Retirement Starts Today

Retirement Starts Today

By Benjamin Brandt CFP®, RICP®BusinessEducationInvesting
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Retirement Starts Today episodes

  • Retirement Rewind: Estate Planning Strategies to Preserve IRAs with John Ross, Ep #171

    Welcome to this episode of our Retirement Rewind. Retirement Rewind episodes are so informative that we decided to play them again while I take the month of December to spend a bit more time to enjoy my family.

    Estate planning attorney, John Ross from the Big Picture Retirement podcast, joins me to discuss how you can preserve your IRAs for your heirs in the wake of the SECURE Act. Check out this interview to discover how to optimize legacy tax planning, how to utilize an accumulation trust, and learn about the charitable remainder trust.

    Outline of This Episode
    • [1:22] How has the loss of the stretch IRA changed estate planning?
    • [4:06] An accumulation trust may be the key to planning your estate
    • [6:44] A new opportunity for state income tax planning
    • [9:22] How to turn a 10-year stretch into a 20-year stretch
    • [16:32] A case study
    • [18:44] You may want to consider a charitable remainder trust
    How has estate planning changed with the elimination of the stretch IRA?

    The SECURE Act brought about huge changes to estate planning when it effectively killed the stretch IRA. The stretch IRA provided the opportunity for people to name their spouse as a primary beneficiary and their children as secondary beneficiaries.

    Upon inheritance, the IRA could be sent into a conduit trust and the RMDs were sent directly to the beneficiary. Those RMDs were based on the life expectancy of the beneficiary. One benefit of this trust was that it was doled out over a lifetime, another is that the IRA was preserved and protected from creditors. With the SECURE Act in place the conduit trust will no longer set the standard.

    What will replace the conduit trust?

    Now that the conduit trust is defunct, how should people plan their estate? An accumulation trust may be the key. Inheritors can no longer withdraw those IRA funds over the course of their lifetime. They now have only 10 years to draw on the IRA.

    In those 10 years a lot can happen. If your inheritor gets sued, divorced, or has problems with creditors then the IRA is at risk of disappearing. One solution to this problem is to set up an accumulation trust.

    You may want to rethink your beneficiaries

    Now that the long-term stretch IRA is gone we need to rethink legacy planning. You may be thinking that 10 years is too short of a window for your inheritors. However, there is a way to stretch that 10-year window into 20. You could stretch these funds into 20 years by leaving your spouse half of your IRA and your kids the other half. Find out how this could work by listening to this interview with Johnn Ross.

    Now is the time to review your estate plan

    Instead of thinking of this change in the law as an inconvenience, take the opportunity to review and update your estate plan. Many people set up their estate plan and then never revise it, but a lot can change over the years. When was the last time you reviewed your estate plan?

    Connect with John Ross
    • Ross and Shoalmire Law Firm
    • Big Picture Retirement
    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit:http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/
    • Follow Ben on Twitter:https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

    Apple Podcasts,Stitcher,TuneIn,Podbean,Player FM,iHeart, orSpotify

    25 min
  • Retirement Rewind: It's Roth Conversion Season, Ep #170

    What would happen if you go over your tax bracket by $1 when doing a Roth IRA conversion? On this Retirement Rewind episode, we'll explore the best way that you can take advantage of the current tax cuts and get the most out of your money. What will Roth conversion season mean for you? Listen in and find out!

    Outline of This Episode
    • [1:22] Why do we wait so long to convert our Roth IRA's?
    • [3:44] What happens if I go over my tax rate?
    • [6:40] What about Medicare?
    • [13:15] Why are Roth IRA conversions such a big deal?
    • [15:48] How do Duane's earnings this year affect his Medicare premiums?
    • [17:15] Should Don put 100% of his portfolio in stocks?
    Why should you wait until the end of the year to convert your Roth IRAs?

    It's a good idea to wait until the end of the year to convert your IRAs into a Roth. This is because you'll have a good idea as to how much you will earn during the year.

