Tag: Retirement Education

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Understanding Annuities Before You Decide if They Belong in Your Retirement Plan (Ep. 115 | Pt. 1)

Understanding Annuities Before You Decide if They Belong in Your Retirement Plan (Ep. 115 | Pt. 1)

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Annuities often become part of the retirement conversation during major life changes, yet many people still aren’t sure what they actually are or when they make sense.

In this episode, I begin a four-part series designed to help you understand annuities before you ever evaluate a specific product. We discuss what an annuity actually is, why insurance companies created them, how they can provide retirement income, and why every decision should begin with your retirement goals rather than product features. 

We also explore accumulation versus income phases, tax deferral, and the questions you should ask before deciding whether an annuity belongs in your retirement plan.

Key takeaways:

  • How annuities work as insurance contracts that may provide retirement income now or later
  • Why retirement planning should begin with your goals before discussing financial products
  • How accumulation and income phases affect the way annuities function over time
  • Why tax deferral should be viewed as one feature rather than the primary reason to buy
  • Questions that help determine whether an annuity belongs in your retirement strategy
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

Annuities are insurance products issued by insurance companies and involve costs, fees, limitations, and contractual terms that vary by product. Guarantees are backed solely by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Before purchasing an annuity, investors should carefully consider their financial objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and contract features, and consult with their financial, tax, and legal professionals.

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What Is the Future of Social Security? (Ep. 97)

What Is the Future of Social Security? (Ep. 97)

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Many women approaching retirement worry that Social Security may not be there when they need it most. That uncertainty can make retirement planning feel overwhelming.

But what do the numbers actually say?

In this episode, I break down the real projections behind Social Security and what they mean for women approaching retirement. I explain why benefits are not expected to disappear, how potential reductions could work, and how to plan conservatively without making decisions based on fear. Most importantly, I walk through how Social Security fits into the broader retirement income puzzle.

Key Points:

  • Why Social Security is projected to continue paying benefits even if the trust fund faces depletion
  • What the projected 81% funding level actually means for future benefits
  • Why Social Security remains a foundational piece of retirement income for many women
  • How to stress test your retirement plan with a possible 20% benefit reduction
  • How Social Security should fit into your broader retirement income strategy
  • And more!

Resources:

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I Have Inherited an IRA—Now What? 5 Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes (Ep. 52)

I Have Inherited an IRA—Now What? 5 Steps to Avoid Costly Mistakes (Ep. 52)

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Inheriting an IRA can feel like stepping into a financial minefield — but with the right guidance, you can avoid costly mistakes and make the most of your legacy.

How do you know which rules apply? What if you miss a critical tax deadline? What should you do first?

In this episode, I break down the five essential steps every woman should take after inheriting an IRA. I explain how the Secure Act changed the rules, when required distributions apply, and how to think about taxes and investment strategy.

Topics covered:

  • How to determine if you’re a spousal or non-spousal beneficiary
  • The importance of knowing your IRA type: Traditional vs. Roth
  • Required distributions and understanding the fine print of the 10-year rule
  • Tailoring investment strategies to your individual needs post-inheritance
  • Tips for tax-efficient distribution strategies, including qualified charitable distributions
  • And more!

Resources:

Connect with Eric Blake: 

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