products can help decrease risk, especially in such turbulent times.&nbsp;</p><p><i>Do I have an eventual withdrawal strategy?&nbsp;</i></p><p>Traditional IRA and 401(k) withdrawals have very different consequences than withdrawing from your brokerage and even your Roth accounts.&nbsp;</p><hr><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1677117116/image_b6dd7c04b0.png" alt="Planning for retirement can be stressful. A Resilient Retirement strategy has made planning simplfied. " srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1677117116/thumbnail_image_b6dd7c04b0.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1677117116/small_image_b6dd7c04b0.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1677117116/medium_image_b6dd7c04b0.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1677117116/large_image_b6dd7c04b0.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>So how will this affect my Retirement Plan?&nbsp;</h2><p>A Resilient Retirement® can help to provide you with peace of mind and clarity when it comes to financial planning. Unfortunately, it cannot completely take risks out of the equation. The reality is that there are many variables that impact financial goals that cannot fully be controlled.&nbsp;</p><p>By truly understanding what you need from your assets, you can begin to manage your exposure to these risks, and in some cases eliminate them completely! In order for this to be done properly, goals must first be discussed and quantified from an analytical perspective.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><span style="background-color:transparent;color:#434a59;font-family:Lato,sans-serif;"><i>Feeling overwhelmed about doing this on your own? Let us help! We offer 3 different tiers of service depending on your financial goals and level of planning.&nbsp; </i></span><a href="https://retire.us/pricing"><span style="background-color:transparent;color:#1155cc;font-family:Lato,sans-serif;"><i><u>CLICK HERE TO COMPARE PLANS</u></i></span></a></p><hr><h3><strong>Retirement Planning Steps to take next:</strong></h3><p>If after reading this it becomes clear that you do not have adequate answers to these questions, it is okay. The majority of families do not have proper retirement planning in place, but instead have one or two wealth managers. A handful of these professionals simply do not carry the scope of service to answer these questions.&nbsp;</p><p>Portfolio management is very important, but often can stray away from true retirement planning. Some advisors may help allocate assets in your IRA, others can set up an annuity for you, and some will be able to quantify how much you need to retire-- a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP®) can manage all the above and then some. Utilizing a CFP® can put you in a position of comfortability and efficiently prepare you for retirement.&nbsp;</p><h3><strong>&nbsp;Getting your Retirement Plan started is the first step!</strong></h3><p>Our mission at RetireUS is to give you a clear path toward financial freedom and we have intentionally built tach to make it easy! You can take the first step towards financial freedom with our FREE Retirement Checkpoint quiz. You can take the quiz below in as little as 4 minutes.&nbsp;</p><p><br><br><br>&nbsp;</p>

How to Start Planning for Retirement

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What is financial freedom? Learn how to define financial freedom and how to achieve financial freedom by following these 4 steps. 

<p>The pursuit to financial freedom&nbsp;is stressful as we all know. The idea of being financially free may seem overwhelming and unattainable, but fortunately there are 4 key steps that if completed will give you a clear path towards living life on your own terms. In this article we will provide you with an overview of each step and some free tools so that you can get started on your path today.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><i>Looking for answers on your own financial situation?&nbsp;</i><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><i>Take our FREE Retirement Checkpoint quiz</i></a><i> to find out where you stand.&nbsp;</i></p><hr><h2>Financial Freedom definition</h2><p>To begin, we must fully understand what it means to be financially free. Financial freedom can be interpreted differently depending on the person and their circumstance.&nbsp;</p><p>For the sake of this article, we will be <a href="https://www.thebalancemoney.com/what-is-financial-freedom-5208504#:~:text=Definition%20and%20Examples,your%20next%20paycheck">defining financial freedom</a> as the state of having enough passive income to cover your living expenses without having to rely on credit, loans, or other forms of financial assistance.&nbsp;Financial freedom allows you to live life completely on your own terms, instead of being dependent on employment income or other forms of direct effort to financially support your lifestyle.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Before we proceed, there are two components of true financial freedom that must be understood:</strong></p><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>The income you receive is not reliant on employment income, it is generated through.&nbsp;<ol><li>A system of strategically placed personal investments.&nbsp;</li><li>External guaranteed income streams (pensions, social security, etc.)</li></ol></li><li>The income generated is enough to cover your lifestyle FOREVER.<ul><li>This means the income is enough after taxes to pay for all expenses and has a strategy for&nbsp;<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>market volatility</li><li>inflation</li><li>emergency liquidity needs (healthcare, home maintenance, etc.)</li></ul></li></ul></li></ol><p>Financial freedom is not about being wealthy; it is about having control over your finances and your life. There is no single blueprint for&nbsp;financial freedom, but there are many paths that can lead you there. The most important step is to take action and start making a plan instead of trying to figure things out along the way. Here are 4 clear steps that you can take to get started on your journey.&nbsp;</p><hr><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676059769/Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_39_PM_4e323616b7.png" alt="Screen Shot 2023-02-10 at 2.01.39 PM.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676059769/thumbnail_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_39_PM_4e323616b7.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676059769/small_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_39_PM_4e323616b7.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676059769/medium_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_39_PM_4e323616b7.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676059769/large_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_39_PM_4e323616b7.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Step 1: Analyze your financial situation</h2><p>The first step is getting a grasp on where you are in relation to your goal and what resources you have to plan with:</p><ul><li>Track down all statements (investments, savings, retirement savings account, debts, paystubs)</li><li>Calculate your lifestyle cost</li><li>Create a cash flow and net worth statement&nbsp;</li><li>Quantify your future lifestyle cost at retirement.&nbsp;</li><li>Analyze how your money is invested</li></ul><p><i>Need help analyzing your current financial situation? Our Free Retirement Checkpoint quiz can assess your retirement timeline, tax planning &amp; red flags in 4 minutes.&nbsp; </i><a href="https://retire.us/intro"><i>CLICK HERE TO USE THE TOOL FOR FREE</i></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055800/Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_53_PM_a1ae700d58.png" alt="Screen Shot 2023-02-10 at 2.01.53 PM.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055800/thumbnail_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_53_PM_a1ae700d58.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055800/small_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_53_PM_a1ae700d58.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055800/medium_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_53_PM_a1ae700d58.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055800/large_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_01_53_PM_a1ae700d58.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Step 2: Plan it out.</h2><p>Once you know what retirement will cost, you can start building your financial freedom system.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Quantify the total amount you will need to have saved to recreate your future lifestyle&nbsp;</li><li>Quantify the returns needed to hit your target.&nbsp;</li><li>Utilize expert&nbsp;financial management to vet the investment marketplace to find a mixture on strategies that can help you hit your target consistently over your timeline</li><li>Implement the investment strategies that align with your goals&nbsp;</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055785/Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_02_06_PM_583f383803.png" alt="Screen Shot 2023-02-10 at 2.02.06 PM.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055785/thumbnail_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_02_06_PM_583f383803.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055785/small_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_02_06_PM_583f383803.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055785/medium_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_02_06_PM_583f383803.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676055785/large_Screen_Shot_2023_02_10_at_2_02_06_PM_583f383803.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Step 3: Monitor your Investment Strategy</h2><p>After you have implemented your investments, it is important to make sure they are operating as expected or if you need to make tactical adjustments.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Review account performance with&nbsp;financial management</li><li>Analyze the risk associated with your targeted return</li><li>Run a bear market test to understand potential loss exposure&nbsp;</li><li>Capture gains and add layers of downside protection&nbsp;</li></ul><p><i>Feeling overwhelmed about doing this on your own? Let us help! We offer 3 different tiers of service depending on your financial goals and level of planning.&nbsp; </i><a href="https://retire.us/pricing"><i>CLICK HERE TO COMPARE PLANS</i></a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699033013/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_20_18351c740e.png" alt="Planning for retirement can be stressful. A Resilient Retirement strategy has made planning simplfied. " srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699033013/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_20_18351c740e.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699033013/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_20_18351c740e.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699033013/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_20_18351c740e.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699033013/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_20_18351c740e.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Step 4: Repeat steps 1 - 3 to reach&nbsp;Financial Freedom</h2><p>As things change throughout your life, your plan will need to evolve. When it is time to re-evaluate, take time to analyze if there are any changes to your goals or resources.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Proactively schedule time in your calendar each year for an Analysis Review.&nbsp;</li><li>Throughout the year, have a process to download any important changes to income, expenses, assets, or liabilities.</li><li>&nbsp;Have someone hold you accountable to repeat the process</li></ul><p><br>Financial freedom may seem challenging, but it's achievable. Key components include generating income beyond traditional work and ensuring it sustains your lifestyle. We've outlined four steps: analyze your current situation, generate a plan, monitor investments, and adapt as needed.&nbsp;</p><p>There's no one-size-fits-all path, but by following these steps and using our Financial Wellness Toolkit, you can start your journey to financial independence today.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span></p>

What is Financial Freedom?

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<p>Majority of Americans will be affected by these tax changes, speak with a RetireUS CFP® today!&nbsp;</p>

Not sure how this will have an effect on your retirement?

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The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) in 2025 will bring higher tax rates, a reduced standard deduction, and changes to tax credits and deductions, impacting retirees’ finances. This blog breaks down how these changes may affect retirement income, investments, and savings strategies

<p>By: Michael Blahusch CFP® | ChFC® | CRPC® | MBA</p><p>The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 brought about sweeping changes to the U.S. tax code, aimed at simplifying taxation and stimulating economic growth. While many Americans benefited from lower tax rates, these provisions were not meant to last forever. Key components of the TCJA are set to expire at the end of 2025, an event often referred to as the "sunsetting" of the TCJA. For those planning retirement, understanding the implications of these changes is crucial for maintaining financial wellness. Here’s what you need to know and how to prepare.</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png" alt="Frame 4076584-2.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/thumbnail_Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/small_Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/medium_Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/large_Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></figure><h2>A Quick Overview of the TCJA</h2><p>The TCJA was signed into law by former President Donald Trump in December 2017, marking the most significant overhaul of the U.S. tax code since the 1980s. Its main goals were to reduce individual and corporate tax rates, simplify tax filing, and encourage domestic business investment.</p><p>Some of the key provisions of the TCJA included:</p><blockquote><ul><li><strong>Lowering individual tax rates:</strong> The law reduced tax brackets for most individuals, resulting in lower taxes for many Americans.</li><li><strong>Doubling the standard deduction: </strong>The standard deduction was nearly doubled, reducing the number of people who itemize their deductions.</li><li><strong>Eliminating personal exemptions:</strong> The law removed personal exemptions while increasing the Child Tax Credit and dependent credits.</li><li><strong>Capping state and local tax (SALT) deductions:</strong> SALT deductions were limited to $10,000, which particularly impacted residents of high-tax states.</li><li><strong>Business tax changes:</strong> Corporate tax rates were slashed from 35% to 21%, and provisions were added to encourage companies to invest in the U.S.</li></ul></blockquote><p>However, many of the benefits to individuals are set to expire by the end of 2025, unless Congress acts to extend them. For retirees, the changes could have a substantial impact on income, investments, and overall financial planning.</p><h2>How the TCJA Sunsetting Will Affect Your Taxes</h2><p>If the TCJA is allowed to expire without any legislative action, several significant changes will occur in the 2026 tax year. Here’s a breakdown of the most important changes and how they may affect you as you near or enter retirement.</p><h3><strong>1. Return to Higher Tax Brackets:</strong>&nbsp;</h3><p>One of the most immediate impacts will be the return to pre-2017 tax brackets. While the TCJA reduced tax rates for all income groups, those rates will revert to higher levels. For example, the 12% bracket will increase to 15%, and the top marginal rate of 37% will rise to 39.6%.<br><strong>What this means for you:</strong> Higher tax rates could mean less take-home pay or more taxes on your retirement income, whether it's from Social Security, pensions, or withdrawals from retirement accounts like 401(k)s or IRAs. If you’re planning to rely heavily on these sources, you may want to adjust your retirement budget to account for these increased tax liabilities.</p><h3><strong>2. Standard Deduction Shrinks Under the TCJA:&nbsp;</strong></h3><p>The standard deduction was significantly increased to $12,550 for individuals and $25,100 for married couples filing jointly (2021 numbers). Once the law sunsets, the standard deduction will shrink back to its previous levels, which were nearly half the current amounts.<br><strong>What this means for you:</strong> A smaller standard deduction will likely result in higher taxable income, especially for retirees who no longer itemize their deductions. This could increase your overall tax bill during retirement unless you have significant deductible expenses such as mortgage interest or charitable contributions.</p><h3><strong>3. Reinstatement of Personal Exemptions:</strong>&nbsp;</h3><p>The TCJA eliminated personal exemptions, which allowed taxpayers to deduct a set amount from their taxable income for each person in the household. When the law sunsets, personal exemptions will return.<br><strong>What this means for you:</strong> For retirees living alone, the reintroduction of personal exemptions could help offset some of the financial burden from other changes, particularly for those with dependents. If you're part of a multigenerational household, this may provide some tax relief.</p><h3><strong>4. Child Tax Credit Decreases:</strong>&nbsp;</h3><p>The TCJA increased the Child Tax Credit to $2,000 per child and made more of it refundable. It also added a $500 credit for non-child dependents, which was especially useful for retirees supporting adult children or elderly parents.<br><strong>What this means for you:</strong> If you're still providing financial support to dependents, such as grandchildren or adult children with special needs, the expiration of these credits could significantly reduce your tax refund or increase your tax bill.</p><figure class="image"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png" alt="600 x 314-2.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/thumbnail_600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/small_600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/medium_600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/large_600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Planning for 2026 and Beyond</h2><p>With the TCJA sunsetting, now is the time to reassess your financial strategy and make necessary adjustments. Here are some actionable steps to consider:</p><blockquote><ul><li>Review your retirement plan: Consider how higher tax rates and a lower standard deduction will impact your retirement income. You may want to accelerate withdrawals or diversify your income streams to minimize your tax burden.</li></ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li>Maximize tax-efficient savings vehicles: Contribute to tax-advantaged accounts like Roth IRAs, which provide tax-free withdrawals in retirement, or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs), which offer tax-free withdrawals for qualified medical expenses.</li></ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li>Consider a Roth conversion: If you're in a lower tax bracket now, converting a portion of your traditional IRA or 401(k) to a Roth IRA before 2026 could help you lock in the current lower rates.</li></ul></blockquote><blockquote><ul><li>Consult a financial planner: Given the complexity of the tax changes, seeking professional advice is critical. A RetireUS CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™&nbsp;can help you navigate these shifts and ensure you're on track to meet your retirement goals.&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/our-services">Click here to learn more!&nbsp;</a><br>&nbsp;</li></ul></blockquote><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>The sunsetting of the TCJA presents both challenges and opportunities for retirees. Understanding the upcoming changes is essential for maintaining financial stability. By proactively planning for these tax adjustments, you can protect your retirement savings and continue working toward financial freedom. If you’re unsure about how these changes might affect you, reach out to RetireUS for a personalized financial wellness check. Our platform is designed to help pre-retirees like you navigate the complexities of retirement planning.</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by RetireUS dba McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages</span></p><p><span style="font-size:11px;">&nbsp;Any references made regarding the taxable nature of your investments should not be construed as tax advice. RetireUS dba McAdam LLC is not a tax advisory firm; therefore, any tax decisions or assumptions should be made/verified with your tax professional.</span></p>