    The reason that you'll want to wait until the end of the year to make a Roth conversion is to understand how much you'll be making this year so you can fill up your tax bracket with the conversions.

    Will you take advantage of Roth conversion season?

    Why should you bother to convert your traditional IRA into a Roth?

    The funds in your IRA are pretax dollars so when you convert them to a Roth you pay taxes on them. It's a good idea to convert your IRA into a Roth so that you can pay taxes now rather than later.

    Roth conversions are a fantastic way to take advantage of the current tax cuts since it's better to pay the devil you know than wait until later on in retirement when you'll have no idea what the tax rates will be like.

    Have you been converting some of your traditional IRA into a Roth over the years? If you haven't now is a great time to start!

    What happens if you go $1 over your tax bracket?

    You may have the idea that if you go even just $1 over your tax bracket that all of your planning will be for naught. Before you panic too much, let's talk about marginal income tax rates.

    Those couples who are married and file jointly and earn $79,000 per year will be taxed at a 22% federal income tax rate. However, that doesn't mean that all $79,000 is taxed at the same rate. The rates are different for different parts of your income. The first $19,400 is taxed at 10%. Then the income from $19,400 to $78,951 is taxed at 12%. So that means only $49 would be taxed at 22%.

    This type of taxation is called marginal income tax. A marginal income tax ensures that if you get a raise your net income won't decrease.

    Hopefully, understanding how marginal income taxes work will help you understand that the sky will not fall if you go over your tax bracket by a few dollars.

    What if you go over the income bracket for Medicare?

    Unfortunately, Medicare is not as forgiving as the marginal income tax system. Many people don't realize that Medicare has income-based premiums. If you make over $170,000 then you will no longer qualify for the Medicare Part B standard premium and you will also pay more for the Part D drug plan.

    Listen in to hear how much your Medicare premiums could be and find out the answers to our listener questions.

    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit:http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/
    • Follow Ben on Twitter:https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

    Apple Podcasts,Stitcher,TuneIn,Podbean,Player FM,iHeart, orSpotify
    25 min
  • Retirement Rewind: My Favorite Retirement Podcasts (for the 3rd time) #169

    Welcome back to the Retirement Rewind! I take the last part of the year off from podcasting to spend more time with my family. But that doesn't mean that you miss out on your favorite retirement podcast. Actually, I have a treat for you today. This episode is so good this is the 3rd time I'm playing it. Press play to find out which retirement podcasts I listen to in my spare time and scroll down to the bottom of the page to find links to my favorite episodes of those podcasts.

    On this episode, you'll discover more amazing retirement podcasts to listen to. In addition, you'll learn about the confusing world of reverse mortgages and whether you should plan for a 20% cut to your Social Security.

    Outline of This Episode
    • [2:22] Do you understand reverse mortgages?
    • [8:26] Will you be taking a 20% cut on social security?
    • [12:46] Get retirement ready with my favorite retirement podcasts
    Do you find reverse mortgages confusing?

    I'm sure you've seen the ads for reverse mortgages before, but do you really know what they are? A study done on a focus group showed that most people thought reverse mortgages were a government welfare program. They didn't realize that there were interest and fees involved and many thought that with a reverse mortgage they wouldn't have to pay any more property taxes. Do you have questions about reverse mortgages?

    What exactly is a reverse mortgage?

    Commonly known as a reverse mortgage, a Home Equity Credit Mortgage (HECM) is just like any other mortgage -- it has to be paid back. Reverse mortgages are sometimes taken on by people in retirement who are looking for a lifetime income.

    A reverse mortgage works when the HECM calculates half of your home equity value and they set up a lifetime annuity based on that amount. Reverse mortgages can be complicated, so if you are considering one, make sure you read all the fine print.

    My 5 favorite retirement podcasts

    If you're listening to Retirement Starts Today you probably love podcasts as much as I do. I got into podcasting because I realized it would be a fantastic way to share my knowledge with a wider audience without having to be a writer. You may be surprised to learn that I have my own favorite retirement podcasts.

