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Plan the Retirement You Want

2024 Review & 2025 Outlook

2024 Market Performance

- S&P 500: +25.5%

- NASDAQ: +31.97%

- Dow: +12.88%

- Interest rates: 5.33% → 4.33%

- Housing market cooled; higher mortgage rates and insurance costs

### Policy Updates

- SECURE Act 2.0: Increased catch-up contributions (50+)

- Medicare: Enhanced telehealth benefits

- Social Security: 3.2% COLA

### Key Takeaways

- Diversification proved valuable

- Emergency funds remained crucial

- Healthcare planning importance increased

- High rates benefited cash/CD holders

### 2025 Outlook

- Fed likely to keep rates elevated

- Possible mild recession

- Focus on Social Security reform

- Rising healthcare costs

- Emphasis on longevity planning

*Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, registered investment advisor, FINRA/SIPC. General information only, not specific financial advice.*

Resources: plantheretirementyouwant.com/coffee, melissamoss.co/newsletter

How to Give More, Save More, and Leave a Legacy with Donor Advised Funds

Plan the Retirement You Want Podcast with Melissa Moss, CFP®

Episode Overview

In this episode, we explore how Donor Advised Funds (DAFs) can help you create a meaningful charitable legacy while optimizing your tax strategy. Through real-world examples and practical advice, learn how DAFs can benefit both your family and your favorite causes.

Key Takeaways

1. DAFs provide immediate tax deductions while allowing flexible giving over time

2. You can contribute appreciated assets to avoid capital gains taxes

3. Minimum starting amounts can be as low as $5,000

4. DAFs can be powerful tools for both tax planning and family legacy building

Connect with Melissa

• Schedule a Coffee Chat: plantheretirementyouwant.com/coffee
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: plantheretirementyouwant.com

• Newsletter Signup: melissamoss.co/newsletter

Disclaimer

Melissa Moss is a registered representative with and securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. The opinions voiced in this show are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. To determine which strategies or investments may be suitable for you, consult the appropriate qualified professional prior to making a decision.

Estate planning attorney Brandy Sluss joins host Melissa Moss to discuss the critical importance of having proper legal documents in place to protect yourself and your loved ones. This episode provides valuable insights into wills, trusts, and essential medical directives that everyone should consider.

Key Topics Covered:

• Why procrastinating on estate planning can create unnecessary stress for loved ones
• The foundational documents everyone needs, regardless of wealth level
• How advance directives and power of attorney protect you during your lifetime
• The benefits of revocable living trusts for privacy and asset management
• Special considerations for blended families and adult children
• Why having estate plans in place reduces family conflict during difficult times

Essential Documents Discussed

• Will - Basic document everyone should have for asset distribution
• Advance Directive for Healthcare - Specifies medical treatment preferences
• Financial Power of Attorney - Allows designated person to handle finances if incapacitated
• Revocable Living Trust - Provides privacy and smoother asset transition

Special Focus: The Terri Schiavo Case

Brandy discusses this landmark case to illustrate why having clear medical directives is crucial, especially for young adults.

Important Takeaways:

• Estate planning isn't just for the wealthy - anyone with assets, pets, or children needs basic documents
• Once children turn 18, parents need specific legal authority to make medical decisions
• Marriage alone doesn't grant authority for medical decisions - proper documentation is essential
• Working with both financial advisors and estate planning attorneys creates the most comprehensive plan

Resources Mentioned:

• Free estate planning checklist

• Website: slusslawfirm.com
• Email: [email protected]

Free initial consultations available

Connect with Melissa:

• Newsletter signup: melissamoss.co/newsletter
• PlanTheRetirementYouWant.com

Legal Disclosure:

Melissa Moss is a registered representative with securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. CopyRetryClaude does not have internet access. Links provided may not be accurate or up to date.