Sunsetting of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA): How to Prepare

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<p>By: Brian Gassaway</p><p>Retirement is a phase that signifies the culmination of one's professional journey and the start of a new chapter in life, prompting the inevitable question:&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><i>“When can I retire?”</i></a></p><p>&nbsp;Yet, despite its significance, many individuals find themselves unprepared for this transition. In a world where financial security reigns supreme, the importance of retirement planning cannot be overstated. Using a retirement calculator is oftentimes how families start their planning journey. This article explores how retirement calculators work and if they can shape a secure retirement.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714145678/Frame_4076320_9725c1ba2d.svg" alt="Frame 4076320.svg"></a></figure><h2>Defining the Purpose of a Retirement Calculator</h2><p>Retirement calculators stand as the <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">initial tool of retirement planning</a>, offering invaluable insights into one's financial trajectory post-career. These calculators, equipped with tons of different algorithms, analyze various financial parameters such as:</p><ul><li>Income</li><li>Expenses</li><li>Retirement age&nbsp;</li></ul><p>The goal of the calculator is to provide users with a basic projection of their financial standing during retirement years.</p><h2>I used a calculator, now what?</h2><p>In an era characterized by financial complexities and market volatility, individuals are tasked with navigating a plethora of investment options and retirement strategies. Best retirement calculators serve as guiding lights amid this complexity, but don’t necessarily solve the entire equation. In fact, there are even some calculators out there that may assume you’re going to draw down your investments to $0-- which is incredibly difficult to time.&nbsp;</p><h2>Calculating Beyond just the Numbers</h2><p>Most families are in need of further help, which is where a tool like our&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/get-started">Financial Checkpoint</a> can be utilized to bridge the gap, part of our Financial Wellness Toolkit.&nbsp;</p><p>By inputting both essential facts &amp; feelings, users gain insights into crucial aspects such as retirement savings goals, future tax liabilities, and potential shortfalls. This precision empowers individuals to make informed decisions, aligning their financial actions with long-term retirement objectives.</p><h2>Tailored Solutions for Diverse Needs</h2><p>A hallmark feature of our <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">Financial Checkpoint tool</a> is its ability to accommodate diverse financial scenarios and individual preferences. Whether it's factoring in different retirement accounts, evaluating different ages to retire, or assessing the impact of taxes, this tool offers customized solutions tailored to each user's unique circumstances.&nbsp;</p><p>By providing a personalized roadmap towards retirement readiness, these calculators instill confidence and peace of mind, assuring individuals of their financial preparedness for the future.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714145615/Frame_4076288_82a719a159.svg" alt="Frame 4076288.svg"></a></figure><h2>The Significance of Using a Retirement Calculators</h2><p>In an environment filled with economic uncertainties and evolving retirement paradigms, the utilization of <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">retirement calculators</a> emerges as a strategic imperative for individuals at every stage of their career journey. Here's why:</p><h3>Empowering Informed Decision-Making</h3><ul><li><a href="https://retire.us/planning">Retirement planning</a> is not a one-size-fits-all endeavor; it demands a nuanced understanding of one's financial landscape and future aspirations.</li><li>From determining optimal savings rates to evaluating retirement income streams, these tools serve as indispensable allies in the journey towards financial freedom.</li></ul><h3>Mitigating Retirement Risks</h3><ul><li>The prospect of outliving one's savings or facing unforeseen expenses during retirement looms large for many individuals.&nbsp;</li><li>By simulating market fluctuations, longevity risk, and healthcare expenses, these tools offer a holistic perspective on retirement preparedness, allowing individuals to fortify their financial resilience and mitigate potential pitfalls.</li></ul><h3>Long-Term Financial Wellness</h3><ul><li>Beyond mere number-crunching, <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">retirement calculators</a> foster a culture of proactive financial planning and long-term wellness.&nbsp;</li><li>By encouraging individuals to engage with their financial futures, these tools catalyze a mindset shift towards prioritizing savings, investment diversification, and prudent financial management.&nbsp;</li><li>Through regular reassessment and adjustment of retirement strategies, individuals can adapt to evolving life circumstances and stay on course towards achieving their retirement aspirations.</li></ul><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>As we navigate the complexities of modern-day retirement, embracing the power of retirement calculators emerges as a pivotal step towards securing a fulfilling and prosperous future. Whether you're a seasoned professional nearing retirement age or a young professional embarking on your career journey, leveraging these tools can make all the difference in achieving your retirement dreams. Empower yourself today and embark on a journey towards financial freedom and peace of mind.</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. &nbsp;This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.&nbsp;</span></p><p>&nbsp;</p>

How do Retirement Calculators Work? 

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Wondering why things are so expensive even though inflation is down? This article will explain how inflation works and why prices are still high. 

<p><strong>By Michael A. Scarpati, CRPC® | Co-Founder &amp; CEO</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In the face of declining inflation rates, a situation has emerged that defies the expectations of many. Inflation has decreased, yet the cost for goods and services have stubbornly stayed high. So, what gives?&nbsp;</p><p><span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(13,13,13);font-family:Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, &quot;Segoe UI&quot;, Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, &quot;Noto Sans&quot;, sans-serif, &quot;Helvetica Neue&quot;, Arial, &quot;Apple Color Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Emoji&quot;, &quot;Segoe UI Symbol&quot;, &quot;Noto Color Emoji&quot;;">This article will simplify the complexities behind persistent high prices, explain how inflation works, what drives it, and provide you with practical tools to navigate the future. Let's dive in.&nbsp;</span></p><h2>What Is Inflation?</h2><p><a href="https://data.oecd.org/price/inflation-cpi.htm#:~:text=Economy-,Inflation%20measured%20by%20consumer%20price%20index%20(CPI)%20is%20defined%20as%20the,excluding%20food%20and%20energy.%20Inflation%20measures%20the%20erosion%20of%20living%20standards,-.%20A%20consumer%20price">Inflation</a> measures the uptick in prices over time, and is tracked by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). It represents the average price change for a basket of goods and services over time. This metric doesn't translate directly to price tags for individual items, leading to a disconnect between broad economic indicators and the prices we encounter daily. It is a broad indicator of price changes across all goods and services over a given period of time. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1712325228/inflation_down_prices_up_graph_da62e50181.png" alt="inflation down prices up graph.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1712325228/thumbnail_inflation_down_prices_up_graph_da62e50181.png 187w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1712325228/small_inflation_down_prices_up_graph_da62e50181.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1712325228/medium_inflation_down_prices_up_graph_da62e50181.png 750w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:11px;">Source:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.usinflationcalculator.com/inflation/current-inflation-rates/"><span style="font-size:11px;">Current US Inflation Rates: 2000-2024 (usinflationcalculator.com)</span></a><br>&nbsp;</p><p>The inflationary surge of 2021 &amp; 2022 reached heights that we have not seen in close to 40 years. Yet, even as 2024's data suggests inflation is cooling down, the anticipated relief at the checkout counter is non-existent. &nbsp;It may seem strange, but this actually make a ton of sense. &nbsp;Let's review how it all works. &nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png"></a></figure><h2 style="margin-left:0.0px;">Why Are Things Still So Expensive?</h2><p style="margin-left:0.0px;">The massive inflation spike of 2021 and 2022 created an enormous issue for prices. This is because inflation has a <i>COMPOUNDING EFFECT</i>, meaning the current inflation rate always builds on last year’s price increases. Once the damage is done, prices will only continue to rise. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p style="margin-left:0.0px;">To put it simply. <strong>Prices will not be going down as long as we have ANY level of inflation.&nbsp;</strong></p></blockquote><p style="margin-left:0.0px;">For prices to decrease, we would need to experience deflation, which has only happen one time in the last 80+ years. Lower levels of inflation just mean that prices are still increasing, just at a slower rate than last year.&nbsp;</p><h2 style="margin-left:0.0px;">What Happened?</h2><blockquote><p><strong>Normal Inflation:&nbsp;</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p>From 2000 to 2021 (average inflation rate of 2.2%)</p><ul><li>$100 worth of groceries would have risen to approximately $157.9&nbsp;</li></ul><hr><p><strong>This is a $57.93 increase over the course of 22 years&nbsp;</strong></p></blockquote><p>&nbsp;</p><blockquote><p><strong>The Impact of High Inflation:</strong></p><p>&nbsp;</p><p><u>From 2021 to 2024 (average inflation rate of 4.85%)&nbsp;</u></p><ul><li>5.4% in 2021</li><li>8% in 2022</li><li>3% for both 2023 and 2024</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p>The 2021 cost of $157.93 will increase to about $190.87 by end 2024.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><strong>This creates a $32.94 increase in just 4 years</strong></p></blockquote><p>This stark contrast between the two periods show how recent inflation spikes had a much more profound effect on our purchasing power, especially compared to the previous two decades of more stable inflation.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715035145/600_x_314_2_9e7ec7b4e1.png"></a></figure><h2>What Is Causing Inflation?</h2><p>Several factors contribute to the persistence of high prices even as inflation rates slow down. &nbsp;Here are 4 factors that cause inflation.&nbsp;</p><p><strong><u>Supply Chain Disruptions:&nbsp;</u></strong></p><p>The global economy is still grappling with the aftermath of supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. These disruptions have led to shortages of raw materials, increased transportation costs, and logistical challenges, all of which can contribute to higher prices for consumers.</p><p><strong><u>Wage Pressures:&nbsp;</u></strong></p><p>In response to rising inflation, workers may demand higher wages to maintain their purchasing power. Employers, facing higher labor costs, may then pass these costs onto consumers in the form of higher prices.</p><p><strong><u>Pricing Power:&nbsp;</u></strong></p><p>Some companies may take advantage of strong demand or reduced competition to maintain higher prices, even as inflationary pressures ease. Brand loyalty, perceived quality, and market dominance can all give companies the pricing power to resist downward pressure on prices.</p><p><strong><u>Government Policies:</u></strong></p><p>Monetary and fiscal policies can also influence the trajectory of inflation. Central banks may keep interest rates low to stimulate economic growth, but this can also contribute to inflationary pressures if not carefully managed. Similarly, government spending programs can inject additional money into the economy, potentially fueling inflation.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096847/Frame_4076465_2_af08bd0472.png"></a></figure><h2>How Do I Protect Against Inflation?</h2><ul><li><strong>Invest Wisely:</strong> Account for the rate of inflation when investment planning to maintain or enhance your purchasing power.</li><li><strong>Stress Test Portfolio: </strong>Inflation may require additional draw from your existing investments. &nbsp;Make sure you <a href="https://retire.us/deepscan">understand your portfolio downside</a> in case you need to rely on them. &nbsp;</li><li><strong>Save Systematically: </strong>Regular savings can benefit from compound growth, building a buffer against inflation.</li><li><strong>Spend Smarter: </strong>Create a budget to track spending.&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Financial Habits: </strong>Conscious spending and saving habits are foundational to long-term financial stability.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png"></a></figure><h2>How To Plan For Financial Stabilty&nbsp;</h2><p>The increased inflation rates of recent years will significantly impact the savings required for retirement and future healthcare expenses. As costs rise, it's essential to reassess your financial plan to ensure it can withstand the test of time.</p><ul><li><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong><u>Complete A Financial Checkpoint:</u></strong></span></a> Gain clarity on your financial health with our complimentary Financial Checkpoint. <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">This 4-minute quiz</a> will evaluate your retirement progress and identify any immediate risks or concerns.</li><li><a href="https://retire.us/pricing"><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong><u>Plan with a CFP®</u></strong></span></a><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong><u>:</u></strong></span><strong><u>&nbsp;</u></strong> Take control of your financial future with RetireUS. For less than $40/month, you can work with a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ to quantify your financial goals and craft a comprehensive strategy for financial freedom.</li></ul><p>The persistence of high prices despite slowing inflation rates underscores the complex interplay of economic forces at play. While policymakers and central bankers work to address inflationary pressures, consumers must adapt their financial strategies to navigate the challenges of a high-price environment effectively.&nbsp;</p><p>By <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">staying informed</a>, budgeting wisely, and seeking out opportunities for investment and advocacy, individuals can protect their financial well-being in an inflationary world. Want to learn more about how your current financial situation may be impacted by high levels of inflation? <a href="https://meetings.hubspot.com/jv2/retireus-fwr-round-robin?uuid=7545d79a-47e8-453e-aa62-39bfaa0a3576">Book a free 20-minute consultation with an independent financial professional</a> and review your Current Financial Situation for free.&nbsp;</p><hr><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png"></a></figure><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span></p>

Why Are Prices Still High If Inflation Is Down?

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Prepare your retirement portfolio for market volatility. Learn the importance of diversification, risk assessment with Portfolio DeepScan®, and strategies to safeguard your savings for a secure future.

<p>By: Brian Gassaway</p><p>Retirement should be a time for relaxation and enjoyment, not worrying about the stability of your savings. Ensuring your portfolio is prepared is essential, especially when market volatility can impact your plans. A well-balanced portfolio helps safeguard your hard-earned money from unexpected shifts, and taking the right steps now could make a world of difference. In this article, we’ll look at key strategies to get your portfolio ready, from diversification to assessing your risk exposure with Portfolio DeepScan<strong>®</strong>.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png" alt="Frame 4076614-2.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/thumbnail_Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/small_Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/medium_Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png 750w," sizes="100vw"></a></figure><h2>The Importance of Diversification</h2><p>One of the most vital components of any retirement portfolio is diversification. Why? Because putting all your assets into one area—be it stocks, bonds, or real estate—may leave you vulnerable to unexpected market downturns. Diversification helps manage risk by spreading your investments across a variety of asset classes, which can reduce the impact of a poor performance in one area on your entire portfolio.</p><p>Here’s an example: Imagine a portfolio that includes a mix of stocks, bonds, and real estate investments. If the stock market drops, a balanced portfolio can help buffer that impact with stable returns from bonds or real estate. This strategy is crucial for retirees who can’t afford to rebuild a depleted portfolio. With a diversified approach, your portfolio aims to become resilient and better positioned to weather market fluctuations.</p><h2>What is Portfolio DeepScan<strong>®</strong>?</h2><p>Navigating risk in retirement goes beyond simply diversifying. That’s where Portfolio DeepScan<strong>®</strong> comes in. Portfolio DeepScan<strong>®</strong> is a comprehensive assessment tool designed to give you a clearer picture of your financial position as you approach retirement. It evaluates your portfolio’s risk exposure, ensuring you’re not overly reliant on any one asset class, industry, or market sector.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1726137891/deepscan_mobile_19d7b71e6d.png" alt="deepscan-mobile.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1726137891/thumbnail_deepscan_mobile_19d7b71e6d.png 90w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1726137891/small_deepscan_mobile_19d7b71e6d.png 288w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1726137891/medium_deepscan_mobile_19d7b71e6d.png 431w," sizes="100vw"></a></figure><p style="text-align:center;"><span style="font-size:11px;"><i>Above image is for example use only and does not represent any one's specific information.&nbsp;</i></span></p><p>Portfolio DeepScan<strong>®</strong> provides a detailed breakdown of your holdings, showing potential vulnerabilities that might otherwise go unnoticed. For example, it can highlight if you’re holding too much in high-risk stocks or if your bond allocation is under-diversified. By revealing these insights, Portfolio DeepScan<strong>®</strong> empowers you to make informed adjustments to help protect your portfolio from unexpected losses. This approach, guided by a <i>CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™</i> (CFP<strong>®</strong>), equips you with a robust plan tailored to withstand financial uncertainties.</p><h2>How to Prepare for Market Volatility</h2><p>Even a well-balanced, risk-assessed portfolio isn’t immune to market volatility. But you can take steps to better prepare:</p><blockquote><h3>Stay Updated with a CFP<strong>®</strong></h3><ol><li>Meeting with a CFP<strong>®</strong> periodically helps&nbsp;ensure your portfolio evolves with the market. They can provide tailored insights, helping you make timely adjustments based on market conditions and your personal circumstances.</li></ol><h3>Set Realistic Withdrawals</h3><ol><li>Retirees often wonder how much they can safely withdraw each year. Common guidance suggests a 4% withdrawal rate, but this varies depending on market conditions. Flexibility with your withdrawal rate can extend your portfolio’s life, especially during down markets.</li></ol><h3>Emphasize Stability</h3><ol><li>During turbulent times, adding more bonds or conservative investment options may stabilize your returns. Portfolio DeepScan can help identify areas where stability is needed, which can ensure that your portfolio can withstand rough periods.</li></ol><h3>Consider Low-Cost Index Funds</h3><ol><li>Index funds are widely recognized for their cost-efficiency and diversification. By following market indices, you can reduce the need for expensive management fees, leaving more of your returns intact. For retirees looking for low-risk, high-diversification options, index funds are a practical choice.</li></ol><h3>Use our Portfolio DeepScan<strong>®</strong> tool</h3><ol><li>Limited diversification can expose your retirement savings to risk. Learn how broadening your portfolio can protect against market shifts, helping to ensure a more secure retirement strategy.&nbsp;</li></ol></blockquote><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714145678/Frame_4076320_9725c1ba2d.svg" alt="Frame 4076320.svg"></a></figure><h3>Secure Your Savings</h3><p>Retirement is a journey you shouldn’t have to navigate alone. With the help of tools like Portfolio DeepScan<strong>®</strong> and the guidance of a <i>CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™</i>, you can take control of your financial future. Preparing your portfolio for retirement is about more than just picking the right investments; it’s about creating a plan that aligns with your lifestyle and long-term goals.</p><p>Don’t leave your retirement to chance.&nbsp;Schedule a <a href="https://meetings.hubspot.com/retireus1/portfolio-deepscan">free consultation today</a> and start securing the retirement you deserve.</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages.This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span></p>

