Retire Today

Dale Hall of the Society of Actuaries explains how to project your longevity and why informed life expectancy matters for retirement planning. Most people build their retirement plan around a single number: life expectancy. They’ll say, “My dad died at 78, my mom at 82, so I’ll probably be gone by then too.” Then they quietly design their plan to “run out” around that age. But as my guest Dale Hall, Managing Director of Research at the Society of Actuaries, shared on the Retire Today podcast, that’s a risky way to approach the rest of your life. “Even people who would rate themselves a little bit poorer in health are often very surprised of what their longevity can be.” In other words: you may live much longer than you think. And if your money isn’t prepared for that, longevity becomes what author Moshe Milevsky calls “the great risk multiplier.” Life Expectancy vs. Longevity: You’re Asking the Wrong Question In the episode, we talked about a common problem: people treat life expectancy like death certainty. If the table says your life expectancy at 62 is 84, most people assume, “I’ll probably die at 84.” But Dale pointed out that life expectancy is just the middle of the curve: “Life expectancy is basically 50% of the time you’ll die before that age, and 50% of the time you’ll die after that age.” The probability that you die exactly at that age is tiny. That’s why I like to say, “The retirement longevity number you have in mind right now is probably wrong.” You shouldn’t just plan to make it to your life expectancy—you should plan for what happens if you live well past it. Dale shared how the Longevity Illustrator tool (from the Society of Actuaries and American Academy of Actuaries) helps people see that full distribution, not just a single number. It shows the probability of living to 90, 95, 100—numbers that often shock people when they see them. He ran it for himself and his wife and found that, even as healthy professionals: “We were surprised by the probabilities of each of us living to a very old age… in our case, there’s something like a 40–45% chance one of us makes it to 95.” For couples, that’s the key: you’re not just planning for one person, you’re planning for the last survivor. Your joint longevity is often much longer than either individual life expectancy. Why Using Your Parents’ Ages Is Dangerous Another trap Dale and I discussed: anchoring your expectations to when your parents died. In our Retirement Risk Survey work, the Society of Actuaries sees this all the time. People say, “My dad died at 70, so I probably will too.” But as Dale explained, that ignores 25–30 years of medical progress: “The landscape for health care, pharmaceuticals, and treatments is radically different than it was 15 or 25 years ago.” Add in lifestyle changes—less smoking, better diets, more preventive care—and you’ve got a completely different mortality picture. Your dad may have started smoking in Korea, eaten fast food daily, and had no statins or modern heart care. If you’re living a different lifestyle with better medicine, why would you assume the same outcome? This is why tools like the Longevity Illustrator ask about age, sex, smoking status, and health. Those four factors explain a huge portion of the difference in longevity between individuals. Longevity: The Risk That Multiplies All the Others Dale shared a line I love: If you don’t live that long, inflation, markets, and healthcare costs don’t have as much time to hurt you. But the longer you live, the more chances you give those risks to show up—and the longer they have to compound. That’s why longevity is a risk multiplier: More years for inflation to erode purchasing power More years for market downturns to hit your portfolio More years for health events, caregiving needs, or home repairs to show up as financial shocks In the Society of Actuaries’ Retirement Risk Survey, retirees report all kinds of unexpected shocks: health issues, helping family, home maintenance, even fraud. Dale noted that about 20% of retirees reported a major financial shock in the recent survey period. You can’t predict which shock you’ll get. But you can prepare by planning for a longer retirement horizon. From “Life Expectancy” to “Life Prepare-ancy” One of my favorite moments in the conversation was when Dale reframed the whole concept. He said he likes to “chop off the ‘expectancy’ and paste in the word ‘prepare’”—asking: “What age should I be preparing to survive to?” Instead of targeting the middle of the curve (life expectancy), he suggests planning out to the age where there’s still a 10–20% probability you’ll be alive. That might be 95 or even 100, depending on your situation. And planning this way isn’t about being pessimistic—it’s about giving yourself a better chance of a confident retirement, rather than hoping your money runs out at the exact same time you do. How to Start Using Longevity the Right Way Here’s how I suggest you use what we discussed: Stop using your parents’ ages as your planning horizon. Use tools like the Longevity Illustrator to see your full range of possible lifespans. Plan as a household, not just as individuals—one of you will likely live longer. Aim your plan at a “life preparancy” age, not just a life expectancy. Stress-test your retirement plan against long lives and nasty surprises, not just the average outcome. Or, as I like to say: learn the math, do the math, and follow the math. Your emotions will still show up, but a solid understanding of your longevity risk makes it much easier to stay calm and make wise decisions. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy’s book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Dale Hall on LinkedIn Society of Actuaries Email the Society of Actuaries: research@soa.org  LongevityIllustrator.org  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Author Beth Pinsker shares her experience overcoming the challenges of financial caregiving based on her book “My Mother’s Money.” Most people imagine estate planning, inheritance, and beneficiaries when they think about aging. But today, more and more adult children are also facing something much harder: stepping in to manage their parents’ finances when those parents can no longer manage them alone. Financial caregiving doesn’t happen on a schedule. It happens suddenly — often without warning — and almost always under stress. This week on the Retire Today podcast, author Beth Pinsker joined the show to share her personal journey caring for her mother’s finances and what she learned through the process. Beth’s story is a powerful reminder that caregiving isn’t just medical or emotional work. It’s also financial work — often overwhelming, always important, and usually invisible.  Her experience shows exactly why retirees and their adult children must plan before a crisis begins. Caregiving Happens Faster Than You Expect For Beth, caregiving didn’t begin with a long decline. It began with a spinal surgery. Her mother was 76, independent, and expected to bounce back. Instead, complications piled up, recovery stalled, and suddenly Beth found herself sitting at her mother’s desk facing “a stack of mail” and realizing she was now responsible for keeping her mother’s entire financial life running. “It wasn’t planned. It wasn’t expected. It just became necessary.” Bills needed paying. Insurance forms needed submitting. Premiums were past due. And her mother — once meticulously organized — could no longer manage the tasks she’d handled her entire life. This is the emotional heart of financial caregiving:You’re still the child, but suddenly you must act like the adult. Power of Attorney Isn’t the Magic Wand You Think It Is For years, Beth advised readers to get  power of attorney as if the document solved everything. But when she needed to use a POA for her mother, reality hit hard. “The two sheets of paper are absolutely essential, but they mean nothing in your hands.” Banks refused to accept the document. Appointments took hours. Institutions demanded impossible requirements like raised-seal originals from states that don’t even offer them. And government agencies — IRS, Social Security, Medicare, VA — each required entirely separate authorization forms. Her conclusion is vital for every retiree and adult child: A power of attorney is only useful if your financial institutions have already accepted it. Caregivers need to pre-authorize access, complete institution-specific forms, and have a system in place before there’s a crisis. Caregivers Almost Always Reach a Breaking Point Beth spoke to dozens of caregivers for her book My Mother’s Money, and she said every single one cried in her interviews. Why?Because caregiving is hard in a way that combines emotional strain, logistical chaos, and relentless responsibility. As she put it:“Everybody reached their breaking point over something… there is going to be something that trips you up.” Even an elder-law attorney — someone who spent 30 years designing estate plans — hit a breaking point trying to locate a medallion signature guarantee for his mother’s account. If the professionals struggle, imagine what everyday families face. Plan Before Life Forces You To Financial caregiving is exhausting and complicated. But it also deepens relationships, clarifies values, and often becomes one of the last loving acts a child performs for a parent. If you’re caring for aging parents (or expect to someday), start the conversation now: Gather documents Consolidate accounts Share passwords safely Prepare a “cheat sheet” with medical and financial details (a gift Beth credits her mother for) Establish POA access at each financial institution Create a plan for bill payment and recordkeeping Beth’s story is powerful because it’s honest. Caring for someone else’s finances is messy, emotional, and often overwhelming — but with preparation, it can be manageable and meaningful. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy’s book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps BethPinsker.com “My Mother’s Money: A Guide to Financial Caregiving” by Beth Pinsker Connect with Beth Pinsker on LinkedIn Connect with Beth Pinsker on Instagram Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil dives into the details of estate planning, what people often miss and how to leave a legacy that lasts. When most people hear the words estate planning, they think about wills, trusts, and what happens after they’re gone. But that’s only half the picture. Estate planning is just as much about protecting you while you’re alive as it is about transferring assets after you pass. In this week’s episode of Retire Today, I walked through the essential parts of a practical, real-world estate plan. This is the same framework I teach in Chapter 10 of my book, Retire Today, because your “LEAVE” plan — the final step in the 5-Step Retirement Master Plan — is one of the most important gifts you can give your loved ones. Estate planning has two core objectives:1.  Protect yourself and your spouse when bad things happen2.  Make your inheritance as simple and tax-efficient as possible Everything starts and ends with these two goals. 1. Protect Yourself and Your Spouse — While You’re Still Here The first goal of estate planning has nothing to do with inheritance. It’s about making sure someone you trust can step in and help if you’re unable to make decisions on your own. That requires the right documents — and an understanding of how they work. The Key Documents You’ll Likely Need Most retirees will work with an attorney to build some combination of the following: • Health Care Power of Attorney This allows someone you designate to make medical decisions for you if you can’t communicate or act on your own. It’s valuable for avoiding confusion in an emergency. • Financial Power of Attorney This document authorizes a trusted person to manage your finances — signing paperwork, paying bills, accessing accounts — if you lose the ability to do it yourself. • Marital Property Agreement (in community property states) In states like Wisconsin, this document clarifies what assets belong to each spouse individually and which assets are shared. It reduces conflict, confusion, and tax issues later. • Health Care Directive or Living Will This outlines your wishes for end-of-life care. Some attorneys prefer including these instructions in your health care power of attorney; others recommend a separate document. The right approach depends on your state and your attorney’s guidance. Durable vs. Springing Powers of Attorney Many people aren’t aware that these documents can take effect in different ways: A durable power of attorney becomes effective immediately. A springing power of attorney only takes effect if certain criteria — usually a medical declaration — are met. While springing powers seem appealing (“I’m fine now, I don’t need help yet”), they can create delays during medical emergencies. Many attorneys recommend durable powers because they’re simpler and more reliable during stressful situations. 2. Make Your Inheritance Easy and Tax-Efficient Once you’re protected, the next goal is to ensure your assets transfer smoothly and according to your wishes. A big question retirees often ask is:“Do I need a will, a trust, or both?” Here’s a simple way to think about it: Will-Based Estate Planning Effective only after you pass away May require probate Probate is public An executor handles your estate Works well for basic situations Trust-Based Estate Planning Effective immediately Avoids probate Keeps family affairs private Lets a trustee manage assets if you become incapacitated Allows for specific protections and rules for your beneficiaries Most people don’t need a trust for tax savings — a common misconception. A standard revocable living trust doesn’t save income taxes or estate taxes. Its value lies in avoiding probate, speeding up administration, and providing privacy and protection. What About Estate Taxes? Many retirees worry about “death taxes,” but most won’t owe federal estate tax. The exemption is nearly $14 million per person in 2025 — far higher than the average retiree’s estate. The real tax risk usually comes from traditional retirement accounts. Your kids will pay income tax on every dollar they inherit from your traditional IRA or 401(k). That’s why your withdrawal and Roth conversion strategy plays such a big role in your estate planning. The Most Overlooked Piece: Beneficiary Forms You can have a beautifully crafted estate plan… but if your beneficiary forms don’t match it, your intentions won’t matter. Most of your assets — retirement accounts, brokerage accounts, life insurance, bank accounts — transfer by beneficiary designation, not your will. Even your house can transfer through TOD (transfer-on-death) titling. That means updating your beneficiary forms is just as important as writing a will or trust. People assume their estate documents control everything — but beneficiary forms override them. Every year, you hear the stories:Someone dies with an ex-spouse still listed as a beneficiary. Or an adult child gets unintentionally disinherited. Or assets go to someone who was never meant to receive them. Review your beneficiary forms regularly — at least once a year. Estate Planning Is Part of Retiring With Confidence You’ve worked hard to build financial security. Estate planning helps you protect it:✔ While you’re alive✔ When life gets complicated✔ And after you’re gone A clear estate plan gives you peace of mind — and saves your family time, stress, taxes, and confusion. If you’d like to learn more about how estate planning helps you leave a legacy you can stand behind, make sure to visit JeremyKeil.com and get your copy of “Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps.” Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy’s book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Author Jillian Johnsrud explains how mini retirements help people retire often in this week’s episode of “Retire Today” with Jeremy Keil. When most people think about retirement, they picture one big event—the day they finally walk away from their job and start living life on their own terms. But what if instead of waiting 30 or 40 years for that freedom, you could enjoy pieces of retirement throughout your career? That’s exactly what my guest, Jillian Johnsrud, suggests in her book Retire Often. She joined me on the Retire Today podcast to explain how taking “mini retirements” can help you enjoy your life now, improve your career, and even make your eventual full retirement more fulfilling. What Is a Mini Retirement? Jillian defines a mini retirement as taking a month or more off from your primary job to rest, recover, and focus on something that truly matters to you. It’s not about quitting your career—it’s about taking intentional breaks throughout your working years to rejuvenate and reconnect with what’s important. She describes three key elements of a mini retirement: It lasts at least a month. That’s long enough to break out of your normal routine and truly recharge. You step away from your main career or 9-to-5 job. You spend that time on something meaningful—travel, family, learning, or simply rest. Jillian practices what she preaches–she’s taken more than a dozen mini retirements over 23 years, and she’s coached hundreds of people through the process. What she finds time and again is that mini retirements don’t just help you rest—they can actually make you better at your job when you return. The Benefits of Retiring Often Jillian’s idea flips the traditional retirement model on its head. Instead of one long retirement at the end, she encourages people to “retire often” by sprinkling shorter breaks throughout their working years. Why? Because for many people, the old model—work 40 years straight and then stop—isn’t working as well anymore. People live longer, work has become more demanding, and burnout is real. Mini retirements help solve that problem by creating a rhythm between work and rest. You might work intensely for several years, then take a few months off to recharge, travel, or pursue a hobby. When you return, you’re refreshed, creative, and ready to take on new challenges. As Jillian explained, “Mini retirements can actually help people’s careers more than is perhaps intuitive.” The Hidden Career and Financial Upside At first, taking time off might sound like a financial setback—but Jillian has seen the opposite happen again and again. For example, one of her friends took a year off, came back refreshed, and received a 50% pay increase. That raise more than made up for the time off. He might have been underpaid for years simply because he stayed in one place too long. Mini retirements can also open doors for career pivots. Stepping back gives you perspective on what you truly want to do next—and sometimes that shift leads to more fulfilling, better-paying work. And of course, these breaks can make your future retirement smoother. You don’t spend decades putting off all your dreams until your mid-60s. Instead, you enjoy meaningful experiences all along the way—traveling, spending time with loved ones, and pursuing passions. As Jillian put it, “Instead of saving up all of these retirements till the very end, we can start to enjoy them now.” Overcoming Burnout Burnout is one of the biggest challenges people face in midlife. After 15–20 years of hard work, many people find themselves drained of energy and creativity. Jillian explained it perfectly: “I used to think middle-aged people were boring. Then I got to my 40s and realized—they’re just tired.” Mini retirements are a powerful way to reverse that exhaustion. People who take them often rediscover their energy, optimism, and curiosity—what Jillian calls “rolling back the clock emotionally.” By giving yourself permission to rest, you can actually become more productive and excited about life again. How to Start Your Own Mini Retirement If you like the sound of this, how do you make it happen? Here are a few of Jillian’s tips from our conversation: Start with brainstorming. Make a list of meaningful things you’d love to do—travel destinations, hobbies, family experiences. Filter your list. Pick 1–3 ideas that fit your current life and finances. Plan ahead. Save intentionally for your next mini retirement, even if it’s years away. Have a “go bag.” Be ready to take advantage of unexpected opportunities—like a job transition or a break in work. The point isn’t to quit working—it’s to build flexibility and freedom into your life now. The Bottom Line As I often tell my clients, the goal of retirement isn’t just to stop working—it’s to have the freedom to do what you want, when you want. Mini retirements can be a powerful way to start practicing that freedom early. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy’s book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps Jillian Johnsrud’s website: jillianjohnsrud.com  Connect with Jillian Johnsrud on Instagram “Retire Often” by Jillian Johnsrud Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil compares long-term care insurance to self-funding long-term care through the lens of 3 clarifying questions. When most people start planning for retirement, they’re focused on investment returns, income, and taxes. But one of the biggest financial and emotional challenges retirees face isn’t about markets or money — it’s about health. Specifically, it’s about how to plan for long-term care. I get this question all the time: “Should I buy long-term care insurance or should I self-insure?” Here’s the truth — I don’t like the term “self-insure.” You can’t actually insure yourself. Insurance means pooling risk with other people, each paying a small amount to protect against a large potential loss. When you’re on your own, there’s no pool, no spreading of risk — you’re not “self-insuring,” you’re self-funding. If you’re going to self-fund, it needs to be part of a plan — not just an afterthought. Everyone needs a long-term care plan, even if not everyone needs long-term care insurance. The Three Questions of a Long-Term Care Plan When you’re creating your long-term care plan, there are three essential questions to answer: Where do I want my care to take place? Who will take care of me? How will I pay for the care? Let’s walk through each. 1. Where Do You Want the Care to Take Place? This is both a question of geography and lifestyle. Do you want to receive care at home, in a facility, or somewhere near family? Many retirees live far from their adult children, which can make in-home or family-supported care difficult. If your goal is to stay close to family support, you might want to plan for a move before care is needed. And if your goal is to age in place, make sure your home will work for that. Adding features like a zero-entry shower, ramps instead of stairs, or widened doorways can make life easier down the road. The best time to make those upgrades is before a health crisis, not after. 2. Who Will Take Care of You? This question is deeply personal. Some people assume their spouse or adult children will step in. Others would rather hire professional help to avoid burdening family members. Neither approach is wrong, but you need to talk about it. If you’re relying on family, have that conversation today. Make sure they’re willing — and able — to provide that help. A quote I once heard sums this up well:“Your family can still care for you, even if they’re not the ones taking care of you.” That distinction matters. Paid caregivers can provide hands-on support, while your family focuses on emotional and relational care. Whatever route you choose, don’t leave it unspoken. 3. How Will You Pay for Care? This is where most people get stuck — and where the insurance vs. self-funding debate really comes in. If you choose to self-fund, make it intentional. Set aside a specific “long-term care fund” within your retirement plan. Maybe that’s $200,000 of your portfolio earmarked for care costs, invested conservatively and available if needed. If you choose to buy insurance, remember that it’s not about getting a perfect return. Long-term care insurance can help protect your savings and provide flexibility when you need help most. Here’s how I like to think of it: Insurance is the better deal if you use it. Self-funding is the better deal if you don’t. There’s no math formula that can tell you which one will be better for you. It’s about peace of mind. Ask yourself: “Which would I regret more — buying insurance I never use, or needing care I can’t afford?” That’s often the best guide. I’ve seen both sides. Some of my clients feel more confident knowing they have a policy that will step in if they need care. Others prefer to rely on their own savings. Personally, I lean toward having some level of insurance coverage. Not necessarily because it’s cheaper — but because of the mindset it creates. When you’ve paid premiums for years, and later in life you need care, it might be easier to say, “It’s time for this policy to do its job.” You might find it easier to get the help you need when you need it. Final Thoughts Long-term care planning isn’t about predicting the future. It’s about preparing for it. Whether you self-fund or buy insurance, the goal is the same: to protect your independence and your loved ones from unnecessary stress. So ask yourself those three key questions — Where? Who? How? — and start shaping your plan today. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Additional Links: Buy Jeremy’s book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps 2025’s BIGGEST Long Term Care Health Insurance Updates! With Mike Smith Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Rona Guymon and Jeremy Keil discuss how the recent economic changes have affected retirement plans and strategies. Is inflation forcing you to rethink your retirement plans? You’re not alone. In a recent episode of the Retire Today podcast, I sat down with Rona Guymon from the Nationwide Retirement Institute to discuss how recent economic changes are reshaping retirement expectations. Rona and her team commissioned a study through The Harris Poll that revealed some surprising — and concerning — trends among pre-retirees. According to the data, 42% of people nearing retirement say that the past five years of economic conditions have changed their vision of retirement, and 59% report that their retirement expectations have shifted significantly. That’s nearly six in ten Americans reconsidering what “retirement” even means. So, what’s going on? The Reality Check of Rising Costs It’s easy to feel confident about your portfolio when the market is performing well — until you go to buy groceries or fill your gas tank. Everyday costs have increased dramatically, and even with inflation starting to cool, people are still feeling the pinch. Rona shared a powerful example: her brother took his family of six to a fast-food restaurant, and the bill came to over $100. If that’s what “quick and affordable” looks like in 2025, it’s no wonder people are anxious about maintaining their lifestyle in retirement. In fact, 51% of survey respondents said the cost of living is their single biggest long-term concern for their retirement portfolio. People might be growing their assets on paper, but they’re questioning whether that will truly keep up with the real-world cost of living. Why Pre-Retirees Need to Rethink Retirement Age One of the most surprising findings from Nationwide’s study was that 64% of pre-retirees no longer believe that retiring at age 65 applies to them. Instead, 35% plan to work during retirement, and 27% plan to delay it altogether. This shift isn’t necessarily bad — in fact, for many, it reflects a new kind of retirement that blends purpose, social engagement, and part-time work. As Rona put it, many retirees aren’t giving up work entirely; they’re just finding something more enjoyable, flexible, or meaningful to do. In other words, “retirement” doesn’t mean quitting — it means redefining what work looks like. The Emotional Side of Financial Confidence Another big takeaway from Rona’s research is that confidence in retirement planning is directly tied to working with a professional. Despite this, only 4% of survey respondents said they currently work with a financial advisor. That’s a huge missed opportunity. Partnering with a financial professional can help you uncover strategies to manage inflation, taxes, and income needs — and, most importantly, give you peace of mind about your financial future. If you’re reading this now and you aren’t working with an advisor, follow the link at the bottom of this article to explore your options. Are the Old Rules of Thumb Outdated? The survey also asked pre-retirees about traditional financial rules, like the 4% withdrawal rule and the “100 minus your age” investing rule. 35% said the 4% rule isn’t relevant anymore. 53% said the 100-minus-your-age rule doesn’t fit their needs. That’s a major shift. For decades, these have been go-to benchmarks for financial planning. But as Rona explained, many people feel they haven’t saved enough or that inflation will erode their nest egg — so those old rules just don’t feel realistic anymore. Interestingly, most financial advisors still believe those rules have value. That difference highlights a major disconnect: advisors often serve people who already feel confident in their finances, while the average pre-retiree may feel far less certain. The key lesson? Retirement isn’t one-size-fits-all. The “rules” might provide a starting point, but your plan should reflect your unique goals, resources, and lifestyle. A Modern Take on Retirement Planning As Rona and I discussed, the goal of a retirement plan isn’t just to maximize returns — it’s to create confidence. For some people, that means exploring income options like annuities, which can help supplement Social Security and create a personal pension-style income stream. Others may find peace of mind by working longer or by creating flexible income plans that balance security with growth potential. The bottom line is this: retirement looks different today than it did 20 or even 10 years ago. It’s about designing a plan that gives you freedom, purpose, and control — even when the economy feels uncertain. Links Nationwide Retirement Institute: nationwide.com “Two in Five Pre-Retirees Say Dreams for Retirement Have Been Delayed, Altered or Cancelled” – Nationwide Financial The Nationwide Retirement Institute® 2025 Social Security Survey Create Your Retirement Master Plan: FiveStepRetirementPlan.com  Purchase “Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps” Rona Guymon at Nationwide Financial Rona Guymon on LinkedIn Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Kanwal