    Learning to save for retirement can be kind of boring since all of us retirement podcasters are essentially saying the same thing. It's the personality of the podcast hosts that really sets these shows apart from the rest. Here are 5 retirement podcasts that I love to listen to and learn from.

    1. Stay Wealthy with Taylor Schulte
    2. Retirement Answer Man by Roger Whitney
    3. Sound Retirement Radio with Jason Parker
    4. Stacking Benjamins by Joe Saul-Sehy & OG
    5. Retirement Repair Shop by Mary Beth Franklin
    Resources & People Mentioned
    • BOOK – How to Use Reverse Mortgages to Secure Your Retirement by Wade Pfau
    • Forbes article on reverse mortgages by Wade Pfau
    • Washington Examiner article on Social Security
    • Stay Wealthy Podcast
      • How to Lower Taxes in Retirement
      • Avoid Massive Investing Mistakes
    • Retirement Answer Man Podcast
      • RV in Retirement Series Episodes 263, 264, 265, 266
    • Sound Retirement Radio
      • Will You Run Out of Money in Retirement?
      • Urgent vs. Important
    • Retirement Repair Shop
    • Stacking Benjamins
      • Here's Why You Aren't Rich
      • We Make 500k a Year and Struggle with Our Budget
    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit:http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/
    • Follow Ben on Twitter:https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

    Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

    21 min
  • Retirement Rewind: The Hidden Challenges of Retirement with Fritz Gilbert, Ep # 168

    Welcome to Retirement Rewind! Each year I take the holiday season off from podcasting to spend more time with my family. The good news is that I prepare my favorite episodes from the past for you to enjoy.

    This episode is an interview with Fritz Gilbert over at the Retirement Manifesto blog. In this interview, Fritz and I discuss his new book, Keys to a Successful Retirement as well as his firsthand experience now that he has recently retired. If you've already listened to this episode before you might be surprised to hear the tidbits that you forgot about and if you missed it the first time around, you won't want to miss the interview this time.

    Outline of This Episode
    • [2:37] Why your first cup of coffee in retirement is the best cup of your life
    • [5:22] Retirement advice for a 38-year-old
    • [9:53] If you only had $500 to spend on retirement education what would you do?
    • [13:28] Are we in the golden era of Roth Conversions?
    • [16:27] A question about chapter 4 of Fritz's book
    • [20:21] How to create the ideal retirement
    You have to experience retirement to really understand it

    Fritz spent years leading up to retirement trying to understand what retirement would be like. However, after finally retiring, he realized that it isn't something that you can explain to others. You have to actually experience it yourself to understand. I like his analogy of having a locked door in front of you your whole life and on the day of your retirement, you are finally given the key. What do you think? Do you think the feeling of retirement can be conveyed to others?

    More than half of all people retire before they think they will

    Save, save, save! Even if you are one of those people that think they will continue working forever, it is still important to save for retirement. 60% of all people are forced into retirement before they have planned. What if you were forced into retirement tomorrow? Would you be ready? What are you doing now to help yourself prepare for the inevitable time when you won't be able to work anymore?

    What is the biggest bang for your buck for learning about retirement?

    I asked Fritz how he would spend his money if he only had $500 to spend on learning about retirement. It's not a lot of money to spend on such an important topic, but fortunately, there is so much free content available; you can learn just about anything without too much money. YouTube, podcasts, and blogs provide a lot of information for free.

    Fritz would spend his $500 in one of two ways. He loves books and feels like they provide a wealth of information. He also values the money he spent on hiring a CFP for a once over on his accounts. As a DIY investor, the peace of mind of having a professional give him the green light was invaluable. If you only had $500 to spend learning about retirement how would you spend it?

    Create your ideal retirement by embracing your passion

    Retirement is a fantastic time to devote yourself to the passions that you've had to put on the backburner during your working years. Do you have a passion? How will you pursue it in retirement? If you don't have a passion yet a curious mind can take you a long way to discovering one. Fritz found a passion that he never knew he had. Find out what it is by listening to this interview.

