Welcome to "The Planning for Retirement Podcast," where we help educate you on how to successfully retire. Here are some topics you will learn about: - Social Security - Retirement Income Planning - Roth Conversions - Tax Planning - Charitable Giving - Investment Strategies in Retirement - Estate Planning - Long-term Care Planning - Medicare - Required Minimum Distributions - Retirement Mortgage Strategies - And even some behind the scenes into building Imagine Financial Security I hope you enjoy the show!

Dave Ramsey has been pretty outspoken against the traditional 4% rule. He's called it 'crap,' and has suggested 8% is completely doable. I backtested every complete rolling 30-year retirement period with start dates from 1970 through 1997. The results actually blew my mind. The average maximum starting withdrawal rate was:• 8.19% from a 60/40 portfolio• 8.65% from an 80/20 portfolio• 8.94% from an all-stock portfolioSo, was Dave Ramsey right?On one hand, "yes." An 8% starting withdrawal worked far more frequently than many people might expect. But an average historical result does not make 8% a safe or dependable retirement strategy.In this episode, we discuss:• What Dave may actually mean by withdrawing 8%• The difference between an inflation-adjusted withdrawal and taking 8% of the current balance• How sequence-of-returns risk can determine whether the strategy succeeds• The potential impact on legacy and long-term-care planning• Whether real retirees can emotionally tolerate a 100% stock portfolio• How spending phases, guardrails and guaranteed income can support a higher initial withdrawal rateAs always, selecting a withdrawal strategy in retirement should depend on your person goals, risk tolerance, risk capacity, and other factors. Please consult with an advisor before making any changes to your plan!Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multiple seven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.-KevinConnect with me here:YouTubeFollow the podcastJoin My Company Newsletter***This is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Anytime I'm working with a client looking to retire early, there is usually a combination of excitement and nerves. For one, Medicare likely isn't an option for several years down the road. But more importantly, there is no fixed income coming into the picture. Employment/Self-Employment income is gone, no pension, no Social Security yet. And suddenly, the portfolio they've worked decades building up becomes the primary source of income. I call these The Bridge Years. But these “bridge years” may also offer some of the greatest planning opportunities of your retirement.In this episode, we're going to help you navigate this important period and help you prepare not only financially, but also psychologically. You'll learn:• Which accounts you may want to withdraw from first• How the Rule of 55 and Rule 72(t) can provide early access to retirement accounts• How much cash and short-term fixed income you may want to hold• Why the years before Social Security and RMDs can create valuable tax-planning opportunities• How to coordinate Roth conversions, capital-gain harvesting, and ACA health-insurance subsidies• Why a higher initial withdrawal rate may be completely acceptable• How to navigate the dreaded 'sequence of returns' risk• Why longevity, healthcare, and long-term care require special attention when retiring in your 50s or early 60sEarly retirement is not like a normal retirement, but vigilant planning can help you bridge the gap and gain years of valuable time back. I hope this episode helps. If you find this content useful, do me a favor and leave us a 5* review wherever you are consuming podcasts. It really helps us reach and impact as many people as we can. Thank you!-Kevin Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my website Connect with me here:YouTubeFollow the podcastJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

For years, investors have looked at the bond side of their portfolios and wondered: what's the point?Interest rates were near zero, yields were low, and then 2022 reminded investors that bonds can lose money too.But today, the fixed income landscape looks very different. Retirees can potentially earn 4%, 5%, or even more on investments they traditionally consider their “safe money.”So… is fixed income finally back?In this episode, I break down how I'm thinking about bonds and fixed income for retirees today, including:-Why higher interest rates can create risks for BOTH bonds and stocks-How much of your retirement portfolio should potentially be in fixed income-Risk tolerance vs. your actual capacity to take risk-Using bonds, CDs, T-bills and cash to create a short-term income reserve-Why guaranteed income can change how much investment risk you need to take-Where annuities may fit into the fixed-income conversation-Why chasing dividend stocks for income can create its own risks-How to build an investment portfolio around your retirement plan, not the other way aroundI also share one of my favorite lessons from Tiger Woods' 2019 Masters victory and why sometimes the best retirement strategy isn't firing at every pin. It's simply making sure you stay in the tournament.The goal isn't to maximize the return on every dollar you have.Some dollars need to grow. Some need to hedge against inflation. Some need to produce income. And some simply need to make sure you're still in the game when markets get ugly.Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multiple seven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.-KevinConnect with me here:YouTubeFollow the podcastJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

