According to a Forbes article by Andrew Biggs (“Half of Retirees Will Run Out of Money—That’s the Good News”), about 50% of retirees will deplete their retirement savings during their lifetime.

But here’s the twist: most retirees still have Social Security, which pays for life with cost-of-living adjustments. The real risk isn’t being penniless—it’s losing the ability to maintain your desired lifestyle.

In Money Not Math Episode 165, I break down what this means for your retirement and why planning matters.

#MoneyNotMath#RetirementPlanning #FinancialConfidence #RetireConfidently #Confidence#Retirement #5StoneFinancialGroup

📖 Article referenced: https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewbiggs/2024/08/12/half-of-retirees-will-run-out-of-money-thats-the-good-news/

Disclaimer, this content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. You should always consult a qualified professional regarding your personal situation.

In this episode, I walk through a hypothetical retirement scenario for a couple with:

💼 $500,000 in an IRA

📄 Two average Social Security incomes of $1,883/month each

We explore:

🔍 How different asset allocations may influence income sustainability

📊 The impact of Social Security timing strategies

💡 Tax considerations that affect net retirement income

🧭 Spending approaches that align with long-term retirement goals

📲 Tune in to learn how informed decisions can support confident retirement living.

Thank you for taking the time to watch or listen to today’s Money Not Math episode. If you found it valuable, please:

🔁 Share it with a friend

📢 Post it on your social media

💬 Comment with a question or thought

Or, if you’d prefer to connect privately or schedule a meeting, feel free to reach out directly.

📌 Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your personal situation.

Average social security income information for a 67-year-old was according to google. Those numbers vary depending on your situation and the source of the information.

#MoneyNotMath #RetirementEducation #FinancialLiteracy #SocialSecurity #IRAPlanning #TaxStrategy #FinancialAdvisor #EmptyNesters #RetireConfidently

Two Doors. One Choice. Which Will You Pick?

Copy:
Retirement comes down to two outcomes:
🚪 Door #1: Your money outlives you → Dignity. Independence. Legacy.
🚪 Door #2: You outlive your money → Dependence. No legacy.

The difference? A Plan.
We help you build a strategy that gives you the best chance at Door #1.
Free, no-obligation consultation.

👉 Ready to choose your door? Message us today.

#RetirementPlanning #LegacyPlanning #WealthManagement #MoneyNotMath #5StoneFinancialGroup #FiduciaryAdvisor

“I’ll be 65 this year. I’ve saved diligently and built up a $1 million 401(k). I’m expecting a $500,000 inheritance. I spend up to $6,000 a month. So, here’s the big question: Can I retire on January 1st, 2026?”

In this episode, we walk through a real-world retirement scenario — and without making any guarantees or recommendations. You’ll learn:

✅ Why when you retire matters

✅ How Long-Term Care and medical costs can impact your future

✅ The role of Asset Allocation, Social Security, Tax, and Spending Strategies in shaping your retirement experience

This is not financial advice — it’s education. Because money is not math, and there’s so much more to retirement planning than just numbers.

👉 If this sounds like your situation — or if you’re wondering whether your retirement plan is truly ready — let’s talk. I help people like you turn uncertainty into clarity every day.

📩 Email me at drew@5stonefinancial.com

🔁 Share this episode with someone who needs it

💬 Comment with your thoughts or questions

________________________________________

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. You should always consult a qualified professional regarding your personal situation.

#MoneyNotMath #RetireConfidently #RetirementPlanning #FinancialEducation #EmptyNesterFinance #RetirementReady #FinancialClarity #LongTermCarePlanning #SocialSecurityStrategy #TaxSmartRetirement #AssetAllocationMatters

If you're 65 or older—or planning for retirement—this episode breaks down how new legislation could reduce your taxable income and potentially eliminate taxes on your Social Security benefits.

📌 Topics include:

2025 standard deduction increases

Social Security tax relief

Income limits and sunset clauses

Strategic planning tips for retirees

📞 This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute personalized financial, legal, or tax advice.

📩 Contact: drew@5stonefinancial.com

#Retirement #TaxPlanning #MoneyNotMath #FinancialLiteracy

🎢 The market dropped sharply in April…

📈 Then surged over 26% by early July.

In Money Not Math 160, I break down what this rebound teaches us about long-term investing—and why reacting emotionally to short-term volatility can derail your retirement goals.

