Podcast appearances and mentions of jeremy keil

Do you really need a financial advisor in retirement? Jeremy Keil argues that the answer depends on a better question: What do you actually want a financial advisor to do for you? After reading responses from Kiplinger readers about whether they use financial advisors, Jeremy noticed that most people immediately focused on investment management—choosing investments, managing portfolios, or trying to improve returns. Real retirement planning extends well beyond investments. For retirees deciding whether professional advice is worthwhile, start by identifying the problems you need help solving. Once you know what you need from an advisor, you can make a much better decision about whether—and what kind of—financial planner is right for you. For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

A retirement plan is more than an investment portfolio and a decision about when to claim Social Security. Jeremy Keil is joined by financial advisor Joe Schmitz Jr. to compare the planning processes they use to help clients coordinate the many financial decisions that come together at retirement. Joe explains his five-pillar approach covering tax planning, investments, income, healthcare, and estate planning, while Jeremy compares it with his own five-step Retirement Master Plan. Despite approaching the process from different angles, both emphasize an important point: your investments should serve your retirement plan—not become the plan itself. For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

Some of the most tempting retirement investing mistakes begin with ideas that sound perfectly reasonable: move to cash when the market looks expensive, put everything in CDs while rates are attractive, leave stocks behind once you retire, or rely on dividend stocks for income. The problem is that each approach can allow one concern or prediction to dictate an entire investment strategy. Jeremy Keil answers five listener questions about investing in retirement. The surprising truth about retirement investing is that many questions are answered more clearly by re-focusing on when you'll need the money and what you need it to accomplish, rather than predictions about what markets, interest rates, or individual investments will do next. For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

Retirement changes more than where your income comes from. Financial decisions that once seemed straightforward can work differently when the paycheck stops, leaving retirees with questions about insurance, borrowing, taxes, and investments that they may never have encountered during their working years. Jeremy Keil answers three listener questions that illustrate these real-life retirement challenges. He explains how to evaluate an old whole life insurance policy when the original need for insurance may have disappeared, including the potential tax and interest-rate considerations behind keeping, surrendering, or modifying the policy. He also discusses why retirees with substantial assets can still have difficulty qualifying for a mortgage or apartment without traditional wage income, and how creating a predictable income trail may help. Finally, Jeremy addresses whether an investment can provide both principal protection and capital-gains tax treatment. His larger message connects all three questions: retirement planning should begin by identifying the problem you're trying to solve, then finding the appropriate financial tool—not the other way around. For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

What does it actually mean to win at retirement? A bigger house, more expensive vacations, and a larger income during your working years may look like success, but they don't necessarily determine how satisfying retirement will be. Jeremy Keil compares two composite retiree stories drawn from situations he's encountered over the years. One represents someone who never earned more than $80,000 in a year but consistently saved, paid off a mortgage, accumulated rental real estate, and built investments worth roughly 10 times their income. The other represents a retiree who earned around $300,000, enjoyed spending bonuses along the way, retired with a mortgage, and accumulated investments worth roughly five times their final salary. Which one is winning at retirement? Learn Jeremy's answer in this episode! For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

Retirement tax planning isn't simply about following IRS rules or minimizing what you owe this year. Jeremy Keil answers three listener questions that demonstrate why focusing on one tax return at a time can lead retirees to miss opportunities to manage their taxes over the course of retirement. Jeremy breaks down two different five-year rules that can apply to Roth IRAs, including what happens when you complete a Roth conversion after having an existing Roth IRA for years. He then explains why taking only the required minimum distribution from an inherited IRA isn't automatically the best strategy under the 10-year rule, and how qualified charitable distributions may be available from inherited IRAs for eligible account owners. For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

Choosing when to claim Social Security can have a lasting impact on your retirement income, but many retirees make this decision without fully understanding how the rules work. In this Q&A episode, Jeremy Keil answers three listener questions that uncover some of the most common Social Security misconceptions facing married couples. Jeremy explains why your retirement date and your Social Security claiming date are two separate decisions, how poor health should factor into your planning, and why survivor benefits often deserve more attention than the higher earner's own benefit. He also clarifies common confusion around spousal benefits, outdated claiming strategies, and the way delayed retirement credits are actually applied after full retirement age. Whether you're approaching retirement or helping a spouse make these important decisions, this conversation offers practical guidance to help you coordinate your retirement plan and make more informed Social Security choices. For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

Three hundred episodes into the Retire Today podcast, the microphone is turned around as author and business strategist Nicole Gebhardt interviews Jeremy Keil about the journey that shaped his retirement philosophy and the framework behind his book, Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps. Rather than focusing on a single retirement topic, Jeremy shares the evolution of his business, the development of the "Mr. Retirement" brand, and the mindset shifts that matter most for people approaching retirement. He explains why so many successful savers struggle to become confident spenders, why retirement planning is as much about psychology as it is about numbers, and how learning the math behind retirement decisions creates confidence to retire on your own terms. As the Retire Today podcast celebrates its 300th episode, Jeremy reflects on lessons learned from working with thousands of retirees and explains why thoughtful planning isn't about predicting the future—it's about creating the flexibility to enjoy it. For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

Healthcare is one of the biggest expenses retirees face, yet few people understand how the system behind their care actually works. Jeremy Keil welcomes physician, hospice doctor, and author Dr. Jordan Grumet to discuss the ideas behind his new book, The Healthcare Heist. Discover how financial incentives have reshaped modern healthcare, the growing influence of private equity, and why patients and providers often feel caught in a system that prioritizes business interests over care. Dr. Grumet explains the differences between physician-owned practices and corporate healthcare systems, discusses direct primary care and concierge medicine, shares his perspective on Medicare Advantage versus traditional Medicare with supplemental coverage, and offers guidance for becoming a more informed healthcare consumer. Healthcare aside, hear why Dr. Grumet rejects the traditional definition of retirement and what he's learned since beginning the decumulation phase of his own financial life. For disclosures and conflicts visit keilfp.com/disclosures.

Joe Schmitz Jr. and Jeremy Keil explore the 2% Club of retirees and the unique challenges that come with significant retirement savings and a pension. https://youtu.be/G04JKpKyLJ0 Most retirement conversations focus on one question: Will I have enough? But there's another retirement challenge that doesn't get talked about nearly enough: What happens when you've done everything right? Joe Schmitz Jr. has been working with a very specific group of retirees he calls the 2% Club. His definition: People who have both: A pension And $1 million or more saved for retirement That combination creates opportunities. But it also creates a different set of retirement decisions. Success Creates Different Problems For decades, these retirees did what they were told: Saved consistently Avoided lifestyle inflation Built meaningful retirement assets Earned pensions Stayed disciplined Now retirement arrives… …and suddenly the challenge isn't accumulating wealth. It's using it wisely. Joe shared one statistic that stood out: “80% of people out there will pay no federal income taxes in retirement… while this 2% club is part of that 20% that will have to pay taxes and typically much more.” That means retirement planning shifts. Less focus on accumulation. More focus on: Taxes Spending Distribution strategy Legacy Purpose Why High-Income Retirees Can Accidentally Become Under-Spenders One of the most interesting parts of this conversation was Joe's concept of the Midwestern Millionaire. His description: Hard-working.Frugal.Disciplined. Excellent savers. Often reluctant spenders. And that creates an unexpected retirement problem. People who spent 40 years training themselves to save don't automatically become comfortable spending. Even when they can afford it. Joe described clients who had millions saved but still struggled emotionally to use their money because restraint had become part of their identity. That's where retirement planning becomes less about spreadsheets and more about permission. The Four Places Your Money Can Go Joe offered a simple framework. Your money ultimately goes somewhere. You can: Spend it Gift it Give it Pay taxes on it That framework creates an important question: If you're not spending your money intentionally… where is it going? That doesn't mean everyone should spend aggressively. But it does mean retirees should think intentionally about: Lifestyle Family impact Charitable goals Taxes Because choosing not to decide is still a decision. Pension Decisions Deserve More Attention Than Most People Give Them Joe also emphasized something I see frequently: People often make pension elections based on coworkers. Someone retires.Takes a lump sum.Everyone follows. But pension elections are often irreversible. Joe's advice was simple: Run the numbers. Questions like these matter: Lump sum or monthly pension? Survivor benefits? Age differences between spouses? Existing assets? Insurance needs? The right answer isn't universal. It's personal. Don't Let Tax Fear Control Retirement For some retirees, fear of crossing an income threshold and triggering Medicare IRMAA surcharges becomes bigger than the actual cost itself. Joe's point wasn't to ignore taxes. It was to understand them. Tax planning matters. But taxes shouldn't become the only goal. Because avoiding taxes at all costs can sometimes prevent people from living the retirement they actually built. The Real Goal One story Joe shared captured this perfectly. A retired couple promised each other they'd spend intentionally during their early retirement years. Two years later… They had spent nothing. Not because they couldn't. Because they hadn't learned how. Eventually they created a spending plan and began enjoying experiences they had delayed for decades. That's the shift retirement requires. You don't stop being disciplined. You simply redirect that discipline. The Bottom Line Retirement success isn't measured by how much money you leave untouched. It's measured by whether your money helps support the life you actually wanted. Because after decades of saving… Retirement planning becomes deciding what your wealth is for. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “How Much Taxes Will Retirees Owe on Their Retirement Income?” – Center for Retirement Research at Boston College Peak Retirement Planning Joe Schmitz Jr. on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@peakretirementplanninginc.  Articles by Joe Schmitz Jr. on Kiplinger “Joe Knows Retirement” podcast with Joe Schmitz Jr.  Books by Joe Schmitz Jr.  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jesse Cramer and Jeremy Keil detail 7 real world lessons learned from working with hundreds of retirees. There's a big difference between studying retirement… …and actually sitting across the table from retirees for years. This week I sat down with Jesse Cramer and instead of doing a typical “Retire Today” interview, we decided to compare notes from working with hundreds of retirement clients and shared the lessons that rarely show up in textbooks or headlines. Experiences often speak louder than theory, so let's dive into the 7 main lessons. Lesson #1: Most Retirees Don't Have a “Purpose Crisis” If you spend time searching YouTube or Amazon for retirement advice, you'll likely come across the “retirement purpose crisis.” In our real-world experience working with retiree, this doesn't seem to show up the way financial media suggests. Yes, some retirees need time to adjust. But most aren't spiraling into an identity crisis after leaving work. Why? Because many workers weren't necessarily emotionally attached to the structure of their jobs—they were looking forward to having control of their time again. A lot of retirees quickly find purpose in: Family Grandkids Community Travel Hobbies Freedom itself The bigger adjustment often isn't purpose. It's learning how to structure time differently. Lesson #2: Most People Start Planning Too Late One of the clearest themes in the conversation was timing. Many people first show up to retirement planning webinars only months before retirement—or even after they've already retired. That creates problems. Important decisions around: Social Security Investments Pensions Healthcare Spending levels Taxes …all work better when there's time to think through options. Jesse's recommendation was simple: Start seriously planning at least 12 months before retirement—and ideally earlier. Not because every detail must be finalized years in advance, but because retirement works best when decisions are intentional instead of rushed. Lesson #3: Couples Need to Get on the Same Page Retirement isn't an individual decision when you're married. But many couples approach it that way. We find it is common for spouses to have completely different views on: Retirement timing Spending Investment risk Social Security Lifestyle expectations Sometimes one spouse wants maximum security. The other wants maximum freedom. And if those conversations don't happen early, conflict can show up later. I've seen couples who struggle with spending expectations and pension decisions because both people weren't fully involved in the planning process. The takeaway was clear: Retirement planning works better when both spouses understand the plan—even if only one person enjoys the financial details. Lesson #4: Social Security Can Be Flexible One of Jesse's most interesting ideas was describing Social Security as a “pressure release valve.” Instead of viewing Social Security as a rigid decision with one perfect claiming age, retirees can think about it more dynamically. For example: Delay benefits while markets are strong But turn benefits on earlier if market declines create stress on the portfolio That flexibility can help reduce sequence of returns risk—the danger of withdrawing heavily from investments during a market downturn early in retirement. The key insight? Retirement planning isn't static. Good plans adapt. Lesson #5: Too Much Stability Can Become a Risk Many retirees focus heavily on avoiding losses. That's understandable. But Jesse shared a cautionary example of a retiree with roughly 90% of investable assets in annuity products because she wanted maximum stability. The problem? Over-emphasizing one risk can create others. Oftentimes retirees “over-index” against market risk while unintentionally increasing: Inflation risk Liquidity risk Longevity risk Safety itself can become risky if growth disappears entirely. Lesson #6: One Big Mistake Can Change Retirement Forever I once had a client who wanted 10% retirement income and concentrated his entire portfolio into one high-dividend bank stock. Within days: The dividend disappeared The stock collapsed Half the retirement savings vanished It was a reminder that retirement success often comes less from finding perfect strategies… …and more from avoiding catastrophic mistakes. As Jesse referenced through Charlie Munger's thinking:Sometimes the smartest retirement planning question is: “What should I absolutely avoid doing?” Lesson #7: Retirees Often Need Permission to Spend This may have been the most emotional lesson in the episode. Many retirees struggle to switch from saver to spender—even when the math clearly says they can afford it. I once worked with a widow with more than $1 million saved who refused to withdraw money to visit her grandchildren because emotionally she couldn't bring herself to spend her savings. That's where framing matters. As Jesse summarized:You're not changing identities from “saver” to “spender.” You've always been a retirement planner. Earlier in life, prudent planning meant saving. Now, prudent planning may mean spending intentionally on things that matter. The Bottom Line Retirement planning isn't just math. It's behavior.It's psychology.It's communication.It's flexibility. And many of the most important lessons aren't learned from spreadsheets. They're learned from real retirees living real lives. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps BestInterest.blog  Personal Finance for Long-Term Investors – Jesse Cramer's podcast Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil walks through three critical questions future retirees can answer before their paycheck stops Most people spend decades preparing for retirement by focusing on one number: How much have I saved? But retirement isn't really about the size of your portfolio. It's about whether you can turn that portfolio into reliable income that supports the life you want. That transition—from saving money to living on it—is where retirement planning becomes real. And if you're retiring within the next 12 months, there are three questions you can answer before your paycheck stops. Question #1: How Much Monthly Income Do I Actually Need? Unfortunately, this is where many people start with the wrong approach. Most retirees try building a budget from scratch. They estimate utilities, groceries, gas, dining out, subscriptions, and dozens of other categories. The problem? Those budgets are almost always wrong. They tend to assume: Nothing unexpected happens You never spend impulsively You never travel more than expected You never have major one-time expenses Instead of trying to build a perfect budget from zero, Jeremy recommends a simpler and often more accurate approach: Look at what already happened. Specifically:What actually went into your checking account over the last 12–24 months? Because in most households, what goes into checking eventually gets spent. That “take-home pay” becomes a much better starting point for estimating retirement income needs. But there are a few important adjustments. Don't Forget These Costs Your paycheck today already has several things removed before it hits your checking account: Taxes Health insurance Retirement savings contributions Once you retire: You may stop saving for retirement Your health insurance costs may change Your tax situation will likely change That means your gross salary is not the same as your retirement income need. Many find it valuable to separate out: Mortgage costs Annual expenses (property taxes, insurance, vacations) Large one-time expenses Pre-65 vs. post-65 healthcare costs Retirement spending isn't just monthly bills. It's the full picture. Question #2: When Should I Take Social Security? Most people already have an answer to this question before they ever run the numbers. And often, that decision is emotional. Maybe a parent died young. Maybe a friend claimed at 62. Maybe someone simply wants to “get their money.” But what if you about Social Security differently? Not as an investment. As insurance. The official name of the program is Old-age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance. That framing matters. Social Security exists to help: If you live longer than expected If one spouse dies earlier than expected If inflation remains high If markets struggle during