John and Kathy are 59 years old, one month away fromretirement, and have accumulated $4 million in retirement accounts. Their home is paid off, they have strong Social Security benefits coming in the future, and on paper, they appear to be in excellent shape.But having enough money to retire is only the beginning.In this episode, I walk through John and Kathy'sretirement plan and tackle some of the bigger decisions they'll face over the next 30 years:How much can they comfortably spend while still preserving wealth for their children and grandchildren?Should they stick with the traditional 60/40 portfolio in retirement, or increase their equities exposure?When should each spouse claim Social Security, especially when they have different life expectancies?Should they implement Roth conversions when virtually all $4 million is in tax-deferred retirement accounts?How should the Go-Go, Slow-Go, and No-Go years change their spending plan?How could Roth conversions affect lifetime taxes, Medicare IRMAA premiums, and the eventual inheritance their children receive?What happens if one spouse dies much earlier than expected?Then, we put the plan through a much tougher test.Using my Retirement Backtesting Simulator, I take theirexact retirement strategy back to 1966—one of the most challenging retirement start dates in modern U.S. history—and see whether their $4 million portfolio could have survived 30 years of inflation, bear markets, and sequence-of-returns risk.The results might surprise you.If you're approaching retirement with $1 million, $2million, $4 million or more saved, these are the types of questions worth answering before you retire—not five or ten years afterward.Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website Connect with me here:YouTubeFollow the podcastJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Most people think about taxes once a year, when it's time to file their return. But tax preparation and tax planning are two very different things. Tax preparation looks backward. Tax planning looks forward. And when you're approaching retirement, that distinction can have a major impact on how much of your money you actually get to keep.In this episode, Kevin shares a story from earlier in his career that changed the way he thought about taxes and financial advice. Then he breaks down some of the biggest tax-planning opportunities retirees and those approaching retirement should be thinking about throughout the year, not just during tax season.We'll discuss capital gain and tax-loss harvesting, Social Security taxation, ACA premium tax credits, Medicare IRMAA surcharges, charitable giving strategies, qualified charitable distributions, Roth conversions, inherited IRAs, and more.More importantly, we'll look at how all of these decisions interact.Because good retirement tax planning isn't simply about paying the least amount of tax this year. It's about making intentional decisions today that could help you better manage your lifetime tax bill.If you're approaching retirement with significant savings and wondering whether you're being proactive enough about taxes, this episode will give you a framework for what to be thinking about before year-end.Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multiple seven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.-KevinConnect with me here:YouTubeFollow the podcastJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Thousands of retirees relocate every year looking for lower taxes, a lower cost of living, better weather, or to be closer to family.In this episode, Kevin sits down with estate planning attorney and financial advisor Ryan Smith to discuss the estate planning issues that many retirees overlook after relocating. From wills and trusts to powers of attorney, healthcare directives, probate laws, and beneficiary designations, they explain what should be reviewed when you establish residency in a new state.While this conversation focuses on retirees relocating during retirement, the same planning considerations will apply to just about any retiree.In this episode, you'll learn:Why moving to another state can impact your estate plan Which legal documents should be reviewed after relocating Tennessee-specific estate planning considerations Common mistakes retirees make when changing residency Practical steps to protect your family and your legacy Making life easier for your fiduciary relationships and beneficiariesWhether you're moving for family, lower taxes, or a better retirement lifestyle, this episode will help you avoid costly planning mistakes before they're discovered when it's too late.Connect with Ryan Smith here:Next Frontier Estate PlanningFacebook

Will Social Security really be cut by more than 20%?Should you claim early before the rules change? Or is the media exaggerating what's actually happening?In this episode, I will break down the latest Social Security Trustees Report, explain what the 2032 Trust Fund projection actually means, and discuss the newly introduced PROMISE Act designed to begin addressing the program's long-term funding shortfall.You'll learn:What the Social Security Trust Fund actually is Why the Trust Fund is projected to be depleted around 2032 Why Social Security isn't expected to "go bankrupt" Whether claiming benefits early is a smart strategy How a potential 22% benefit reduction could affect a retirement plan What the new PROMISE Act does (and doesn't do) The most likely changes Congress could make to strengthen Social Security Practical planning steps you can take today without overreacting to the headlines If you're approaching retirement or already retired, thisepisode will help you separate fact from fear and make more informed decisions about one of the most important income sources in your retirement plan.Areyou interested in working with me 1 on 1? Clickthis link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website-KevinConnect with me here:YouTubeFollowthe podcastJoinMy Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Planning for retirement isn't just about building an investment portfolio. For many people, the hardest part of retirement is feeling that loss of identity their careers provided.I'm very excited to have Sandy Vecchi on for this episode to discuss one of the most overlooked aspects of retirement planning: purpose, identity, and building a meaningful "third act."After spending decades in financial services, Sandy discovered that many retirees struggle not because they risk running out of money, but because they lose the structure, relationships, and identity that work once provided. Following a deeply personal family health crisis in her retirement, she completely redefined what retirement could look like and now helps others do the same.In this episode you'll learn:• Why retirement is an identity transition, not just a financial one• The "honeymoon phase" many retirees experience• How to discover purpose after leaving your career• Why financial independence creates freedom, but not fulfillment• The biggest regrets people have later in life• Practical ways to prepare emotionally before retirement• How to build a meaningful legacy beyond moneyIf you're within a few years of retirement, or have already retired, this conversation may change how you think about your next chapter.If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and share it with someone preparing for retirement.

What if the smartest retirement move isn't retiring at all?In this episode, I walk through a case study of a 59-year-old professional with more than $3 million saved who could retire tomorrow, but isn't sure he should.Instead of asking whether he can retire, we explore a different question:What if he simply stopped saving for retirement?By redirecting tens of thousands of dollars each year toward travel, family, hobbies, and experiences while continuing to work a few more years, he may actually improve both his financial confidence and his quality of life.In this episode we discuss:• What "coasting to retirement" really means• When saving more stops meaningfully improving your retirement• How delaying retirement changes your odds of success• How many high-income professionals oversave• How to know if you've already "won the game"• The emotional side of retirement planningEvery retirement plan is different, but if you're approaching retirement with $1 million, $2 million, or more saved, this may be one of the most important mindset shifts you'll ever hear.⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multiple seven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the community!-KevinConnect with me here:YouTubeFollowthe podcastJoinMy Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Retirement planning looks very different when you're single.Whether you're divorced, widowed, or intentionally single, the financial decisions you face in retirement aren't the same as they are for married couples.In this video, I'll discuss the unique retirement planningchallenges facing single retirees, including Social Security claiming strategies, Roth conversions, tax brackets, Medicare IRMAA surcharges, estate planning, long-term care, investment strategy, housing decisions, and whyretirement spending may look different when you're planning for one instead of two.Topics Covered:• How retirement planning changes when you're single• Social Security strategies for single retirees• Roth conversions and tax planning• Medicare IRMAA and RMD planning• Estate planning essentials• Housing and Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)• Long-term care considerations• Retirement spending for single retirees• Advantages of retiring singleWhether you're already retired or preparing for retirement,understanding these differences can help you better prepare as you plan for and execute a successful retirement.Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website-KevinConnect with me here:YouTubeFollow the podcastJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

