Posts by sherry@reedcompanies.com
Using the 72(t) Rule for Early Retirement Income: IRS exception can become a strategic advantage in your retirement strategy
For many investors nearing retirement – or planning to exit the workforce earlier than expected – accessing retirement funds before age 59½ can present both opportunity and risk. The IRS’s 72(t) rule, which permits penalty-free early withdrawals under specific conditions, may appear attractive. However, from a financial advisor’s standpoint, effectively utilizing Rule 72(t) requires foresight,…
Read MorePlanning the Perfect Barbecue & Ideal Retirement: The principles of barbecue and retirement planning are strikingly similar
Planning the perfect summer barbecue and crafting your ideal retirement may seem worlds apart, but both require careful consideration, strategic thinking, and a dash of creativity. Imagine this: the sun is shining, the grill is hot, and you’re surrounded by friends and family, enjoying a well-planned barbecue. Now, picture your golden years – a time…
Read MoreHow to Plan Your Retirement in a Complex World: Ten insights to help you navigate your retirement with clarity and confidence
Retirement in the 21st century is evolving faster than ever. Gone are the days when retirees could count on a pension, a Social Security check, and a conservative bond portfolio to meet their needs. Today’s retirees face a dynamic and sometimes unpredictable environment shaped by policy uncertainty, market volatility, inflation pressures, and rapid technological change.…
Read MoreThe Future of Social Security: Time to Really Plan – Remember, Social Security was never intended to fully fund your retirement
For Gen X and Millennials, Social Security is both a foundation and a question mark. While it has long been a reliable component of retirement income, changing demographics and fiscal pressures are casting a shadow over its long-term stability. As of May 2025, projections show that without legislative reform, the Social Security Trust Fund could…
Read MorePros/Cons of Waiting Until 70 for Social Security: An informed choice can maximize your security and retirement dreams
As you approach retirement, the decision of when to claim Social Security benefits becomes increasingly crucial. While many retirees choose to start collecting benefits as soon as they are eligible, there is a growing trend toward waiting until age 70. This strategy promises a higher monthly check, but it’s essential to weigh both the advantages…
Read MorePreparing for Reduced Social Security Benefits: The decisions you make today will shape your financial security tomorrow
The 2024 report from the Social Security and Medicare Board of Trustees has brought to the forefront a reality that many Americans have feared for years: the Social Security trust fund for retirement benefits is expected to deplete its reserves by 2033. This revelation has sent shockwaves through the financial planning community and among individuals…
Read MoreSocial Security’s 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment : While nice, it’s critical to recognize the financial issues the program faces
Social Security plays a vital role in the financial lives of millions of Americans, especially as they transition into retirement. Created in 1935, the program was initially designed to provide economic security for the elderly, disabled, and survivors of deceased workers. Today, it continues to be a cornerstone of retirement planning for many, offering a…
Read MoreHaving a Long-Term Perspective in Retirement: Navigate the ups and downs with confidence and stay on the right path
Retirement is a time of life that should be filled with enjoyment, relaxation, and the freedom to pursue passions and interests. However, it’s also a time when your financial decisions become more critical than ever. Life is full of ups and downs – good days and bad, gains and losses – and the same holds…
Read More2025 Retirement Contribution Limits and Updates: Make the most of your retirement savings options and secure a stable future
Planning for retirement is a cornerstone of financial wellness. Each year, the Internal Revenue Service adjusts contribution limits for various retirement accounts to reflect inflation and ensure individuals have ample opportunities to save for their future. In 2025, significant changes to contribution limits and income restrictions offer new opportunities for savers, especially for those utilizing…
Read MorePre-Retirement Financial Checklist: Get Your Financial House in Order
Are you within a few years of retirement? Now is the perfect time to get your financial house in order. Here’s what to include on your pre-retirement financial checklist: 401(k) Plans Decide what to do with your current 401(k). You generally have three options: Leave the assets with your soon-to-be-former employer. Roll them into an…
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