✅ Stay focused

✅ Stick to your plan

✅ Think long-term

💡 I also reference strategies from Episode 159 to help you stay grounded when the market gets shaky if you would like to check that out here, https://youtu.be/hKfnvQOsbSM?si=ZYEuyL3Jc7EEMP1f

If you're looking for a fiduciary financial advisor to help guide your retirement journey, I’d be honored to help. You can contact me at 218-686-3170 or Drew@5stonefinancial.com to schedule a free consultation.

Past performance is not indicative of future results. This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or investment advice.

#MoneyNotMath #RetirementPlanning #FiduciaryAdvisor #InvestSmart #LongTermThinking #MarketVolatility #FinancialWellness #EmptyNesters

Feeling the ups and downs of the stock market? 🌊 Don't worry, you're not alone! Check out these five essential strategies to help you ride the market roller coaster:

1. Embrace the Long Game: Investing is a marathon, not a sprint. Focus on your long-term goals and checkout the Probability of Positive Returns graph I highlight in the video.

2. Diversify Your Portfolio: Spread your investments across various asset classes to reduce risk.

3. Rebalance Periodically: Keep your portfolio in check by adjusting your asset allocation regularly.

4. Tune Out the Noise: Limit exposure to financial news that can cause unnecessary stress.

5. Harvest Tax Losses: Use market downturns to your advantage by offsetting gains with losses.

Stay calm and invest wisely! 💡💪

Thank you for taking the time to watch or listen to today’s Money Not Math episode. Please help me provide more value to more people by sharing it with a friend, sharing it on your social media page and commenting with a question or thought. Or, if you would like to ask me a question privately or schedule a meeting, please email me at drew@5stonefinancial.com.

Articles referenced: https://www.morningstar.com/markets/5-strategies-riding-market-roller-coaster?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MorningDigest&utm_content=None_62390&utm_id=32286

www.ftportfolios.com

Disclaimer, this content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. You should always consult a qualified professional regarding your personal situation.

Hello and welcome to Money Not Math episode 158! I'm Drew Erickson, and today we're diving into Warren Buffett's recent comments on Berkshire Hathaway's cash holdings and what they mean for investors like you.

In his latest annual letter to shareholders, Buffett addressed concerns about Berkshire's substantial cash reserves, which stood at $334 billion at the end of the fourth quarter. He emphasized his preference for owning "good businesses" over holding cash and highlighted the importance of patience and discipline in investing.

Buffett also discussed the impressive performance of Berkshire's insurance arm and expressed confidence in the company's Japanese investments. These insights underscore the value of diversification and waiting for the right investment opportunities.

Tune in to learn more about how Buffett's philosophy can inform your personal retirement planning strategy. If you find this episode valuable, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, or sharing it with a friend. And remember, if you're looking for personalized retirement planning advice, I'm here to help.

📌 Read the article: https://www.morningstar.com/stocks/warren-buffett-dismisses-concerns-about-cash-holdings?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MorningDigest&utm_content=None_61302&utm_id=31743

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your personal situation.

#MoneyNotMath #Podcast #WarrenBuffett #InvestmentPhilosophy #RetirementPlanning #FinancialAdvice #Diversification #PatienceAndDiscipline #InvestSmart

In this episode, I dive deep into the world of Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Discover how HSAs can be a game-changer for your financial health, offering triple tax savings and more. But they aren’t always the right decision for everyone. We break down the benefits of high-deductible health plans and compare them with traditional health insurance options. Learn how HSAs can significantly impact your retirement planning by providing a tax-advantaged way to save for future healthcare expenses. Whether you're new to HSAs or looking to optimize your current strategy, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical tips.

🔗 Read the full article here: https://www.kitces.com/blog/ben-dobler-hsas-health-savings-accounts-hsa-high-deductible-health-plan-ppo-premium-deductible-triple-tax-savings-advantage-calculation/

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation. And since this is a live session, I may occasionally make a mistake.

#HSAs #HealthSavingsAccount #FinancialHealth #TaxSavings #HighDeductiblePlan #PPO #PersonalFinance #Healthcare #Investing #MoneyManagement #RetirementPlanning

Are you reconsidering when to take your Social Security benefits? Or planning for the unpredictable future of late-life finances? Check out this podcast highlighting:

1. Discover why delaying Social Security benefits might not always be the best strategy.

2. Learn how to create a robust financial plan to guide late-life decisions and weather an unpredictable future.

Stay informed and make the best decisions for your financial future!

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation.

Articles referenced: https://www.morningstar.com/retirement/maybe-you-shouldnt-delay-taking-your-social-security-benefits-after-all

https://www.startribune.com/a-financial-plan-to-guide-late-life-decisions-will-help-weather-unpredictable-future/601219133

#RetirementPlanning #FinancialAdvice #SocialSecurity #LateLifePlanning #Investing #FinancialEducation #5StoneFinancialGroup #money #retirement

Curious about how tariffs might affect your investment portfolio? Check out this podcast.

Key Takeaways:

• Historical Context: Learn how past tariff implementations, like those during President Trump's term, impacted markets.

• Market Reactions: Discover why markets often price in expected developments, potentially muting the impact of new tariffs.

• Forward-Looking Insights: Understand how current market prices may already reflect anticipated economic changes.

Stay informed and make better investment decisions by understanding the broader economic landscape.

Schedule a Private Call: If you prefer a private conversation, you can schedule a call with me here: https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/Gb122ad25bf0742de9ef95f26af89fd04@5stonefinancial.com/bookings/s/ytXDEtRh0E-29mrENW6_Uw2

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation. Since this is a live session, I may occasionally make a mistake.

Article referenced: https://www.dimensional.com/us-en/insights/tariff-trepidation

#Investing #MarketInsights #Tariffs #FinancialEducation #Dimensional #RetirementPlanning #MoneyNotMath #EmptyNesters #5StoneFinancialGroup #Investing #Money #FinancialEducation #Retirement #Coffee

Hello everyone! 🌟

In today’s Money Not Math episode #157, we review key tax deductions that can help you save money and make the most of your home investment. 🏡💰

I recently came across an insightful article on Yahoo Finance about tax deductions for homeowners, highlighting eight valuable deductions that can lower your income tax. Let's break them down:

1. Mortgage Interest Deduction: Deduct the interest paid on your mortgage if you itemize your deductions.

2. Interest on Home Equity Loans and HELOCs: Deductible if used to buy, build, or improve your home, within certain limits.

3. Discount Points: Prepaid interest points that can be deducted in the year you pay them or spread out over the life of the loan.

4. Property Taxes: Deduct the amount you pay in property taxes each year.

5. Home Office Deduction: Deduct a portion of your home office expenses, including mortgage interest, utilities, and HOA fees if you meet certain criteria.

6. HOA Fees: Generally not deductible, but exceptions exist if you rent out your property or use part of your home for business.

7. Home Improvements: Certain improvements can be deductible, especially if medically necessary or improve energy efficiency.

These deductions can significantly impact your tax bill and help you save more for retirement. Be sure to consult with a tax professional to maximize your benefits.

Even if you don’t itemize your tax deductions, tax planning around your retirement income is crucial for maximizing your income in retirement while minimizing your social security taxes and Medicare costs.

Thanks for watching Money Not Math episode #157! If you found this video helpful, please share it with a friend or on your social media page, follow my page, comment with your thoughts or questions, or like this post to help me provide more value to more good people like you.

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your personal situation.

Article Referenced: https://finance.yahoo.com/personal-finance/taxes/article/tax-deductions-for-homeowners-164247589.html

#MoneyNotMath #TaxDeductions #HomeInvestment #SaveMoney #RetirementPlanning #Homeowners #TaxTips #FinancialAdvice #Podcast #Finance

Here's a clip of,

🌟 Retirement Planning Insights: Watch or Listen Now! 🌟

Hey everyone! 🎥🎙️ I just recorded a video and podcast diving into some crucial retirement planning topics inspired by three insightful articles. Here's a sneak peek:

1. Double Taxation on Social Security: Many older Americans are feeling the pinch as Uncle Sam claws back their Social Security benefits. Learn how this "double taxation" impacts your retirement and what you can do about it.

2. Turbocharging Your Retirement Savings: Are you between 60 and 63? Discover how you can take advantage of "super catch-up" contributions to boost your retirement savings and secure your financial future.

3. Warren Buffett's Advice: Thinking about mimicking Warren Buffett's investment moves? Find out why this strategy might not be as foolproof as it seems and get tips on making smarter investment choices.

📺 Watch the full video or 🎧 listen to the podcast now to get the insights you need to make informed decisions for a comfortable retirement. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more financial tips!

Full Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/drew-erickson7/episodes/Double-Taxation-on-Social-Security-and-How-It-May-Hurt-Your-Retirement---1-30-25-Retirement-Planning-Coffee-Talk-e2u6s4i

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation. And since this is a live session, I may occasionally make a mistake.

Articles Referenced: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/double-taxation-older-americans-increasingly-140800773.html

https://www.morningstar.com/retirement/should-you-turbocharge-your-retirement-savings?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MorningDigest&utm_content=None_60327&utm_id=31161

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/warren-buffett-advice-people-trying-144516366.html?guccounter=1

#RetirementPlanning #FinancialFreedom #InvestSmart #SocialSecurity #WarrenBuffett #RetirementSavings #MoneyNotMath #5StoneFinancialGroup #Money #Retirement #EmptyNesters

🌟 Retirement Planning Insights: Watch or Listen Now! 🌟

Hey everyone! 🎥🎙️ I just recorded a video and podcast diving into some crucial retirement planning topics inspired by three insightful articles. Here's a sneak peek:

1. Double Taxation on Social Security: Many older Americans are feeling the pinch as Uncle Sam claws back their Social Security benefits. Learn how this "double taxation" impacts your retirement and what you can do about it.

2. Turbocharging Your Retirement Savings: Are you between 60 and 63? Discover how you can take advantage of "super catch-up" contributions to boost your retirement savings and secure your financial future.

3. Warren Buffett's Advice: Thinking about mimicking Warren Buffett's investment moves? Find out why this strategy might not be as foolproof as it seems and get tips on making smarter investment choices.

📺 Watch the full video or 🎧 listen to the podcast now to get the insights you need to make informed decisions for a comfortable retirement. Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more financial tips!

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation. And since this is a live session, I may occasionally make a mistake.

Articles Referenced: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/double-taxation-older-americans-increasingly-140800773.html

https://www.morningstar.com/retirement/should-you-turbocharge-your-retirement-savings?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MorningDigest&utm_content=None_60327&utm_id=31161

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/warren-buffett-advice-people-trying-144516366.html?guccounter=1

#RetirementPlanning #FinancialFreedom #InvestSmart #SocialSecurity #WarrenBuffett #RetirementSavings #MoneyNotMath #5StoneFinancialGroup #Money #Retirement #EmptyNesters

Did you know the government decides when you must start spending your 401(k) and IRA money in retirement?

🎙️ Welcome to Money Not Math 156! 🎙️ Tune in to learn more about:

🔹 RMD Essentials: Understand that taxes are only delayed, not avoided. 🔹 Strategies: Discover ways to delay or avoid RMDs. 🔹 Retirement Planning Tips: Get expert advice to secure your financial future.

Don't miss out! Share this podcast with friends, comment with your questions and thoughts, like this post to help me provide value to more people, or contact me privately for a personalized retirement planning conversation.

Full Podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/drew-erickson7/episodes/Ever-wondered-if-401k-withdrawals-before-age-73-count-toward-your-Required-Minimum-Distributions-RMDs-e2u2aco

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional for your personal situation.

#RetirementPlanning #401k #RMDs #FinancialAdvice #MoneyNotMath #Podcast #InvestSmart #SecureFuture #5StoneFinancialGroup

Article referenced: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/401-k-withdrawals-turn-73-142043461.html

Ever wondered if 401(k) withdrawals before age 73 count toward your Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)? 🤔

Did you know the government decides when you must start spending your 401(k) and IRA money in retirement?

🎙️ Welcome to Money Not Math 156! 🎙️ Tune in to learn more about:

🔹 RMD Essentials: Understand that taxes are only delayed, not avoided. 🔹 Strategies: Discover ways to delay or avoid RMDs. 🔹 Retirement Planning Tips: Get expert advice to secure your financial future.

Don't miss out! Share this podcast with friends, comment with your questions and thoughts, like this post to help me provide value to more people, or contact me privately for a personalized retirement planning conversation.

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional for your personal situation.

#RetirementPlanning #401k #RMDs #FinancialAdvice #MoneyNotMath #Podcast #InvestSmart #SecureFuture

Article referenced: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/401-k-withdrawals-turn-73-142043461.html

“More than 8 in 10 workers over 45 regret not taking retirement saving more seriously when they were younger.”

“More than half of those surveyed by EBRI retired earlier than expected due to reasons beyond their control, such as health problems or disability, or changes at their company, like downsizing, closure, or reorganization.”

Only 19% of retirees have a written plan, she added. “But just because you’re already retired doesn’t mean you can’t do some retirement planning to know where you stand and give yourself a boost.”

Full podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/drew-erickson7/episodes/What-do-people-regret-the-most-when-they-retire--1-23-25-Retirement-Planning-Coffee-Talk-e2tsuvn

Article referenced: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/what-do-people-regret-the-most-when-they-retire-143035482.html

Here’s the link to schedule a call with me if you want to ask questions privately: https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/Gb122ad25bf0742de9ef95f26af89fd04@5stonefinancial.com/bookings/s/ytXDEtRh0E-29mrENW6_Uw2

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation. And since this is a live session, I may occasionally make a mistake.