retirement In other words, Social Security is there to protect against things not going according to plan. That's why filing decisions shouldn't be based only on “break-even” calculators. The better question is:What role does Social Security play in protecting your retirement? Question #3: How Should I Adjust My Investments Before Retirement? One of the biggest mistakes retirees make is treating retirement like a light switch. They assume:Growth before retirement.Income after retirement. But markets don't work on your timeline. Jeremy shared a powerful example from 2020:People planning to retire within a year stayed fully invested in stocks because markets had been performing well. Then COVID hit. Markets dropped sharply, and many panicked—selling near the bottom because they suddenly realized they needed that money soon. The issue wasn't just the market drop. It was that their investments weren't aligned with their time horizon. Your Investments Should Be Ready Early Get your investments ready to retire three years before retirement. Why? Because roughly half of retirees stop working earlier than expected. If your investments are prepared ahead of time: Market volatility becomes less stressful You have short-term money available if needed You're less likely to panic during downturns You gain flexibility if retirement comes sooner than planned But there's balance here too. Retirement doesn't mean abandoning long-term growth entirely. If retirement could last 25–30 years, some money still needs long-term growth potential. The key is having: Short-term money for near-term needs Long-term money for future growth Not all one or all the other. The Bottom Line Retirement isn't just about stopping work. It's about replacing a paycheck with a plan. And before your paycheck disappears, you should know: What your lifestyle actually costs What role Social Security plays in your plan Whether your investments are prepared for retirement realities Because when those three pieces work together, retirement becomes much more than a date on the calendar. It becomes sustainable. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “Retiring in the Next 12 Months? Answer These 3 Questions Before Your Paycheck Stops” – by Jeremy Keil, Kiplinger Magazine 5StepRetirementplan.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil explains how 5 smart moves could impact your ability to claim $180,000 or more as a couple in Social Security. If you’re about to file for Social Security, there's a real possibility you could be leaving a significant amount of money on the table. This isn't a small decision. For many retirees, Social Security ends up being one of the largest income sources they'll ever rely on. And unlike many other financial decisions, this one is mostly permanent. Once you file, there are very limited opportunities to undo it. That's why getting it right before you file matters so much. In this episode, I walk an article I recently wrote for Kiplinger magazine five key moves to help you make a more informed decision. Why This Decision Matters More Than You Think Many people think of Social Security as a simple choice: Pick an age. Pick a number. File when it feels right. But in reality, your Social Security decision can impact: Your lifetime income Your tax situation Your investment strategy And even your spouse's financial future Research completed by Larry Kotlikoff shows that the average couple can miss out on over $180,000 in lifetime Social Security income simply by choosing the wrong time to claim. And for higher earners, the total value of Social Security over a lifetime can reach into the seven figures. This is not a decision to make casually. Move #1: Verify Your Earnings Record Your Social Security benefit is based on your highest 35 years of earnings. If there are errors in your record—even just a couple of missing years—it can reduce your benefit for the rest of your life. That's why your first step should be logging into SSA.gov and reviewing your earnings history carefully. If something is missing or incorrect, it's your responsibility to correct it. Even small errors can create a permanent reduction in income. Move #2: Use the Retirement Calculator (Not Just the Statement) Your Social Security statement is helpful—but it's based on assumptions. Specifically, it assumes you'll continue earning income at your current level all the way until full retirement age. If you plan to retire earlier, those estimates can be significantly overstated. Instead, use the retirement calculator to input your actual plan. Adjust your future earnings based on when you expect to stop working. That will give you a much more accurate estimate of your benefit. Move #3: Know What You've Already Earned Many people don't realize how much of their Social Security benefit they've already built. By setting future earnings to zero in the calculator, you can estimate your “vested” benefit—what you would receive based only on your past work. This can be eye-opening. Some people discover they've already earned most of their benefit, and working additional years doesn't significantly increase it. Others realize they still have meaningful gaps that could impact their future income. Either way, this step helps you make decisions based on facts instead of assumptions. Move #4: Understand Your Longevity Your Social Security decision is essentially a timing decision based on how long you expect to live. Yet most people guess. Instead of guessing, take a few minutes to use a longevity calculator and understand your probabilities. If you're married, this becomes even more important. The key question isn't just how long you might live individually—but how long at least one of you is likely to live. That joint life expectancy plays a major role in determining the value of delaying benefits. Move #5: Solve the Right Problem This is where many people go wrong. They treat Social Security like an investment decision—focusing on break-even points or rate of return. But Social Security isn't an investment. It's insurance. Its purpose is to provide income in later years, support a surviving spouse, and protect against the risk of living longer than expected. When you shift your thinking from “How do I maximize returns?” to “What role does this play in my plan?” the decision becomes much clearer. The Bottom Line Social Security is one of the few decisions in retirement that is both highly impactful and largely irreversible. That combination makes preparation critical. Before you file, take the time to: Verify your data Use accurate projections Understand what you've already earned Consider your longevity And frame the decision correctly Because when you get Social Security right, it strengthens every other part of your retirement plan. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “Claiming Social Security Soon? 5 Smart Moves to Make Before You File” by Jeremy Keil, Kiplinger Magazine “How Much Lifetime Social Security Benefits Are Americans Leaving On the Table?” – Larry Kotlikoff, David Altig & Victor Yifan Ye Social Security Administration website LongevityIllustrator.org “Social Security and Work: How Much Can You Make in 2026?” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel “Can Americans Really Rely on Social Security? With Chris Orestis” – Retire Today Podcast Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil explains how putting your cash in the wrong spot could prevent you from earning thousands in interest during your retirement. Many retirees spend a lot of time thinking about how to get better returns on their investments. But very few spend time thinking about the return on their cash. That's a problem. Because for many retirees, cash isn't a small side account. It can be a meaningful portion of their overall financial picture—and if it's sitting in the wrong place, it may be quietly costing thousands of dollars each year. The average new retiree may have around $100,000 sitting in bank accounts, often earning around 0.4%, while higher-yield options closer to 3%+ are available. That difference can mean roughly $3,000 per year in missed interest. And it happens more often than you might think. Why Cash Gets Ignored There are a few common reasons retirees leave cash sitting in low-interest accounts. First, it's easy. Many people have used the same bank for years. There's a sense of familiarity and convenience. Moving money feels like work. Second, there's a perception of safety. Cash in a local bank feels secure. And while safety is important, many retirees don't realize that other options—like high-yield savings accounts—can offer similar protections when properly insured. Third, there's inertia. Cash tends to become an afterthought. Investors focus on stocks, bonds, and market performance, while cash quietly sits in the background. But ignoring cash doesn't make it harmless. In some cases, doing nothing is actually the riskier move. What Retirees Actually Want from Cash When I ask retirees what they want from their cash, the answers are surprisingly consistent. They want it to be: Available Safe Easy Those are reasonable goals. But what if you can achieve all three and earn more interest at the same time? The idea that higher interest automatically means higher risk isn't always true—especially when comparing FDIC-insured accounts or certain money market options. Rethinking “Just in Case” One of the most common reasons people hold large amounts of cash is “just in case.” That makes sense. But it's worth examining how often that “just in case” actually happens. According to the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College, about 10% of annual expenses tend to be unexpected—things like medical costs, home repairs, or other surprises. That's exactly why cash matters. But it also raises a question: If you're holding significantly more than what you typically need for unexpected expenses, could some of that money be working harder for you in the meantime? Cash doesn't have to sit idle to be available. The Real Risk of Doing Nothing There's a common belief that staying put is the conservative choice. But that's not always true. I once met with an investor who described herself as conservative, but in reality, she was heavily exposed to stock market risk without realizing it.  She didn't want to make a change to her investment strategy because she'd been doing it the same way for so long, the change felt risky. When her investments tanked by 90% later on, the desire to “conservatively” keep things the same ended up being the very reason why her losses were so dramatic. The lesson applies to cash as well. Sometimes, not making a change feels safe—but it can lead to outcomes that are far from conservative. If your cash is earning near-zero returns while inflation is around 3%, you're effectively losing purchasing power each year. That's a quiet risk, but a real one. Simple Ways to Improve Your Cash Strategy Improving your cash return doesn't require a complex overhaul. There are a few straightforward places to start: High-yield savings accountsOften available online, these can offer significantly higher interest rates than traditional banks. Sources to find these accounts include Bankrate.com and DepositAccounts.com.  MaxMyInterest.com I recently was joined by Gary Zimmerman, president of MaxMyInterest, on the “Retire Today” podcast–make sure you listen to that episode to learn more about how this system works as a cash growth strategy. Money market funds in brokerage accountsMany brokerage accounts offer options that pay higher interest—but the default cash setting may not. Cash Is a Tool, Not an Afterthought Cash plays an important role in retirement. It provides stability. It covers short-term needs. It gives you confidence that money will be there when you need it. But cash should be treated as a tool, not an afterthought. Used well, it supports your income plan and helps you stay flexible. Ignored, it can quietly drag down your overall financial picture. If you haven't reviewed where your cash is sitting lately, now might be a good time. Because sometimes the easiest improvement in your retirement plan isn't found in the stock market. It's sitting in your savings account. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “How Much Are Emergency Expenses for Retirees and Are They Prepared?” – Center for Retirement Research at Boston College “Here's How to Earn a Fistful of Interest on Your Cash in 2026” – Jeremy Keil, Kiplinger.com  “Growing Your Cash as a Retirement Asset with Gary Zimmerman” – Retire Today Podcast on the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel “The average amount in U.S. savings accounts–how does your cash stack up?” – Bankrate.com  Compare high yield savings account options: Bankrate.com, DepositAccounts.com MaxMyInterest.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

In this episode, Melanie welcomes Jeremy, author of "Retire Today: 5 Simple Steps," Jeremy dives into his motivations for writing a book after 22 years as a financial advisor, explaining how sharing his proven system in print helps both his audience and his business. You'll hear how Jeremy navigated the writing process—from late nights in hotel rooms to developing a chapter structure and working with a coach—and why he believes a book is one of the most powerful lead generators for professionals.

In this episode, host Melanie welcomes retirement planning expert and author Jeremy Keil to discuss the five essential steps to creating a secure and fulfilling retirement. Together, they unravel common questions like, "How much do you need to retire?" and explore how to blend Social Security, investments, and pensions for reliable income. Jeremy explains the real purpose behind Social Security, demystifies Roth conversions and tax-saving strategies, and addresses practical issues like handling property taxes and considering reverse mortgages.

Jeremy Keil explains 3 smart ways to help your kids with money while avoiding IRS paperwork Early in the year, I received an email from a couple asking a question I hear all the time: “What's the maximum we can give our kids?” That question usually shows up in December. Parents are trying to get a last-minute gift in before the year ends, and the conversation quickly becomes about tax limits. But that's the wrong starting point. If you're thinking about giving money to your kids, the first question shouldn't be “How much can I give?” The better question is “What problem am I trying to solve?” Many financial mistakes don't come from bad intentions. They come from rushed decisions. And when it comes to family money, rushed decisions can create tax surprises—or even family tension. If 2026 is the year you're considering helping your kids financially, the smartest move is to think it through early. Why Giving Money Isn't Always the Solution Financial gifts don't always produce the results we hope for. In fact, research highlighted in The Millionaire Next Door suggests that frequent financial gifts can sometimes create the opposite of what parents want. Instead of building independence, they can unintentionally create dependency. That doesn't mean giving money is wrong. It simply means the purpose behind the gift matters. Once you understand the purpose, the decision becomes much clearer. Over the years, I've noticed that most thoughtful financial gifts fall into three categories. 1. Timing Sometimes parents simply want their children to enjoy the money earlier. Many retirees know they'll likely leave assets to their children someday. Instead of waiting until inheritance years down the road, they prefer to give some of that money earlier in life. When kids are in their 30s or 40s, the financial impact of extra money can be significant. It may help them buy a home, invest earlier, or reduce financial stress during busy family years. There's also something meaningful about watching your kids benefit from the gift while you're still around to see it. Some people call this “giving with a warm hand instead of a cold hand.” 2. Relief Sometimes money can relieve a specific burden. Maybe a child is changing careers and needs additional training. Maybe there's a medical situation that insurance doesn't fully cover. Maybe they're dealing with a difficult life transition and just need a little financial breathing room. In those situations, the goal isn't simply giving money. The goal is removing a barrier so your child can move forward. That's a very different type of gift than simply writing a check because it's December and the tax calendar says you can. 3. Experience The third category is the one I see most often. Parents want to create experiences with their kids and grandkids. That might mean taking the entire family on a trip. Renting a large vacation home for a week together. Booking a cruise where everyone can spend time together. These moments often become some of the most meaningful uses of money in retirement. You're not just transferring wealth. You're creating memories. The Tax Rules (Yes, They Matter) Of course, taxes still play a role. For 2026, the annual gift tax exclusion allows you to give $19,000 per person per year without triggering any IRS reporting requirements. But remember: the tax impact often comes before the gift happens. If the money comes from a traditional IRA withdrawal, that withdrawal is taxable income. If it comes from selling appreciated investments, capital gains taxes may apply. In other words, giving $57,000 to three kids might require withdrawing significantly more money depending on where those funds come from. That's why focusing only on the IRS limit can miss the bigger financial picture. Share the “Why” Here's one final idea I encourage families to consider. When you give money, share the reason behind it. Explain why you're making the gift. Is it about helping them move forward in life?Is it about reducing stress during a tough moment?Is it about creating family memories? When children understand the meaning behind the money, they're far more likely to appreciate the intention behind the gift. And often, that meaning is far more valuable than the dollars themselves. Start the Conversation Early If you're considering helping your kids financially this year, don't wait until December. Start the conversation now. Ask yourself what you're really trying to accomplish. Because when giving money aligns with your intentions—not just tax rules—it can strengthen families, create meaningful experiences, and turn financial gifts into something much more valuable. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Read Jeremy's article in Kiplinger magazine: “How to Give Your Kids Cash Gifts Without Triggering IRS Paperwork”  What is the IRS Gift Tax Limit for 2026? – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel – https://youtu.be/nGeT9SUd3qI  Should You Give Away Your Money in Retirement? – Retire Today Episode 270 Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil explains the 5 RMD (Required Minimum Distribution) mistakes in Retirement and how to avoid them. A retiree recently called for help. It was their first year taking Required Minimum Distributions. They had delayed their first RMD until April of the following year — which meant taking two distributions in one tax year. That part was allowed. In some cases, it can even be strategic. But when they called their IRA custodian and asked, “How much should I withhold for taxes?” they were given the default answer: 10% federal withholding. They assumed that must be right. It wasn't. They ended up short on taxes by more than $10,000 — and owed penalties on top of that. That situation wasn't caused by breaking a rule. It was caused by following the rule without a plan. And that's where most RMD mistakes begin. I recently wrote an article for Kiplinger magazine titled “5 RMD Mistakes That Could Cost You Big-Time: Even Seasoned Retirees Slip Up” and for this week's episode of the “Retire Today” podcast I decided to talk through each of these mistakes in detail. Mistake #1: Waiting Until Age 73 to Create a Plan Turning 73 is not a strategy. If you wait until the government forces your first RMD to think about it, you've already missed years of opportunity. The window between retirement and RMD age is often the most flexible tax-planning period of your life. In those years, you may have: Lower earned income No required withdrawals yet Control over when and how you take distributions That's prime territory for intentional tax planning. Once RMDs begin, you've lost some flexibility. In the KEEP step of the Retirement Master Plan, tax timing matters. RMDs don't happen in isolation. They interact with Social Security, pensions, and brokerage income. Planning ahead—sometimes a decade ahead—can dramatically change the long-term outcome. Mistake #2: Failing to Make Use of Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) This one surprises me every year. RMDs currently begin at age 73 (moving to 75 for those born in 1960 or later). But Qualified Charitable Distributions still start at 70½. That means you can send money directly from your IRA to a charity before RMDs even begin. Why does that matter? Because a QCD: Reduces your IRA balance (lowering future RMDs) Keeps the distribution out of your taxable income May help limit Social Security taxation May help reduce Medicare premium surcharges Many retirees continue writing checks to charities from their checking account, hoping for a deduction. With today's larger standard deduction, many people don't itemize at all. Going directly from IRA to charity is often more tax-efficient—and sometimes dramatically so. If charitable giving is already part of your plan, the tax strategy should be part of it too. Mistake #3: Doing the Wrong Tax Withholding When retirees call their custodian to take their RMD, they're often asked: “How much would you like withheld for taxes?” The default federal withholding is often 10% for IRAs and 20% for 401(k)s. Many people assume, “That must be right.” It often isn't. I recently saw a retiree who delayed their first RMD until April of the following year—which meant taking two distributions in one year. They defaulted to 10% withholding. They ended up underpaying taxes by more than $10,000 and owed penalties. The custodian can't provide tax planning. That's not their role. Before taking an RMD, you need to project: What tax bracket you'll land in Whether additional withholding is necessary How this affects your overall estimated payments Again, this falls under the KEEP step. Don't let the default settings dictate your tax bill. Mistake #4: Not Realizing How Your RMD Income Affects the Rest of Your Tax Return RMDs don't just increase taxable income. They can: Make more of your Social Security taxable Push capital gains from 0% into taxable territory Trigger Medicare IRMAA surcharges Many retirees focus only on their marginal bracket. But the real issue is tax cost, not tax bracket. An extra $20,000 RMD might not just be taxed at 22%. It could cascade into additional taxation elsewhere. That's why projections matter. You don't want to discover these ripple effects after the fact. Mistake #5: Forgetting That the M in RMD means ‘Minimum,' not ‘Maximum' The M in RMD stands for minimum. It does not mean that's the only amount you're allowed to withdraw. You can: Withdraw more than your RMD Complete Roth conversions after satisfying the RMD Send more than your RMD amount to charity (subject to QCD limits) Sometimes taking more than the minimum makes sense—especially if it smooths taxes over multiple years. RMDs are a rule. They are not a retirement strategy. The Bigger Lesson RMDs are not just a government requirement. They are a planning opportunity—or a planning hazard. They affect your income plan (MAKE), your spending plan (SPEND), your tax strategy (KEEP), and even what you ultimately LEAVE behind. The biggest mistake isn't misunderstanding a rule. It's treating RMDs as an isolated event instead of part of a coordinated retirement master plan. Because in retirement, small tax decisions compound just like investment returns may do. And when handled intentionally, RMDs don't have to derail anything at all. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: – Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps – “5 RMD Mistakes That Could Cost You Big-Time: Even Seasoned Retirees Slip Up” by Jeremy Keil, Kiplinger Magazine – https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/required-minimum-distributions-rmds/rmd-mistakes-that-even-seasoned-retirees-can-make – Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps – 5StepRetirementPlan.