The
Pre-Retirement
Checklist:
HOW PREPARED ARE YOU?
Getting ready for retirement? Before you can cross that bridge, you’ll need to cross some important items off your to-do list. But thanks to our work together, you might be more prepared than you think! This handy checklist of ten crucial steps can help you visualize how far you’ve come.
To measure your progress toward retirement preparation, check off your “Done” items from the list below.
Understand what your income will be, and how you can confidently spend the money you have accumulated for retirement.
Prepare for emergencies by saving at least 3 months’ living expenses, and have that money easily available to you.
Have a sound tax strategy to guide you through the process of spending money from both taxable and tax-deferred accounts.
Consider where you’ll live, both short- and long-term. Have a plan for funding a move and understand the timing involved.
Have a strategy for your 401(k) plan and determine the best time for you to access the money, based on your goals.1
Write down your personal goals for your retirement years. Explore your dreams, priorities and values.
Make arrangements in the event that you or a loved one encounters a health issue requiring full-time care.
Develop an estate approach that includes how you want your assets to be allocated, and who will handle your estate.
Understand your options with Medicare and define a strategy for covering health care expenses for the long haul.
Have a sound tax strategy to guide you through the process of spending money from both taxable and tax-deferred accounts.
NOT QUITE READY?
If you’re not as prepared for retirement as you’d like to be, just reach out. Together, we can fine-tune these strategies so you can finish your checklist and get started on that bucket list.
1. Distributions from 401(k) plans and most other employer-sponsored retirement plans are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty. Generally, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions.