Retirement Answers Today

This episode explores the essential considerations for hiring a financial advisor, focusing on understanding your needs and goals rather than jumping into products. The hosts, financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb, discuss the importance of having a written financial plan, the fiduciary responsibility of advisors, and the key questions to ask when interviewing potential advisors. Additionally, they highlight the significan...

In today's episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb discuss the key steps to preparing for a move to another state in retirement. They cover financial assessments, including understanding state taxes and real estate costs, healthcare and insurance considerations, legal and estate planning needs, and the importance of social networks and community integration. The hosts share practical tips and...

In this episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Three-Point Bibb discuss how taxes can often be the largest expense for retirees and what can be done to mitigate their impact. The conversation covers common tax pitfalls, strategic use of tax-deferred accounts like IRAs and 401(k)s, and effective strategies such as Roth conversions, tax-efficient withdrawal plans, and Qualified Charitable Distribut...

In this episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin and Casey Bibb of Martin Wealth Solutions discuss market volatility and its impact on investors. They introduce the bucket strategy—a method of segmenting investments into short-term, medium-term, and long-term buckets to protect assets and ensure financial stability in retirement. The hosts break down how to allocate funds within each bucket to reduce risk and ...

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin and Casey Bibb from Martin Wealth Solutions discuss the emerging trends of mini retirements and hybrid retirements. They delve into the benefits and risks of these retirement strategies, such as preventing burnout and improving mental health, as well as the importance of strategic financial planning. The conversation also touches upon maintaining social connections and exploring passio...

In this episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb explore the top five regrets retirees often face and provide actionable steps to avoid them. Hosts discuss the importance of saving enough, the risks of starting Social Security too early, the pitfalls of retiring with too much debt, the consequences of retiring too soon, and the necessity of prioritizing health. Real-life examples and practical...

In this episode, financial advisors and retirement planners Jim Martin & Casey Bibb discuss the potential impacts of President Trump's administration on retirement planning. They delve into topics such as tax policies, the social security tax, trade tariffs, deregulation, and the effects on the stock market and retirement accounts. The conversation includes insights on the economic landscape and practical advice for retirees to...

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb dive into the concept of behavioral finance and how emotions and cognitive biases shape our financial decisions. We discuss strategies to handle emotional triggers, automation of financial decisions, and the importance of a comprehensive retirement plan. Jim and Casey Bibb share practical tips to stay on track with your retirement goals, balance short-term desires with...

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin and co-host Casey Bibb discuss the various options available for managing an old 401k from a previous job. The options include leaving it in place, rolling it into a new employer's plan, cashing it out, or moving it to a self-directed IRA. They explore the pros and cons of each option and provide guidance on making the best decision based on individual circumstances. Additionally, they...

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb discuss the top five mistakes to avoid when planning for retirement and offer a bonus tip for creating a solid financial strategy. They emphasize the importance of delaying Social Security benefits for maximum returns, developing a comprehensive withdrawal plan, accounting for inflation and healthcare costs, and finding a balanced investment strategy. The discussion hi...

In this episode with financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb, we discuss the crucial aspects of financial planning, including the importance of having a financial plan for a successful retirement. We debunk common myths, such as mistaking investment statements for a financial plan, and highlight essential components like income, investment, and tax strategies. Hear from Casey Bibb on why planning alleviates fears of the unkn...

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin & Casey Bibb dive into the common belief that you need a million dollars to retire. We review an article from USA Today about the 15 states where you supposedly need a million dollars to retire, but question whether this is truly accurate. Featuring guest Casey Bibb, we discuss how retirement needs vary widely depending on personal circumstances, spending habits, and lifestyle choi...

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin and Casey Bibb discuss the intricacies of target date funds, commonly found in 401(k) plans. They explain how these funds automatically adjust asset allocation as you approach retirement and analyze the pros and cons of such investments. They emphasize the importance of understanding your risk tolerance and ensure your investments match your retirement goals. The show also covers pract...

In this podcast episode, financial advisors Jim Martin and Casey Bibb discuss the frequent occurrence of unexpected early retirements due to layoffs, health issues, and other factors. They share strategies on how to prepare financially for such events, emphasizing the importance of emergency funds, debt reduction, health planning, and having a robust financial plan. Additionally, they cover upcoming changes to Social Security in 20...

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin and Casey Bibb discuss the potential tax time bomb lurking in your retirement portfolio, particularly within IRAs, as highlighted in Ed Slott's new book. They delve into the importance and strategies of proactive tax planning to avoid excessive taxes when taking required minimum distributions (RMDs). They also touch on the effects of current interest rates on retirees and the complexit...

In this episode, financial advisors Jim Martin and Casey Bibb discuss the swift passage of 2024 and dive into important financial topics for the new year. They cover top New Year's resolutions, including reassessing retirement plans, maximizing tax strategies, building emergency funds, optimizing Social Security and Medicare decisions, and aligning investments with retirement goals. The conversation also delves into long-term care ...

In this episode, Jim Martin, a financial advisor, explores the benefits and emotional challenges of downsizing and decluttering your life, particularly as you approach retirement. Highlighting a personal client story, Jim delves into why simplifying your living situation can be financially and emotionally beneficial, and provides practical tips for making the transition smoother. He discusses the historical trend of increasing hous...