For many Americans, Social Security is one of the most important pillars of retirement income. When you’re part of a married couple, the decisions you make about how and when to claim benefits can significantly impact your long-term financial security. Because there are multiple benefit options and timing strategies available, married couples have opportunities—but also pitfalls—to navigate. Understanding these choices can help ensure you maximize your benefits and maintain f

When preparing for or living in retirement, every financial decision plays a role in shaping long-term stability and peace of mind. One often-overlooked area is capital gains taxes —the taxes you pay when selling investments, real estate, or other appreciated assets. While these taxes may seem like a routine cost of investing, the reality is that strategically managing capital gains can significantly improve your retirement income, reduce tax drag, and strengthen the longevit

When most people think about investing, they focus on how to make gains. But sometimes, losses can be just as valuable—if you know how to use them wisely. This is where tax-loss harvesting  comes in. It’s a strategic way to turn investment losses into potential tax savings, helping you keep more of what you earn. For individuals planning for or already living in retirement, tax efficiency becomes increasingly important. Every dollar saved in taxes is another dollar that can b

Receiving a financial windfall—whether it’s a work bonus, inheritance, or legal settlement—can feel like a dream come true. Suddenly, you have extra money that can make a meaningful difference in your financial life. But while a windfall can open exciting opportunities, it also brings new challenges and decisions that can significantly impact your long-term financial well-being. For individuals planning for or already in retirement, handling a windfall wisely is especially im

For individuals planning for or living in retirement, few financial forces create as much uncertainty as market volatility . Market volatility refers to the fluctuations—sometimes sharp—in the prices of stocks, bonds, and other investments over time. While it’s a natural part of investing, volatility can feel particularly unsettling for retirees or near-retirees who rely on their savings to provide steady income. In recent years, we’ve seen how quickly markets can shift—wheth

Retirement is often seen as the reward for decades of hard work — a time to finally enjoy the freedom you’ve earned. But that freedom also comes with new financial challenges. One of the biggest? Striking the right balance between growth and safety  in your retirement portfolio. This balance determines how well your savings can sustain you through potentially 20–30 years of retirement. Tilt too far toward growth, and you may expose yourself to unnecessary market risk. Go too

Retirement is meant to be a time of freedom—free from the pressures of work, rigid schedules, and hopefully, financial stress. But for many retirees, debt remains an ongoing challenge. Whether it’s a mortgage, credit cards, medical bills, or lingering personal loans, debt can significantly impact your financial security and peace of mind during retirement. Understanding how to manage debt strategically in your later years can make a profound difference in maintaining stabilit

Blended families—those formed when partners bring children from previous relationships into a new union—are increasingly common in...

When you reach retirement, one of the most important financial questions becomes: How do I preserve income, reduce taxes, and support...