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Joe Lucey

The Power of “To”

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Summer is here. The world is green and the birds are singing! I’m looking forward to getting outside, gathering ‘round the grill, and reconnecting with friends again, as I’m sure many of you are, too.

As we all step into the summer social scene, it’s quite possible that the conversation will turn to retirement – what you’re most dreaming of, what you’re worried about, and how it’s all going to work out. These conversations are natural and the sort of thing we hear all the time at Secured Retirement.

Oftentimes, people are asked what they are retiring from. And that makes sense, it’s polite conversation when you meet someone new – What do you do for work? What was your career like? Questions about how you spend your time.

But what if we flipped the question? What if we asked instead: What are you retiring to? That small shift in language can unlock a big shift in perspective. It’s what I like to call The Power of “To.”

It looks at retirement not as an escape from something but as a window to a new chapter in a beautiful story. Retirement affords a new rhythm to life filled with purpose, curiosity and joy.

So many people spend their years counting all the things they won’t have to do anymore once they retire. And sure, there’s comfort in leaving some things behind. But don’t forget to think about what you want to do more of. Because what comes next should be exciting.

I can help you prepare financially for retirement. But only you can decide how you’ll invest your most precious asset – your time. What will your retired days look like? What is gonna give you purpose and structure your life?

This summer, while you’re kicking back at the lake and daydreaming about retirement, try asking, “What am I retiring to?” instead of just what you’re retiring from.

The answers might just surprise and inspire you!

Cup of Joe

CUP OF JOE

From Joe Lucey, Founder of Secured Retirement

There’s something about sitting down with a steaming cup of coffee that always kicks my day into high gear. And it’s not just because of the caffeine it sends coursing through my veins.

Throughout my career, some of my biggest revelations have come to me in conversation with my mentor over a cup of joe. Good conversation and personal connection can pick you up in a special way. It’s that feeling that I’m hoping to bring to you with my series, your Cup of Joe.

The Financial Consequences of a Long Life

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Just in the past week, a new world’s oldest person has been crowned. Ethel Caterham of the UK is 115 years old and she doesn’t see what the big fuss is about. She attributes her longevity to the fact that she never argues with people and just does what she wants. 

More and more people are reaching these huge birthday milestones. We’re living longer than ever before. Advances in medicine, nutrition, and lifestyle awareness mean many of us will enjoy longer lifespans than our parents or grandparents ever did.

The Pew Research Center reports that the number of people who will live to 100 is expected to grow eightfold over the next 30 years. So, by 2025 there will be more than 3.7 million people over the age of 100 by 2050! That could be exciting or terrifying, depending on your perspective. And it certainly brings to mind some pressing financial questions.

A long and fulfilling life is something most all of us hope for. But a long life also creates an evolving financial situation – especially relative to retirement. As you plan for the long, fulfilling life you still have ahead of you, here are the six expenses to consider:

1. Higher healthcare costs

The longer you live, the more healthcare you’re likely to need – and the more you’ll pay for it. Routine checkups, ongoing prescriptions, unplanned surgeries or medical interventions, it can pile up extremely fast. Medicare does help to cover some costs, but it doesn’t often cover everything. Most retirees still face premiums, copays, deductibles, and potentially large out-of-pocket costs for dental, vision, hearing help, and specialty treatments.

Hold on to your hats while we deliver this news: Medical costs tend to rise faster than inflation. Now, THAT’s a tough pill to swallow. To prevent healthcare costs from quietly chipping away at your retirement savings, start budgeting for cost increases or planned for additional coverage through supplemental insurance or a health savings account.

2. A greater need for long-term care

Living well into your 80s, 90s, or beyond increases the odds that either you or your spouse will need a little extra help with the day-to-day at some point. In the event that you can’t quite talk your children into the arrangement, you’ll likely need to pay for help at home or spend time in an assisted living facility. And those services don’t come cheap.

Costs can vary significantly according to location and level of care, but no matter the specifics, care is expensive – do not underestimate its costs. Many people make the mistake of assuming they’ll never need it or that somehow it will be fully covered. Planning ahead can help ensure that your future care won’t drain your savings or burden your loved ones.

3. More exposure to market volatility

Over a 30-year or more retirement, you’re likely to experience multiple market cycles – and likely some larger downturns. And if you’re relying on investments to generate income, those rough patches do have the potential to do real damage, especially if you’re forced to sell off some assets to cover living expenses.

That’s why it’s so important to not only invest wisely in the first place but to also have a plan to protect your income from timing risk. Diversifying your income sources, building in safeguards, and having a strategy for withdrawing funds during volatile markets can all help preserve your nest egg through the ups and downs.

4. Risk of outliving your money

It’s a simple formula: a longer retirement means you’re drawing from your savings for a longer period. Even with a healthy portfolio, that creates risk – especially if your spending outpaces your investments and other income sources.

If you end up being one of those rumored centenarians (100+ year-olds) that are to proliferate, then you’re looking at a nearly 40-year stretch where you’ll need to pay for housing, food, travel, insurance, and unexpected expenses. If your plan isn’t designed with longevity in mind, you could find yourself scaling back your lifestyle (boo), or even running out of funds altogether.

5. Inflation eats into your buying power

Even modest inflation can significantly erode your purchasing power over time. We shudder to imagine it, but a gallon of milk costing $3 today might well cost $6 or more in 20 years. Groceries, utilities, travel, and services, will add up quickly when you’re spending 2025 dollars in 2055 – and especially on a fixed income.

Planning for inflation doesn’t just mean investing in growth, it means accounting for rising costs in your retirement budget. Failing to do so could result in having to reduce your quality of life down the road just to keep up.

6. Helping loved ones adds pressure

Sometimes, needs beyond your own can affect your retirement. Many retirees find themselves helping adult children with bills, covering grandkids’ education expenses, or supporting their own aging parents. These acts of generosity are done out of love, of course, but they can also strain your financial plan if they weren’t part of it from the start.

It’s not uncommon for people to dip into their retirement accounts to help a family member during a tough time. But without a solid plan, even well-meaning gifts or loans can jeopardize your own security. Finding a balance between helping others and protecting your own future is essential.

You Need A Plan You Can Count On

No one wants to reach their 80s, 90s, or even 100s with plenty of life in them but without the funds to enjoy it. However, you don’t have to leave it to chance.

With the right planning, you can extend your savings, protect yourself from rising costs, prepare for what’s next, and enjoy your dream retirement. That means building a flexible plan that evolves with you. Living longer is a gift! Let’s make sure you’re financially prepared to enjoy it! Give us a call: 952-460-3260.

The Biggest Risk to Your Retirement – and How to Protect Yourself

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Now, this isn’t the most fun game to play, but if you had to guess what the biggest risk you’ll face in retirement was, what would you say? Maybe you’d guess healthcare costs or higher taxes. Perhaps you think the biggest risk you’re concerned about is Social Security. 

But none of those are the largest risk you’ll face. The biggest risk to your retirement is called sequence of returns risk – and it can have a devastating impact on your retirement savings.

What Is Sequence of Returns Risk?

So, what is the sequence of returns risk, anyway? Sequence of returns risk refers to the danger of retiring during a stock market downturn. If the stock market is falling during the first few years of your retirement, the combination of stock market losses and the need to withdraw money to pay for retirement could deplete your nest egg. And unfortunately, even if the market eventually recovers, your portfolio may not have time to bounce back.

Without the right strategy, it’s possible you could find yourself selling investments at a loss just to cover your living expenses.

The Challenge of Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)

Once you reach a certain age, the government requires you to start withdrawing from your tax-deferred retirement accounts. These required minimum distributions (RMDs) force you to sell investments regardless of market conditions. If your portfolio is down when this happens, those losses become locked in, and you lose the opportunity to recover.

One way to minimize the impact of RMDs is to develop a proactive withdrawal strategy before you reach retirement age. Planning ahead can help you avoid unnecessary tax burdens and market-driven losses.

The Problem With Relying on Simple Withdrawal Rules

Many retirees have been told to follow the 4% rule, which suggests withdrawing 4% of their portfolio annually to ensure their savings last. However, this rule doesn’t account for market fluctuations. In years when the market is down, withdrawing at a fixed rate could accelerate the depletion of your funds.

A better approach is to remain flexible with withdrawals. During market downturns, withdrawing less can help your savings last longer, while in strong years, you may be able to withdraw a little more. Having a diversified withdrawal strategy is key to making your money last.

How to Protect Yourself

The good news is that you have more control over your retirement security than you might think. Here are a few strategies to help safeguard your savings:

  1. Rebalance Your Portfolio: Many people set up their retirement investments and then forget about them. Over time, market shifts can create imbalances, increasing your risk exposure. Regularly reviewing and adjusting your investment mix can help ensure you’re prepared for different market conditions.
  2. Consider a Roth Conversion: Unlike traditional IRAs and 401(k)s, Roth accounts allow tax-free withdrawals in retirement and aren’t subject to RMDs. Converting some of your savings to a Roth IRA could provide greater flexibility and reduce the impact of sequence risk.
  3. Diversify Your Income Streams: Relying on a single income source in retirement can be risky. A well-rounded plan might include Social Security, annuities, bond ladders, dividend-paying stocks, and other income-generating assets. The goal is to have multiple sources of reliable cash flow so you’re not entirely dependent on the stock market.
  4. Use Buffer Assets: Holding a cash reserve or other stable assets can help you avoid selling investments at a loss during downturns. Having a few years’ worth of living expenses in safer accounts can give your portfolio time to recover.