Is Your Portfolio Ready for Retirement?

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Market volatility is the constant fluctuations of the market. This blog explains how market volatility works and what you should do to prepare for it. Stock market volatility has a large impact on retirement, make sure your investments are safe. 

<p>When an investor transitions from the workforce to&nbsp;retirement, they take a leap of faith that the assets they’ve accumulated will be enough to recreate their income each month. We often find ourselves in a bout with&nbsp;market volatility and down markets, and it’s important to remember that bear and bull markets are nothing new. The goal of this article is to explain&nbsp;what market volatility is and provide some ideas for investors that would allow them to retire confidently, with peace of mind, even in a volatile market.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714145615/Frame_4076288_82a719a159.svg" alt="Frame 4076288.svg"></a></figure><h2>&nbsp;Market Volatility: Defined</h2><p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/what-is-volatility/#:~:text=Market%20volatility%20is%20the%20frequency%20and%20magnitude%20of%20price%20movements%2C%20up%20or%20down.%20The%20bigger%20and%20more%20frequent%20the%20price%20swings%2C%20the%20more%20volatile%20the%20market%20is%20said%20to%20be">Market volatility</a> refers to the rapid and unpredictable price fluctuations of stocks, bonds, or other assets in the financial markets. For beginner investors, it means that the value of their investments can go up and down quite dramatically in a short period. Understanding and managing this volatility is crucial, as it can impact the overall performance of their investment portfolio.</p><p>During a potential&nbsp;stock market crash, many investors second guess their plans to retire and reconsider or change their timeline in response to the market.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064377/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_09_d26b2f5cd8.png" alt="Free Retirement Checkpoint Quiz _Page_09.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064377/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_09_d26b2f5cd8.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064378/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_09_d26b2f5cd8.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064378/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_09_d26b2f5cd8.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064378/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_09_d26b2f5cd8.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p style="text-align:center;">&nbsp;Source: <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/quote/%5EDJI/chart?p=%5EDJI#eyJpbnRlcnZhbCI6IndlZWsiLCJwZXJpb2RpY2l0eSI6MSwidGltZVVuaXQiOm51bGwsImNhbmRsZVdpZHRoIjoxMC43NSwiZmxpcHBlZCI6ZmFsc2UsInZvbHVtZVVuZGVybGF5Ijp0cnVlLCJhZGoiOnRydWUsImNyb3NzaGFpciI6dHJ1ZSwiY2hhcnRUeXBlIjoibGluZSIsImV4dGVuZGVkIjpmYWxzZSwibWFya2V0U2Vzc2lvbnMiOnt9LCJhZ2dyZWdhdGlvblR5cGUiOiJvaGxjIiwiY2hhcnRTY2FsZSI6ImxpbmVhciIsInBhbmVscyI6eyJjaGFydCI6eyJwZXJjZW50IjoxLCJkaXNwbGF5IjoiXkRKSSIsImNoYXJ0TmFtZSI6ImNoYXJ0IiwiaW5kZXgiOjAsInlBeGlzIjp7Im5hbWUiOiJjaGFydCIsInBvc2l0aW9uIjpudWxsfSwieWF4aXNMSFMiOltdLCJ5YXhpc1JIUyI6WyJjaGFydCIsIuKAjHZvbCB1bmRy4oCMIl19fSwic2V0U3BhbiI6eyJtdWx0aXBsaWVyIjoyLCJiYXNlIjoieWVhciIsInBlcmlvZGljaXR5Ijp7InBlcmlvZCI6MSwiaW50ZXJ2YWwiOiJ3ZWVrIn19LCJsaW5lV2lkdGgiOjIsInN0cmlwZWRCYWNrZ3JvdW5kIjp0cnVlLCJldmVudHMiOnRydWUsImNvbG9yIjoiIzAwODFmMiIsInN0cmlwZWRCYWNrZ3JvdWQiOnRydWUsImV2ZW50TWFwIjp7ImNvcnBvcmF0ZSI6eyJkaXZzIjp0cnVlLCJzcGxpdHMiOnRydWV9LCJzaWdEZXYiOnt9fSwiY3VzdG9tUmFuZ2UiOm51bGwsInN5bWJvbHMiOlt7InN5bWJvbCI6Il5ESkkiLCJzeW1ib2xPYmplY3QiOnsic3ltYm9sIjoiXkRKSSIsInF1b3RlVHlwZSI6IklOREVYIiwiZXhjaGFuZ2VUaW1lWm9uZSI6IkFtZXJpY2EvTmV3X1lvcmsifSwicGVyaW9kaWNpdHkiOjEsImludGVydmFsIjoid2VlayIsInRpbWVVbml0IjpudWxsLCJzZXRTcGFuIjp7Im11bHRpcGxpZXIiOjIsImJhc2UiOiJ5ZWFyIiwicGVyaW9kaWNpdHkiOnsicGVyaW9kIjoxLCJpbnRlcnZhbCI6IndlZWsifX19XSwic3R1ZGllcyI6eyLigIx2b2wgdW5kcuKAjCI6eyJ0eXBlIjoidm9sIHVuZHIiLCJpbnB1dHMiOnsiaWQiOiLigIx2b2wgdW5kcuKAjCIsImRpc3BsYXkiOiLigIx2b2wgdW5kcuKAjCJ9LCJvdXRwdXRzIjp7IlVwIFZvbHVtZSI6IiMwMGIwNjEiLCJEb3duIFZvbHVtZSI6IiNmZjMzM2EifSwicGFuZWwiOiJjaGFydCIsInBhcmFtZXRlcnMiOnsid2lkdGhGYWN0b3IiOjAuNDUsImNoYXJ0TmFtZSI6ImNoYXJ0IiwicGFuZWxOYW1lIjoiY2hhcnQifX19fQ--">Dow Jones Industrial Average</a></p><h2>How does Market Volatility affect Retirement?&nbsp;</h2><p>Let’s take a look at an example. 2022 saw a grave amount of volatility, mainly due to issues with&nbsp;high inflation leading to an&nbsp;increase in interest rates. Many investors were at a loss of what to do to protect their investments or where to put their safe shares to hopefully capture some of the market’s bounceback. Many pre-retirees aren’t interested in high risk investing to accumulate wealth, and find themselves more concerned about finding low risk investments to help preserve their wealth.</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://info.retire.us/get-instant-access-to-your-free-portfolio-deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714145678/Frame_4076320_9725c1ba2d.svg" alt="Frame 4076320.svg"></a></figure><p>For investors who were hoping to retire in 2022 and closely watching the stock market news, many were approaching that decision with doubt and uncertainty because of the&nbsp;volatile market. Conventional wisdom of how to hedge against market risk, like leveraging less turbulent investments like&nbsp;bonds, didn’t necessarily apply because the bond market was also in bad shape.&nbsp;</p><p>Many pre-retirees are unaware of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.schwab.com/learn/story/timing-matters-understanding-sequence-returns-risk">sequence of returns risk</a> which, if not properly protected against, can cause them to outlive their dollars simply from retiring during a down market and not taking steps to&nbsp;hedge against market volatility. The current state of the&nbsp;volatile market&nbsp;can create anxiety around the decision to retire and even force investors to postpone their retirement&nbsp;because of the uncertainty and the fear that it might get worse if they don’t have any safe shares or low risk investments.</p><h2>How do I deal with Market Volatility?</h2><p>One solution to hedge against sequence of returns risk in bear and bull markets alike is to reposition one’s assets into different buckets that they can draw from in different market cycles.&nbsp;</p><p>One bucket focuses on high risk investing to capture the full market upside. A second bucket contains low risk investments that are designed to preserve principal and capture some market upside.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/financial-advisors/092515/alternative-investments-look-pros-cons.asp">Alternative investments</a> can provide downside protection in times of market volatility, and often have a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/investing/beta-gauging-price-fluctuations/#:~:text=A%20beta%20of%20less%20than%201%20indicates%20that%20a%20stock%27s%20price%20is%20less%20volatile%20than%20the%20overall%20market.">beta less than 1</a> – not as volatile as the overall market. These provide some form of safe shares in investors’ portfolios that they can rely on when everything else is down. Holistic planning can position investors well for retirement in any kind of market conditions, including the potential of a stock market crash.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064476/Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_11_f12d414fc9.png" alt="Financial Planner Near Me_Page_11.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064476/thumbnail_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_11_f12d414fc9.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064476/small_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_11_f12d414fc9.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064476/medium_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_11_f12d414fc9.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064476/large_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_11_f12d414fc9.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>How a Financial Advisor can help:</h2><p>There are several different types of wealth managers who are considered financial advisors under the securities and exchange commission. Most investors recognize&nbsp;CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™, but beyond that designation, people find it’s often confusing to find the right advisor for their needs.&nbsp;</p><p>Other<a href="https://money.usnews.com/financial-advisors/articles/financial-advisor-versus-financial-planner-whats-the-difference#:~:text=Financial%20advisors%20are,call%20themselves%20advisors."> advisors</a> only provide asset management services or transactional planning. Some investors find it difficult to differentiate between high risk investing and wealth accumulation strategies that are designed to grow your assets, but protect your principal. Working with a holistic advisor or&nbsp;CFP can help with planning AND implementation of strategies.</p><p>These advisors focus on using safe money strategies and work in a long term capacity to guide retirees through the critical first few years of retirement. They give investors more control over their retirement timeline and peace of mind that they’ll be able to retire in any market conditions, especially during extreme&nbsp;market volatility.&nbsp;</p><hr><p style="margin-left:0px;"><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief. Projected savings presented may vary depending on client longevity, and performance of assets over time.</span></p>

What is Market Volatility? 

<p>Take our free checkpoint quiz to see if adjustments are needed for your plan.&nbsp;</p>

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Learn how recent changes to Social Security impact retirees and pre-retirees. This blog explores updates to Full Retirement Age, Cost-of-Living Adjustments, earnings limits, and spousal benefits—key factors for retirement planning. Stay informed on future proposals and strategies to maximize your Social Security benefits and prepare for a secure financial future.

