Money Mentors

The Millionaire Retirement - And Can You Make It on Less?

As the market surges, so does the number of 401(k) millionaires. If you're one of them, how do you keep what you have and continue growing that pot of money? And what if you don't have a million in savings? Can you still make retirement work? Laurel & Gerald discuss the million-dollar pitfalls and opportunities on this week's episode. Check out more about our 401(k) resources at www.Mattson401k.com. 

Raising the Social Security Age: Is It a Good Idea?

Some politicians are floating the idea of raising the retirement age for Social Security. But if they follow through, what would that mean to you? Laurel dives into the details this week to explain the pros & cons. We'll also discuss how your basketball picks this time of year may also correlate with how you pick your investments. Check out more resources for your retirement at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Avoiding Tax & RMD Surprises in Retirement

Your tax picture often changes in retirement, thanks to different rules on how retirement income is taxed - plus the required minimum distributions that kick in during your 70's. This week, Laurel & Taylor discuss what catches retirees offguard the most, and how you can avoid tax surprises with a little forward planning. Curious about your retirement tax bill? Click on the calculator at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

The Brackets That Really Matter This Time of Year

Brackets busted, anyone? Forget the basketball...maybe we should focus instead on tax brackets. This week, Laurel & Taylor discuss the 'fun' that can be had in getting into the lowest tax bracket possible in retirement. They'll also explain IRMAA. No, it's not your long lost aunt - but it could impact you once you're of Medicare age. Find more retirement resources at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

What To Consider in Tough Retirement Scenarios

Sometimes life hands you challenges - things like a pink slip, or divorce. But there are ways you might be able to take those challenges and turn them into retirement opportunities. Listen to Laurel & Gerald this week as we discuss how to evaluate buyout offers - or in the case of divorce, research your Social Security options. Need a second opinion? Connect with our team at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

3 Ways You Might Be Able to Save On Taxes as You Close in on Retirement

Who says getting older doesn't have its perks? On this week's episode, Gary & Laurel discuss some of the tax breaks you can take advantage of to boost your retirement plan as you reach your 50's and 60's. Talk to our team about how to build your tax efficient plan at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Wait...I Pay Taxes on My Social Security Benefits?!

One of the big, unfortunate surprises for retirees is that yes, you may have to pay taxes on your Social Security benefits. On this week's episode, Laurel & Taylor discuss the income thresholds you need to know when it comes to taxability. We'll also discuss why your RMD might also be bigger than you expected in 2024. Need some help with your retirement numbers? Connect for a chat at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

The Great Wealth Transfer

An astounding number of assets will change hands over the next two decades - nearly $73 trillion will be passed from baby boomers to younger generations. If that's a priority for you & your family, how do you avoid pitfalls like higher taxes for your heirs - or family disputes? Gary & Gerald dive into this tricky topic on this week's episode. Need help with your family's plan? Find more resources at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Retirement Shouldn't Mean Having to Take a Pay Cut

While inflation has eased, there are some areas where prices are increasing by double digits...so how is your retirement income supposed to keep up? Gary & Laurel discuss this issue this week, and why you shouldn't have to settle for a pay cut in order to retire successfully. Wondering how you can keep up? Connect for a chat at  www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Peak 65: Are You Part of the Trend?

America's reaching "peak 65," as millions of baby boomers reach an important retirement milestone in the next couple of years. This week, Gary & Laurel dive into the decisions you'll want to be prepared to make, whether you plan to retire at 65 or not. Have questions about your retirement milestones? Chat with us at www.MattsonFinancial.com.