Build A Strategy That Prevails

A successful retirement isn’t just about how much you’ve saved—it’s about taking steps to turn your savings into sustainable income. By planning ahead, diversifying your income sources, and staying flexible with withdrawals, you can build a retirement strategy that withstands market fluctuations and gives you the confidence to enjoy your golden years.

Want to ensure your retirement plan is built to last? Let’s talk about how you can secure your financial future today 952-460-3260.

Staying The Course In Uncertain Times

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It goes without saying that the market is constantly fluctuating but changing trade policies and shifting economic data are fueling increased uncertainty. History shows that markets have weathered similar storms before – and even come out stronger. In this update, we break down the latest trade impacts, employment data, inflation trends, and what they all mean for your financial future.

Market Volatility Amid Tariff Uncertainty

Markets took a hit earlier this month as President Donald Trump’s tariffs went into effect – only to be delayed once again. This ongoing uncertainty has led to what’s been called a “tariff tantrum,” reminiscent of the “taper tantrum” in 2013, when markets panicked over the Federal Reserve’s decision to slow quantitative easing. But here’s what you should know: The S&P 500 has gained 4,000 points since 2013. Simply put, markets dislike change, and the past two years have been spectacular with little volatility. We’re now experiencing a correction as investors process trade developments in real time.

Trade Impact on GDP and Key Industries

Exports account for roughly 10% of American Gross Domestic Product (GDP), and recent shifts in trade policy have made a noticeable impact. A rush of imports in December altered the trade balance, contributing to a weaker GDP forecast for the first quarter. Industries such as agriculture and automotive could be hit hardest by tariffs. Too this month, markets reacted over the threat of 50% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum – double the previous 25% rate. While this increase didn’t materialize, the uncertainty surrounding trade policy creates volatility. Beyond targeting individual sectors there is heavy retaliation to tariffs imposed by would be trading partners.

Employment Data and Interest Rate Outlook

The latest jobs data also signals potential headwinds. The ADP report showed that only 77,000 new jobs were added in February, significantly below the expected 162,000. The non-farms payroll report was better but still missed the forecast. And unemployment ticked up slightly to 4.1%.

These jobs numbers, weaker GDP,  inflation, and weak consumer sentiment, have led to calls for three to four rate cuts this year instead of one to two. However, once the tariff situation stabilizes and markets regain their footing, the Fed is likely to refocus on inflation and maintain a measured approach to rate cuts. At the Federal Open Market Committee meeting the number of members who believe more than two cuts would be appropriate fell while the number of members who think less than two cuts are appropriate doubled.

Inflation Trends and Consumer Confidence

Inflation data offers a mixed picture. February’s Consumer Price Index (CPI) showed only a small increase, and over the past 12 months, the CPI has cooled from 3% to 2.8%. Meanwhile, the core inflation reading declined from 3.3% to 3.1%, the lowest since April 2021. While inflation remains elevated, it’s moving in the right direction toward the Fed’s 2% target for now, not knowing how much tariffs will affect companies and the consumer.

Consumer confidence and labor shortages will be key factors to watch in the coming months. Modest improvements in government efficiency, declining interest rates, and lower energy costs will (hopefully) help markets perform better.

Staying the Course in Uncertain Times

With a lack of extended volatility over the last couple of years, a downturn now isn’t completely unexpected. The important thing is to remain patient and ask yourself, “Will markets be lower two or three years from now?” Staying focused on long-term goals and avoiding reactionary decisions will be critical in navigating the current market. If you have questions on your portfolio, don’t hesitate to reach out: 952-460-3260.

Jacob McCue

Investment Strategist/Advisor
Secured Retirement

Upsets Happen – Make Sure Your Retirement Plan is Ready

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Well, have you made your bracket yet? It’s March, after all! Around the office, we always enjoy following the March Madness tournament. And we’ve been known to put a little money on the games as well – “little” being the operative word. It’s part of the fun!

With a junior in high school applying to colleges and developing post-secondary plans, I’m looking at the tournament a little differently this year. I want his top-choice schools to do well! My Cinderella favorite is High Point University out of North Carolina. It’s their first time ever in tourney and while they’re seeded 13th, I’m rooting for them. 

Historically, the odds of a 13th seed upsetting their first-round opponent – 4th-seeded Purdue in this case – are low but not impossible. If by some miracle they were to take the whole tourney, I have no doubt I would win any NCAA pool out there, but statistically, the odds are way against me. Some of the other schools my son is considering (Kansas, Tennessee) have slim-yet-better chances.