<p>By: Conor O'Malley</p><p>For most Americans, Social Security is the only source of guaranteed income-- but prior to retirement, many don’t take the necessary steps to fully understand the Federally mandated program. As we approach an era where more people are retiring than ever before, understanding the recent changes to Social Security is crucial for pre-retirees and retirees alike. The system has undergone several updates in recent years, some of which impact how benefits are calculated, when they are claimed, and how much retirees can expect to receive. This blog outlines the most significant changes, helping you stay informed as you plan for your financial future.</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png" alt="Frame 4076584-2.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/thumbnail_Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/small_Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/medium_Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096833/large_Frame_4076584_2_11b81f2dcf.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></figure><h2>Major Social Security Changes Throughout the Years</h2><h3>1. Full Retirement Age (FRA) Increase&nbsp;</h3><p>One of the most notable changes has been the gradual increase in the Full Retirement Age (FRA), the age at which individuals are eligible to receive 100% of their Social Security benefits. This shift is a result of amendments made in the&nbsp;<a href="https://bipartisanpolicy.org/explainer/full-retirement-age/#:~:text=In%201983%2C%20Congress%20increased%20the%20full%20retirement%20age%20(FRA)%20from%2065%20to%2067%2C%20a%20change%20phased%20in%20over%20the%20course%20of%2033%20years.%20This%20phase%2Din%20just%20ended%2C%20with%20the%20FRA%20now%20static%20at%20age%2067%20for%20individuals%20reaching%20age%2062%20in%202022%20or%20later">1983 Social Security Reform Act</a>, designed to accommodate longer life expectancies.</p><ul><li>Previously: For many years, the FRA was 65 for most retirees.</li><li>Current Situation: The FRA is now between 66 and 67, depending on your birth year. For those born after 1960, the FRA is set at 67.</li></ul><p>With the phase-in period finally ending in 2022, Full Retirement Age is locked-in at 67 for Americans who turned 62 in 2022 and later.&nbsp;</p><h3>2. Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA)&nbsp;</h3><p>Social Security benefits are adjusted annually to keep pace with inflation through the Cost-of-Living Adjustments (COLA). These adjustments are determined by the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). In recent years, COLA increases have been somewhat modest, but the numbers have fluctuated based on economic conditions.</p><blockquote><ul><li><a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=35b92ee87d9e25c9JmltdHM9MTcyOTU1NTIwMCZpZ3VpZD0xMDFlYjY5Ny0yZTVjLTY2NjYtMmE1Ni1hNDI5MmZkMDY3ZDcmaW5zaWQ9NTQ4MA&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=3&amp;fclid=101eb697-2e5c-6666-2a56-a4292fd067d7&amp;psq=2022+cola+increase&amp;u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZm9yYmVzLmNvbS9hZHZpc29yL3BlcnNvbmFsLWZpbmFuY2Uvc29jaWFsLXNlY3VyaXR5LWNvbGEv&amp;ntb=1">2022 COLA Increase</a>: 5.9% – the highest increase since 1982, reflecting the high inflation rate during that period.</li><li><a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=6ca8616ff895a0e7JmltdHM9MTcyOTU1NTIwMCZpZ3VpZD0xMDFlYjY5Ny0yZTVjLTY2NjYtMmE1Ni1hNDI5MmZkMDY3ZDcmaW5zaWQ9NTQ4Mw&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=3&amp;fclid=101eb697-2e5c-6666-2a56-a4292fd067d7&amp;psq=2023+cola+increase&amp;u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cudXNhdG9kYXkuY29tL3N0b3J5L21vbmV5L3BlcnNvbmFsZmluYW5jZS9yZXRpcmVtZW50LzIwMjIvMTAvMTMvc29jaWFsLXNlY3VyaXR5LWJlbmVmaXRzLWNvbGEtaW5jcmVhc2UtMjAyMy8xMDQ4MDMwNDAwMi8&amp;ntb=1">2023 COLA Increase:</a> 8.7% – even higher than 2022, driven by persistent inflation.</li><li><a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=f1b7251a971b6955JmltdHM9MTcyOTU1NTIwMCZpZ3VpZD0xMDFlYjY5Ny0yZTVjLTY2NjYtMmE1Ni1hNDI5MmZkMDY3ZDcmaW5zaWQ9NTQ3Mw&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=3&amp;fclid=101eb697-2e5c-6666-2a56-a4292fd067d7&amp;psq=2024+cola+increase&amp;u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2JzbmV3cy5jb20vbmV3cy9zb2NpYWwtc2VjdXJpdHktMjAyNC1jb2xhLWluY3JlYXNlLXBheW1lbnQtZGF0ZXMv&amp;ntb=1">2024 COLA Increase:&nbsp;</a>3.2% -- inflation slowed, allowing a lower bump.&nbsp;</li><li><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/retirement/social-security-just-released-the-2025-cola-here-s-what-it-means-for-those-receiving-spousal-benefits/ar-AA1sBtH0">2025 COLA Increase:</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;2.5% -- which some may find not to be enough,&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/get-started">click here to gauge your progress towards retirement and see where you stand!&nbsp;</a></li></ul></blockquote><p>These increases are meant to help retirees maintain their purchasing power in an environment of rising costs, especially in areas like healthcare, housing, and food.&nbsp;</p><h3>3. Earnings Limits and the Earnings Test&nbsp;</h3><p>For individuals who claim Social Security benefits before reaching their FRA and continue to work, there are limits on how much they can earn without reducing their benefits. The earnings limits have increased slightly over the years, allowing retirees more flexibility to work part-time or in a lower-paying role without significantly reducing their benefits.</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.nasdaq.com/articles/these-2025-social-security-changes-could-put-more-money-retirees-pockets#:~:text=2.%20A%20higher%20earnings%2Dtest%20limit">2025 Earnings Limit for Those Under FRA:</a> $23,400 – exceeding this limit results in a $1 deduction from benefits for every $2 earned above the threshold.</li><li>2025 Earnings Limit in the Year Reaching FRA: $62,160 – exceeding this limit results in a $1 deduction for every $3 earned above the threshold, but only during the months before you reach FRA.</li></ul><p>Once an individual reaches their FRA, there is no limit on how much they can earn, and benefits are no longer reduced, regardless of income.</p><h3>4. Spousal and Survivor Benefits&nbsp;</h3><p>Another critical aspect of Social Security involves spousal and survivor benefits, which allow a spouse or dependent to claim benefits based on a worker's record. In recent years, there hasn’t been a dramatic change in the structure of these benefits, but the increasing FRA and changes to COLA can impact the amount a spouse or survivor can receive.</p><ul><li><strong>Spousal Benefits: </strong>Eligible spouses can receive up to 50% of the worker's benefit amount if they claim at their FRA.</li><li><strong>Survivor Benefits:</strong> A surviving spouse can receive up to 100% of the worker's benefits, but the amount may be reduced if claimed before the survivor’s FRA.</li></ul><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064387/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_37_c9e69e9983.png" alt="Free Retirement Checkpoint Quiz _Page_37.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064387/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_37_c9e69e9983.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064388/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_37_c9e69e9983.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064388/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_37_c9e69e9983.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064388/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_37_c9e69e9983.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Upcoming Challenges and Future Proposals</h2><h3>1. Social Security Trust Fund Depletion</h3><p>A looming issue that has generated concern is the potential depletion of the Social Security Trust Fund. According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ssa.gov/news/press/releases/2024/#5-2024-1:~:text=In%20the%202024%20Annual%20Report%20to%20Congress%2C%20the%20Trustees%20announced%3A">2024 Trustees Report</a>, the trust fund that supports Social Security benefits could be depleted by 2035 if no legislative changes are made. If the trust fund runs out, Social Security would still be able to pay out around 83% of scheduled benefits, but this reduction would significantly impact retirees' incomes.</p><p><strong>To address this, policymakers have proposed several solutions, including:</strong></p><blockquote><ul><li><a href="https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/retirement/social-security-payroll-tax-limit-increases-for-2025-here-s-how-that-may-affect-you/ar-AA1s741I#:~:text=For%202025%2C%20the%20%22taxable%20maximum%22%20will%20be%20%24176%2C100%2C%20up%20about%204.4%25%20from%20%24168%2C600%20in%202024.">Raising the payroll tax cap</a>: Currently, only income up to $176,100 is subject to Social Security taxes in 2025. Raising or eliminating this cap could help fund future benefits.</li><li>Raising the FRA: Some proposals suggest raising the FRA beyond 67 to reflect further increases in life expectancy.</li><li>Modifying COLA calculations: Some lawmakers propose changing the formula for calculating COLA to reduce benefit increases over time.</li></ul></blockquote><h3>2. Proposals to Improve Benefits&nbsp;</h3><p>While much of the discussion has centered around how to shore up Social Security’s finances, there are also proposals to increase benefits for certain groups:</p><ul><li><strong>Enhanced benefits for lower-income workers</strong>: To ensure that Social Security provides more robust support for retirees who had lower lifetime earnings.</li><li><strong>Caregiver credits</strong>: Some proposals suggest offering caregivers additional credits toward their Social Security benefits, recognizing the economic value of unpaid caregiving work.</li></ul><h2>What These Changes Mean for You</h2><p>As Social Security continues to evolve, it’s important to stay informed and adjust your retirement strategies accordingly. Whether it's understanding the implications of the increased FRA or taking advantage of the COLA boosts, these changes will affect how much you can expect to receive and when. Here’s what you can do to stay ahead:</p><blockquote><ul><li>Plan for a Later Retirement: With the FRA gradually increasing, delaying benefits can be advantageous, resulting in a higher monthly payout.</li><li>Maximize Your Earnings: For those working while receiving benefits, staying below the earnings limit (if applicable) can prevent reductions in your payments.</li><li>Stay Informed on Legislative Changes: With proposals to modify the Social Security system constantly being debated, keeping an eye on developments will help you make timely adjustments to your retirement plans.</li></ul></blockquote><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png" alt="Frame 4076667.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/thumbnail_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/small_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/medium_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/large_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>The recent changes to Social Security reflect broader economic shifts and demographic trends. As lawmakers continue to grapple with the future of this vital program, being proactive in your financial planning will help you navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead. If you are nearing retirement, it's wise to consult with a financial advisor to optimize your Social Security strategy and ensure a more secure financial future.</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span><br>&nbsp;</p>

Grasping the Evolution of Social Secuirty

<p>The RetireUS Wealth Concierge is here to answer any questions before you get started. Call us toll free at 1-888-857-PLAN or schedule a call and we will call YOU!</p>

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What is the average amount of retirement savings? Unearth the amount of savings that Americans have put away for retirement and see if you are on pace for retirement,

<p>Many Americans thinking about retirement oftentimes find themselves confused-- mainly because they aren't sure exactly where they stand. In this article, we're going to explain what the average amount of retirement savings a household has. Although it is informative to know, the average savings is not a “one-size fits all”. The amount of savings needed to retire is different for each person, use our <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">Financial Checkpoint</a> to gauge your progress and compare your results to the average amount explained below!</p><p>According to the Federal Reserve's "<a href="https://smartasset.com/retirement/average-retirement-savings-are-you-normal#:~:text=%E2%80%9CReport%20on%20the%20Economic%20Well%2DBeing%20of%20U.S.%20Households%20in%202019.%E2%80%9D%20Among%20all%20adults%2C%20median%20retirement%20savings%20are%20%2465%2C000%2C%20according%20to%20the%20Federal%20Reserve%E2%80%99s%20most%20recent%20data.%20The%20Federal%20Reserve%20also%20estimated%20that%20by%20retirement%2C%20that%20number%20would%20grow%20to%20an%20average%20of%20%24255%2C200.">Report on the Economic Well-Being of U.S. Households in 2019</a>," 60% of Americans are unsure if their savings are on track. If you're wondering what constitutes a typical amount of&nbsp;retirement savings, you're definitely one of them. The Federal Reserve's most current statistics show that the median amount saved for retirement across all persons is $65,000. By the time of retirement, the Federal Reserve projected that amount to increase to an average of $255,200.</p><p>As you approach retirement, you usually start to save more and invest a little more cautiously. So it can be useful to know how your retirement funds stack up to those in similar positions. The help of a&nbsp;CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER&nbsp;can aid in the success of your path to&nbsp;financial freedom and a comfortable retirement.&nbsp;</p><p>First of all, the fact that too many of us aren't even saving for retirement cannot be emphasized enough.<a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/06/a-quarter-of-americans-have-no-retirement-savings/#:~:text=A%20quarter%20of%20non%2Dretired%20adult%20Americans,45%25)%20think%20their%20savings%20are%20on%20track"> 1 in 4 Americans</a>, according to the Federal Reserve, have no&nbsp;retirement savings.&nbsp;</p><p>Back in 2020, the<a href="https://smartasset.com/retirement/average-retirement-savings-are-you-normal#:~:text=Taking%20them%20and,have%20for%20retirement."> Employee Benefit Research Institute forecasted a $3.68 trillion deficit</a> in&nbsp;retirement savings, simply because people were not saving enough. This predicted deficit means that the total amount of&nbsp;retirement savings for Americans is over $3 trillion less than where it should be.&nbsp;</p><p>A Vanguard study, “<a href="https://institutional.vanguard.com/content/dam/inst/vanguard-has/insights-pdfs/22_TL_HAS_FullReport_2022.pdf">How America Saves 2022</a>” dove into the average and median account balances based on different age groups:&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699299999/Picture2_52e1c2034e.png" alt="Picture2.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699299999/thumbnail_Picture2_52e1c2034e.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699299999/small_Picture2_52e1c2034e.png 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p style="text-align:center;">Source: <a href="https://smartasset.com/retirement/average-retirement-savings-are-you-normal#:~:text=Vanguard%20Retirement%20Account,%2487%2C725"><span style="background-color:transparent;color:#1155cc;font-family:Lato,sans-serif;"><u>Average Retirement Account Balances by Age</u></span></a></p><h2>How much Social Security will I have?&nbsp;</h2><p>In retirement, Social Security benefits are frequently the only source of income for Americans. However, Social Security was never intended to be the only source of income for retirees. As of July 2022, the<a href="https://smartasset.com/retirement/average-retirement-savings-are-you-normal#:~:text=monthly%20Social%20Security%20benefit%20of%20%241%2C624"> average Social Security payout</a> for retired workers was $1,624. The majority of people's retirement dreams of travel and leisure are a far way from reality when you consider the soaring levels of debt among older Americans.</p><h2>Savings Gap Issue</h2><p>The retirement savings difference in America is equal to the income gap. Larger earners are more likely to have retirement savings, and they also have higher average retirement savings. Conversely, those with the lowest salaries have a large amount of debt and little savings. It shouldn't be shocking to learn that, yet it's one of the most striking aspects of the retirement environment.</p><p>Contrary to popular belief, wealthy individuals may also have significant retirement savings gaps. Consider a wealthy household with a high mortgage payment and private-schooled children. Due to their high style of living and potential lack of retirement savings, there would likely be a significant income gap between what they currently make and what they had set aside.</p><p>Those with lower incomes can't just put off retiring later by working longer either-- many low-income roles require too much physical labor for people in their 60s and 70s. No matter how much money you earn, planning for retirement should not be left behind. Choosing to "work longer" is not a reliable substitute for a lack of a plan.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699300373/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_23b4ae1e92.png" alt="How much savings do you have? How much does the average American have saved for retirement?" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699300373/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_23b4ae1e92.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699300373/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_23b4ae1e92.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699300373/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_23b4ae1e92.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699300373/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_23b4ae1e92.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>How much should I be Saving for Retirement?&nbsp;</h2><p>Retirement savings are typically viewed by experts as a journey with a number of checkpoints along the way. Some people believe that by the time you are 30 you should have saved the equivalent of one year's pay. However, it won't hurt to save extra. At the finish line?&nbsp; It can be a good idea to have about ten times your salary saved for retirement.&nbsp;</p><p>Then why do Americans'&nbsp;average retirement savings fall short of what experts recommend?&nbsp;</p><p>There are a few causes. One, is that our brains find it difficult to forego present rewards in favor of those that will come decades from now. Saving can be difficult! It's hard to imagine having to decide between food and prescription medications when it's 30+ years away. However, it is a lot easier to picture what we would do with our paychecks right now.</p><p>Start planning ahead to avoid uncertainties or being in a position of not knowing what to do. Check out our free&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/intro">Retirement Checkpoint</a> and start learning today!&nbsp;<br>&nbsp;</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span></p>

What is the Average Retirement Savings? 