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Nate Miles joins Jeremy Keil to discuss how the Allspring retirement research reveals trends of concern among retirees and the options they have to address them. Mike and Susan did what many couples do. They saved diligently. They crossed the $1 million mark before retirement. They felt prepared. But when it came time to make actual retirement decisions—when to claim Social Security, how to withdraw from their accounts, how to manage taxes—they realized something uncomfortable: They had spent decades saving… but very little time learning how to retire. This example speaks directly to what this year's Allspring Retirement Study uncovered. As Nate Miles shared on the “Retire Today” podcast, this wasn't a small or struggling population. Participants were 50+ with at least $200,000 in investable assets. A third of retirees surveyed had $1 million or more. Yet only six out of ten retirees said they feel financially secure. That gap between assets and confidence tells us something important: retirement success isn't just about how much you've accumulated. It's about how well you transition into distribution. The Social Security Mistake One of the most striking findings involved Social Security. Nate explained: “One third of our respondents claimed Social Security at 62 years old… because they believed the value or the benefit of waiting was not worth it. Yet they underestimated the value of waiting by 50%.” Many respondents assumed the benefit grew at 4% per year when delayed. In reality, for most people, it grows closer to 8% annually between full retirement age and 70. That misunderstanding alone can permanently reduce lifetime income. In the MAKE step of the 5 Step Retirement Master Plan, Social Security is foundational. For many retirees, it represents 30–40% of their guaranteed income. Optimizing that decision isn't optional—it's essential. And yet, education around it is surprisingly thin. As Nate pointed out, there are “560-something permutations” of Social Security claiming strategies. It's ubiquitous, but complicated. And too often, people default to the earliest date simply because it feels tangible. The Tax Blind Spot The second major theme of the study? Taxes. Only about 20% of retirees reported using a tax-efficient withdrawal strategy. Think about that. After decades of saving in multiple account types—traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, brokerage accounts—most retirees are simply withdrawing from wherever feels convenient. Nate put it plainly: “Taxes matter for everyone, not just the high net worth crowd.” In the KEEP step of retirement planning, how you withdraw can meaningfully impact how long your money lasts. Choosing between Roth and traditional dollars. Managing capital gains. Coordinating withdrawals with Social Security timing. These aren't abstract academic exercises. They are practical levers that affect real income. Yet as Nate observed, most people spent 40 years having taxes withheld automatically from paychecks. They paid taxes—but they never actively managed them. Retirement flips that script completely. Now you must choose. The Psychological Shift No One Talks About Nate shared that many retirees are comfortable spending above their retirement number—until their account dips below it. The moment it falls beneath that original balance, panic sets in. Even if the plan accounts for drawdown. Even if it's sustainable. Even if it's expected. That's what I call the “accumulation paradox.” Economists assume you'll build your assets and gradually spend them down toward zero. Real people assume the number should stay intact forever. But retirement isn't about preserving a scoreboard. It's about funding a life. This is where the SPEND step meets the INVEST step. You saved to use the money. And yes, at some point, your balance may begin to decline. That's not failure. That's function. Advice Still Matters One of Nate's most memorable lines was this: “Monte Carlo gets 10,000 cracks at retirement. You and I get one.” We don't get multiple trial runs. We get one real-life retirement. That's why quality advice matters. The study suggests people with pensions are more likely to use annuities. People with advice are more likely to use tax strategies. And people who understand their income sources are more confident. Retirement is no longer just accumulation. It's design. And design requires intention. If you're within five years of retirement—or already there—ask yourself: Have I optimized my Social Security? Am I intentionally managing taxes? Do I have a clear income floor? Am I emotionally prepared to draw down assets? Because as this year's research shows, even million-dollar portfolios can feel uncertain without a plan. Retirement isn't about guessing well. It's about designing well. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Allspring 2026 Retirement Study: By Default or By Design? Nate Miles, Allspring Global Investments Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil examines how tax law changes might affect Roth conversion strategies for retirees in 2026. A few years ago, Roth conversions felt like one of those rare financial strategies that was almost too obvious to ignore. Taxes were historically low. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act had put a clear expiration date on those lower brackets. And for many retirees, the logic seemed airtight: pay taxes now at a lower rate so you don't pay more later. Fast forward to today, and that certainty just isn't the same. With new tax legislation making today's lower tax brackets permanent—at least for now—many retirees are asking a very different question: Are Roth conversions still worth it in 2026 and beyond? The short answer is yes. But not for the reasons many people think. The real problem isn't Roth conversions themselves. The problem is the assumptions people make about them. Roth conversions exploded in popularity when it appeared obvious that taxes were about to rise. The assumption was straightforward: convert while rates are low, avoid higher taxes later, and you'll come out ahead. But that assumption rested on two ideas that don't always hold up: That tax rates would definitely rise. That income in retirement would naturally fall. For some people, both are true. For many others, neither is. Markets have been strong. Retirement accounts are larger than expected. Capital gains, pensions, and Social Security stack on top of one another. And suddenly, retirement income isn't as “low tax” as it once looked on paper. The Difference Between Tax Bracket and Tax Cost One of the most common mistakes retirees make is focusing on their tax bracket instead of their tax cost. On a tax return, you might see yourself in the 12% or 22% bracket and assume Roth conversions are inexpensive. But once Social Security enters the picture, the math becomes more complicated. As additional income comes in, Social Security benefits that were once tax-free begin to become taxable—up to 85% of the benefit. In that phase-in range, every dollar withdrawn from a traditional IRA can cause more Social Security to be taxed. The result is an effective tax cost that can be significantly higher than the bracket suggests. This is where many well-intentioned Roth strategies quietly go off track. Medicare Premiums Change the Equation Taxes aren't the only cost that matters. Medicare income-related premium adjustments—often called IRMAA—are triggered when income crosses certain thresholds. These surcharges commonly appear in two situations: when required minimum distributions begin, and when one spouse passes away and income thresholds are suddenly cut in half. A Roth conversion that pushes income just over one of these lines can increase Medicare premiums for years. That added cost has to be weighed alongside any future tax savings the conversion might create. A Cautionary Roth Story This is where a real-world example brings the point home. I once worked with a woman to determine the right amount of Roth conversions to do. We carefully mapped out a plan to spread conversions over three tax years so she could stay within reasonable tax and Medicare thresholds. She was comfortable with the plan. The numbers made sense. We executed the first conversion near the end of the year and agreed to revisit the second one in January. But after our meeting, she decided to take matters into her own hands. Rather than following the plan, she converted everything at once. That single decision pushed her income from a moderate tax bracket into much higher ones, triggered additional Medicare premium costs, and permanently locked in taxes that were far higher than necessary. The intent was good. The outcome was not. The mistake wasn't believing in Roth conversions—it was assuming that “more” was always better. The Real Takeaway for 2026 and Beyond Roth conversions are not dead. But Roth assumptions are. Lower tax rates today don't automatically mean Roth conversions are cheap. A future tax increase isn't guaranteed. And a zero-tax retirement is not always worth the price paid to get there. Roth conversions should always be considered—but never assumed. When done thoughtfully, in the right amounts, and at the right times, they can improve retirement income and flexibility. When done without planning, they can quietly undermine both. And in retirement, the goal isn't to win a tax strategy.The goal is to create a better retirement. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA is a retirement financial advisor with Keil Financial Partners, author of Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Income Plan in 5 Simple Steps, and host of the Retirement Today blog and podcast, as well as the Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. Jeremy is a contributor to Kiplinger and is frequently cited in publications like the Wall Street Journal and New York Times. Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Are Roth Conversions for Retirees Dead in 2026 Because of the New Tax Law? By Jeremy Keil, Kiplinger.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jesse is joined by Jeremy Keil—Certified Financial Planner, Chartered Financial Analyst, author of Retire Today, and host of the Retirement Revealed podcast—for a wide-ranging conversation that reframes how people should think about retirement decisions long before and long after the final day of work. Together, they explore why most people retire earlier than planned, why longevity is so often misunderstood, and how flawed assumptions about life expectancy, Social Security, and taxes can quietly undermine otherwise solid plans. Jeremy introduces the concept of "retirement longevity" as both when retirement starts and how long it may last, emphasizing the importance of personalized life expectancy modeling, joint longevity for couples, and treating Social Security as insurance rather than an investment. The discussion also dives deep into Jeremy's five-step Retirement Master Plan—starting with spending, then income, tax planning, investing, and legacy—highlighting why tax strategy and Roth conversions are often the most powerful yet overlooked levers in retirement planning. Throughout the episode, Jesse and Jeremy blend technical insight with behavioral clarity, addressing the emotional hurdles retirees face, from fear of running out of money to the identity shift from saver to spender, ultimately offering a grounded, practical roadmap for building confidence and clarity in retirement. Key Takeaways: • Average life expectancy statistics are misleading for near-retirees. Personalized longevity estimates are far more useful than population averages. • Couples must plan around joint life expectancy, not individual longevity. • Current take-home pay is a practical proxy for estimating retirement lifestyle spending. • Roth conversions are situational tools, not universally good strategies. The timing and size of Roth conversions matter as much as the decision to do them. • Many retirees struggle emotionally with shifting from saving to spending. The healthiest mindset shift is from "saver" or "spender" to lifelong "planner." Key Timestamps: (01:41) – Understanding Fixed Indexed Annuities (07:30) – Roth Conversion and Annuities: A Critical Look (10:55) – Dividends and Income in Retirement Planning (17:34) – Retirement Longevity and Planning (28:06) – Understanding Life Expectancy in Retirement Planning (32:06) – Comprehensive Retirement Planning (33:02) – The Five Steps to Create Your Retirement Master Plan (38:52) – Tax Planning and Roth Conversions (47:12) – Emotional Hurdles in Retirement Key Topics Discussed: The Best Interest, Jesse Cramer, Wealth Management Rochester NY, Financial Planning for Families, Fiduciary Financial Advisor, Comprehensive Financial Planning, Retirement Planning Advice, Tax-Efficient Investing, Risk Management for Investors, Generational Wealth Transfer Planning, Financial Strategies for High Earners, Personal Finance for Entrepreneurs, Behavioral Finance Insights, Asset Allocation Strategies, Advanced Estate Planning Techniques Mentions:Website: jeremykeil.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrretirement/ Mentions: Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps by Jeremy Keil https://www.youtube.com/@MrRetirement https://www.longevityillustrator.org/ https://keilfp.com/blogpodcast/ https://bestinterest.blog/dividends-and-income-withdrawal-rate/ https://bestinterest.blog/about-that-free-steak-dinner/  More of The Best Interest:Check out the Best Interest Blog at https://bestinterest.blog/ Contact me at jesse@bestinterest.blog Consider working with me at https://bestinterest.blog/work/ The Best Interest Podcast is a personal podcast meant for education and entertainment. It should not be taken as financial advice, and is not prescriptive of your financial situation.  

