Retirement Planning: Key Issues to Consider Before You Retire

Retiring is a significant financial milestone, and it's important to consider several key issues before you take the plunge. From pensions and Social Security to cash flow needs and early retirement, this guide covers key issues you need to know to help you have a secure and successful retirement

When it comes to retirement, there are several important issues that you should consider before making the big decision. 

First and foremost, you should think about how your cash flow needs may change once you retire. If you anticipate that your expenses will increase or decrease significantly, it's a good idea to develop a new income and expense plan to help you manage your finances effectively. 

If you are fortunate enough to receive a pension, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, there may be multiple payout options available to you, such as single, joint, or lump sum payments. It's important to carefully consider which option is best for your unique financial situation. Additionally, it's worth noting that your pension, Social Security, and life insurance benefits may be able to be coordinated in a way that maximizes your overall financial security. 

It's also worth considering any pensions or retirement benefits that you may be eligible for from previous employers. These can often be overlooked, but they can make a big difference in your overall financial picture. 

If you're planning on retiring early, there are a few additional considerations to keep in mind. For example, if you earn more than $21,240 before reaching your full retirement age (FRA), your Social Security benefits may be reduced. Similarly, if you earn more than $56,520 in the year you reach FRA, your benefits may also be reduced. It's important to be aware of these rules and plan accordingly. 

On the other hand, if you leave your employer after turning 55, you may be able to access your 401(k) penalty-free. This can provide a helpful source of income during your early retirement years. 

If you or your spouse receive a pension from an employer that did not withhold Social Security taxes, you should be aware of the potential impact of the Social Security Windfall Elimination Provision or the Government Pension Offset. These rules can affect the amount of Social Security benefits you are entitled to, so it's important to understand how they may apply to your situation. 

If you are currently married, there are additional Social Security claiming strategies to consider. These can help you and your spouse maximize your benefits and ensure that you are financially secure in retirement. 

Finally, if you were previously married and are now divorced or widowed, there are a few things to keep in mind. If your marriage lasted at least 10 years and ended in divorce, you may be eligible for benefits under your ex-spouse's record. Similarly, if your marriage lasted more than nine months and ended due to your spouse's passing, you may be eligible for benefits under your deceased spouse's record. It's important to carefully consider all of these factors as you plan for retirement. 

In conclusion, retirement is a complex and important financial decision that requires careful planning and consideration. By keeping these key issues in mind, you can ensure that you are well-prepared for the financial challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

The commentary on this website reflects the personal opinions, viewpoints and analyses of the Ascend Investment Partners employees providing such comments, and should not be regarded as a description of advisory services provided by Kesler, Norman & Wride, LLC dba Ascend Investment Partners or performance returns of any Ascend Investment Partners Investments client. The views reflected in the commentary are subject to change at any time without notice. Nothing on this website constitutes investment advice, performance data or any recommendation that any particular security, portfolio of securities, transaction or investment strategy is suitable for any specific person. Any mention of a particular security and related performance data is not a recommendation to buy or sell that security. Ascend Investment Partners manages its clients’ accounts using a variety of investment techniques and strategies, which are not necessarily discussed in the commentary. Investments in securities involve the risk of loss. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. 

Ascend Investment Partners provides links for your convenience to websites produced by other providers or industry related material. Accessing websites through links directs you away from our website. Ascend Investment Partners is not responsible for errors or omissions in the material on third party websites, and does not necessarily approve of or endorse the information provided. Users who gain access to third party websites may be subject to the copyright and other restrictions on use imposed by those providers and assume responsibility and risk from use of those websites.

To Get Started Click Here

 (https://ascendinvestment.com/start)

Sign Up for Email to stay in touch

(https://ascendinvestment.com/signup)