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<p>By: Elias Park | CFP®, CRPC®</p><p>Planning for retirement can be daunting, especially when faced with the uncertainties of future expenses and income. As a <i>CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™</i>, I understand the importance of having a comprehensive strategy in place to bridge the gap between retirement expenses and guaranteed income sources like Social Security benefits. This is where our&nbsp;Sequential Algorithm&nbsp;comes isutilized, offering a structured approach to assess your retirement needs and set achievable financial goals.</p><p><a href="https://meetings.hubspot.com/jv2/retireus2?uuid=0b59d489-54fb-462d-a987-e2975bee5b8d"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203221/Sequential_Algorithm_CTA_588c81803d.png" alt="Sequential Algorithm CTA.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203221/thumbnail_Sequential_Algorithm_CTA_588c81803d.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203221/small_Sequential_Algorithm_CTA_588c81803d.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203221/medium_Sequential_Algorithm_CTA_588c81803d.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203221/large_Sequential_Algorithm_CTA_588c81803d.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></p><h2>Bridging the Gap: Understanding Retirement Expenses and Income</h2><p>Retirement is often associated with relaxation and leisure, but it's essential to remember that it also comes with financial responsibilities. While Social Security benefits provide a foundation for retirement income, they may not cover all your expenses. In fact, there's often a gap between the income from Social Security and the expenses you'll face in retirement.</p><blockquote><h3 style="text-align:center;"><strong>Keep in mind: More than likely, this gap may widen over time due to inflation.</strong></h3></blockquote><h2>Calculating the Yearly Gap&nbsp;</h2><p>The first step in the Sequential Algorithm is to calculate the yearly gap between your expected retirement expenses and your guaranteed income sources. This involves a careful examination of your anticipated spending patterns, factoring in the essentials:</p><ul><li>Housing<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>Home insurance, mortgage, HOA fees</li></ul></li><li>Healthcare<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>Prescriptions, long-term care</li></ul></li><li>Leisure activities</li></ul><p>With this number in hand, the next step is to future value out the final nest egg needed to sustain your retirement lifestyle. This involves projecting your expenses into the future and accounting for inflationary pressures. By quantifying the nest egg required, you gain clarity on the financial target you need to achieve for a comfortable retirement.</p><h2>Setting Target Returns and Managing Risk</h2><p>Once your final nest egg is established, the focus shifts to setting achievable financial goals. This is where the Sequential Algorithm shines, as it allows for a systematic approach to determine the target return needed to reach your retirement objectives within a specified timeframe.</p><p>The target return is calculated based on various factors, including your current savings, time horizon, and risk tolerance. By leveraging financial modeling techniques, such as the<a href="https://www.bing.com/ck/a?!&amp;&amp;p=d0f10c711fab6a77JmltdHM9MTcxMjcwNzIwMCZpZ3VpZD0xMDFlYjY5Ny0yZTVjLTY2NjYtMmE1Ni1hNDI5MmZkMDY3ZDcmaW5zaWQ9NTIzNA&amp;ptn=3&amp;ver=2&amp;hsh=3&amp;fclid=101eb697-2e5c-6666-2a56-a4292fd067d7&amp;psq=efficient+frontier&amp;u=a1aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuaW52ZXN0b3BlZGlhLmNvbS90ZXJtcy9lL2VmZmljaWVudGZyb250aWVyLmFzcA&amp;ntb=1"> Efficient Frontier</a> approach, we can identify the optimal balance between risk and return to maximize the growth of your investments while minimizing exposure to market volatility.</p><h2>Implementing Your Personal Retirement Plan</h2><p>With a clear understanding of your retirement needs and financial goals, it's time to implement your personal retirement plan. This involves selecting appropriate investment vehicles and asset allocation strategies tailored to your risk profile and long-term objectives.</p><p>With a RetireUS subscription, you gain access to personalized <i>CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™</i> advice which focuses on selecting the proper investment approach to accomplish your goals. As a&nbsp;CFP®, I use the Sequential Algorithm to grasp a solidified understanding of what you need out of your investments by the time you retire.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><a href="https://retire.us/pricing"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203618/Create_a_Personal_Retirement_Plan_CTA_Block_Planning_eb9ef0fc57.png" alt="Create a Personal Retirement Plan CTA Block Planning.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203619/thumbnail_Create_a_Personal_Retirement_Plan_CTA_Block_Planning_eb9ef0fc57.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203619/small_Create_a_Personal_Retirement_Plan_CTA_Block_Planning_eb9ef0fc57.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203619/medium_Create_a_Personal_Retirement_Plan_CTA_Block_Planning_eb9ef0fc57.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1713203619/large_Create_a_Personal_Retirement_Plan_CTA_Block_Planning_eb9ef0fc57.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></figure><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>The Sequential Algorithm offers a structured framework for building a resilient retirement plan that accounts for the uncertainties of the future. By understanding your:&nbsp;</p><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li>Gap between retirement expenses and guaranteed income sources,</li><li>Final nest egg calculation,</li><li>Target return needed to get there, and</li><li>Least amount of risk to attain your return…</li></ol><p>You can embark on your retirement journey with confidence and peace of mind.</p><p>Remember, saving for retirement is not just about setting aside money; it's about creating a comprehensive plan that aligns with your lifestyle and aspirations. At RetireUS, our team of <i>CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™&nbsp;</i>are here to help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning and guide you towards a path to financial freedom.&nbsp;</p><hr><p>This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages.&nbsp;</p><p>This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.&nbsp;</p>

How to Create Your Personal Retirement Plan

<p>As part of our Financial Wellness Toolkit, the Portfolio DeepScan® tool tests your portfolio against a market crash.&nbsp;</p>

A Lost Decade is when a 10-year period in the stock market experieneces zero growth. This event can cause pre-retirees to have to move back their reitrement date if they do not plan properly. Make sure you diversify out your risk to a Lost Decade and put some protection in your portfolio. 

<p>A "Lost Decade" refers to a 10-year period in which the stock market no growth. It does not necessarily mean 10 straight years of negative returns, but rather continued volatility with multiple downturns in the beginning and end of the period.&nbsp;</p><p>One of the more recent examples of this infamous feat ended in 2010.&nbsp;The United States experienced a <a href="https://money.usnews.com/investing/stock-market-news/articles/2019-11-29/decade-in-review-2010s-was-the-decade-of-the-bull#:~:text=A%20depressed%20base,the%20early%201980s.">"Lost Decade"</a> in its stock market starting in 2000. It was characterized by significant market volatility and a lack of overall growth. <a href="https://money.usnews.com/investing/stock-market-news/articles/2019-11-29/decade-in-review-2010s-was-the-decade-of-the-bull#:~:text=A%20depressed%20base,the%20early%201980s.">(Source: US News)</a></p><ul><li>Major events like the Dot-com bubble and the 2008 housing crisis contributed to a prolonged period of economic downturn and stagnation.</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1700505207/Untitled_8_8bf11deb99.png" alt="S&amp;P 500 Chart displaying the lost decade between 2000 and 2010" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1700505207/thumbnail_Untitled_8_8bf11deb99.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1700505207/small_Untitled_8_8bf11deb99.png 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p><span style="font-size:11px;">Past performance is not indicative of future returns. You cannot invest directly in an index. All indices are unmanaged and do not include fees or expenses. Please see the back of this presentation for index definitions and disclosures.</span><br><span style="font-size:11px;">Source: </span><a href="https://cdn1-originals.webdamdb.com/13193_122394251?cache=1694175405&amp;response-content-disposition=inline;filename=FMM-CHART-BRC003_FINAL.pdf&amp;response-content-type=application/pdf&amp;Policy=eyJTdGF0ZW1lbnQiOlt7IlJlc291cmNlIjoiaHR0cCo6Ly9jZG4xLW9yaWdpbmFscy53ZWJkYW1kYi5jb20vMTMxOTNfMTIyMzk0MjUxP2NhY2hlPTE2OTQxNzU0MDUmcmVzcG9uc2UtY29udGVudC1kaXNwb3NpdGlvbj1pbmxpbmU7ZmlsZW5hbWU9Rk1NLUNIQVJULUJSQzAwM19GSU5BTC5wZGYmcmVzcG9uc2UtY29udGVudC10eXBlPWFwcGxpY2F0aW9uL3BkZiIsIkNvbmRpdGlvbiI6eyJEYXRlTGVzc1RoYW4iOnsiQVdTOkVwb2NoVGltZSI6MjE0NzQxNDQwMH19fV19&amp;Signature=W46lKmXR1~bNw~jWhjkIAAjsAqQ8XS4d~-HMphZf6DuCv1jbyggQrOpo6w5~bk-t5ekmUjbGFYDSjyLyzLCbSyxq~bWq1enken4~2J4vxhXJdRkvWnaRtyIro2~znqJ1x8njXicvXgsX5KEtbTYTLxVemrKGrIhkvyxoLow5rP2g3kCTvBNBqepasqYdE-5Z~T923~iM-pulZCwzul1Hy-0c-8zMA6kL9B~GGNV6kHIPTx7-ALnwSC-IddGpBk5uf4OSAV0gvPdvO17YN2MM2Dx2BiPSsepDUmQOQstK4-s9XX7eciuIZxwo607-6Z7b9hs1k6nUCB1NlO9SiJYyEw__&amp;Key-Pair-Id=APKAI2ASI2IOLRFF2RHA"><span style="font-size:11px;">Lincoln Financial Group&nbsp;Market Intel Exchange; </span></a><span style="font-size:11px;">FactSet, Standard &amp; Poor’s. Data as of August 31, 2023. Dividend yield is calculated as consensus estimates of dividends for the next 12 months, divided by most recent price, as provided by Compustat. Forward price-to-earnings ratio is a bottom-up calculation based on the most recent S&amp;P 500 Index price, divided by consensus estimates for earnings in the next 12 months (NTM). The S&amp;P 500® Price Return Index tracks the stock performance of 500 large U.S. companies. The index used is a price index and does not reflect dividends paid on the underlying stocks.</span></p><h2>Picture Yourself:</h2><p>For those who were age 55 in 2000, they found themselves on the forefront of ending a successful career and looking forward to spending time traveling, on the golf course, and with the grandkids. However, they didn’t expect a lack of growth in their retirement accounts.</p><p>Fast forward almost a decade, the very same group had planned to retire at 65, but in most cases, had the same amount saved as they did when they were 55.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064487/Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_43_8547dfe461.png" alt="Financial Planner Near Me_Page_43.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064487/thumbnail_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_43_8547dfe461.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064487/small_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_43_8547dfe461.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064487/medium_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_43_8547dfe461.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064487/large_Financial_Planner_Near_Me_Page_43_8547dfe461.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h3>This time period serves a harsh reminder…</h3><p>The importance of prudent financial planning and the need to weather market downturns is imminent.&nbsp; Highlighted by diversification &amp; protected growth, a key strategy that helps reduce risk by spreading investments across different asset classes.</p><p>During this challenging period, investors who had a well-structured and diversified portfolio were better positioned to withstand the storm.&nbsp;</p><ul><li>By allocating their assets across stocks, bonds, real estate, and other investment vehicles, they were able to mitigate the impact of the stock market decline.&nbsp;</li><li>Those who diligently maintained their long-term focus and resisted the urge to make emotional decisions benefited from the eventual market recovery.</li></ul><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714145678/Frame_4076320_9725c1ba2d.svg" alt="Frame 4076320.svg"></a></figure><h2>What can you do to help avoid a “Lost Decade”?</h2><p><strong>Analyze your risk: </strong>Take inventory of your current risk exposure and see where you may lose in the event of a market crash. Utilize our <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">Portfolio DeepScan® </a>tool to test your assets against a 2008 scenario.&nbsp;</p><p><strong>Check your pacing:</strong> Protecting your assets may be more of a priority than growth at this point in your life-- but only if you're on pace. Use our<a href="https://retire.us/get-started"> Financial Wellness Checkpoint</a> to see if you're on pace to your retirement goal!</p><p><strong>Establish a Resilient Retirement® strategy:</strong>&nbsp;a Resilient Retirement® is a personalized investment strategy built to withstand a market crash and is included in ALL RetireUS subscriptions.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span></p>

What is a Lost Decade? 

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<p>By: James Trevouledes, CFP®</p><p>In the realm of financial planning, acronyms like CFP® and CRPC® are more than just letters; they represent a commitment to excellence and expertise in navigating the complex landscape of personal finance. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™&nbsp;(CFP®) and previously Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®), I'm often asked about the significance of these designations and how they shape our planning process at RetireUS.&nbsp;</p><p>So, let's dive into what CFP® and CRPC® mean and how they intertwine with our approach to financial planning.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667808/image_2a31d90687.png"></a></figure><h2>What is a CFP®?</h2><p>A CFP®, or CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, is a professional designation awarded to individuals who have successfully completed the rigorous education, examination, experience, and ethical requirements set forth by the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Board of Standards. Essentially, it's a mark of distinction that signifies expertise in all aspects of financial planning.</p><p>At RetireUS, being a CFP® means more than just having a title; it's a commitment to providing comprehensive financial guidance tailored to each client's unique circumstances. They are equipped to address a wide array of financial needs, including:&nbsp;</p><ul><li><a href="https://retire.us/get-started">Retirement Planning</a></li><li>Investment Management&nbsp;</li><li>Tax Strategies</li><li>Estate Planning</li></ul><p><br>&nbsp;</p><h2>The Role of a CFP® in Our Planning Process</h2><p>When you work with a CFP® at our firm, you're gaining access to a holistic approach to financial planning. We begin by understanding your&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/get-started">financial goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon.&nbsp;</a>Then, we&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/get-started">craft a personalized plan</a> designed to help you achieve those goals while navigating the complexities of today's financial landscape.</p><p>One of the key advantages of working with a CFP® is the depth of expertise they bring to the table. Whether you're planning for retirement, saving for your children's education, or managing a windfall, a CFP® can provide invaluable insights and guidance every step of the way.</p><h2><br>Understanding the CRPC® Designation</h2><p>In addition to the CFP® designation, many of our financial advisors hold the CRPC® designation, which stands for Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor. This designation emphasizes expertise in retirement planning, including strategies for:</p><ul><li>Income distribution</li><li>Asset allocation</li><li>Risk management during retirement years.</li></ul><p>For our clients approaching or already in retirement, the CRPC® designation adds an extra layer of specialization to our advisory services. It enables us to develop tailored retirement income strategies that aim to provide financial security and peace of mind during your golden years.</p><figure class="image image_resized image-style-side" style="width:50%;"><a href="https://retire.us/pricing"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667973/CFP_Social_Post_5ae3675c59.png" alt="CFP Social Post.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667973/thumbnail_CFP_Social_Post_5ae3675c59.png 156w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667974/small_CFP_Social_Post_5ae3675c59.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667974/medium_CFP_Social_Post_5ae3675c59.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1714667974/large_CFP_Social_Post_5ae3675c59.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></figure><h2>Wealth Mastery: Your Path to Personalized Financial Guidance</h2><p>At RetireUS, we believe that everyone deserves access to&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/get-started">expert financial guidance.</a> That's why we offer our premier "Wealth Mastery" subscription, which provides live, one-on-one access to a CFP®.</p><p>With Wealth Mastery, you'll have a dedicated CFP® by your side, ready to help you navigate life's financial complexities and seize opportunities for growth. Whether you're planning for retirement, saving for a major purchase, or building generational wealth, your planner will be there to guide you every step of the way.</p><p>Now although the Wealth Mastery tier is our only option to work individually with a CFP®, <a href="https://retire.us/pricing">all of our plans</a> under the Basic Planning &amp; Tax Mastery tiers are built by our team of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERs™. Each strategic approach is touched by &amp; designed by multiple CFPs® on hand.&nbsp;</p><h2><br>Conclusion</h2><p>In the world of financial planning, the designations of CFP® and CRPC® signify a commitment to excellence, expertise, and&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/get-started">personalized service</a>. At RetireUS, we're proud to have a team of dedicated professionals who hold these designations and who are passionate about helping our clients achieve their financial goals.</p><p>Whether you're just starting your financial journey or you're well on your way to building wealth, we're here to provide the guidance and support you need to succeed. With our comprehensive approach to financial planning and our commitment to personalized service, we're confident that we can help you&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/get-started">build a brighter financial future.</a></p><p>If you're ready to take control of your finances, we invite you to explore our&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/PRICING">three subscription tiers</a> and discover the difference that expert financial guidance can make in your life.</p><p>The path towards financial freedom starts with US.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages.&nbsp; This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.&nbsp;</span><br><br>&nbsp;</p>

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Planning for retirement can be stressful. A Resilient Retirement® strategy is designed to help simplify the process and get you back on pace for retirement. 

