Practical decisions for the first year, one at a time.
After losing a spouse, financial decisions don't wait. Social Security survivor benefits, retirement account claims, and often a decision about the home all need attention within the first year. We help you take them one at a time.
Survivor benefits follow different rules than your own retirement benefit, and the age you claim affects the amount permanently. Depending on your numbers, claiming survivor benefits now and switching to your own later can mean more lifetime income, or the reverse holds true. We run both scenarios before you decide.
A spousal inheritance of an IRA or 401(k) usually lets you roll it into your own IRA, which changes the required withdrawal timeline compared to a non-spouse inheritance. We help you choose based on your income needs and tax situation.
This is a numbers question and a timing question, and they're separate. The numbers side tells you whether downsizing frees up the cash you actually need. The timing side is yours to decide.
If you want to start gifting to your children now instead of through your estate later, how much you can give each year without affecting your own long-term security depends on your specific numbers, not a flat rule.
A widow, 76, came to us after her husband's death, unsure how to manage finances alone. We set a sustainable, tax-efficient withdrawal rate, connected her with a CPA, and helped her weigh downsizing against staying near family.
Our case studies presented are based on actual clients, however, some of the information may have been changed or altered to protect the privacy of our clients. These studies are provided for educational purposes only. Similar, or even positive results, cannot be guaranteed. Each client has their own unique set of circumstances so products and strategies may not be suitable for all people. Please consult with a qualified professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. No portion of these case studies is to be interpreted as a testimonial or endorsement of the firms' investment advisory services
This information is not intended as tax or legal advice. Consult a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein.