Jeremy Keil explains the 5 steps you can take if you are planning to retire in 2026 or 2027. If you've been planning to retire in 2026 or 2027, it might feel like you still have plenty of time. But in reality, retirement has a way of showing up earlier than expected — and when it does, the people who feel the most confident are the ones who prepared well in advance. In this episode of Retire Today, I walk through five things you should do before you quit working if retirement is anywhere on your near-term horizon. These steps aren't about picking a perfect retirement date. They're about being ready — even if your plans change. Why You Should Prepare Earlier Than You Think Two important statistics shape this entire conversation. First, the stock market is historically up about 70% of the time in any given year. That also means it's down about 30% of the time. If you're retiring soon, there's a real chance that your account balances could be lower at retirement than they are today. Second, most Americans retire about three years earlier than they expect. Health changes, job shifts, burnout, or family needs often move retirement forward — whether planned or not. That's why I encourage people to prepare for retirement three years ahead of time, even if they believe they'll work longer. Planning early gives you flexibility. Waiting too long removes it. 1. Create a Written Retirement Plan The first and most important step is to put your plan in writing. Many people have a retirement date in mind, but when asked how everything will actually work, they don't have clear answers. A written plan forces clarity. This is where the 5-Step Retirement Plan comes in: What you'll SPEND What you'll MAKE What you'll KEEP after taxes How you'll INVEST What you'll LEAVE behind Writing this down helps turn vague ideas into an actionable roadmap — and exposes gaps before they become problems. 2. Build a Lifetime Income Plan Retirement isn't about having a big account balance — it's about knowing where your income will come from every month. Before you retire, you should know: How much income you need Where that income will come from Which accounts you'll use first How taxes affect each withdrawal At a minimum, you should map out the first 12 months of retirement income in detail. That includes Social Security, pensions, savings, brokerage accounts, and retirement accounts — and the tax rules that apply to each one. Surprises here are costly. Planning removes them. 3. Make Your Retirement Plan Tax-Smart Many people assume their taxes will automatically go down in retirement. Sometimes that's true — but not always. Pensions, Social Security, required minimum distributions, and investment income can push retirees into higher tax brackets than expected. The key is understanding when you'll have flexibility and using it intentionally. Retirement often creates opportunities to: Shift income between tax years Take advantage of lower tax brackets Manage Roth conversions strategically Plan around healthcare subsidies Taxes don't disappear in retirement — they change. Planning ahead helps you adapt. 4. Plan Your Retirement Healthcare Healthcare is one of the biggest unknowns in retirement. Before you retire, you should know: What coverage you'll use immediately What it will cost How that coverage changes over time When Medicare becomes part of the picture Options may include employer coverage through a spouse, COBRA, retiree health plans, ACA plans, or Medicare — and each comes with different costs and rules. Healthcare planning isn't just about insurance. It's about understanding how medical costs interact with your tax plan and your income strategy. 5. Create a Retirement Investment Plan Retirement changes your investment timeline. You're no longer investing only for growth — you're investing for income and stability, too. That means separating your money into: Short-term funds for near-term spending Long-term investments for growth over decades Money you'll need soon shouldn't be exposed to short-term market swings. At the same time, money you won't need for many years still needs growth to keep up with inflation. The right investment plan balances both — and helps prevent panic decisions when markets get volatile. The Bottom Line If you're planning to retire in 2026 or 2027, now is the time to prepare. Not because something bad will happen — but because preparation gives you options. Retirement doesn't have to be so stressful. With a written plan, a clear income strategy, smart tax planning, healthcare clarity, and a thoughtful investment approach, you can step into retirement with confidence — whenever it arrives. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Create your retirement master plan in 5 simple steps: www.5StepRetirementPlan.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil weighs the opportunities and risks associated with giving your money away to your kids and charity. Most retirees I talk with don't worry about whether they can give money away.They worry about whether they should. When you've worked hard, saved diligently, and reached a point where you have more than you need, a new question quietly creeps in:What's the purpose of the extra? In this episode of Retire Today, I walk through what I see every day in real retirement plans — the good, the bad, and the unintended consequences of giving money to kids and to charity. Because while giving can be deeply meaningful, it can also backfire if it's not done intentionally. Giving to Kids: Blessing or Burden? When it comes to kids, I hear two very common philosophies. One group says, “I'm not trying to leave money to my kids. If there's something left, that's fine.”The other says, “I worked hard for this money, and I want to make sure it helps my family.” Both sound reasonable. But what actually happens is often more complicated. In practice, most giving to kids happens by default, not by design — through inheritance. The problem is timing. If you pass away in your 80s or 90s, your kids are likely in their late 50s or 60s. Statistically, that's when incomes and net worth tend to be the highest. In other words, that may be the moment they need your money the least. I've also seen well-intentioned gifts create unintended pressure. Large down payments on homes can raise a child's lifestyle without raising their income — leading to higher expenses, more stress, and sometimes less financial stability. Giving feels generous, but it can quietly shift responsibility away from your kids and onto you. A better rule of thumb?Give in ways that remove a burden, not create one. Education costs, health care needs, or meaningful experiences often help without inflating expectations or expenses. Experiences, especially shared ones, tend to create far more joy — for you and for them — than writing a check and hoping it helps. Giving to Charity: Now, Later, or Both? Charitable giving tends to be more intentional, but still incomplete. Many people plan to leave money to charity someday, yet never think through what that looks like or how it fits into their broader retirement plan. Others give modest amounts each year but leave significant sums later — without ever telling the charities involved. What I've seen repeatedly is this:When people give with intention, their stress goes down and their satisfaction goes up. In fact, people who have clarity around where their money will go often feel lighter — as if a quiet financial worry has been resolved. When charities know they're part of your long-term plan, relationships deepen. You stay informed, feel more connected, and often find joy in seeing the impact of your giving while you're still here. There's also strong evidence that giving makes people happier. Whether happier people give more, or giving makes people happier, may be up for debate — but in practice, generosity consistently shows up alongside fulfillment. The Bigger Question Isn't “How Much?” Most people ask me, “How much can I give?”That's usually the wrong question. The better questions are: Should I give? When should I give? How do I give in a way that actually helps? Giving later through inheritance is easy. Giving earlier — thoughtfully and intentionally — is far more impactful. You get to see the benefit, adjust if needed, and align your money with what matters most to you. In retirement, money isn't just about security.It's about purpose. When giving is done well, it doesn't create regret — it creates meaning. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “Die with Zero” by Bill Perkins Die With Zero by Bill Perkins | Discover the Ultimate Guide to Living Life to the Fullest – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel “More Than Enough” by Dave Ramsey “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas Stanley and William Danko How much can I give my kids before paying IRS Gift Tax? – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel What is the IRS gift tax limit in 2025? – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel What is the IRS Gift Tax Limit for 2026? – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel The “I Hate Budgets” Retirement Plan: Retire Intentionally with Zac Larson – Retire Today Podcast Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