<p>Planning for retirement is a multi-step, time-consuming process. You'll need to develop a plan&nbsp;to fund a resilient retirement, achieve financial freedom, or aim for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wallstreetmojo.com/financial-independence-retire-early-fire/#:~:text=Financial%20Independence%2C%20Retire%20Early%20%28FIRE%29%20is%20a%20concept,Your%20Money%20or%20Your%20Life%2C%20published%20in%201992.">FIRE</a> (financial independence retire early).</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1697727062/plan_86d3744481.png" alt="plan.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1697727062/thumbnail_plan_86d3744481.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1697727062/small_plan_86d3744481.png 500w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p>Thinking about your retirement objectives and how long you have to achieve them is the first step in retirement planning. Then, you must consider the many types of retirement vehicles that help you invest the funds needed to support your future. Once you align on what accounts to use, then income mapping has to be planned for.&nbsp;</p><ul><li><i>What is a&nbsp;401(k) versus IRA?&nbsp;</i></li><li><i>Is a Roth IRA better than a Traditional IRA?</i></li><li><i>Is an annuity better than an IRA?&nbsp;</i></li></ul><p>Many folks assume that because they are maxing out their 401(k) they are in good shape for retirement, but the equation is far more complex.</p><p>The final factor revolves around risk. You want to make sure your investment accounts aren’t taking on too&nbsp;much risk or heavily exposed to a market crash.&nbsp;</p><p>The 4 Steps in a Resilient Retirement strategy can help boost your progress towards not only retirement, but a&nbsp;FIRE (financial independence, retire early)&nbsp;lifestyle.&nbsp;</p><h2><br>1. Retirement timeline:&nbsp;When should I retire?&nbsp;</h2><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676144126/Screen_Shot_2023_02_11_at_2_35_15_PM_e38819ce30.png" alt="Use our Financial Checkpoint to guage your current progress towards retirement based on a given age!" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676144127/thumbnail_Screen_Shot_2023_02_11_at_2_35_15_PM_e38819ce30.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676144127/small_Screen_Shot_2023_02_11_at_2_35_15_PM_e38819ce30.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676144127/medium_Screen_Shot_2023_02_11_at_2_35_15_PM_e38819ce30.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676144127/large_Screen_Shot_2023_02_11_at_2_35_15_PM_e38819ce30.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p>The primary foundation of a successful retirement strategy is determined by your present age and predicted retirement age. For some folks, retiring as early as 60 is something they strive for-- but others are more than okay with continuing to work until 65 or even 70!</p><p>Part of a Resilient Retirement is looking at different retirement age scenarios to see what ages make sense. Pre-65 can be difficult with high private healthcare costs, but without quantifying out what retirement will cost, how do you know if you can retire then or not?&nbsp;</p><p>Now for some, waiting for 65 to 67, or<a href="https://www.aarp.org/retirement/social-security/questions-answers/social-security-full-retirement-age.html"> “Full Retirement Age”</a>, usually revolves solely around getting the most out of your&nbsp;Social Security-- the longer you wait to turn on Social, the larger the monthly payouts.&nbsp;</p><p>Choosing an age is important when planning for retirement, so it is vital to prepare and quantify costs for different retirement ages to see what works, and what doesn’t!</p><hr><p><i>Not sure when to retire? Worried about if you are on pace to retire when you want to? Use our FREE Financial Checkpoint to gauge your current progress towards retirement. </i><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><i>Click here to start today!</i></a></p><hr><h2>2. How does a 401(k) work: Optimizing Employer plans</h2><p>Understanding&nbsp;how your 401(k) works is very important-- and our Resilient Retirement® strategy helps optimize all of your employer plans.&nbsp;</p><p>First of all, we should go over how you are contributing to your 401(k). Most employers offer a match to your contribution-- according to<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2019/06/10/this-is-the-average-401k-employer-match.html#:~:text=The%20average%20employer%20401(k)%20match%20reached%204.7%25%20this%20year%2C%20according%20to%20Fidelity%2C%20which%20manages%20more%20than%2030%20million%20retirement%20accounts.%20That%E2%80%99s%20a%20record%20high%2C%20the%20company%20tells%20CNBC%20Make%20It."> CNBC</a>, the average match is between 4% and 5%. If you aren’t maxing out your 401(k) ensure you are saving up to the match.&nbsp;</p><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li><i>Example:</i> If you make a $100,000 salary and your employer matches 5%, you should contribute&nbsp;at least $5,000 to you 401(k), for a total contribution of $10,000.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Some plans have basic retirement age target date funds that become more and more conservative the closer it gets to the target year.&nbsp;</p><ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li><i>Example:</i> a 2025 retirement-age based fund <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/retirement/07/life_cycle.asp#:~:text=A%20target%2Ddate%20fund%20operates,with%202045%20in%20its%20name.">will be much less risky</a> than a 2050 fund. One will be allocated more into bond funds, while the other will have more equity positions, respectively.&nbsp;</li></ul><p>Hopefully your plan has more options than just the standard age-based funds. If you do, it is important to know which ones can offer more growth and diversification, but also keep in mind fund costs &amp; expense ratios.&nbsp;</p><p>Optimizing your 401(k) is a necessity for proper retirement planning--especially if it is your main vehicle for saving for retirement and the main account you will withdraw from.&nbsp;</p><h2><br>3. What is Passive Income?</h2><p>There are 2 major ways to utilize and plan around passive income-- income from investments and income from property.&nbsp;</p><h3>Passive Income from Investing</h3><p>There are plenty of ways to help generate income from investment using different products, funds, and accounts. This type of passive income can derive from dividends from stocks, ETFs, &amp; mutual funds. It can also come from coupons of bonds &amp; structured products. Annuities can also be set up to be used as an income instrument.&nbsp;</p><h3>Passive Income from Properties</h3><p>Generating income from properties can also be a great way to boost your income in retirement. This includes owning rental properties and using the rent payments as income (once the property is paid off). You can also purchase and resell properties and utilize the proceeds for income.</p><p>Positioning your future income in retirement beyond your Social Security and 401(k) can help maximize your nest egg and boost a FIRE lifestyle.&nbsp;</p><h2>4.&nbsp;How do I Protect my Investments from a Market Crash?&nbsp;</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1697728564/Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_35_a16a13fb3e.png" alt="RetireUS Virtual Financial Planning _Page_35.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1697728564/thumbnail_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_35_a16a13fb3e.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1697728564/small_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_35_a16a13fb3e.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1697728564/medium_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_35_a16a13fb3e.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1697728564/large_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_35_a16a13fb3e.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><p>If you aren’t sure how much to save for retirement, there’s a good chance your allocation may not be properly set up either. The last step in a Resilient Retirement® strategy is to make sure your investments are positioned in a way that they aren’t too exposed to a market crash.&nbsp;</p><p>Now, if you’re 40 years old, you can take on relatively more risky investments because you won’t be&nbsp;withdrawing from these retirement accounts for quite some time.&nbsp;</p><p>On the other hand, a 60-year-old who plans to retire in the next few years is going to be more risk averse and should be positioned in less volatile investments like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/investing/best-low-risk-investments/#:~:text=Best%20Low-Risk%20Investments%201%20Treasury%20Notes%2C%20Treasury%20Bills,yield%20in%20this%20low-interest-rate%20environment.%207%20Index%20Funds">bonds or annuities</a>. If the equities were to decline over the next few years, older folks can benefit from their non-equity assets being less volatile.</p><p>As you get older, your portfolio should be more focused on income and capital preservation. This means putting more money into less risky funds &amp; products. These investments won't provide you the same returns as stocks but will be less volatile and less susceptible in the event of a market crash.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><i>Not sure if your investments can withstand a market crash? Use our Portfolio DeepScan® tool to get an in-depth analysis on how your accounts will match up against market downturns.</i><a href="https://info.retire.us/get-instant-access-to-your-free-portfolio-deepscan"><i> Click here to learn more!&nbsp;</i></a></p><hr><h2>How do I get a Resilient Retirement Strategy?</h2><p>Individuals are bearing more of the burden of retirement preparation than ever before, and as a result the retirement age in the USA is on the rise. The national transition from pensions to more plans like a 401(k)&nbsp; implies that you, not your employer, will be in charge of&nbsp;planning for retirement. Taking in account what&nbsp;age you should retire, how your 401(k) works, income strategies, &amp;&nbsp;how to avoid a market crash-- there’s a lot to plan around.&nbsp;</p><p>It is essential to focus on building a flexible plan that can be assessed on a frequent basis to reflect changing market circumstances. Especially if you want to achieve your retirement goals or have the financial freedom to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wallstreetmojo.com/financial-independence-retire-early-fire/#:~:text=Financial%20Independence%2C%20Retire%20Early%20%28FIRE%29%20is%20a%20concept,Your%20Money%20or%20Your%20Life%2C%20published%20in%201992.">FIRE</a> (financial independence retire early).</p><p>All of our plans include the Resilient Retirement strategy and&nbsp;&nbsp;CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ expertise. Click here to compare our plans to see which is best for you!&nbsp;</p>

Planning for Retirement: 4 Steps for a Resilient Retirement®

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Help protect your retirement savings from market volatility. Explore diversification, sustainable withdrawal strategy, and expert guidance to navigate fluctuations confidently and secure your financial future

<p>By: Conor O’Malley</p><p>Market volatility can be unsettling, especially for those approaching retirement. Watching the market swing up and down might feel like your hard-earned savings are at risk. You’ve put in decades of work to build a stable nest egg, and the last thing you want is to see it depleted by unexpected downturns. But rest assured, there are proven strategies to help you navigate these uncertain times with confidence. Protecting your savings can be attainable through smart planning, informed decisions, and proactive risk management.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png" alt="Frame 4076614-2.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/thumbnail_Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/small_Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096862/medium_Frame_4076614_2_4d36be83ec.png 750w," sizes="100vw"></a></figure><h2>Defining Market Volatility:</h2><p>Market volatility refers to the frequent and rapid movement of stock prices. While some investors find opportunities in these fluctuations, others — especially those nearing retirement — might feel a spike in anxiety with every dip. When it comes to retirement savings, understanding market volatility is essential, as it directly affects the value of investments that may be vital to your future financial security.</p><p>The ups and downs of the market often come as a response to economic shifts, global events, and even psychological factors influencing investor confidence. While some level of volatility is normal, extreme fluctuations can be particularly risky for those who don’t have the time to wait out a potential recovery. That’s why developing a strategy that considers both long-term growth and downside protection is key.</p><h2>How Volatility Impacts Your Retirement Savings</h2><p>For retirees or those close to retirement, sudden market drops can impact their portfolios significantly. When a market downturn hits, retirees often feel the impact more severely because they typically rely on their savings for income. This means that withdrawing funds during a downturn not only can reduce your savings but also may limit their ability to recover when the market eventually rebounds.</p><p>In technical terms, this is known as "Sequence of Returns Risk" — the danger of withdrawing from a portfolio during periods of poor market performance. For example, if a retiree has to withdraw funds during a bear market, the negative impact on their balance can be disproportionately larger, potentially requiring years to make up the loss.</p><h3>Why This Matters</h3><p>Without an adequate buffer against market drops, your nest egg might shrink faster than anticipated. Those in retirement or nearing it generally have less time to recover from downturns, making it all the more important to shield investments from excessive volatility. Protecting your nest egg is not just about preserving what you have but aiming to ensure that your income can last through your golden years.</p><p><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png" alt="Frame 4076667.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/thumbnail_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/small_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/medium_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/large_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></p><h2>Resilient Retirement Strategies</h2><p>Luckily, there are smart and effective strategies that can help you withstand volatility. Here’s a look at some methods that our team<i> CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™ </i>often recommend to safeguard retirement savings:</p><blockquote><ol style="list-style-type:decimal;"><li><strong>Diversify Your Portfolio</strong><br>Diversification is about spreading investments across various asset classes to avoid overreliance on a single sector or stock. With a diversified portfolio, you can balance the risks associated with each asset class. By combining equities, bonds, real estate, and other investments, you can create a safety net. During market volatility, bonds or other fixed-income investments may provide stability, positioning your savings to hopefully offset potential losses in the stock market.</li><li><strong>Incorporate Low-Risk Assets</strong><br>Many CFPs suggest adjusting portfolios to include low-risk or defensive assets as you approach retirement. Treasury bonds, high-grade corporate bonds, and cash equivalents like money market funds are examples of low-risk investments. Including these in your portfolio can help to reduce exposure to market shocks, potentially giving you a more stable foundation for withdrawals during uncertain times.</li><li><strong>Using a “Three Bucket Strategy”</strong><br>The bucket strategy divides assets into three categories: Smart Growth, Protected Growth, and Cash buckets.&nbsp;<ol><li>Smart Growth takes on a moderate&nbsp;level of risk, allowing for an inflation head for the long-term. Long-term assets, typically in equities, tend to have higher growth potential and can recover from downturns given enough time.</li><li>Protected Growth investments focus on providing stability and some sort of protection from market losses.&nbsp;</li><li>The Cash bucket is utilized to fund your retirement expenses.</li></ol></li></ol></blockquote><p>When markets are doing well, the Smart Growth bucket funds your Cash bucket. When markets experience turbulence, withdrawals from the Protected Growth bucket are used.&nbsp;</p><ol><li><strong>Set a Sustainable Withdrawal Rate</strong><br>Knowing how much to withdraw annually is crucial in maintaining your portfolio. A common rule of thumb is the "4% rule," which suggests withdrawing 4% of your retirement savings annually to help sustain your nest egg throughout retirement. Adjusting this rate based on market conditions — for instance, withdrawing less during market downturns — can extend the longevity of your assets.</li><li><strong>Consider Annuities for Added Stability</strong><br>For some, an annuity can offer peace of mind as part of their retirement strategy. Annuities aim to provide a steady income stream, which can reduce reliance on volatile markets. However, choosing an annuity requires careful consideration, as there are various types, each with specific terms and fees. A <i>CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™</i> can help you assess if an annuity fits within your financial goals and risk tolerance.</li><li><strong>Work with a </strong><i><strong>CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™</strong></i><br>A CFP provides expert guidance tailored to your retirement goals. They analyze your unique financial situation, considering not only market conditions but also your risk tolerance, time horizon, and income needs. At RetireUS, our CFP<strong>®</strong> team can help you create a flexible plan that adjusts as the market changes, so you can feel confident no matter the economic climate.</li></ol><h3>Conclusion: Be Prepared, Not Surprised</h3><p>You’ve worked hard to build your retirement savings, and protecting it is worth the effort. Although the market can be unpredictable, you have control over how you respond. By diversifying, setting sustainable withdrawal rates, and working with a financial professional, you can create a robust plan to help weather market volatility.</p><p>If you’re ready to get a clear picture of where you stand, take our&nbsp;Financial Checkpoint Quiz to assess your current strategy and identify any gaps. Don’t let uncertainty hold you back from a secure retirement. Connect with one of our CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS to discuss your goals, explore personalized solutions, and feel prepared for whatever the market brings.</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span></p>

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Not sure how much to have saved for retirement? See where you line up with national averages. If you feel like you are off pace, meet with a RetireUS advisor to gain clarity on how to achieve financial freedom!