In this Retirement Q&A episode, I answer four of thequestions I received recently from retirees and people preparing for retirement.We'll cover:• Is the 4% Rule still the best safe withdrawal rate?• What is the best investment allocation during retirement?• Are the new Trump Accounts actually worth using?• What do retirees regret most at the end of life?If you're within 10 years of retirement or already retired,this episode will help you make smarter financial decisions as you prepare for and execute your retirement.⬇️ Resources MentionedRetirement Manifesto: The Regret We Get Wrong:https://www.theretirementmanifesto.com/the-regret-we-get-wrong/?fbclid=IwY2xjawSzaDpleHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETF2N205R3M1UzM0ZGZMYUdUc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHmlG7eBoSF4Xx8iY2T14aNEAsHcdJXiZ683hqbVHRknuOrZntYuEtrs6NMNR_aem_mu0XSSVgTO14CfX4Nj12cA• Trump Accounts Deep Dive (Episode #123)https://open.spotify.com/episode/1GxHxa1rasICkIrlLOb8J9?si=AJQ8RMcDQr-BOcgs2vzVHQAreyou interested in working with me 1 on 1? Clickthis link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website Connect with me here:YouTubeFollowthe podcastJoinMy Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website****Most advice for retirees suggests to delay SocialSecurity as long as possible. But is that always the right move?In this episode, we'll discuss five real-world situations where claiming Social Security earlier may actually be the better decision.You'll learn:✔️ How longevity impacts yourclaiming strategy✔️ Why Social Security break-evencalculators may be incomplete✔️ The hidden impact claimingdecisions can have on your investment portfolio✔️ How Social Security affectslegacy planning and leaving money to your children✔️ Spousal and survivor benefitconsiderations✔️ Why many retirees strugglepsychologically with spending their nest egg✔️ How claiming benefits earlycan help manage sequence of returns risk during market downturnsThe reality is that Social Security claiming decisionsshould never be made in isolation. They should be coordinated with your retirement income plan, tax strategy, investment portfolio, legacy and lifestyle goals.If you're approaching retirement and wondering whether toclaim Social Security at 62, Full Retirement Age, or 70, this episode will help you understand the tradeoffs and make a more informed decision. Hope it helps.-KevinConnect with me here:YouTubeFollowthe podcastJoinMy Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my websiteMany retirees spend decades worrying about whetherthey'll have enough money.But what happens when you've already solved the incomeproblem?In this case study, we examine a 65-year-old retiree witha $1.9 million portfolio, an $85,000 pension, and Social Security benefits thatcover nearly all of her retirement spending needs.We discuss:Why retirement planning changeswhen income is already covered How pensions affect investmentstrategy Roth conversion opportunitiesbefore required minimum distributions begin Lifetime gifting strategies foradult children Charitable planning usingQualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) Creating a tax-efficient legacyIf you've accumulated significant retirement assets andwant to optimize retirement, this episode is for you.The big question isn't whether you can retire.It's what to do next after you've already won theretirement income game.Connect with me here:YouTubeFollowthe podcastJoinMy Company Newsletter***This is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website Are you underestimating your retirement expenses?One of the biggest mistakes I see pre-retirees make isn't poor investing, claiming Social Security incorrectly, or even tax planning mistakes. It's failing to accurately estimate what retirement will actually cost.After 18 years helping people plan for and execute retirement, I've noticed the same retirement expenses catch people by surprise over and over again.In this episode, I break down the 7 retirement expenses most retirees underestimate, including:✅ Travel and the "Go-Go Years" of retirement✅ Home repairs, renovations, and aging-in-place upgrades✅ Retirement tax planning opportunities and tax surprises✅ Financial support for adult children and grandchildren✅ Hiring help for tasks you used to do yourself✅ Vehicle replacement costs✅ Healthcare, Medicare, and long-term care expensesIf you're within 5-10 years of retirement, already retired, or trying to determine how much money you need to retire comfortably, this episode will help you build a more realistic retirement budget and avoid costly planning mistakes.Why most retirees underestimate expensesMy own experience underestimating costsThe expensive "Go-Go Years" of retirementHome repairs and renovationsTax surprises in retirementAdult children still on the payrollPaying others to do things you used to do yourselfVehicle replacement costsHealthcare and long-term care expensesWhy retirement spending isn't linearThis is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Last week, we covered why Roth conversions can beso powerful in retirement planning.This week, we're talking about what can go wrong.In this episode, I walk through 12 real-world hurdles and“landmines” that can shrink — or completely eliminate — your Roth conversion window. These are the exact issues I see with retirees and pre-retirees whohave built substantial wealth in traditional IRAs, 401(k)s, and other tax-deferred accounts.We cover:Social Security timing Pension income Spousal employment Selling a business Deferred compensation plans IRMAA surcharges ACA premium tax credits Inherited IRAs and the 10-yearrule Tax-inefficient investments The new senior bonus deduction And more.If you're planning for retirement and want to minimizelifetime taxes while maximizing flexibility, this episode will help you avoid some very costly mistakes.I hope you find it helpful.-KevinAre you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multipleseven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional whileminimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.***This is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

