BLOGS
The Importance of Long-Term Care Planning: What Every Retiree Should Know
Planning for long-term care (LTC) is a crucial step in retirement planning that many overlook. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, approximately 70% of Americans aged 65 and older will require some form of long-term care during their lifetime.(HHS, 2025) With…
Planning for the Retirement Red Zone: Steps to Take 5-10 Years Before Retiring
The retirement “red zone”—the last 5-10 years before you retire—is important for helping secure your financial stability. According to Vanguard’s “How America Saves 2024” report, average account balances increased by 19% in 2023, driven primarily by favorable market returns. This highlights the importance of continued contributions and strategic asset allocation, especially as one approaches retirement,…
Ways to Financially Prepare for Rising Inflation During Retirement
For retirees, inflation can be a financial roadblock, silently reducing purchasing power year after year. In 2022, inflation peaked at 9.1%—the highest in four decades (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). Rising prices can have a profound impact on retirees, especially those on fixed incomes. Here’s ways to prepare for inflation and help protect your…
Understanding the 4% Rule: Is It Still Relevant for Today’s Retirees?
The 4% rule has been a cornerstone of retirement planning since it was introduced by financial planner William Bengen in 1994. The rule posits that retirees can withdraw 4% of their retirement savings each year, adjusted for inflation, and still have a high probability that their savings will last 30 years. But with today’s high…
The FOCUS Process: A Comprehensive Approach to Retirement Planning
Retirement planning is much more than just setting aside money in a savings account or contributing to a 401(k). To help ensure a comfortable and preserve retirement, it’s essential to adopt a comprehensive, strategic approach that accounts for multiple aspects of your financial and personal life. At McIntosh & Associates, we call this the FOCUS…
Debunking Common Retirement Planning Myths
When it comes to planning for retirement, there are plenty of myths and misconceptions that can derail even the most well-intentioned plans. At McIntosh & Associates, we believe that understanding the facts is essential for making sound financial decisions. In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths surrounding retirement planning so you…
The Benefits of Diversifying Your Retirement Portfolio
As you approach retirement, diversification becomes even more important in protecting your nest egg and ensuring long-term financial security. 1. Reducing Risk By diversifying your investments across different asset classes—such as stocks, bonds, and real estate—you can reduce your overall risk. If one asset class underperforms, gains in another can help offset the losses. 2….
Legacy Planning: Protecting Your Legacy for Future Generations
Legacy planning is about more than deciding who gets what after you pass away. It’s about ensuring that your wishes are carried out, your loved ones are taken care of, and your legacy is protected. Here are the essential components of a solid legacy plan. 1. Create a Will and Trust A will is the…
Ways to Help Maximize Employer 401(k) Matching Contributions
Employer matching contributions can significantly boost your retirement savings. Here’s how to make the most of this valuable benefit. 1. Contribute Enough to Get the Full Match The first step in maximizing your employer match is to contribute enough to qualify for the full match. For example, if your employer matches 50% of the first…
Personalized Retirement Plans: Why One Size Doesn’t Fit All
When it comes to retirement planning, a one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. Your retirement plan should be tailored to your specific needs, goals, and lifestyle. 1. Tailor to Your Lifestyle and Expenses A personalized retirement plan takes into account your unique financial situation. Factors like your desired lifestyle (travel, hobbies, etc.), your expected expenses, and…
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