#RetirementPlanning #MoneyNotMath #EmptyNesters #5StoneFinancialGroup #Investing #Money #FinancialEducation #Retirement #Coffee

What do people regret the most when they retire? 1.23.25 Retirement Planning Coffee Talk

“More than 8 in 10 workers over 45 regret not taking retirement saving more seriously when they were younger.”

“More than half of those surveyed by EBRI retired earlier than expected due to reasons beyond their control, such as health problems or disability, or changes at their company, like downsizing, closure, or reorganization.”

Only 19% of retirees have a written plan, she added. “But just because you’re already retired doesn’t mean you can’t do some retirement planning to know where you stand and give yourself a boost.”

Article referenced: https://finance.yahoo.com/news/what-do-people-regret-the-most-when-they-retire-143035482.html

Here’s the link to schedule a call with me if you want to ask questions privately: https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/Gb122ad25bf0742de9ef95f26af89fd04@5stonefinancial.com/bookings/s/ytXDEtRh0E-29mrENW6_Uw2

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation. And since this is a live session, I may occasionally make a mistake.

#RetirementPlanning #MoneyNotMath #EmptyNesters #5StoneFinancialGroup #Investing #Money #FinancialEducation #Retirement #Coffee

In our latest Coffee Talk video/podcast, we dive into smart retirement planning tips:

1. 5 Mistakes to Avoid with Your Investment Portfolio.

2. How inflation affects your stocks and bonds 📉🏦

3. 4 purchases keeping the middle class from retiring early 💡💰

Full podcast: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/drew-erickson7/episodes/5-Mistakes-to-Avoid-with-Your-Investment-Portfolio--1-16-25-Retirement-Planning-Coffee-Talk-e2tj8q1

Join us for these weekly Coffee Talks to connect and get valuable advice—even if you're not a client. Whether you join us on Facebook Live or drop by my office for a free coffee, there's no pressure to become a client. Feel free to message me directly if you prefer to ask questions privately.

My mission is to provide high-quality advice and service to my 100 active clients, but I'm dedicated to sharing valuable information with as many people as possible through these Coffee Talks.

👉 Schedule a private call if you have questions! https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/Gb122ad25bf0742de9ef95f26af89fd04@5stonefinancial.com/bookings/s/ytXDEtRh0E-29mrENW6_Uw2

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation. Since this is a live session, I may occasionally make a mistake.

Articles referenced: https://www.morningstar.com/portfolios/5-mistakes-avoid-with-your-investment-portfolio-2025?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MorningDigest&utm_content=None_60248&utm_id=31092

https://www.morningstar.com/markets/is-inflation-really-what-ails-stocks-bonds?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=SmartInvestor&utm_content=None_60263&utm_id=31107

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/4-purchases-keeping-middle-class-140016805.html

#RetirementPlanning #EmptyNesters #InvestmentTips #Inflation #EarlyRetirement #FinancialAdvice #Coffee

In our latest Coffee Talk video/podcast, we dive into smart retirement planning tips:

1. 5 Mistakes to Avoid with Your Investment Portfolio.

2. How inflation affects your stocks and bonds 📉🏦

3. 4 purchases keeping the middle class from retiring early 💡💰

Join us for these weekly Coffee Talks to connect and get valuable advice—even if you're not a client. Whether you join us on Facebook Live or drop by my office for a free coffee, there's no pressure to become a client. Feel free to message me directly if you prefer to ask questions privately.

My mission is to provide high-quality advice and service to my 100 active clients, but I'm dedicated to sharing valuable information with as many people as possible through these Coffee Talks.

👉 Schedule a private call if you have questions! https://outlook.office365.com/owa/calendar/Gb122ad25bf0742de9ef95f26af89fd04@5stonefinancial.com/bookings/s/ytXDEtRh0E-29mrENW6_Uw2

Disclaimer: This content is not legal, tax, or investment advice. Consult a qualified professional regarding your own situation. Since this is a live session, I may occasionally make a mistake.

Articles referenced: https://www.morningstar.com/portfolios/5-mistakes-avoid-with-your-investment-portfolio-2025?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=MorningDigest&utm_content=None_60248&utm_id=31092

https://www.morningstar.com/markets/is-inflation-really-what-ails-stocks-bonds?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=SmartInvestor&utm_content=None_60263&utm_id=31107

https://finance.yahoo.com/news/4-purchases-keeping-middle-class-140016805.html

#RetirementPlanning #EmptyNesters #InvestmentTips #Inflation #EarlyRetirement #FinancialAdvice #Coffee