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Garrett Planning Network
    • XY Planning Network
    Connect with Fritz Gilbert
    • Retirement Manifesto
    • Keys to a Successful Retirement
    • Fritz on Twitter @RetireManifesto
    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit:http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/
    • Follow Ben on Twitter:https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

    Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, TuneIn, Podbean, Player FM, iHeart, or Spotify

    29 min
  • Retirement Rewind: The Hidden Challenges of Retirement with Fritz Gilberthttps://retirementstartstodayradio.com/the-hidden-challenges-of-retirement-with-fritz-gilbert-ep-146/

    Retirement Manifesto blogger, Fritz Gilbert joins me today. Fritz was actually my very first guest on the show and is now my first repeat guest. I’m excited to have him join me again since he has recently retired.

    Fritz shares insight from his research in writing his blog and book but also from his first-hand knowledge of retirement.

    Listen in to our conversation as we discuss hidden challenges of retirement, how it feels to be newly retired, and how to get the most bang for your buck in retirement planning. For more information, visit the show notes at https://retirementstartstodayradio.com/the-hidden-challenges-of-retirement-with-fritz-gilbert-ep-146

    29 min
  • BIG Legislation Changes, tiny Portfolio Changes, Ep # 167

    Are you worried about what the election means for your retirement portfolio? Many people are tempted to make big changes to their retirement savings to reflect their election concerns. On this episode of Retirement Starts Today Radio, you'll learn what you can do to your portfolio if you are nervous about the transition. You'll also hear what the new RMD tables mean and how the Biden proposals could change the entire retirement landscape.

    Outline of This Episode
    • [2:12] What do the new RMD tables mean for you?
    • [4:40] How much is the next Medicare Part B premium increase?
    • [7:40] Should you make big changes to your retirement plan because of the election?
    • [11:50] Which Biden proposals could affect you and your retirement?
    What do the new RMD tables mean for you?

    Since people are living longer than ever before, the IRS has finally decided to acknowledge these longer lifespans by updating their Required Minimum Distribution tables. According to the longer retirement timeline, retirees can take out smaller mandatory distributions and spread them out over a longer period of time.

    What does this mean for you? You can expect to see smaller tax bills and larger IRA balances compounding over time. Listen in to hear the details and learn why this new tax table may seem familiar.

    Should you make big changes to your retirement plan because of the election?

    Thankfully, we're not here to discuss politics. You can go just about anywhere else on the internet for that. However, I do want to touch on the changes that may arise due to the election.

    An election year often brings about strong feelings one way or the other and many people feel that they need to make changes to their portfolio based on what they hear on the news. Just because there is an election doesn't mean that you should make big changes to your retirement portfolio. It's a good idea to keep in mind that there may be between 4 and 8 presidents in office over the course of your retirement.

    Major global policy shifts don't equal major portfolio shifts

    Even if there are major shifts in global policy you only want to make tiny shifts in your portfolio. If you listen in I will give you specific examples of what you can do to prepare for the future transition without changing the essence of your portfolio.

    I do want to clarify that you should never take advice from me or anyone that you find on the internet. Regardless of who is running the country, I want you to have an amazing retirement.

    Which Biden proposals could affect you and your retirement?

    One of Biden's proposals could completely change the retirement landscape. How would your retirement plans change if the Medicare age was lowered from age 65 to 60? At this point, it is just a proposal. Stay tuned in to Retirement Starts Today Radio over the coming months to hear the latest on this Biden proposal as well as his plans for Social Security.

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Plan Adviser RMD tables
    • Think Advisor Medicare Part B article
    • NPR article about Biden's Medicare proposal
    • CNBC article about Social Security
    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit: http://retirementstartstodayradio.com
    • Follow Ben on Twitter: https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

    Apple Podcasts,Stitcher,TuneIn,Podbean,Player FM,iHeart, orSpotify

    17 min
  • Medicare Annual Maintenance and Timelines: What Do I Need to Do Annually? Ep #166

    After you finally get Medicare all figured out and everything in place, the last thing you want to do is ever think about it again. But unfortunately, you need to review your Medicare coverage annually.