If you're approaching retirement with a large 401(k) or IRA balance, this episode could save you and your beneficiaries hundreds of thousands in future taxes.In this episode I'll break down 7 strategic reasons to consider Roth conversions and explain when Roth conversions actually make sense for retirees and pre-retirees.Too many financial “gurus” push Roth conversions as a one-size-fits-all strategy. In reality, timing matters. Tax brackets matter. Medicare premiums matter. Legacy planning matters.You'll learn:✔️ How Roth conversions can reduce future RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions)✔️ Why retirees get trapped by large IRA balances later in life✔️ The hidden “widow penalty” surviving spouses face✔️ How Roth IRAs can create tax-free retirement income flexibility✔️ Why the SECURE Act changed inherited IRA planning forever✔️ How Roth conversions may protect your children from massive tax bills✔️ The best Roth conversion window for retirees ages 55–75✔️ When NOT to do Roth conversions✔️ How market downturns can create Roth conversion opportunities✔️ The impact Roth conversions can have on IRMAA, Social Security taxation, ACA subsidies, and Medicare premiumsWhether you have $1M, $3M, or more saved for retirement, understanding Roth conversion planning could dramatically improve your retirement income strategy and long-term tax efficiency.

In this episode I'll break down the brand-new TrumpAccounts created under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and explain whether retirees and near-retirees should consider using them as part of their legacy planning strategy. If you've built substantial retirement savings and arethinking about:helping children or grandchildrenfinancially, reducing future estate taxes, gifting while living, or creating generational wealth… this episode walks through the pros, cons, tax implications,and alternatives to Trump Accounts in plain English. I'll also compare Trump Accounts to:529 college savings plans custodial brokerage accounts(UGMA/UTMA) Roth IRAs for kids taxable brokerage accounts and lifetime gifting strategies. I'll explain:how the new $1,000 government seedcontribution works, contribution limits, Roth conversion opportunities, the “kiddie tax” rules, liquidity restrictions, and why many retirees may stillprefer flexible brokerage accounts over these new retirement-style accounts forminors. Are you interested inworking with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement ReadinessQuestionnaireOr visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multipleseven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional whileminimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.

Are you approaching retirement with $1 million or more savedand wondering how to minimize taxes on your IRA withdrawals, Social Security income, Roth conversions, brokerage accounts, and retirement income strategy?In this episode I'll break down 7 powerful retirement tax planning strategies that high-net-worth retirees can use to potentially reduce or even eliminate portions of their lifetime tax bill.You'll learn:• How some retirees can take IRA withdrawals tax-free • Why Roth conversions are often overused • How the 0% long-term capital gains bracket works • Strategies to reduce taxes on Social Security income • Roth IRA withdrawal rules and common mistakes • Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) strategies • HSA planning opportunities in retirement • How Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) works for company stock If you are over 50, nearing retirement, or already retiredwith substantial IRA, 401(k), brokerage, or Roth assets, this episode will help you better understand how retirement tax planning impacts:If you are over 50, nearing retirement, or already retired with substantial IRA, 401(k), brokerage, or Roth assets, this episode will help you better understand how retirement tax planning impacts:• lifetime income, • Medicare premiums, • RMDs, • ACA subsidies, • estate planning, • and legacy goals. Areyou interested in working with me 1 on 1? Clickthis link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multipleseven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.

After you retire, you might find your net worth continuing to grow, but your 'taxable income' drops significantly. That can create major tax planning opportunities. Hence, 'High net worth, poor on paper.'I'll explain how that period of time can open thedoor to smarter planning around ACA subsidies, Roth conversions, Social Security taxation, and 0% capital gains harvesting.Remember, these strategies should not be looked at in asilo. A move that helps in one area can easily impact another if it isn't coordinated with your full retirement plan.What you'll learn in this episode:What “high net worth, poor on paper” actually means Why low-income years in retirement can be powerful planning years How ACA premium tax credits work for early retirees The tradeoff between ACA subsidies and Roth conversions How the Roth conversion window can reduce future RMD problems How Social Security taxation can potentially be reduced with proper timing When 0% capital gains harvesting may make sense Why these strategies must be coordinated, not implemented one by one Why retirement tax planning is about timing taxes wisely, not just avoiding them If you want help building a retirement plan thatcoordinates investments, taxes, income, and leaving a legacy, you can learnmore at www.imaginefinancialsecurity.comOr, start with requesting a Mutual Fit Meeting by filling out this shortquestionnaire:https://form.jotform.com/250847998463173 Resources / related episodes:ACA Tax Credits: The Cliff is Back in 2026: https://youtu.be/iZcF5IuH1Bg?si=x5l4SnH2nl3wnYS1$3m Net Worth, Free Healthcare(case study): https://youtu.be/iZcF5IuH1Bg?si=x5l4SnH2nl3wnYS1Aggressive Conversions to makeSocial Security Tax Free: https://youtu.be/oeo3jT5iUbQIf you enjoyed this episodePlease leave a 5-star review, follow the show, and shareit with someone who is close to retirement or recently retired.Thank you!-Kevin

Are you retiring soon or recently retired and worried about market volatility, sequence of returns risk, and what the Iran conflict could mean for your plans?In this episode, I'm diving into what retirees should be considering as we head into potential prolonged volatility. I'll discuss the short term market impact of the conflict.Then, I'll touch on what I think might be an underlying long-term goal for the US getting involved. And most importantly, we'll touch on 5 strategies to help you prepare for and execute a successful retirement, despite this new wave of uncertainty. I hope it helps!-KevinRequest A “Mutual Fit Meeting” hereClick this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multipleseven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.***This is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