However, the thrill of following the tournament is that no one really knows how it’s going to go. Never before in its more than 80 years has there ever been a perfect bracket. The odds of picking all the winners correctly are astronomical. 

This has a way of balancing the playing field across bracket-makers. Even if you don’t know a single thing about basketball and are choosing your winners based on which team colors you like more, you might still come out ahead in your office pool.

Experts analyze stats, odds are set, and predictions are made but upsets always happen. Some underdog team you’ve never heard of will manage to pull off the impossible and knock out a top seed.

March Madness reminds us that anything can happen. And just like an underdog can shake up the tournament, unexpected changes can throw off your financial future. You don’t want market volatility, economic downturns, or tax changes throwing your future off course. The best game plan is one that holds up no matter what – no matter what the economy is doing, no matter what the housing market looks like, no matter where life takes you. 

At Secured Retirement, our playbook is designed to keep you winning. Our approach has always focused on balancing the pillars of wealth management – income and investment strategy, taxes and charitable planning, healthcare and legacy – to protect you from vulnerabilities and keep you on track.

Because when it comes to your retirement, you don’t want to leave anything to chance. A solid financial strategy ensures you’re prepared for whatever comes your way.

So while your bracket may be busted by the Sweet 16, your retirement plan shouldn’t be. Let’s make sure you have a winning strategy. Call us: 952-460-3260

Cup of Joe

CUP OF JOE

From Joe Lucey, Founder of Secured Retirement

There’s something about sitting down with a steaming cup of coffee that always kicks my day into high gear. And it’s not just because of the caffeine it sends coursing through my veins.

Throughout my career, some of my biggest revelations have come to me in conversation with my mentor over a cup of joe. Good conversation and personal connection can pick you up in a special way. It’s that feeling that I’m hoping to bring to you with my series, your Cup of Joe.

4 Critical Things to Know Before Claiming Social Security

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Claiming Social Security is one of the most important financial decisions of your life. The choices you make can have a lasting impact on your retirement income, taxes, and even your spouse’s benefits.

If you’ve earned an average income over your career, you could receive several hundred thousand dollars in lifetime benefits. And if you’ve earned an above-average income, you could collect well over a million dollars. That’s a sum so significant you simply can’t leave it to chance.

But Social Security is complicated. There are thousands of rules, and even more rules about those rules. Many people make costly mistakes that reduce their benefits and increase their taxes. To help you make the most of your Social Security, here are four essential things you need to know before filing.

1. Don’t Rely on a One-Size-Fits-All Strategy

The timing of when you claim benefits affects more than just the amount you receive each month. Your decision could also trigger higher taxes, double your Medicare premiums, and cause you to forfeit a small fortune in spousal benefits.

Some retirees assume delaying benefits is always the best move, but that’s not necessarily true. In some cases, claiming your Social Security benefits early could yield far more income when you consider your benefits, taxes, etc. Depending on your tax situation, other income sources, and life expectancy, claiming earlier could result in more lifetime income. The right strategy depends entirely on your personal financial situation.

2. You Could Be Taxed on Up to 85% of Your Benefits

One of the biggest Social Security “gotchas” is taxes. Depending on how and when you claim benefits, up to 85% of your Social Security income could be taxable. That means the money you were counting on for retirement could be significantly reduced once the IRS takes its share.

Strategic tax planning can help minimize that impact. By coordinating withdrawals from tax-advantaged accounts or spreading out income sources, you may be able to reduce the percentage of your benefits subject to taxation.

3. Your Spousal Benefits Could Be at Risk

Most people don’t understand how to make the most out of their Social Security spousal benefits. And with so many variables at play, it’s no wonder! No matter your current marital status – married, divorced, or widowed – spousal benefits can significantly impact your total retirement income. The timing of when you and your spouse claim benefits matters. Be sure to consider all of your options before making a final decision.

4. Don’t Rely on the Social Security Administration for Advice

The Social Security Administration (SSA) provides a number of valuable resources, but their representatives simply aren’t financial advisors. They’re there to communicate facts and policies, not to help you maximize your benefits.

We’ve heard plenty of stories about people who file for benefits at the direction of the SSA and end up short-changing themselves or their spouses hundreds of thousands of dollars. It’s extremely unfortunate when this happens, and we want to do whatever we can to prevent things like this from happening. Financial professionals like Secured Retirement exist to lay out all the options. Make sure you understand yours.


Ensure You Make the Right Choice

Claiming Social Security is more complex than most people realize. Your decision impacts many other aspects of your financial game plan, like your tax liability, Medicare costs, and spousal benefits.

Rather than guessing about what you need, get a customized Social Security analysis from a qualified financial advisor, like Secured Retirement. Call us today and get started on your analysis: 952-460-3260.