    Danielle Roberts is back, yet again, to help us understand what we need to do annually to review our Medicare plans. In this episode, you'll learn what to do if you have a prescription drug change, if your Medicare Advantage plan gets discontinued, and how to change from supplemental plans to advantage plans and vice versa. There's loads of information in this episode so make sure to pay attention so that you don't miss any details.

    Outline of This Episode
    • [1:22] What do we need to think about each year when it comes to Medicare?
    • [5:05] What to look for when you receive your annual notice of change
    • [10:01] How to change from a Medicare supplement to an advantage plan?
    • [14:43] Is switching between Medigap plans easy to do?
    • [17:35] What is in store for Plan F?
    What is the annual election period?

    The Medicare annual election period runs from October 15 - December 7. This is the time when you can enroll in, change, or disenroll from a part d drug plan or a Medicare Advantage plan.

    What to look for when you receive your annual notice of change

    When Medicare sends your annual notice of change it will lay out all of the benefit changes for the next year. This is one Medicare notification that you do not want to toss in the garbage. Take some time to go over this document to look for premium changes as well as changes in drug tiers for all of your medications. Even if you are happy with your current plans, it is still a good idea to check your coverage. Listen in to learn what you can learn from the MyMedicare.gov website.

    What if I want to change my Medicare supplement to an advantage plan or vice versa?

    If you are looking to change plans you can do so during the open enrollment period which also takes place from October 15 - December 7. It's quite easy to switch from a supplement to an advantage plan. Simply enroll during the open enrollment period and then cancel your supplement. There are no health questions to answer. However, if you would like to switch from an advantage plan to a Medigap plan, it is more complicated. Discover the order of events that must take place by hearing it straight from Danielle Roberts.

    Is switching between Medigap plans easy to do?

    Switching between Medigap plans generally requires a health screening and underwriting which is why it is important to wait until you have been approved for a new plan before canceling your old plan.

    Using a broker can help you understand the nuances of Medicare and ensure that you don't make costly mistakes. Learn more about Boomer Benefits at BoomerBenefits.com.

    If you haven't listened to all 4 of the Medicare episodes with Danielle Roberts, I encourage you to head on over to episode 163 to get started. I know I have learned a ton from Danielle's expertise and you will too.

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • MyMedicare.gov
    Connect with Danielle Roberts
    • Boomer Benefits YouTube Channel
    • BOOK - 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes by Danielle Roberts
    • Boomer Benefits Facebook page
    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit:http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/
    • Follow Ben on Twitter:https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

    Apple Podcasts,Stitcher,TuneIn,Podbean,Player FM,iHeart, orSpotify

    23 min
  • Medicare Supplements & Advantage - Where Does Part D Fit In? Ep. #165

    Do you know the difference between a Medicare supplement and a Medicare advantage plan? You'll need to understand their differences to make an educated decision about which to choose when it is time to sign up for Medicare. Danielle Roberts from Boomer Benefits joins me again to help us wade through the various Medicare supplement choices. Learn how best to fill the gaps that Medicare leaves by listening to this episode of Retirement Starts Today.

    Outline of This Episode
    • [2:12] What is covered by Medicare supplement plans?
    • [8:00] Medicare advantage plans operate through a network of providers
    • [15:02] Switching between plans may not be as easy as you think
    • [20:24] Dental and vision insurance
    What is a Medicare supplement or Medigap plan?

    One benefit of choosing the original Medicare route is that the federal government will be processing your claims. While this is a positive aspect of choosing traditional Medicare, it also means that there will be deductibles and a 20% out of pocket cost on your claims. For this reason, it is important to consider purchasing a Medicare supplement plan. There are 10 different standardized plans to choose from, although most people choose one of 3 plans.

    • Plan F is the Cadillac of plans, it was so popular and easy to use that it is actually being discontinued.
    • Plan G is the next most popular plan. However, it doesn't cover the $198 outpatient deductible.
    • Plan N is a consumer-driven plan. It has a lower premium, but you pay a deductible and some copays for doctors and ER visits.