<p>Savings is the foundation of achieving your financial goals, like buying your first house or creating a college fund. Without tracking your savings, how do you know if you'll reach your goals? One strategy is to compare your savings to what the average American of the same age has saved-- which is exactly what we are going to break down in this blog.&nbsp;</p><p>Savings are funds saved aside for anticipated purchases or, in the case of an emergency, unanticipated costs. Given that each person's financial situation is unique, determining the average savings needed by age is not an exact science. Saving money may be simple for someone with a greater income and less expenses compared to someone with a lower salary or someone who has a large debt to pay off.</p><p>The Federal Reserve divides American savings into "transaction accounts'' and "time deposit accounts" in order to maintain track of total savings in the country. Account holders with transaction accounts can quickly make deposits and withdrawals. Some examples of transaction accounts include your basic checking &amp; savings accounts, as well as money market accounts. There are also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/savings/average-savings-by-age/#:~:text=Time%20deposits%20are%20different%2C%20as%20they%20typically%20don%E2%80%99t%20allow%20for%20the%20movement%20of%20money%20in%20and%20out%20of%20the%20account%20once%20it%E2%80%99s%20been%20opened.%20The%20best%20example%20of%20a%20time%20deposit%20account%20is%20a%20certificate%20of%20deposit%20(CD)%2C%20which%20can%20hit%20you%20with%20stiff%20penalties%20if%20you%20withdraw%20your%20money%20too%20soon.">time deposits</a>.&nbsp; In these cases, once an account is opened, they normally don't permit the movement of money in or out of the account. A certificate of deposit (CD) is the best example of a time deposit account because you will take on penalties if you take your money out too soon.</p><p>The average transaction account balance in 2019 was $41,600, according to the Fed's most recent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/savings/average-savings-by-age/#:~:text=According%20to%20the%20Fed%E2%80%99s%20most%20recent%20Survey%20of%20Consumer%20Finances%2C%20the%20average%20transaction%20account%20balance%20was%20%2441%2C600%20in%202019.%20Meanwhile%2C%20the%20median%20balance%20for%20checking%20and%20savings%20combined%20was%20%245%2C300.">Survey of Consumer Finances</a>. The median total balance of checking and savings was $5,300.</p><p>Here is a closer look at average savings rates by age, as reported by the Fed.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699452796/Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_01_4d42f5dd55.png" alt="RetireUS Virtual Financial Planning _Page_01.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699452796/thumbnail_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_01_4d42f5dd55.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699452796/small_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_01_4d42f5dd55.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699452796/medium_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_01_4d42f5dd55.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1699452796/large_Retire_US_Virtual_Financial_Planning_Page_01_4d42f5dd55.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>How much money should you have saved: Under age 35</h2><p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/savings/average-savings-by-age/#:~:text=The%20Fed%E2%80%99s%20most%20recent%20numbers%20show%20the%20average%20savings%20for%20the%20age%20group%20that%20includes%2025%2Dyear%2Dolds%20is%20%2411%2C250.%20The%20median%20savings%20is%20%243%2C240.">According to the most recent data</a> from the Fed, people under 35 have an average savings of $11,250. The median amount saved is $3,240.</p><p>If you are still in college or have just graduated, having a little amount of money in your 20s is not unusual. You may have a lower-paying entry-level position while also making school debt payments, but it's not too early to start saving money. For instance, you could sign up for your employer's 401(k), start a high-yield savings account for unexpected expenses, or contribute each month to an IRA. You can benefit from saving even tiny sums because you have plenty of time to take advantage of compound interest.</p><p>For those in their 30s, you may benefit from some advantages if you want to increase your savings. For instance, you might have moved into a job with a greater salary or be closer to paying off your college loans. At age 30, it's crucial to think about the financial objectives you're pursuing. Maybe your goals are to:</p><ul><li>Have a substantial emergency fund</li><li>Focus more of your savings towards retirement</li><li>Allocate some savings to first-time home buying</li></ul><p>Depending on what you prioritize, setting goals can help you choose the best way to disperse your savings. There are also future opportunities in life that will help boost your savings. Let's use a 2% wage increase as an example. You might put that money toward increasing your 401(k) contribution by 2% rather than spending it. Keep your budget unchanged, even if your wage increases-- a simple approach to having more savings.</p><h2><br>How much money should you have saved: Ages 35-45</h2><p><a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/banking/savings/average-savings-by-age/#:~:text=The%20Fed%E2%80%99s%20most%20recent%20numbers%20show%20the%20average%20savings%20for%20the%20age%20group%20that%20includes%2040%2Dyear%2Dolds%20is%20%2427%2C900.%20The%20median%20savings%20is%20%244%2C710.">According to the most recent data</a> from the Fed, people over 40 have an average savings of $27,900. The median amount saved is $4,710.</p><p>You may be in the prime of your career and possibly at the top of your earning years by the time you're in your 40s, and you now may have an increased ability to save. Your objectives could change at this point. Continuing to grow your emergency fund may not be as crucial as saving for retirement, for example.&nbsp;</p><p>You might be placing more emphasis on investing, which can provide bigger returns, than conserving money. Within this age bracket, there should be more planning involved. Make sure your investments are diversified to help manage risk. Professional advice or utilizing a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ may be necessary.&nbsp; If you're not sure where to start, use our&nbsp;<a href="https://retire.us/intro">Financial Checkpoint</a> to learn more!&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png" alt="Free Retirement Checkpoint Quiz _Page_14.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Shifting the focus to Retirement Savings: Ages 45 and up</h2><p>Now for those who have already purchased the first home and have done a solid job on creating a college fund for the kids-- retirement is probably the last financial milestone. For the rest of this blog, we’re going to explain the how’s, why’s, and where’s of retirement savings…</p><h3>How much should I be Saving for Retirement?</h3><p>Your financial needs and unique circumstances will determine how much money you should have in savings. To save for emergencies, many people recommend setting away three to six months' worth of spending. In most cases, this will be enough to cover expenses and bills once you return to work. Analyzing your expenses carefully will help you determine how much money you should save in order to roughly maintain your standard of living each month. The exact amount you should have saved can then be determined by taking that sum and multiplying it by three months or six months, whichever you feel comfortable with.&nbsp;</p><h3>Why Should I Save at All?</h3><p>One of the main benefits of saving money is the peace of mind it may bring.</p><p>If you have money set aside, you won't have to worry about trying to come up with cash if your car breaks down or your pet becomes ill. Any lengthy financial crisis, such as getting laid off or an injury that keeps you from working, may be easier to get by with the aid of an emergency fund.</p><p>In the event of an emergency, having funds can assist you from sliding into debt. Although it can be handy, charging daily expenses like doctor visits to a credit card may result in more debt that must be repaid. If you're trapped using a credit card with a high APR, the interest may raise the cost of those charges.</p><p>Lastly, if you're earning a solid rate, saving money can be your best friend.&nbsp; There are several high-yield savings accounts that offer a competitive annual percentage yield (APY), and even some with no fees. Your savings will grow faster if you save consistently and have high earning interest.&nbsp;</p><h3>How can I Save more for Retirement?&nbsp;</h3><p>If you're interested in saving more and saving more quickly, then take a hard look at your current budget. You may be able to uncover some opportunities to save money rather than spend it by going through each of your costs one at a time. The more unnecessary costs you can eliminate, the more money you can put aside as savings.&nbsp;</p><p>There are even some automated tools to help accelerate your savings efforts. You can increase your balance painlessly by setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings each pay period. If you're saving for retirement, you might also automate deposits to an IRA.</p><h3>Where should I keep my Savings?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h3><p>Emergency savings should be kept in an easily accessible location with a high interest rate and little or no costs. In general, online savings accounts satisfy all three requirements: External banks can be linked for simple transactions, and they often have low rates and no fees.</p><p>Retirement savings will stay tucked away in your 401(k) and IRAs. Funds inside these accounts won't be accessible until you reach&nbsp;<a href="https://smartasset.com/retirement/cashing-out-401k#:~:text=There%20may%20be%20a%20few%20reasons%20why%20you%20would%20consider%20withdrawing%20from%20your%20401(k).%20The%20simplest%20answer%20may%20be%20that%20you%E2%80%99re%20in%20retirement.%20You%E2%80%99re%20already%20past%20the%20minimum%20age%20requirement%20of%2059%20%C2%BD%20and%20need%20to%20start%20supporting%20yourself%20with%20the%20funds">age 59.5</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>You can also utilize brokerage accounts and different stock accounts as a means to save for retirement. These funds can be accessed at any time, but they usually follow with capital gains taxes. Planning from a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ is recommended if these accounts will be the majority of your savings.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064384/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_f3fe9852d4.png" alt="Free Retirement Checkpoint Quiz _Page_29.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064384/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_f3fe9852d4.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064384/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_f3fe9852d4.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064384/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_f3fe9852d4.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064384/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_29_f3fe9852d4.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2><br>Closing Thoughts</h2><p>You can obtain some perspective on your money by comparing your progress with the average savings by age. However, keep in mind that your capacity for saving probably won't be the same as someone else's. How much someone has saved in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond might depend on a variety of things.&nbsp;</p><p>If there’s anything that will help grow savings the most, it’s consistency. Making savings a consistent component of your financial routine is crucial.</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.</span><br>&nbsp;</p>

How much should you have saved for Retirement?

Ready to start your journey towards Financial Freedom? 

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This checklist serves as a great starting point for those who are in the beginning stages of planning for retirement. Understanding what retirement will cost, how to map your income, paying taxes, and even optimizing social security. This retirement planning checklist covers it all. 

<p>Retirement planning can elicit a wide range of emotions. Everyone looks forward to financial freedom, post-work traveling, sleeping late during the week, and finally leaving the workforce.&nbsp; There's also the concern of running out of money, boredom, or making a major financial mistake that might result in a massive tax burden.</p><p>The most effective strategy to deal with your anxieties is to plan ahead. The sooner you start planning, the better. You're already ahead of the game if you're thinking about retirement now, and to assist you more, use this checklist as the foundation for your planning.&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png" alt="Free Retirement Checkpoint Quiz _Page_14.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064379/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_14_311f73d549.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>1.&nbsp;How much should I have saved for Retirement?</h2><p>There are a lot of important numbers you'll discover throughout the course of retirement. They're valuable in the grand scheme of things—and sometimes only for their ability to instill fear. For example, they can tell you if you're falling behind on your savings.</p><p>You should always be aware of concepts such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/f/four-percent-rule.asp">4% rule</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.moolanomy.com/327/80-percent-rule-retirement/">80% rule</a>— the latter suggests that your expenses will drop by about a fifth after the working years as compared to your last year in the workforce. Then there's the&nbsp;<a href="https://investorjunkie.com/retirement/25x-rule/#:~:text=There%20are%20a%20few%20very%20important%20details%20to,you%20can%20withdraw%20during%20retirement.%20More%20items...%20">25x rule</a>: in order to figure out&nbsp;how much you need saved up to retire&nbsp;comfortably, simply multiply your annual expenses by 25. For example, you'll need to have $2 million saved if your yearly expenses tally $80,000.</p><p>Understanding these numbers can offer a quick, high-level view of how your&nbsp;retirement may play out, creating a basis of what the real numbers may be.&nbsp;</p><h2>2.&nbsp; Calculate your Net Worth</h2><p>Get an understanding of your current net worth: list out all of your assets and liabilities-- cash, 401(k), IRAs, annuities, insurance policies, property, &amp; mortgages, loans, etc.--&nbsp; have a firm grasp on your personal balance sheet as well.&nbsp;</p><p>This advice may seem self-evident, but you may overlook something important, such as how your available income may alter depending on when you decide to turn on&nbsp;Social Security. Another example is how drastically your investment returns can shift in five years or how much "the final nest egg" you come up with might be absorbed by inflation and taxes.</p><h2>3.&nbsp;Use a Financial Professional</h2><p>When it comes to planning, any sort of&nbsp;financial management or a financial planner can be extremely beneficial. Although many folks are employing professionals ineffectively. There is a large number of advisors out there acting as a costly source of stock picking rather than focusing on estate planning and tax strategies, the crucial work of a&nbsp;CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP).&nbsp;</p><p>80% of households with a financial advisor relied on them primarily to make investment suggestions, according to a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/retirement/retirement-planning-checklist/">TransAmerica survey</a>. 31% of people employed a professional to determine income needs, 23% put together&nbsp;401(k) withdrawal strategies, and only 21% had any sort of focus on&nbsp;tax planning.&nbsp;</p><p>That&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/retirement/retirement-planning-checklist/">80% number</a> represents the inverted perspective on how to make the best use of professional financial management. Many people can invest money on their own, but they require the most assistance when it comes to turning their nest egg into a consistent, long-term income strategy.&nbsp;</p><h2>4. Strategize your Retirement Spending</h2><p>A lot of new retirees misjudge the increased first-year costs of retirement. You'll undoubtedly spend more on vacation than you anticipated, using private healthcare prior to Medicare may result in higher costs, as well as closing fees if you downsize your house.</p><p>Calculating your future income from&nbsp;Social Security,&nbsp;annuities, and&nbsp;pensions is the first step. Then building a strategy around your spending capabilities can help take out the guessing-game of how long your nest egg will last you. It will also create a sense of security knowing you'll have enough.&nbsp;</p><h2>5. How to Withdraw from your 401(k)</h2><p>Maximizing your income while limiting Uncle Sam's take can often be difficult. Maxing 401(k) pre-tax contributions are just one of the factors that go into your future tax bill. After the working-years, most people face a number of tax issues:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Required minimum distributions (RMDs) from your qualified accounts<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>401(k)</li><li>Traditional IRA</li><li>&nbsp;Annuities</li></ul></li><li>Capital gains on selling the house</li><li>Medicare income limits.</li></ul><p>Something to consider is conducting a tax-saving&nbsp;Roth conversion after you retire, prior to turning on&nbsp;Social Security. When your tax bracket is low, you should pay income tax on 401(k)s and Traditional IRAs and receive tax-free Roth withdrawals later in life.</p><p>That's just one reason why it's critical to plan&nbsp;401(k) withdraw techniques. It can be difficult to juggle future taxes and making the wrong decision might cost you a lot of money. It's worthwhile to get a financial planner and professional assistance on your future tax bill.&nbsp;</p><h2>6. Turning on Social Security</h2><p>Most people are aware that those who delay turning on&nbsp;Social Security will receive higher monthly benefits— but are you aware of the difference? It can be very significant, as delaying until age 70 can<a href="https://www.fool.com/retirement/general/2014/09/15/social-security-why-delaying-benefits-can-be-incre.aspx#:~:text=You%20can%20increase%20your%20monthly%20Social%20Security%20check,matter%20when%20you%20start%20taking%20Social%20Security%20benefits."> increase benefits by approximately 75%</a>.&nbsp;</p><p>Delaying is a good option if it works for your plan, but without planning ahead, you won't know the answer. When planning for Social Security, there are studies that explain how men often overlook the importance of their spouses' benefits. Women historically live longer than men, and many male retirees turn Social on earlier,&nbsp;<a href="https://crr.bc.edu/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/wp_2007-171-508.pdf">negatively affecting their spouses' distributions later in life.</a>&nbsp;</p><p>To summarize, plan ahead of time to utilize your qualified assets initially and defer&nbsp;Social Security benefits.</p><h2>7. Plan for Medical Expenses, Including Long-Term Care</h2><p>Medicare can be very helpful, but it may not cover everything.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/retirement/retirement-planning-checklist/">1 in 5 Medicare enrollees pay for Medigap coverage</a>, which costs around $150 per month. According to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/retirement/retirement-planning-checklist/">Bureau of Labor Statistics</a>, people aged 65 and overpaid more than $6,600 for healthcare in 2020.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210507005403/en/Fidelity%E2%80%99s-20th-Annual-Retiree-Health-Care-Cost-Estimate-Hits-New-High-A-Couple-Retiring-Today-Will-Need-300000-to-Cover-Medical-Expenses-an-88-Increase-Since-2002">Fidelity ran a study</a> and found that couples who retired in 2021 will require $300,000 to cover medical bills throughout the retired years.&nbsp;</p><p>If you plan to retire before Medicare benefits kick in, plan to shovel a lot more of your savings towards private health insurance.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Long-term care insurance, which covers nursing homes and assisted living, for example, is now a lot more popular. It can be extremely complicated, so don't wait until you or someone you care about can't live independently to start looking into it.</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064375/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png" alt="Free Retirement Checkpoint Quiz _Page_02.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064376/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064376/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064376/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064376/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_02_73e154185a.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>&nbsp;8. When should you Retire?</h2><p>Continuing to work is a terrific approach to boost your nest egg and an easier route for financial freedom. Every dollar you earn is a dollar you won't have to take out of your nest egg.&nbsp;</p><p>Look into part-time work prior to handing in your resignation papers.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aarp.org/work/employers/americans-working-past-65/">AARP did a study&nbsp;</a>back in 2019 and found that 20% of Americans over 65 are still working or looking for work. Any side business or part-time work can provide not only some income, but a little more purpose in retirement-- helping avoid any sort of boredom past the career years.&nbsp;</p><h2>9. Understand that an Investment Account is NOT a&nbsp;Retirement Plan</h2><p>Years ago, retirees would just put their money in CDs &amp; T-bills and let their investments run themselves. That strategy, however,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/retirement/retirement-planning-checklist/#:~:text=Once%20upon%20a%20time%2C%20retired%20folks%20parked%20their%20money%20in%20certificates%20of%20deposit%20(CDs)%20and%20Treasury%20bills%2C%20and%20put%20things%20on%20autopilot.%20But%20those%20days%20are%20long%20gone.">isn't as effective as it used to be</a>. A recently retired 65-year-old must still focus on long-term investments with some sort of significant portion of their portfolio in equities.</p><p>There is always the short-term focus as well; the cash you'll need to cover living expenses over the next five years should be readily available in protected growth investments. Allocate at least 5 years’ worth of living costs in safer assets with higher liquidity. As you get closer to retirement, plan on gradually transitioning some of your long-term risky investments to more short-term, safe money strategies. Utilize the help of a&nbsp;CFP to get you on track for both short-term and long-term retirement savings.&nbsp;</p><h2>10. How to Start&nbsp;Estate Planning</h2><p>Ensure you leave the legacy you want after such a long, hard-working career. Does each of your accounts have a designated beneficiary? Is your will updated? Avoid future inheritance taxes for both you and your loved ones by gifting up to the taxable limitations.&nbsp;</p><p>Passing without any sort of estate plan will most likely place a huge financial burden on survivors and put them in a place where the IRS could step in and take a lot of your savings off the table. Avoid it through a proper, thorough, and comprehensive financial plan created by a&nbsp;CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064383/Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_26_42694969b3.png" alt="Free Retirement Checkpoint Quiz _Page_26.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064383/thumbnail_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_26_42694969b3.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064383/small_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_26_42694969b3.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064383/medium_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_26_42694969b3.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1676064383/large_Free_Retirement_Checkpoint_Quiz_Page_26_42694969b3.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h3><strong>Start Planning Today!&nbsp;</strong></h3><p>The path to financial freedom into retirement has many steps, but the quicker you start, the less headaches that are to follow once you get closer to the end of the working years. If you find yourself lost with any of these steps or don't know how to start, utilize our<a href="https://retire.us/get-started"> FREE Financial Checkpoint.</a>&nbsp;</p><hr><p style="margin-left:0px;"><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief. Any references made regarding the taxable nature of your investments should not be construed as tax advice. McAdam LLC is not a tax advisory firm; therefore, any tax decisions or assumptions should be made/verified with your tax professional.</span></p>