In this episode, Libby welcomes back Jeremy Keil to unpack how financial advisors can turn an intangible service into a clear, compelling, and repeatable client experience. Jeremy shares the evolution of his five-step Retirement Master Plan, how defining and naming a process transformed both his client outcomes and his business efficiency, and why creating a standardized framework is one of the most powerful growth levers advisors can implement. This conversation is rich with actionable insights, real-world scenarios, and practical guidance for building a more scalable practice.

Jeremy Keil explains the top 3 tax efficient strategies for charitable giving in 2025. Most people give to charity because it's meaningful to them — not because of the tax break. And that's the right mindset. But if you're already giving, it makes sense to be intentional and structure that giving in a way that helps you keep more of your hard-earned money. In this episode of Retire Today, I walk through the top three charitable giving strategies for 2025, especially in light of new tax rules taking effect in 2026 and important changes already happening this year. With only a limited window left before year-end, now is the time to understand your options. The key is planning — not reacting in April. Why 2025 Is a Unique Giving Year Late in the year, you usually have a clear picture of your income and tax bracket. That makes it the perfect time to decide when and how to give. With upcoming changes like: A new 0.5% AGI floor on charitable deductions starting in 2026 A cap on the value of deductions for high earners A higher SALT deduction limit already in effect 2025 offers an opportunity to be proactive instead of passive. Depending on your income, it may make sense to pull future giving forward — or delay certain gifts until next year. But that decision should be made intentionally, not by default. Strategy #1: Bunch Your Charitable Deductions Bunching means combining multiple years of charitable giving into a single tax year to exceed the standard deduction and unlock itemized deductions. For example, if you normally give $10,000 per year to charity but don't itemize, you may get no tax benefit at all. But by contributing two to four years of giving in one year, you may be able to itemize and deduct the full amount. The most effective way to do this is through a donor-advised fund (DAF). A DAF lets you: Take the tax deduction now Give to charities later, on your preferred schedule Keep your giving consistent for the organizations you support This separates the timing of your tax deduction from the timing of your charitable gifts — a powerful planning tool when income fluctuates. Strategy #2: Donate Appreciated Investments Instead of Cash One of the most tax-efficient ways to give is donating long-term appreciated investments from a taxable brokerage account. When you sell an investment that has gone up in value, you owe capital gains tax. When you donate that same investment directly to charity (or to a donor-advised fund), you: Avoid paying capital gains tax Receive a charitable deduction for the full market value Remove a concentrated position from your portfolio This strategy is especially effective after strong market years like 2023, 2024, and 2025, when many investors are sitting on significant unrealized gains. To qualify, the investment must be held for more than one year (long-term capital gain). Many custodians automatically select the most tax-efficient shares when processing these donations, making the strategy easier to implement than most people expect. Strategy #3: Use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) For those age 70½ or older, Qualified Charitable Distributions are often the most powerful giving strategy available. A QCD allows you to send money directly from your traditional IRA to a qualified charity. That money: Never shows up as taxable income Can satisfy Required Minimum Distributions (once applicable) Reduces future RMDs by shrinking your IRA balance Many retirees make the mistake of taking IRA withdrawals, depositing the money into checking, and then writing checks to charity. That approach often increases taxable income, affects Social Security taxation, and can raise Medicare premiums — even if a charitable deduction is available. QCDs avoid those issues entirely by keeping the income off your tax return in the first place. Even if you're not yet subject to RMDs, starting QCDs early can still make sense if part of your regular spending includes charitable giving. Putting It All Together These three strategies often work best in combination: Use donor-advised funds to bunch deductions Fund those DAFs with appreciated investments Use QCDs once you reach age 70½ But none of this should be done blindly. The right approach depends on: Your income this year and next Whether you itemize or take the standard deduction Your charitable goals Your long-term retirement and tax plan The most important step is projecting your tax situation before the year ends and making decisions on purpose — not by default. Don't forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “Trump's Big Beautiful Bill Could Change Retirement FOREVER!” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel “Maximize your Tax Benefits by BUNCHING Charitable Donations!” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel “How the SALT Deduction Cap Works If You Make Over $500,000 (2025 Tax Update)” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel “QCDs: The Tax-Smart Way to Give in Retirement (2025 Qualified Charitable Distributions Guide)” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel “What is the 2025 QCD Limit? (Qualified Charitable Distributions” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil explores 7 money moves you can consider before the new year to lower your taxes and keep more of your money in retirement. Every December, people scramble to finish holiday shopping, travel plans, and year-end tasks. But one of the most important deadlines — your December 31st tax deadline — often gets overlooked until it's too late. And once the calendar flips to January 1st, many of the smartest tax moves disappear. In this episode of Retire Today, I walk through seven year-end tax steps you should consider to make sure April brings fewer surprises and more savings. With new tax laws taking effect, the stock market sitting near all-time highs, and contribution limits shifting in the coming years, this is the perfect moment to take control of your finances. 1. Manage Your Tax Bracket Before the Year Ends Your income may fluctuate from year to year — especially in retirement. Some retirees have unusually high-income years due to bonuses, pension payouts, early retirement packages, stock vesting, or unexpected distributions. Others have abnormally low-income years. If you're experiencing a higher income year, now is the time to pull deductions forward. Charitable giving, donor-advised fund contributions, and other deductible expenses can help lower your taxable income. If you're in a lower income year, you might choose to accelerate income instead — such as doing a Roth conversion or taking extra withdrawals at a better tax rate. Year-end planning starts with projecting your tax return and understanding which direction to go. 2. Harvest Capital Losses — and Sometimes Gains Even in years when the market is high overall, you may still have individual positions sitting at a loss. Harvesting those losses can offset gains or reduce taxes now or in the future. On the flip side, some retirees find themselves in the 0% long-term capital gains bracket, which creates the perfect opportunity to harvest capital gains on purpose. When you're in a low tax bracket and gains cost nothing, you can reset your cost basis without additional tax. This is one of the most underused year-end strategies — especially when markets have been climbing. 3. Review Mutual Fund Capital Gain Distributions Many mutual funds issue their capital gain distributions in December. You may not receive the money in cash, but it still counts as taxable income. Look up the estimated year-end distributions from your fund companies and double-check your brokerage account. Mutual fund distributions have surprised many retirees — and they can lead to unnecessary underpayment penalties if tax withholding isn't adjusted in time. 4. Get Your Tax Withholding Correct Years ago, tax underpayment penalties weren't a big deal. But with high interest rates today, penalties now operate more like expensive interest charges for not paying taxes in the proper quarterly schedule. If you expect to owe money for 2025, you may want to adjust withholding from your paycheck, pension, Social Security, or IRA distributions. For retirees over 59½, using IRA withholding is one of the easiest ways to catch up — and it is treated as if it was paid evenly all year. To avoid penalties, don't wait until spring. Make corrections before December 31st. 5. Use Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) If you're age 70½ or older, QCDs allow you to donate directly from your traditional IRA to charity tax-free. This is often better than taking withdrawals and giving afterward — especially if you use the standard deduction. Even if you're not yet required to take RMDs, QCDs can reduce your future RMD burden and help you give in a more tax-efficient way. With 2025 bringing updated QCD limits and ongoing rule changes, it's smart to review your giving strategy now. 6. Make Annual Exclusion Gifts Before Year-End In 2025, the annual exclusion gift limit is $19,000 per person — and it remains the same for 2026. If you're planning to help your children or grandchildren, consider spreading the gifts across the end of this year and the beginning of next year to maximize tax-free amounts. For education planning, 529 plans also allow “superfunding,” letting you front-load up to five years' worth of gifts. Year-end is an ideal time to execute these strategies thoughtfully. 7. Rebalance Your Investments (Especially After a Big Market Year) When markets rise sharply, your portfolio may drift into a risk level you never intended. A portfolio that started at 60% stocks may now sit at 68% or higher. That's more risk than you signed up for — especially if you are nearing retirement. Rebalancing is a critical part of your year-end checklist. It brings your risk back in line, prepares your portfolio for the next year, and supports the long-term stability of your retirement plan. The Bottom Line Year-end planning isn't just about taxes — it's about taking control. Whether it's adjusting your income, harvesting gains or losses, fixing withholding, giving strategically, gifting to family, or rebalancing your investments, December is your opportunity to make meaningful changes before the window closes. Don't let the deadline sneak up on you. Start now so April feels predictable — not painful. Enjoying these episodes? Make sure to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you've been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy's book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps “QCDs: The Tax-Smart Way to Give in Retirement (2025 Qualified Charitable Distributions Guide)” – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy's Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil dives into the details of estate planning, what people often miss and how to leave a legacy that lasts.

No matter how you look at it, retirement ends up being a big leap of faith. In this episode I talk with financial planner Jeremy Keil about all things retirement. How do you know when the time is right and how to plan accordingly? His book is titled Retire Today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Author Jillian Johnsrud explains how mini retirements help people retire often in this week's episode of “Retire Today” with Jeremy Keil.

Jeremy Keil compares long-term care insurance to self-funding long-term care through the lens of 3 clarifying questions.

Rona Guymon and Jeremy Keil discuss how the recent economic changes have affected retirement plans and strategies.

Think your retirement plan is bulletproof? Think again. In this eye-opening episode of The Stacking Benjamins Show, Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug are joined by certified financial planner Jeremy Keil, CFP® to walk you through the steps to building a retirement plan that won't crack under pressure. From mapping out your spending before you ever leave the workforce to crafting a tax strategy that keeps more money in your pocket, this conversation is your blueprint for making your golden years actually golden. But just when you think you've got retirement handled, we throw a curveball: private equity. With giants like Goldman Sachs and T. Rowe Price trying to slip these complex investments into your 401(k), it's time to ask whether “more opportunity” is really a good thing — or a trap for the unprepared. Joe and OG break down the risks, the realities, and what you need to know before you sign on the dotted line. As always, we serve it all with a side of basement banter — from Doug's trivia about the first issue of Playboy to a TikTok football moment you didn't know you needed — plus real-life stories that prove retirement planning is as much about mindset as it is about math. What You'll Learn In Today's Show: The five key steps to building a retirement plan that works for you, not just a generic spreadsheet. Why starting with your spending habits (not investments) can make or break your retirement success. How to prepare for the emotional side of retirement — including those pesky “what now?” questions. The surprising risks of private equity creeping into your 401(k) — and how to decide if it's worth it. Smart tax strategies to make your retirement money last longer. How long-term care, market volatility, and unexpected expenses should factor into your plan. Questions to Ponder During the Episode (and discuss with other Stackers!) What's one spending habit you need to understand now to avoid retirement surprises later? How would you react if your employer added private equity options to your 401(k)? Are you planning your retirement based on your lifestyle — or someone else's idea of “enough”? FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/five-steps-to-a-better-retirement-plan-with-jeremy-keil-1743 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Think your retirement plan is bulletproof? Think again. In this eye-opening episode of The Stacking Benjamins Show, Joe Saul-Sehy, OG, and Neighbor Doug are joined by certified financial planner Jeremy Keil, CFP® to walk you through the steps to building a retirement plan that won't crack under pressure. From mapping out your spending before you ever leave the workforce to crafting a tax strategy that keeps more money in your pocket, this conversation is your blueprint for making your golden years actually golden. But just when you think you've got retirement handled, we throw a curveball: private equity. With giants like Goldman Sachs and T. Rowe Price trying to slip these complex investments into your 401(k), it's time to ask whether “more opportunity” is really a good thing — or a trap for the unprepared. Joe and OG break down the risks, the realities, and what you need to know before you sign on the dotted line. As always, we serve it all with a side of basement banter — from Doug's trivia about the first issue of Playboy to a TikTok football moment you didn't know you needed — plus real-life stories that prove retirement planning is as much about mindset as it is about math. What You'll Learn In Today's Show: The five key steps to building a retirement plan that works for you, not just a generic spreadsheet. Why starting with your spending habits (not investments) can make or break your retirement success. How to prepare for the emotional side of retirement — including those pesky “what now?” questions. The surprising risks of private equity creeping into your 401(k) — and how to decide if it's worth it. Smart tax strategies to make your retirement money last longer. How long-term care, market volatility, and unexpected expenses should factor into your plan. Questions to Ponder During the Episode (and discuss with other Stackers!) What's one spending habit you need to understand now to avoid retirement surprises later? How would you react if your employer added private equity options to your 401(k)? Are you planning your retirement based on your lifestyle — or someone else's idea of “enough”? FULL SHOW NOTES: https://stackingbenjamins.com/five-steps-to-a-better-retirement-plan-with-jeremy-keil-1743 Deeper dives with curated links, topics, and discussions are in our newsletter, The 201, available at https://www.stackingbenjamins.com/201 Enjoy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Order your copy of Jeremy Keil's new book “Retire Today” available now.