If you're married, your Social Security claiming strategy is not just about your benefit — it's about protecting your spouse's income for life. In this video, I'll explain the most overlooked Social Security rule for married couples and how it can dramatically affect the surviving spouse's financial security.Many retirees don't realize that when one spouse passes away, one Social Security check disappears. The surviving spouse only keeps the larger of the two benefits, which means the higher earner's claiming decision may be the most important Social Security decision you make.Using a real-life style example, Kevin walks through how delaying Social Security can significantly increase the survivor benefit, potentially adding thousands of dollars per month for the spouse who lives the longest. He also explains why couples who claim too early may unintentionally reduce the surviving spouse's income during the most financially vulnerable years of retirement.However, this strategy doesn't apply to everyone. I'll also share three situations where it may actually make sense to ignore the typical advice to delay Social Security, including health considerations, investment strategies, and withdrawal rate concerns.If you are within 5–10 years of retirement, married, and have saved $1M or more, this Social Security strategy could have a major impact on your long-term retirement income plan.Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multiple seven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.This is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Are annuities really that bad?I've spent most of my career skeptical of annuities. Especially the expensive, complicatedproducts often sold to retirees. I don't sell annuities. I don't earn commissions from them. And in most cases, I still am skeptical of how they are ‘sold'and not planned for.In this episode, I break down four surprising benefits ofannuitizing part of your fixed income, especially if you're approaching retirement with $1M+ saved and want a smarter retirement income strategy.We'll cover:• Why everyone is a bull… until the market drops 10%• How annuitization can reduce sequence of returns risk• Why payout rates (like 6%–8%+) is hard to replicate with a ‘safe withdrawalrate'• How annuities can actually improve legacy outcomes in certain scenarios• The math behind lowering withdrawal pressure on your equity portfolio• How to evaluate TIAA Traditional payout options and vintagesRetirement isn't just about asset allocation.It's about income design.And if you're over 55, retiring soon, or already retired,understanding annuitization could materially impact your retirement income,stress level, and long-term legacy. Hope you find this useful.-KevinAre you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multipleseven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional whileminimizing taxes… welcome to the right place. This is for general education purposes only and shouldnot be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

If you're a TIAA participant, there's a good chance you own TIAA Traditional—and it may be one of the most misunderstood “investments” in retirement plans.In this episode, I'm breaking down TIAA Traditional, TIAA Real Estate and answering the biggest questions I hear from TIAA participants:✅ Should I own TIAA Traditional?✅ If so, how much should I keep there?✅ Should I use the TIAA Real Estate Account?✅ What should I do with TIAA Traditional after I retire?✅ Bonus: How do I compare to other retirement savers?We'll talk about the real issue most people miss—liquidity and contract type—and how TIAA Traditional can be used as a bond alternative or even as a retirement income floor depending on your plan.Resources mentioned:TIAA Real Estate AccountVideo, How to get money OUT of TIAA (contract breakdown)Video, Retirement Savings Relative to PeersAre you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr,visit my website ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multiple seven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.

Lately, I've been seeing a TON of retirement planning content telling people:"Don't work another year. Retire now. You're wasting time."And honestly… as a retirement-focused financial planner, that message kind of rubs me the wrong way.Not because it's always wrong… but because I think there's an angle behind it.In today's episode, we break down what One More Year Syndrome really is, why it's become such a popular retirement planning trend on YouTube and podcasts, and why you may want to take this advice seriously… but also why you might need to take it with a grain of salt.Because retirement isn't just about sitting on the beach 7 days a week.Retirement should be about purpose, meaning, freedom, and using your time, talents, and treasure in the way that matters most.I also share a powerful story from a recent conversation with a prospective client who reached out after losing three of his closest friends last year, and how that kind of wake-up call can completely change the way you think about retirement timing.At the end of this episode, I give you 3 questions to ask yourself to determine whether you're truly delaying retirement for financial reasons… or if you're simply afraid of stepping into the unknown.If you're in your 50s or early 60s, have saved $1M+ for retirement, and you're wondering whether you should retire now or work longer, this episode is for you. ✅ Questions Covered In This Episode:Should I retire now or work one more year?Is One More Year Syndrome real?How do I know if I'm financially ready to retire?How do I find purpose after retirement?What if I retire too early?What if I wait too long and regret it? ⛳ PFR Nation (Who This Is For)If you're over 50, have saved seven figures (or multiple seven figures), love golf and travel, and you want to make work optional while minimizing taxes… welcome to the right place.

Is the 4% rule actually causing people to work 5 to 10 years longer than they need to?In this episode of The Planning for Retirement Podcast, Kevin Lao breaks down a series of real historical 40 year retirement backtests using withdrawal rates of 4%, 5%, 6%, and even 7%, and the results are shocking.Using Portfolio Visualizer, Kevin tests how different withdrawal rates would have performed starting in 1986 through 2025, and then compares those results to what happens when you retire into a tougher market environment like the lost decade (starting in 2000).This episode is all about the real retirement planning lesson most people miss:

What if you live to be 100 years old?A lot of retirement plans assume your portfolio needs to last 15–25 years… maybe 30 if you're being conservative. But if you retire at 60 (or earlier) and live to 100, that's a 40-year time horizon in retirement — and it changes everything.In this episode, I walk through five retirement planning considerations to address longevity risk for retirees in 2026 and beyond, including:• How to build paychecks in retirement (not just a portfolio)• Why getting too conservative can quietly increase risk over a long retirement• How to think about Social Security, pensions, and annuities as guaranteed income tools• Why long-term care planning is a logistics problem (that can become a money problem)• Spending phases: go-go, slow-go, no-go• And a legacy concept I love: giving with a warm hand instead of a cold one