    Find out why Medicare supplements are ideal for customers with some discretionary spending and frequent medical spending.

    Medicare Advantage plans are becoming popular

    Medicare Advantage plans are gaining in popularity. The premiums are lower, but there is less choice for the consumer. You must use only the plan's network of providers and their approved medications. There will also be extra spending on your part in the years that you have more medical spending.

    If you want to switch from a Medigap to an Advantage plan there is no required medical questionnaire to fill out. However, if you would like to switch from an Advantage plan to a Medigap plan there is a possibility that you could be denied based on your health.

    Listen in to hear what questions you need to ask before you sign up for a Medicare Advantage plan.

    What about dental and vision insurance?

    Many people are surprised to discover that dental, vision, and hearing are not covered by Medicare. This is because in the 60s when Medicare was created, it wasn't typical for insurance companies to cover these ancillary medical concerns.

    There are a couple of options that seniors have when it comes to dental, vision, and hearing. You could purchase a standalone plan which covers these areas. Or you could choose a Medicare Advantage plan that also covers dental, vision, and hearing.

    There is an important consideration you need to be aware of if choosing the Medicare Advantage route. Find out what it is by listening to this episode of Retirement Starts Today.

    Do you have a rainy day fund?

    One last consideration that you need to think of is having a rainy day fund for out of pocket medical costs. If you choose a high deductible plan and then you end up needing cancer treatment that year, you could be hit with a $6500 bill. An HSA is a great way to cover this cost.

    Have you listened to all of Danielle's episodes? If not, head over to episode 163 to get started from the beginning!

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Taxes and Retirement Facebook Group
    Connect with Danielle Roberts
    • Medicare Q&A with Boomer Benefits Facebook Group
    • Boomer Benefits
    • BOOK - 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes by Danielle Roberts
    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit:http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/
    • Follow Ben on Twitter:https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

    Apple Podcasts,Stitcher,TuneIn,Podbean,Player FM,iHeart, or Spotify

    27 min
  • Retirement: What to Expect if You Retire Before or After Age 65 with Danielle Roberts, Ep # 164

    Deciding to retire before age 65 can be a tough decision to make. For most people, this decision will result in an extra $1000 or more a month in health insurance expenses. Retiring after age 65 has its pitfalls as well. On this episode of Retirement Starts Today, Danielle Roberts joins me again to discuss the potential landmines that you need to look out for whether you are planning to retire before or after age 65.

    Outline of This Episode
    • [2:22] What about retiring early?
    • [6:29] Which is better, shopping on the exchange or going directly to the insurance company?
    • [9:18] How to manage the risk?
    • [13:25] What are some mistakes people make when they retire after age 65?
    • [20:34] Why you don't want to miss part D drug coverage.
    Should you work longer just for health insurance?

    If you are considering working longer just for the insurance Danielle and I both recommend that you don't. Instead, compare the cost of insurance through COBRA to the cost through the ACA. If you want to retire there are many plans to choose from through the ACA. One way to lessen the costs of insurance is to sign up for a high deductible plan that includes an HSA. That way you are building a healthcare nest egg at the same time. Discover a creative healthcare solution if you or your spouse is significantly younger by listening to Danielle's advice.

    Which is better, shopping on the exchange or going directly to the insurance company?

    It seems that it would be easy to shop insurance companies on your own these days by browsing through the companies websites. But Danielle recommends using the healthcare exchange at Healthcare.gov instead. She finds this to be a better way to compare carriers and their prices. The options are easier to find and the site will display all the plans that are offered in your area. Have you ever used the healthcare exchange?

    How to manage the risk?

    Insurance is all about the transfer of risk. When trying to choose between a high deductible plan vs. a lower deductible plan you'll want to compare your health concerns with your budget concerns. Consider how you use doctors. Do you have monthly visits with different specialists? Or do you visit the doctor once a year for your yearly check-up? If you only go to the doctor a couple of times a year then you don't need to have a plan with a copay.