Jeremy Keil explains step 1 of the 5 step retirement plan: retirement spending. When it comes to retirement planning, one of the biggest questions people ask is: Where do I start? The truth is, before you think about investments, taxes, or even when to claim Social Security, you need to figure out one thing—how much you're going to spend in retirement. This is what I call Step One in creating your retirement master plan, which I've outlined in my book Retire Today. While many people assume retirement planning begins with assets and income, I believe it begins with spending. After all, if you don't know what you'll spend, how can you know how much income you'll need? Why Many Budgets Fail When I sit down with people, their first instinct is often to start building a retirement budget. They think they need to track every coffee, grocery run, and gas fill-up to get an accurate picture. But here's the problem—budgets are almost always wrong. People underestimate their spending, forget about irregular costs, and end up thousands of dollars off the mark. I've seen it happen time and again. Instead of building from the ground up, there's a simpler formula that works nearly every time: Income – Savings = Spending. Whatever comes from your paycheck into your checking account typically gets spent—unless you're intentionally saving it. By starting here, you can find your true monthly lifestyle amount without overcomplicating things. The Story of Thomas Take Thomas, for example. He had what I thought was the best budget I'd ever seen—two years of detailed expense tracking. Every expense logged, every penny accounted for. He proudly told me he spent $7,000 per month. When we broke it down, though, we realized he didn't need years of tracking to figure this out. His income was $104,000 per year. He saved $20,000 into investments. That left $84,000 for spending—or $7,000 per month. Exactly what his “perfect” budget said, but it took him two years to arrive at something the formula showed in minutes. Don't Confuse Saving with Growing One caution I often give people is not to confuse saving with growing. If you're putting $500 into savings every paycheck, but pulling it out later for property taxes or vacations, that's not saving—it's managing cash flow. True saving means money you set aside for the long-term, not just for short-term annual expenses. This distinction matters because when you're projecting retirement spending, you need to know what's truly ongoing versus what's temporary or irregular. The Costs People Forget Even when people nail down their monthly lifestyle amount, I often see them forget two of the biggest retirement costs: Health Insurance – Before 65, you'll likely pay much more out of pocket than once Medicare kicks in. A good rule of thumb is budgeting around $1,000 per person per month, but this varies widely. Taxes – Many retirees underestimate taxes, or treat them like a fixed bill. But taxes are flexible—you can plan, shift, and smooth them over time. That's why I recommend using tax planning software or working with a planner who can show you different strategies. Don't Forget the “Non-Lifetime” Expenses Your monthly lifestyle spending is the foundation, but retirement also comes with non-lifetime expenses—costs that won't last forever, but you should still plan for. These often include: Paying off a mortgage (which eventually goes away). Buying a new car (which will likely happen more than once if you retire in your 60s). Home renovations and repairs (you'll notice more when you're home full-time). Big trips and family events. If you don't plan for these, they'll sneak up and throw your retirement plan off track. Why Step One Matters Most Retirement is not about hitting a magic savings number—it's about matching your income to your lifestyle. Step one is figuring out your lifestyle amount: how much you nee...

Jeremy Keil explains why personalized longevity estimates are the most important number in your retirement planning.

Jeremy Keil interviews Anthony Napolitano about how he managed to adapt his retirement plan after an unexpected end to his career.

Jeremy Keil explores the incoming changes resulting from the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” and how they might impact your retirement.

Jeremy Keil breaks down the Investopedia.com list of the 11 best low-risk investments for 2025.

Jeremy Keil explores Barron's 5 strategies to respond to market volatility with your retirement portfolio. Are you feeling nervous about what today's market volatility could mean for your retirement? You're not alone. A recent Barron's article titled “Market Anxiety Is Running High. How to Secure Your Retirement Portfolio” caught my attention—not just for the headline, but because it echoes what I hear from so many of you. Retirement can already feel uncertain, and when the stock market adds another layer of unpredictability, it's natural to start asking: “What should I be doing with my investments?” Let's explore five strategies—based on that Barron's article and my own experience as a retirement-focused financial planner—that you can use to help protect your retirement income from the ups and downs of the market. 1. Be Realistic About Market Returns The last decade has seen significant growth for the stock market. From 2009 to 2024, returns were some of the strongest in history. But expecting this trend to continue indefinitely could lead to disappointment. In fact, projections from Morningstar suggest that U.S. equities could return just 3.4% to 6.7% annually over the next decade. Compare that to the roughly 20% growth we saw in 2023 and 2024, and it's a sobering reality check. Being realistic doesn't mean avoiding stocks altogether—it means adjusting your expectations and preparing for a range of outcomes. 2. Get Your Asset Mix Right (Based on When You Need the Money) While it may be tempting to invest based on how the market is performing at the moment, Barron's suggests that your personal needs with your investment should be high on the list of drivers in your investment strategy. Your short-term money (needed within 1–3 years) could be in short-term, stable investments. Long-term money (needed 10+ years out) could go toward growth-oriented investments like stocks. Too often, I see people keeping everything in the market when they're just a year away from retirement, hoping for “one more good year.” And sometimes it backfires—just like it did in early 2020 when COVID hit, and the market took a steep dive. Plan ahead. By adjusting your retirement investments 3 three years before your retirement date, you could have more of a buffer, just in case you retire earlier than expected. 3. Diversify and Rebalance It's tempting to stick only with what's worked recently—especially U.S. stocks, which have produced strong returns since 2009. But diversification means having exposure to different areas of the market, including international stocks. And while international stocks have lagged in recent years, 2025 has shown a surprising shift: as of early June, international indexes are up nearly 19%—ahead of the S&P 500's 2% gain. You never know when one part of your portfolio will outperform. That's why it's important not just to diversify, but also to rebalance—systematically adjusting your investment strategy to maintain your target allocation. 4. Maintain a “Goldilocks” Level of Cash Cash can earn some decent interest—around 4% as of 2025. That doesn't necessarily mean you should pile all your money into savings, but it does mean you have the option to keep a portion of your retirement funds in cash or high-quality bonds for short-term needs. How much cash is enough? Many financial advisors recommend keeping 1 to 5 years' worth of withdrawals in cash or short-term investments. The right number for you depends on your retirement timeline, expenses, and risk tolerance. 5. Bolster Other Sources of Income One of the most underappreciated strategies for navigating market volatility is increasing your guaranteed income. That could include: Delaying Social Security to maximize your benefit Maximizing your pension payout, if available Exploring annuities to create additional income streams I know the word “annuity” often brings up mixed feelings.

Jeremy Keil explores Kiplinger magazine's article “11 Ways to Grow Your Wealth” and how to apply these strategies to retirement planning.

Click here to work with us! Most people plan for retirement by focusing on their savings and investment returns—but what if some of the most important decisions happen after you stop working?  In this episode, I sit down with Jeremy Keil, also known as Mr. Retirement, to discuss the three biggest mistakes retirees make—mistakes that can cost them financial security, tax savings, and peace of mind.  From misunderstanding the best time to take Social Security to underestimating how long retirement will last, we break down the key oversights that can derail even the best-laid plans. Jeremy and I dive into why retirement age and Social Security claiming don't have to go hand in hand, how to accurately gauge your longevity to avoid outliving your money, and the crucial difference between optimizing for next month's income versus planning for a lifetime of financial security.  Whether you're a few years away from retirement or already in it, this conversation will challenge the way you think about your financial future and equip you with strategies to make smarter decisions.  Outline of This Episode (0:00) Intro (1:19) Mistake #1 – Tying retirement to Social Security (4:05) Mistake #2 – Underestimating longevity (8:41) Planning for an earlier retirement than expected (13:50) Mistake #3 – Optimizing for short-term income over long-term security (19:20) Where to find more from Mr. Retirement Resources & People Mentioned The Retirement Podcast Network Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Longevity Illustrator Tool Connect with Jeremy Keil Connect with Jeremy Keil AKA Mr Retirement on LinkedIn Connect with Benjamin Brandt Become a Client: www.retirementstartstoday.com/start Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit: http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/ Follow Ben on Twitter: https://twitter.com/retiremeasap Join the newsletter: https://retirementstartstodayradio.com/newsletter Dive deeper into retirement planning with Ben at www.RetirementIncome.University Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

Jeremy Keil returns to the podcast to discuss three vital areas to business development: growing, planning, and serving.

Delivering facts and figures is comfortable. But many financial professionals feel out over their skis when they enter into the emotional side of planning discussions. Jeremy Keil shares a helpful acronym to approach those conversations with ease.

It's Sunday, which means...it's recap time here on the Retirement Quick Tips Podcast.  The theme this week was: 3 Biggest Mistakes People Make In Retirement with Jeremy Keil I really enjoyed talking with Jeremy and getting his perspective on mistakes that people make and how to avoid them, and I hope you did too. 

This week on the podcast, I'm bringing you segments of a recent interview I did with Jeremy Keil. Today, we're continuing our conversation from yesterday about taxes in retirement, talking more in depth about Roth conversions and retirement spending strategies. 

This week on the podcast, I'm bringing you segments of a recent interview I did with Jeremy Keil. Today, we're talking about retirement mistake #3 according to Jeremy - forgetting to plan for taxes in retirement.

This week on the podcast, I'm bringing you segments of a recent interview I did with Jeremy Keil. Today, we're talking about mistake #2 that people planning for retirement often make, and that is filing for social security at the wrong time. We also dive into why it's important to think long-term with this decision to start social security, especially if you're married…

This week on the podcast, I'm bringing you segments of a recent interview I did with Jeremy Keil. In today's episode, Jeremy and I go into more detail about how to plan for a longer than expected retirement…

Join us in this enlightening episode as Jeremy Keil, a seasoned financial advisor with over twenty years of experience, shares invaluable insights into the intricacies of retirement planning. Discover the common roadblocks that individuals face and explore practical hacks to optimize your retirement strategy. #RetirementPlanning #FinancialWisdom #WealthManagement #FinancialAdvisor #RetirementHacks #MoneyMatters #JeremyKeil #FinancialFreedom #RetirementGoals #FinancialInsights Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices