Retirement Today

The holiday season brings "Jingle Bills" for everyone, but this episode shows you how to spend smartly and avoid the dreaded January credit card hangover. We walk you through building a realistic holiday budget, implementing clever spending limits for gifts and travel, and utilizing "sinking funds" to cover all your festive expenses without dipping into savings. Tune in to enjo...

This episode goes beyond simply calculating your Required Minimum Distribution (RMD) to explore the critical financial choices you face once that withdrawal hits your bank account. We break down the tax ramifications, including how your RMD can push you into a higher tax bracket and potentially increase your Medicare premiums (IRMAA). Learn smart strategies for managing the cash—whether through ta...

On the heels of the official announcement, we break down the 2026 Social Security COLA increase, explaining exactly what the 2.8% boost means for your monthly check. We analyze current inflation trends and projected Medicare premium hikes, revealing whether this cost-of-living adjustment truly keeps pace with the rising expenses retirees face. Plus, we look at the new Social Security taxable maxim...

Now is the perfect time to optimize your finances before the year ends, and this episode breaks down the essential tasks you need to complete before December 31st. We cover critical year-end maneuvers, including last-minute tax-loss harvesting, maximizing retirement contributions, and making strategic charitable gifts to reduce your tax bill. Tune in for a comprehensive checklist that ensures you...

Divorce statistics consistently show that money arguments are a leading cause of breakups, but most couples still avoid the crucial conversations until after they say "I do." This episode dives into why financial transparency is the ultimate pre-marital counseling, providing a roadmap for couples to openly discuss everything from current debt and credit scores to future goals like retire...

This episode explores the powerful connection between your personal finances and genuine self-care. Jaclyn also has a huge announcement to share! Tune in to shift your mindset from financial burden to financial empowerment, seeing money management as a vital part of your overall well-being.

This episode guides you through the process of taking your personal finances to the next level. We'll explore advanced strategies beyond basic budgeting and saving, covering topics like optimizing your investment portfolio and leveraging debt strategically. Tune in to learn how to move from financial stability to true financial freedom and build lasting wealth.

During today’s show, we’ll consider how much it costs to be a grandparent and how you can build a financial strategy that positions you to enjoy your grandkids while also taking care of your own financial needs.

During this show, we’re going to discuss how you can save money on withdrawals from retirement accounts.

During this show, we’ll take a much deeper look at how the recently signed Big Beautiful Bill will specifically affect Social Security and older Americans.

In this episode, we'll delve into the often-overlooked emotional and social aspects of retirement, moving beyond the numbers to discuss how to truly find fulfillment in this new chapter. We'll explore strategies for building a strong social network, pursuing passions, and maintaining a sense of purpose. Join us to learn how to create a retirement that isn't just financially secure,...

During this episode, we’ll discuss eight signs that could tell you that you’re ready to retire as well as traits that lead to more retirement savings.

During today’s show, we’re going to discuss what the newly signed federal budget bill may mean for older Americans and retirees. We will dive into explaining what each new segment means for our taxes, children, and our future.

Inheriting an annuity is not as simple as receiving a check; it comes with complex tax rules and beneficiary choices. In this episode, we break down the critical options available to you, including the five-year rule, and taking a lump-sum distribution. Tune in to understand the tax implications of each path and learn how to make the best financial decision for your unique situation.

This episode tackles the often-confusing world of inherited Roth IRAs, a situation many people unexpectedly face. We'll break down the crucial 10-year rule, explaining how it impacts your distribution options and potential tax implications. Learn essential strategies for managing these assets to maximize their tax-free growth and avoid costly penalties.

When you inherit an IRA, it can feel like a windfall, but there are crucial decisions to make. This episode breaks down the immediate steps you should take, including understanding the different types of inherited IRAs and their unique rules. We'll guide you through potential tax implications and explain how to avoid costly mistakes, ensuring your inherited wealth works for you.

Don't let avoidable errors cost you when it comes to your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)! This episode dives into the most common missteps retirees make, from incorrect calculations to missed deadlines, and how to steer clear of them. Tune in to ensure your RMD strategy is sound and your retirement savings stay on track.

We tackle common misunderstandings surrounding these powerful financial tools. This episode busts pervasive myths, revealing how annuities actually work to secure your retirement income and protect your principal. Tune in to gain clarity and discover if an annuity is the right fit for your long-term financial strategy.

In this episode we talk about more of the mistakes people make when moving or rolling over their retirement accounts. We talk about how to avoid these costly mistakes.

In this episode we talk about the biggest mistakes people make when moving or rolling over their retirement accounts. We talk about how to avoid these costly mistakes.

During this episode, we’re going to discuss tips for handling your finances and having a plan that will help you if the US goes into a recession.

During this episode, we’ll consider if those who wanted to retire in 2025 may need to reconsider, and we’ll also touch on how those running behind on retirement savings can still catch up.

During this episode we’re going to discuss the two hottest current financial news stories: The tariffs, the market downturns, and it's affect on your 401(k).

During this show, we’re going to look at five possible Social Security steps for couples as well as basic Social Security elements that everyone should know.

In this episode, we delve into the often-overlooked financial challenges faced by widows, providing practical advice on managing assets. We explore strategies for adjusting to a single-income household and offer guidance on making informed decisions about investments and long-term financial security.