Why Retirees Need a Written Financial Plan in Today’s Economy
Introduction Today’s retirees face a more complex financial landscape than any generation before them. Inflation is rising, markets are volatile, healthcare costs are climbing, and longevity risk continues to grow. Verbal advice, rough estimates, or “mental math” are no longer enough to ensure a secure retirement. That’s why a written financial plan—clear, detailed, and personalized—is […]
What’s the Best Way to Protect Your Retirement Income From Inflation?
Introduction Inflation is one of the biggest long-term threats to your retirement income. While it may not seem urgent year to year, the long-term impact can be devastating. Over a 25–30 year retirement, inflation quietly reduces your purchasing power—meaning your expenses rise, but your savings might not keep pace. As a Fiduciary Financial Advisor, I […]
The True Cost of Retirement in Chicago: Housing, Healthcare, and Inflation
Introduction Retiring in Chicago offers world-class amenities, vibrant neighborhoods, and access to top healthcare—but it also comes with a higher-than-average cost of living. Whether you’re planning to retire in the city or the surrounding suburbs, understanding Chicago’s true retirement costs is essential to ensuring your savings last. As a Fiduciary Financial Advisor, I help retirees […]
Longevity and Inflation: How to Make Your Money Last 30 Years or More
Longevity + Inflation: The New Retirement Challenge Retirement today looks very different than it did a generation ago. Americans are living longer, healthier lives—and while that’s great news, it creates a real financial challenge:How do you ensure your money lasts 20, 30, or even 35+ years in retirement—especially when inflation continues to erode purchasing power? […]
Can the 4% Rule Survive High Inflation? Retirement Income Strategies That Work
Introduction: A Classic Rule Meets a New Economic Reality For decades, the 4% Rule has been a cornerstone of retirement planning. The idea is simple: withdraw 4% of your portfolio in the first year of retirement, then increase that amount annually for inflation. Historically, this strategy allowed retirees to maintain income for 30 years or […]
How Rising Inflation Impacts Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)
Understanding the Connection Between Inflation and RMDs Inflation doesn’t just affect grocery bills and gas prices—it also impacts how far your retirement dollars stretch. For retirees subject to Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs), rising inflation can complicate long-term income planning and tax efficiency. RMDs are the mandatory withdrawals retirees must take from tax-deferred accounts like Traditional […]
Illinois Retirement Taxes Explained: What Retirees Need to Know in 2025
Illinois Retirement Taxes Explained: What Retirees Need to Know in 2025 As you approach or enjoy retirement, understanding how your income is taxed is essential for smart financial planning. In Illinois, retirees often benefit from some of the most favorable tax laws in the country—but that doesn’t mean all income is exempt. In this blog, […]
The Hidden Risk of Outliving Your Savings: How to Inflation-Proof Your Plan
The Hidden Risk of Outliving Your Savings: How to Inflation-Proof Your Plan One of the greatest fears for retirees isn’t market volatility—it’s running out of money too soon. With inflation continuing to erode purchasing power, the risk of outliving your savings has become a growing concern. As fiduciary financial advisors, it’s our responsibility to help […]
Healthcare Costs in Retirement: Why Inflation Makes Planning More Urgent
The Rising Tide of Healthcare Costs in Retirement Inflation has impacted nearly every area of life — groceries, housing, utilities — but perhaps nowhere is it more concerning than in retirement healthcare costs.For retirees, medical expenses aren’t optional, and inflation compounds the challenge. According to Fidelity’s 2025 Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate, a 65-year-old couple […]
Can Social Security Keep Up with Inflation? A Fiduciary Advisor Explains
Leaving a job can be exhilarating, but it can also leave you staring at a mountain of paperwork, including the dreaded 401(k) rollover. Don’t let the fear of forms and jargon paralyze you! Rolling over your 401(k) can be empowering, giving you control over your retirement savings and potentially boosting your financial future. Let’s ditch […]