August 2018 Retirement In Sight

Quote of the Month

“To me, old age is always 15 years older than I am.” -Bernard M. Baruch.

Think of your retirement in three phases

Phases, stages, acts, chapters, steps. Whatever you want to call them, consider that your retirement may unfold in a way many others have, in three successive financial segments. Your budget and income could see adjustments as you move from one phase into the next.    

In the first phase of retirement, is not uncommon to arrange some “peak experiences” and live some longstanding dreams. These adventures sometimes cost more than new retirees expect, which can be a major financial concern given two possibilities: the prospect of retiring before you are eligible for your full Social Security benefits, and a probable reduction in your household income. If you retire early, you might want to tap tax-advantaged retirement savings accounts first. If you retire to a lower tax bracket, then shifting tax-deferred investments into a Roth IRA could be wise. A Roth IRA conversion is a taxable event, but the tax paid upon the conversion may be at a lower rate than you would pay later when taking Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). After age 70, retirement may start to become more about relaxation; one key is to keep RMDs from pushing you into a higher tax bracket. After 85, paying for long term care may become the biggest financial worry – and so you may want to look at forms of LTC coverage now, as that coverage could help you avoid spending down your savings.¹

Who should you have in your corner in retirement?

If you spend time with great people, will you elevate your life and experiences? It’s certainly possible. How does this apply after you retire? Who are the friends you need most? 

Your spouse or partner is probably your best friend, and no doubt at the top of the list. Beyond him or her, others count. A lifelong friend, one who has known you since childhood, can be a candid, understanding confidante. A friend you meet through a hobby or pastime, one you share that interest with, can keep you social. A friend who volunteers or works part-time can inspire you to do the same. Lastly, a good friend who knows something about financial matters can be a sounding board and a resource – and yes, a financial professional sometimes becomes that good friend to a retiree household. Research from the Psychology Bulletin finds that people have the most friends in their twenties, and the number tends to gradually lessen with age. Quality, not quantity, is what is important.²

Did you know?

The $20 bill honors a man who hated paper money.

Andrew Jackson, our seventh President, was a big fan of gold and silver. He argued against paper currency during his entire eight-year term, even in his 1837 farewell address where he cautioned the country of its “mischiefs and dangers".³

On the Bright Side

If you can work past Social Security’s Full Retirement Age, you will realize greater monthly retirement benefits. The average 67-year-old who retires at FRA today gets about $1,400 a month from Social Security; if they keep working and claims Social Security at age 70, that monthly benefit will rise to $1,736. Waiting three more years to retire projects to an additional $80,640 in Social Security income over 20 years.⁴

WESTconsin Investment Advisors may be reached at 800-924-0022 ext 6939 or WESTconsininvestments.com

Securities sold, advisory services offered through CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registered broker/dealer and investment advisor. CBSI is under contract with the financial institution to make securities available to members.

Not NCUA/NCUSIF/FDIC insured, May Lose Value, No financial institution guarantee. Not a deposit of any financial institution.

This material was prepared by MarketingPro, Inc., and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting party, nor their affiliates. This information has been derived from sources believed to be accurate. The publisher is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional services. If assistance is needed, the reader is advised to engage the services of a competent professional. This information should not be construed as investment, tax or legal advice and may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any Federal tax penalty.

CITATIONS.
1 - twincities.com/2018/08/11/your-money-budgeting-for-the-phases-of-retirement/ [8/11/18]
2 - lovebeingretired.com/2017/11/24/the-4-friends-everyone-needs-for-a-happy-retirement/ [11/24/17]
3 - listverse.com/2017/06/27/10-little-known-facts-from-history-that-are-truly-outrageous/ [6/27/18]
4 - money.cnn.com/2018/08/07/retirement/boost-retirement-income/index.html [8/7/18]

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