Retirement

The Pre-Retirement Checklist

The

Pre-Retirement

Checklist:

HOW PREPARED ARE YOU?

Getting ready for retirement? Before you can cross that bridge, you’ll need to cross some important items off your to-do list. But thanks to our work together, you might be more prepared than you think! This handy checklist of ten crucial steps can help you visualize how far you’ve come.

To measure your progress toward retirement preparation, check off your “Done” items from the list below.

Understand what your income will be, and how you can confidently spend the money you have accumulated for retirement.

Prepare for emergencies by saving at least 3 months’ living expenses, and have that money easily available to you.

Have a sound tax strategy to guide you through the process of spending money from both taxable and tax-deferred accounts.

Consider where you’ll live, both short- and long-term. Have a plan for funding a move and understand the timing involved.

Have a strategy for your 401(k) plan and determine the best time for you to access the money, based on your goals.1

Write down your personal goals for your retirement years. Explore your dreams, priorities and values.

Make arrangements in the event that you or a loved one encounters a health issue requiring full-time care.

Develop an estate approach that includes how you want your assets to be allocated, and who will handle your estate.

Understand your options with Medicare and define a strategy for covering health care expenses for the long haul.

Have a sound tax strategy to guide you through the process of spending money from both taxable and tax-deferred accounts.

NOT QUITE READY?

If you’re not as prepared for retirement as you’d like to be, just reach out. Together, we can fine-tune these strategies so you can finish your checklist and get started on that bucket list.

1. Distributions from 401(k) plans and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Generally, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions.

 

Related Content

An Overview of Renter’s Insurance

An Overview of Renter’s Insurance

Don’t overlook the need for renter’s insurance if you rent your home.

Data Thieves from Outer Space

Data Thieves from Outer Space

Learn about the dangers of internet fraud with this highly educational and fun “pulp” comic.

Three Key Questions to Answer Before Taking Social Security

Three Key Questions to Answer Before Taking Social Security

When to start? Should I continue to work? How can I maximize my benefit?

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

The Cost of Medical Care

Learn about the risks of not having health insurance in this informative article.

Pickleball in Retirement

Learn about the latest sport to sweep the nation with this informative article.

Estate Management Checklist

Is your estate in order? This short quiz may help you assess your overall strategy.

View all articles

Paying Off a Credit Card

Enter various payment options and determine how long it may take to pay off a credit card.

What Is My Risk Tolerance?

This questionnaire will help determine your tolerance for investment risk.

How Much Home Can I Afford?

With a few simple inputs you can estimate how much of a mortgage you may be able to obtain.

View all calculators

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

View all presentations

Bursting the Bubble

Tulips were the first, but they won’t be the last. What forms a “bubble” and what causes them to burst?

Stay Safe with a B.O.P. At Your Back

Learn about the advantages of Business Owner Policies with this highly educational and fun animated video.

Questions to Consider When Buying a Vacation Home

Doing your research is key before buying a vacation home.

View all videos