Elon Musk went on the Moonshots podcast and said you don't need to save for retirement anymore because AI + robots will make work optional and money won't matter.If you're 55+, sitting on seven figures in a 401(k)/IRA, and you're trying to figure out when you can stop working, travel more, and play more golf — this episode is for you.In this video, I'll:• Play Elon's quote and explain what's going on• Break down the key takeaways from the full interview (energy/solar, longevity, UHI)• Explain why it's a terrible idea to change your retirement plan based on a viral clip• Give you 3 smarter moves you can make right nowThe 3 smarter retirement moves:1. Plan for longevity (modern medicine + AI could mean a longer retirement)2. Plan for higher taxes (UHI / Social Security / Medicare strain = tax risk)3. Plan for earlier retirement (AI disruption + layoffs could push you out sooner than expected)Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Susan is 65, recently widowed, and has saved $2.1 million for retirement.On paper, she's more than fine… but emotionally, she doesn't feel fine.After watching her husband pass away, Susan is ready to retire five years earlier than planned so she can enjoy her “go-go years” while she still has her health.But she's terrified of one thing:

2025 reminded us of something important: markets don't move based on headlines or how we “feel” about the economy — they move based on earnings, inflation, interest rates, and policy.And if you're close to retirement, the goal isn't to predict the market perfectly.The goal is to know what actually matters and build a plan that works whether markets are great, average, or ugly.In today's episode of the Planning for Retirement Podcast, I start by recapping what we said to watch in 2025, what actually played out… and then I walk through six key themes that could drive markets in 2026.✅ We'll cover:• How tax policy could act as a tailwind (or a temporary sugar high)• Why the labor market matters more than the unemployment rate• What the Fed is likely to do next — and why Powell's replacement could be a big deal• Why AI is fueling earnings growth and margin expansion (and what that means for markets)• Why bonds are back — and why fixed income matters even more for retirees• Why international stocks outperformed in 2025, and the danger of recency biasBy the end, you'll have a clear framework for what to watch in 2026 — and how to stay focused as a long-term retirement investor.I hope you enjoy it!-Kevin Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

In this episode, we will address how accumulating significant savings into Traditional 401ks and IRAs can lead to a massive tax burden in retirement. Additionally, we will be addressing the provision in the SECURE Act, which will change the way we view leaving these retirement plans to the next generation.Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Do you ever wish you could get inside the minds of existing retirees to ask them what their experience has been? Or, ask them what they wish they would have known before they quit their day job? This episode is for you!In this episode of the Planning for Retirement podcast, I'll share 50 truths that retirees wish they knew before they quit their day jobs. Some of these are straight from the horse's mouth, some are my observations in serving retirees for more than a decade, and some are research-based that I uncovered during this process. I'll cover a range of topics including finding purpose in retirement, the misconception of retirement expenses going down, the importance of exercise and brain stimulation, the high costs of healthcare in retirement, tax traps, and much more. Thanks for tuning in! Make sure to subscribe to give me a follow on social media and company newsletter below. We're also getting the YouTube side of things going and I'll be posting one offs in betLinks Referenced in Episode:50 Truths Retirees Wish They Knew Before They Quit Their Day JobPurpose and Successful Retirement Transition QuestionnaireShocks and the Unexpected: An Important Factor in Retirement The life expectancy of older couples and surviving spouses How to plan for rising healthcare costsAre you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

If you are retiring before you turn 65, the healthcare gap is probably top of mind. In today's episode, I'll talk about 6 paths to healthcare coverage to bridge the gap until you are eligible for Medicare. I hope it helps.FYI, I am NOT a health insurance expert! This episode was made possible because my current premium was skyrocketing 70% next year, so I decided to shop it. However, each state will have its own complexities and nuances. Nonetheless, I hope this gets you started in the right direction. Kevin Resources:• Roth Conversion Trap on ACA Premium Tax Credits (video)• Don't fall off the cliff. Explaining the cliff for ACA premium tax credits in 2026 and beyond (video)Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Advisor's Alpha is Wrong!Vanguard, the King of NO fees, puts out an annual study where they attempt to quantify the value of a comprehensive financial advisor. I can attest to many of the services mentioned, but it is very difficult, if not impossible, to determine the exact % of additional value added those services can provide. In any event, I think Vanguard actually misses the mark on a few of these, particularly because of WHO you are (PFR Nation). I also believe Vanguard fails to include one of the MOST important factors when considering the value of a financial advisor. And yes, I acknowledge that I am a VERY biased source on this topic. However, you might find it surprising where I land on some of the points Vanguard makes.I hope you find it useful!Kevin Resources:Vanguard Advisor's AlphaClick this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday! It's been a while since we did a Whiteboard Retirement Plan breakdown, so lets get this back in the rotation! In this scenario, we are looking at a baseline scenario for Jack and Barbara, who have saved $2.3million for retirement, mostly in tax-deferred accounts. They would like to retire at 61 (2026), but they are very concerned about financial legacy for their two adult children. In fact, not only do they want to protect and preserve their assets, but they also want to do so on an inflation-adjusted basis! Let's see how they are tracking with the baseline plan, and let's see what levers they need to pull in order to achieve their retirement AND legacy objectives. And I'd love to hear from you all. What levers would YOU pull if you were Jack and Barbara? Thanks for tuning in and please make sure to leave us a nice review if you are finding value in the content! -Kevin Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,It's the most wonderful time of the year…You guessed it…it's ROTH CONVERSION time!

Welcome to PART 4 of 100 Episodes, 100 Lessons (for retirees and pre-retirees).In this episode, we'll walk through episodes 76-99 and bring home some key takeaways for you as you plan for and execute a successful retirement. I hope you enjoy this one!If you are over 50, you've saved north of $1million for retirement, and you want to maximize retirement income, minimize your lifetime tax bill, and worry less about money…hit the FOLLOW button so you don't miss out on the next 100 episodes!-Kevin Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation, Welcome to PART 3 of 100 Episodes, 100 Lessons (for retireesand pre-retirees).In this episode, we'll walk through episodes 51-75 and bringhome some key takeaways for you as you plan for and execute a successfulretirement. I hope you enjoy this one! If you are over 50, you've saved north of $1million forretirement, and you want to maximize retirement income, minimize your lifetimetax bill, and worry less about money…hit the FOLLOW button so you don't missout on the next 100 episodes! -Kevin Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

The journey continues. We are walking through 100 lessons from the first 100 episodes in this 4-part series. I hope you enjoy part 2! If you are over 50, you've saved north of $1million for retirement, and you want to maximize retirement income, minimize your lifetime tax bill, and worry less about money…hit the FOLLOW button so you don't miss out on the next 100 episodes! Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation:Thank you all for supporting this show for the last few years. Especially for those of you who supported me in the early days when I thought nobody was listening. I even took a 4 month hiatus without announcing it because we were so in the trenches with our boys. All of a sudden I get an email out of the blue asking “Are you still doing the podcast?” That was the motivation I needed to get back in the game and just ‘hit record.' In 2023, I began posting consistently ever 2 weeks. And in the beginning of 2025, I decided to go weekly! It hasn't been easy, but I just want to thank all of you for keeping me motivated, this is why I do what I do. Keep the comments coming and make sure to share our show with someone you care about who is PFR Nation caliber! Naturally, I was overthinking what I would do for this episode. However, my wife helped me simplify it per usual. I will be breaking down my top takeaway/lesson from all of the previous episodes, and we'll do it in 4 parts. Part 1 covers episodes 1-25, so lets take a walk down memory lane together and recap important points from those early episodes. I hope you enjoy this series! -Kevin Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation, As you know, we are well underway with our free giveawaysfrom a couple of weeks ago. And as I mentioned last week, we received a lot of great comments in that YouTube thread! So last week, I touched on three of the questions in a Q&A format. Today, I'll address three more! Here they are:1. “So how do you actually build a retirement income plan that both people can sleep at night with when one side wants market exposure and the other wants safety?”2. “I've set aside (spreadsheet) my calculated number to self-fund my long-term care, but the variables and assumptions concern me.”3. “How do we pay for health care before Medicare?”You're not going to want to miss this one, and hope you find it useful! Thanks for tuning in. -Kevin Resources Mentioned in this Episode:Genworthand Carescout Cost of CareThe ACA Premium Tax Credits AreChanging in 2026! (PFR Video)Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,We just announced our FREE GIVEAWAY winner and runner-up on the YouTube channel last Thursday. Thank you all for participating and making that process super enjoyable and engaging. One of the questions I asked for the giveaway was “What is one thing related to planning for retirement that keeps you up at night?” We received some amazing responses!! So, I thought I would dedicate this episode and the next to addressing some of the best questions in that YouTube thread. This episode, we will wrestle with three of them:I have the majority of my retirement savings in pre-tax accounts, so I am worried about how to do the complex math to optimize Roth conversions before RMDs kick in.I worry that after a lifetime of saving, will I be able to draw down my retirement savings?My wife is 9.5 years younger than me. I want to retire in a few years at 55, not sure how long after that she'll keep working. But with that age gap it's a long retirement timeline. How best do you plan for that?You're not going to want to miss this one and hope you find it useful! Thanks for tuning in.-Kevin Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,I recentlydiscovered a Ted Talk by Dr. Riley Moynes about the “4 phases of retirement.” We talk a lotabout the financial side of retirement planning.- Safe withdrawal rates- Tax efficiency- Investing to and through retirement- Legacy - Insurance However, it's equally important to understand and thinkabout the softer side of retirement planning. In this episode, you will want to hear Dr. Moynes' take on the 4 phases,and I'll talk about a real-life hero in the College Football world that canhopefully inspire you to SKIP the dark and depressing phase! I hope you enjoy this one.-Kevin Takeaways· Retirement is not just a financialtransition; it's an emotional journey.· Understanding the four phases ofretirement can help avoid pitfalls.· The vacation phase is characterized byfreedom and excitement.· The loss phase involves identity andpurpose challenges.· Michael Phelps' experience illustratesthe emotional struggles of retirement.· Therapy and seeking help can be crucialduring transitions.· Finding new meaning in retirement isessential for fulfillment.· Engaging in service and mentoring canenhance retirement satisfaction.· Financial independence allows forexploration of new passions.· Planning for purpose in retirementshould start before retirement begins.Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,In this episode, I'm tackling America's “headline culture,” how short clips and soundbites dominate not only politics, but also the way we think about retirement planning. With the tragic assassination of Charlie Kirk as a starting point, I reflect on how social media algorithms amplify the loudest, most divisive voices, while thoughtful, nuanced conversations get drowned out. When I dug into Charlie's long-form interviews, like his sit-down with Gavin Newsom, I realized how much context gets lost and how much more common ground we really share when we go deeper.The same thing happens in retirement planning. Viral soundbites like “Social Security is going bankrupt,” “Never pay off your mortgage,” “The 4% rule always works,” or “Financial advisors can't beat the market, so don't hire one” may sound convincing in 20 seconds, but they can be misleading and even harmful if you base major decisions on them.In this episode, I break down why these headlines don't tell the full story and what you should consider instead.At the end of the day, just like politics, retirement requires long-form thinking. The clips may get clicks, but the deeper conversation is where the truth, and a confident retirement, really lives.-KevinClick this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,Welcome to another “Whiteboard Retirement Plan” breakdown!Scottie and Meredith had the perfect plan: retire at 65, sign up for Medicare, and start Social Security at 67. With nearly $1.9 million saved, everything looked like it was on track, until life threw them a curveball. After some friends their age got sick and passed away, they started asking: Why wait? Can we retire right now at 60?In this Whiteboard Retirement Plan, Kevin Lao stress tests their plan to see if early retirement is really possible without jeopardizing their future.You'll hear:How a five-year shift can dramatically impact retirement projectionsThe hidden risks of retiring before Medicare and Social Security kick inWhich levers (investment allocation, side hustle income, rental property, and more) can make early retirement realisticThe trade-offs between financial security and living life on your own timelineIf you've ever wondered whether you could retire earlier than planned without blowing up your financial security, this episode is for you.-Kevin Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,As you approach retirement, or even when you are in the beginning phase of retirement, there is this natural feeling of concern about market uncertainty. After all, the market can turn south in a heartbeat, potentially even leading into a recession. Or worse, a prolonged recession. This term is also known as “Sequence of Returns Risk.” It's not about your long-term average return, it's about the ‘sequence' those returns are generated. I've been stress testing different rates of withdrawal with different starting periods. And the ‘Lost Decade' of the 2000s is a perfect example of why sequence of returns is so important for retirees to protect against. In this episode, I'll highlight some of the major downturns since the 2000s. Then, I'll talk about some real strategies that you can implement as you protect against sequence of returns risk. I hope you find this one useful!And let me know what YOU plan to do to hedge against this risk. Also, make sure to share this episode with someone who is also approaching retirement, or who has recently retired! I'm sure they'll also find it useful. Thanks for tuning in.KevinKey Topics:• What Sequence of Returns Risk really means and why it matters more than long-term average returns.• How the “Lost Decade” of the 2000s demonstrates the dangers of poor return sequencing.• Practical strategies to protect your retirement portfolio from early losses.• Tips for stress-testing withdrawal rates and planning for different market scenarios.Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,Many of you have adult children or loved ones you hope will benefit from your financial success. But how confident are you in their financial skills? Will they be good stewards of the wealth you leave behind? Even if you don't plan to leave a fortune, your careful retirement planning might still create a sizable legacy.I just celebrated 17 years in financial services on 8/28! It's been a journey full of highs and lows, shaping my perspective on money and life itself. To mark the milestone, I'm sharing 10 key lessons I've learned as a financial advisor, entrepreneur, and content creator. My hope is that these insights can help you in your conversations with your adult children or beneficiaries! I hope you find it useful!KevinClick this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,If you have been a podcast listener for a while, you know I have strong feelings about the “4% Rule.” Well, the father of the 4% Rule, Bill Bengen, just released a new book where he admits that 4% is probably too low. In this episode, we'll briefly touch on the history of the 4% rule, as well as the findings in his new book. But more importantly, we'll discuss the downsides of actually using the 4% rule in real retirement planning and touch on some key planning opportunities for YOU (PFR Nation) to consider instead. I hope you all find this one helpful! Let me know what YOU think of the 4% Rule!-Kevin Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,Legendary actor Gene Hackman passed away earlier this year. Some of the details about his estate plan have been made public due to the probate process. While I don't believe any of us have an $80 million estate, there are some important lessons we can all take away from this estate planning nightmare. Especially if you are part of a blended family (children from a previous relationship or marriage). I hope you all find this useful. Make sure to check out the links below for some of the blended family content I've created in the past from the podcast and company blog.And finally, make sure to email me at kevin@imaginefinancialsecurity.com if you would like a copy of the e-book I am finishing up, “Planning For Retirement With A Blended Family.” Thanks for tuning in to the show and making sure to follow the podcast and subscribe to our YouTube channel for weekly retirement-related content for PFR Nation!-Kevin Resources Mentioned:Blended Families – You Need a Long-term Care Plan! (blog post)How to divide assets in a blended family (blog post)4 Retirement and Estate Planning Strategies for Blended Families in Florida (blog post)Blending and Building Wealth in a Blended Family (w/ Tim and Alexis Woodward @ Blend Wealth) (podcast episode)Wealth Protection And Transfer in a Blended Family (w/ Tim and Alexis Woodward @ Blend Wealth) (podcast episode)Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

