The retirement landscape is changing dramatically as we navigate the "Peak 65" era—where over 11,200 Americans are turning 65 daily in 2025, the highest rate in history. How prepared are we for this unprecedented demographic shift?

Jason Fichtner, former Deputy Commissioner of Social Security and Executive Director of the Retirement Income Institute for the Alliance for Lifetime Income, brings his remarkable expertise to tackle some of retirement planning's most misunderstood concepts. Drawing from his experience overseeing Social Security's policies, Fichtner dismantles common misconceptions about claiming strategies, explaining why the difference between claiming at age 62 versus 70 represents a staggering 77% increase in lifetime benefits.

One simple but profound shift Fichtner advocates is changing how we frame claiming ages—moving away from misleading terms like "early eligibility age" and "full retirement age" toward more accurate descriptions: "minimum monthly benefit age" and "maximum monthly benefit age." This small language adjustment completely transforms how Americans approach their claiming decisions.

With traditional pensions disappearing, today's retirees face the challenge of creating their own retirement paychecks. Fichtner introduces the concept of protected income as a crucial asset class alongside traditional investments, explaining how "bridge annuities" can provide income while delaying Social Security benefits to maximize guaranteed, inflation-protected income for life. His powerful mantra—"Income is the outcome in retirement"—cuts through complex financial jargon to focus on what truly matters: creating reliable income streams that last as long as you do.

Whether you're approaching retirement or helping loved ones navigate this transition, this episode provides clear, actionable strategies from one of the nation's foremost retirement security experts. Take the first step toward a secure retirement by scheduling your complimentary consultation at 866-780-SAFE (7233) and receive your free copy of "Bulletproof: The Safe and Secure Retirement Income Plan."

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