    What are some mistakes people make when they retire after age 65?

    Many people delay their coverage of Medicare part B when they are still employed after age 65. This is fine while they are still employed, however, it is important to sign up for Medicare part B and D as soon as possible after leaving their employer-sponsored plan so as not to get stuck with a hefty penalty. Listen in to find out what you need to do to avoid penalties or a lengthy battle with Medicare.

    Make sure you are signed up for the Every Day is Saturday newsletter so that you can respond to it and have a chance to receive a free copy of Danielle's book, 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make.

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Healthcare.gov
    Connect with Danielle Roberts
    • BOOK - 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make by Danielle Roberts
    • Boomer Benefits
    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit:http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/
    • Follow Ben on Twitter:https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

    Apple Podcasts,Stitcher,TuneIn,Podbean,Player FM,iHeart, orSpotify

    26 min
  • Medicare Basics: What to Expect as You Approach Age 65 with Danielle Roberts, Ep # 163

    You asked and I listened. This summer I asked you all for your thoughts on the show and many people responded that they wanted to hear more deep dives into complex subjects. We tried this out with the Living Off Your Savings series and now we're taking some extra time to discuss Medicare. This episode is the first of a 4 episode series on Medicare. Grab your headphones and press play to begin your Medicare education.

    Since I am not a Medicare expert, I have invited Danielle Roberts with Boomer Benefits to teach us about this nuanced subject. Make sure to stick around until the end of the episode to learn how you can get a free copy of Danielle's new book, 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make.

    Outline of This Episode
    • [3:22] When should people start looking into Medicare in earnest?
    • [7:10] Why is Medicare Easy-Pay a good option?
    • [10:03] What will medicare pay for?
    • [12:25] What do your taxes pay for?
    • [17:15] Part D is an optional drug plan
    When should someone start thinking about Medicare?

    The official Medicare enrollment period begins 3 months before your 65th birthday and this is often the time when people usually begin to start thinking about Medicare. Age 64.5 is a great time to begin to research your Medicare choices. In addition to Danielle's book, there are plenty of resources online to help you educate yourself. After you listen to this series, YouTube and the Medicare website are good places to continue learning.

    What costs are involved in Medicare?

    Some people are surprised to find that Medicare is not free. There are costs involved that you need to be aware of to properly plan for retirement. In addition to the monthly fee taken directly out of your Social Security payment, there are deductibles for inpatient and outpatient services as well as copays or coinsurance for doctor visits. Listen in to understand why it's important to do your research early on to decide on what kind of extra coverage you may need.

    What are the different parts of Medicare?

    Medicare Part A is what your Medicare payroll taxes have been paying for all these years and it covers hospital stays. Part B is what gets taken out of your Social Security check each month and this piece covers outpatient care. Medicare Part B pays only 80% so it is important to consider how you will cover the other 20%. This 20% can be supplemented in 2 ways. Listen in to hear what the difference is between Medigap and Medicare Advantage plans.

    How you can receive a FREE copy of Danielle's book

    Danielle is a fountain of Medicare information, so you won't want to miss this series. On the next episode, you'll hear what to expect if you retire before or after age 65. If you want a chance to get a free copy of Danielle's book sign up for the Every Day is Saturday newsletter and respond to that email with a promise to leave an honest review of this podcast and Danielle's book. So, if you haven't already signed up for Every Day is Saturday, head over to RetirementStartsToday.com and hit subscribe.

    Resources & People Mentioned
    • Start here to listen to the Living Off Your Savings series
    Connect with Danielle Roberts
    • Boomer Benefits
    • BOOK - 10 Costly Medicare Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make by Danielle Roberts
    Connect with Benjamin Brandt
    • Get the Retire-Ready Toolkit:http://retirementstartstodayradio.com/
    • Follow Ben on Twitter:https://twitter.com/retiremeasap

    Subscribe to Retirement Starts Today on

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    22 min

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