Retirement Planning Checklist

<p>The RetireUS Support team is here to answer any questions before you get started. Call us toll free at 1-888-857-PLAN or schedule a call and we will call YOU!</p>

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How do you rollover your 401(k)? Learn the benefits of rolling over your 401(k) and how to take advantage of saving fees and gaining more flexibility & ownership on your retirement account. 

<p>Your employer was just bought out by another company, what happens to your&nbsp;401(k)? Or you just left your job for a brand-new role at a different firm,&nbsp;how do you rollover your 401(k)?</p><p><br>These are just 2 examples of situations where you can take advantage of a&nbsp;401(k)&nbsp;Rollover into an IRA. A lot of people aren’t aware of how these work, so this blog is going to break down&nbsp;how a 401(k) Rollover works,&nbsp;why you should rollover your 401(k),&nbsp;and how to do it.&nbsp;</p><h2>What is a Rollover 401(k)?</h2><p>A <a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/401k-rollover-ira-guide#:~:text=A%20401(k)%20rollover%20is%20when%20you%20take%20money%20out%20of%20your%20401(k)%20and%20move%20those%20funds%20into%20another%20tax%2Dadvantaged%20retirement%20account.%20Many%20people%20roll%20their%20401(k)%20into%20an%20individual%20retirement%20account%2C%20or%20IRA.%20But%20you%20may%20also%20be%20able%20to%20roll%20your%20balance%20into%20another%20401(k).">rollover 401(k) </a>is a transfer of funds from your former employer's 401(k) plan into a new IRA (Individual Retirement Account) without incurring taxes or penalties.&nbsp;</p><p>This process preserves your hard-earned retirement savings, gives you greater control over your investments, and enables you to consolidate multiple retirement accounts for easier management. Rollovers can be done into an IRA, offering flexibility and potential for continued tax-deferred growth.&nbsp;</p><p>Here are three reasons&nbsp;why you should roll your 401(k) into an IRA:</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:75%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1663077960/ownershipflexcost_b801b20075.png" alt="Here are three reasons to rollover your 401(k) into an IRA. " srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1663077960/thumbnail_ownershipflexcost_b801b20075.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1663077960/small_ownershipflexcost_b801b20075.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1663077960/medium_ownershipflexcost_b801b20075.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1663077960/large_ownershipflexcost_b801b20075.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Ownership of your 401(k)</h2><p>Your&nbsp; 401(k), or old employer sponsored plan, is a great vehicle to&nbsp;save for retirement. It allows you to aggressively save for the future while taking advantage of tax-deferred growth. But the downside of an employer-sponsored plan is that you are just a participant. The plan determines how you can invest your money, whether it's limited to certain mutual funds, a specific fund company, or a particular fund share class based on your employer.</p><p>When you&nbsp;rollover your 401(k) into an IRA, you become the decision-making authority on how and where you can invest your savings. The IRA is an Individual Retirement Account which vastly opens the spectrum of investment options for your&nbsp;retirement.&nbsp;</p><h2>Flexibility of your 401(k)</h2><p>As the owner of an IRA, you:&nbsp;</p><ul><li>Have the ability to invest your retirement savings how you see fit.</li><li>Are no longer limiting your savings to the investment stipulations of your employer sponsored plan.&nbsp;</li><li>Pick and choose investments that are directly in line with your financial goals and concerns.</li></ul><p>The Rollover 401(k) is great for both folks nearing retirement, as well as those with a longer time horizon.</p><p>The conservative investor can allocate their old 401(k) into more non-equity investments. Choosing this in preparation of market corrections offers financial protection with minimal market risk. with an employer’s plan you only get a handful of conservative fund options.&nbsp;</p><p>For investors who are willing to take a greater risk, you have the choice to invest in virtually any stock, ETF, mutual fund, or structured product-- much more flexibility to help boost the growth of your savings.&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698616981/401k_rollover_both_investors_graphic_1bfe18c17c.jpg" alt="401k rollover both investors graphic.jpg" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698616981/thumbnail_401k_rollover_both_investors_graphic_1bfe18c17c.jpg 156w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698616981/small_401k_rollover_both_investors_graphic_1bfe18c17c.jpg 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698616981/medium_401k_rollover_both_investors_graphic_1bfe18c17c.jpg 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698616981/large_401k_rollover_both_investors_graphic_1bfe18c17c.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2>Cost Savings of a Rollover 401(k)</h2><p><a href="https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/061913/hidden-fees-401ks.asp#:~:text=in%20the%20account.-,Breaking%20Down%20401(k)%20Plan%20Fees,Custodial,-To%20illustrate%20the">Common costs of employer-sponsored plans</a> include administrative fees, sales charges, management fees, and other associated fees. There are several types of investment fees for 401(k) plans:</p><ul><li>Commissions or loads<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>Transaction costs for buying and selling shares.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Investment advisory fees &amp; account maintenance fees<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>The most common fees for managing the assets of an investment fund.&nbsp;</li></ul></li><li>Other fees include record keeping, furnishing statements, and customer service.<ul style="list-style-type:circle;"><li>They are billed either as a flat fee or in relation to the amount of assets invested with the funds.</li></ul></li></ul><h3>How much does a 401(k) Rollover cost?</h3><p>The RetireUS SimpleRollover® is free of any further costs beyond management fees-- making it very cost effective for Americans to gain expert, CFP® advice on their old 401(K) plans!</p><figure class="image image_resized" style="width:50%;"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698618916/image_6483441_3d38d833b0.jpg" alt="image_6483441.JPG" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698618916/thumbnail_image_6483441_3d38d833b0.jpg 156w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698618917/small_image_6483441_3d38d833b0.jpg 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698618917/medium_image_6483441_3d38d833b0.jpg 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1698618917/large_image_6483441_3d38d833b0.jpg 1000w," sizes="100vw"></figure><h2><br>How do you Rollover a 401(K)?</h2><p>On top of being free, the RetireUS SimpleRollover<span style="background-color:rgb(255,255,255);color:rgb(74,74,74);font-family:lftetica, arial, sans-serif;">®</span> is exactly that, simple! Click here to start the process by filling out this form. Once the form is complete, we will initiate the rollover process and help you gain ownership of your old 401(k), access more flexible options, and save your account from unnecessary costs with only a couple of virtual meetings.&nbsp;</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC (“McAdam” or the “Firm”) for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages. This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief. Projected savings presented may vary depending on client longevity, and performance of assets over time.</span></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>

How do you Rollover a 401(k)?

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Our Co-Founder & President writes on how the RetireUS planning approach creates a foundation for your path towards financial freedom. Learn more about our process, investment strategy, & ongoing support. 

<p>By: Michael R. Blahusch, CFP®, ChFC®, MBA | Co-Founder &amp; President&nbsp;</p><p>In today's complex financial landscape, ensuring a prosperous future requires more than just saving money. It demands a strategy<a href="https://retire.us/get-started"> tailored to your unique circumstances and goals</a>. This is where comprehensive planning comes into play, offering invaluable expertise and guidance to help you navigate the intricacies of retirement and secure your financial future.</p><figure class="image"><a href="https://retire.us/get-started"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096847/Frame_4076465_2_af08bd0472.png" alt="Frame 4076465-2.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096847/thumbnail_Frame_4076465_2_af08bd0472.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096847/small_Frame_4076465_2_af08bd0472.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096847/medium_Frame_4076465_2_af08bd0472.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096847/large_Frame_4076465_2_af08bd0472.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></figure><h2>The Role of a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™</h2><p>Our team of CFPs® serve as trusted partners in your financial journey, offering a holistic approach to financial planning that goes beyond mere investment management. RetireUS focuses on a range of your financial planning journey, including:</p><blockquote><ul><li><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong>Current financial situation</strong></span></li><li><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong>Short-term financial goals</strong></span></li><li><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong>Retirement planning</strong></span></li><li><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong>Risk &amp; Insurance management</strong></span></li><li><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong>Tax Diversification</strong></span></li><li><span style="color:hsl(210,75%,60%);"><strong>Estate planning</strong></span></li></ul></blockquote><p>By taking into account various aspects of your financial life, our CFP® planning team can develop a comprehensive strategy that addresses your short-term needs and long-term objectives. Whether you're<a href="https://retire.us/get-started"> planning for retirement</a>, saving for your children's education, or building a legacy for future generations, our planners provide the guidance and expertise you need to get on a path towards financial freedom.&nbsp;</p><h2>Comprehensive Financial Planning</h2><p>With RetireUS, the foundation of financial freedom is comprehensive financial planning. This involves a thorough analysis of your financial situation, including your assets, liabilities, income, and expenses. Based on this assessment, a personalized financial plan is created to help you achieve your objectives.</p><p>One of the key benefits of comprehensive financial planning is its focus on integration. Rather than treating each financial goal in isolation, a holistic approach is taken to ensure that all <a href="https://retire.us/get-started">aspects of your financial life are aligned.</a> This means that decisions made in one area, such as investment management, are coordinated with decisions made in other areas, such as tax planning or estate planning.</p><h2>Open Architecture Investment Platform</h2><p>Central to the services offered by RetireUS are tailored investment strategies designed to<a href="https://retire.us/get-started"> meet your specific needs</a> and preferences. There are no RetireUS mutual funds or ETFs-- instead we utilize an Open Architecture Investment Platform and vet thousands of different financial products, vehicles, &amp; funds.&nbsp;</p><p>Our team pf CFPs understand that every family is unique, with their own goals, risk tolerance, and time horizon. As such, they work closely with you to develop an investment strategy that is aligned with your objectives and tailored to your circumstances-- focused on achieving financial freedom. This may involve diversifying your portfolio across different asset classes:</p><ul style="list-style-type:square;"><li>Stocks, bonds, mutual funds &amp; ETFs via managed portfolios</li><li>Structured products, annuities, &amp; other protected growth vehicles&nbsp;</li><li>Life insurance&nbsp;</li></ul><p><a href="https://retire.us/deepscan"><img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png" alt="Frame 4076667.png" srcset="https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/thumbnail_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 245w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/small_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 500w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/medium_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 750w,https://res.cloudinary.com/dqmpt34da/image/upload/v1715096856/large_Frame_4076667_3973131cb6.png 1000w," sizes="100vw"></a></p><h2>Proactive Monitoring and Adjustments</h2><p>With the combination of your ever-changing lives and today's fast-paced financial markets, staying ahead of the curve is essential. RetireUS provides proactive portfolio monitoring and adjustments to ensure that your investments remain aligned with your goals and responsive to changing market conditions.</p><p>Through disciplined investment processes and ongoing due diligence, our Planning Department keeps a close eye on your portfolio, making timely adjustments as needed to capture opportunities and mitigate risks. This proactive approach helps to safeguard your financial future and ensure that you remain on track to achieve your objectives.</p><h2>Conclusion</h2><p>Our team of CFPs at RetireUS play a crucial role in building and safeguarding your path towards financial freedom. By offering comprehensive financial planning, our Open Architecture Investment platform, and proactive monitoring, we provide the expertise and guidance you need to navigate the complexities of the financial world and achieve long-term prosperity.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><hr><p><span style="font-size:11px;">This article is provided by McAdam LLC dba RetireUS for informational purposes only. Investing involves the risk of loss and investors should be prepared to bear potential losses. Past performance may not be indicative of future results and may have been impacted by events and economic conditions that will not prevail in the future. No portion of this article is to be construed as a solicitation to buy or sell a security or the provision of personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Certain information contained in this report is derived from sources that McAdam believes to be reliable; however, the Firm does not guarantee the accuracy or timeliness of such information and assumes no liability for any resulting damages.&nbsp; This article is the sole opinion of this individual and is not indicative of the firm’s belief.&nbsp;</span></p><p><br>&nbsp;</p><p>&nbsp;</p>