PFR Nation,I hope everyone has had a great summer! It's been action-packed for us, especially coming off the heels of family visiting the last 8 days. Thus, thanks for your patience with this week's episode!This is a good one! Many folks retire earlier than they had anticipated. In this case, Marilyn was forced to retire 5 years earlier than she had planned! She's done well saving and investing, and has accumulated $1.95million between taxable, tax-deferred and tax-free accounts. However, she has some ambitious goals for travel and freeing up her time! Let's see how her plan looks. And let's see what levers she can pull in order to improve her retirement outcome. I hope you all find this useful!-Kevin Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.

Welcome to another edition of Planning for Retirement (PFR) with Kevin Lao. And welcome to all the newbies here! If you are new, you might want to hit that “Follow” button if you are over 50 and have saved a minimum of 7 figures for retirement. You're approaching the phase of life where you want to be able to fire your boss at any time, maximize your retirement impact, minimize your lifetime tax bill, and worry less about money! This is your podcast!And don't forget to “Subscribe” to our YouTube Channel, where we put out weekly retirement-related content designed for YOU (PFR Nation).Today, we'll revisit another Q&A session with some GREAT questions we've curated over the last few months. Reminder, if you have a question for a future Q&A episode, or simply want to send me an email, you can at: kevin@imaginefinancialsecurity.comWe have questions related to Roth IRAs, Inherited Roth IRAs, stock allocations for retirees, IRA to Health Savings Account rollover, and more! I hope you enjoy this one!Kevin Resources Mentioned:Don't miss your Roth Conversion Window (video)Are you interested in working with me 1 on 1? Click this link to fill out our Retirement Readiness QuestionnaireOr, visit my websiteConnect with me here:YouTubeJoin My Company NewsletterThis is for general education purposes only and should not be considered as tax, legal or investment advice.