Sarai of “Simply Investing” explains his 12 rules for dividend investing and how this strategy could be used in retirement planning. When most people think of investing, they picture charts, constant news updates, and the stress of trying to time the market. But as my guest Kanwal Sarai shared on the Retire Today podcast, successful investing doesn’t have to be complicated—or stressful. In fact, Kanwal says it’s so simple that even his nine-year-old kids could do it. Kanwal is a software professional turned dividend value investor who founded SimplyInvesting.com. He’s also the host of The Simply Investing Dividend Podcast and designer of the “12 Rules of Simply Investing.” His story is a powerful reminder that investing isn’t just about growing wealth—it’s about building long-term financial independence through education and discipline. From Software Engineer to Dividend Investor Kanwal didn’t start out as an investor. He spent 30 years in the software industry, working for startups and Fortune 500 companies alike. But his interest in investing began in a surprising way—during late nights walking his newborn son to sleep. “I saw a book I’d bought years ago, and I decided to read it while pacing back and forth,” Kanwal said. That book introduced him to Warren Buffett and Benjamin Graham, two icons of value investing, and started him down a lifelong path toward financial literacy and independence. At first, he made the same mistake many beginners make—chasing hot tech stocks in the late 1990s. “I bought Nortel just because everyone was talking about it,” he recalled. “When it went bankrupt, I lost my entire investment.” That experience convinced him that investing based on hype or emotion isn’t a plan—it’s gambling. What Is Dividend Value Investing? Kanwal’s philosophy combines two approaches: dividend investing and value investing. Dividend investing means buying companies that regularly pay out cash to shareholders. Value investing means buying those companies when their prices are low compared to their true worth. By focusing on companies that are profitable, stable, and consistently pay (and raise) dividends, Kanwal has built an investment strategy that rewards patience and discipline over speculation. He looks for what he calls “hidden gems” that are undervalued today but have a long track record of profitability—companies like Coca-Cola, Johnson & Johnson, and Procter & Gamble, which have raised their dividends for 60+ years. “These are mature businesses,” Kanwal explained. “They’ve been around for decades, they’re profitable, and they pay you regularly. That’s the kind of predictability investors near retirement should want.” Avoiding the Dividend Trap Kanwal shared an important lesson from his early investing years: don’t fall into what he calls the “dividend trap.” The trap happens when investors chase high dividend yields without looking at the company’s fundamentals. If a stock’s price drops sharply, its dividend yield may look attractive—but often it’s a warning sign. “One of my big mistakes was buying Washington Mutual,” he said. “The yield looked amazing—9%! But I ignored my own rules. The company went bankrupt.” Kanwal’s Rule #7 from his 12 Rules of Simply Investing addresses this exact issue: only invest in companies with a payout ratio of 75% or less. That means the company should be paying out no more than 75% of its earnings in dividends. Anything higher is unsustainable and could signal financial trouble. The Power of Compounding and Consistency For Kanwal, the beauty of dividend investing lies in its simplicity and long-term payoff. When a company increases its dividend year after year, your income grows without any extra effort. “It’s like giving yourself a raise every year—without working more hours,” he said. Companies like Coca-Cola and Johnson & Johnson have been increasing dividends for over 60 years. That kind of consistency, especially through multiple market downturns, gives investors confidence and stability. And it’s not just theory—Kanwal practices what he preaches. His own children began investing as teenagers, using money from birthday gifts to buy dividend-paying stocks. “Their first dividend was only $10,” he laughed, “but that $10 showed them what financial independence feels like.” The 12 Rules of Simply Investing Kanwal’s 12 Rules form the foundation of his investing philosophy. Here are a few highlights: Understand what the company does. If you can’t explain how a company makes money to a 12-year-old, skip it. Ask whether people will still use the company’s products 20 years from now. Look for a strong competitive advantage, or what Warren Buffett calls a “moat.” Stick with recession-proof companies that can continue paying dividends even during economic downturns. These simple rules, combined with patience and discipline, may help investors avoid emotional mistakes and focus on long-term wealth building. As Kanwal explains, dividend investing isn’t about getting rich overnight—it’s about creating steady, predictable income for life. Whether you’re still working or already retired, dividend investing is one of the many options on the table to explore with your investment portfolio. Investing in dividends includes risk of loss (as we talked about in this podcast) and possible loss of principle, so be sure to consult your advisor and understand how this strategy might impact your retirement. Links Buy Jeremy’s book – Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps SimplyInvesting.com  – Kanwal’s course, blog, and podcast episodes. The Simply Investing Dividend Podcast – Learn more about Kanwal’s 12 Rules and dividend investing principles. The 12 Rules of Simply Investing – Kanwal Sarai, Simply Investing FiveStepRetirementPlan.com – My free video course to help you create your retirement master plan. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify About the Author: Jeremy Keil, CFP®, CFA® is a financial advisor in Milwaukee, WI, author of the bestseller Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps and host of both the Retire Today Podcast and Mr. Retirement YouTube channel Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Andrew Motiwalla explains how to prepare for long-term travel and how to incorporate travel into your retirement plan. When I sit down with people to talk about retirement, one of the first things I hear is, “I want to spend more time with my grandkids and I want to travel.” And while grandkids may not need much planning, travel does—especially if you want to do it in a way that truly enriches your retirement years. That’s why I was excited to sit down with Andrew Motiwalla, founder of The Good Life Abroad, on the Retire Today podcast. Andrew has spent 30 years in the travel industry and has built something unique for retirees who want more than just a quick trip. His company helps retirees live abroad for one or two months at a time, creating deeper, more immersive travel experiences. From Checklist Travel to Immersive Experiences Andrew described three “phases” of travel that many retirees experience. The first is what he calls checklist travel. This is when you finally make it to those bucket-list destinations—the Eiffel Tower, Machu Picchu, the Taj Mahal—and snap the pictures you’ve dreamed of for years. It’s exciting, it’s rewarding, and for many, it’s where retirement travel begins. But then comes phase two—intentional travel. This is when you begin asking bigger questions: Who am I? What do I really want out of retirement? Maybe you’ve always loved art and decide to spend a month in Florence studying Renaissance masterpieces. Or perhaps your family roots are in Poland, and you want to show your children and grandchildren where your story began. It’s travel with a deeper purpose. Finally, there’s immersive travel. This is when travel becomes more than just a trip—it’s part of your lifestyle. Retirees may take language or cooking classes at home, then use extended travel to practice and grow their skills. Instead of being tourists, they start to live like locals, even if just for a short time. Why Living Abroad Is Different One of the biggest differences Andrew sees between standard vacations and what The Good Life Abroad offers is time. When you live abroad for a month or two, you’re not rushing from one destination to another. You can settle into an upscale apartment, shop at local markets, and develop routines—like a favorite café or a walking route through your neighborhood. You start to feel part of the community. Just as important, Andrew’s company helps retirees avoid some of the biggest pitfalls of going it alone, such as loneliness or confusion about local customs. They provide a “community manager”—someone who knows both the local culture and the American mindset—to guide you to hidden gems like university concerts or local cooking classes. They also bring together a community of like-minded retirees, so you’re never traveling alone unless you want to be. The Benefits Go Beyond Travel What struck me most in this conversation is how immersive travel can actually help retirees find new meaning and identity. For decades, your sense of self may have come from your job or raising your family. In retirement, those roles shift. Travel—done with purpose—can fill that space. You might start to identify as a “traveler,” a “culture lover,” or an “art enthusiast.” And along the way, you’ll meet others who share that passion. This isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about transformation. As Andrew put it, travel can be a vehicle for reinvention. Practical Considerations Of course, planning extended travel comes with questions. What about health care? What about visas? Andrew explained that for trips under 90 days, Americans can generally travel freely in most of Europe, and The Good Life Abroad includes travel medical insurance and access to English-speaking doctors in every city they serve. For longer stays, you may need to look into visas and local insurance, but for most retirees, a one- or two-month trip fits perfectly within the rules. And if you’re traveling solo, Andrew reassured us that this model works just as well. Many of their travelers are single—widowed, divorced, or just pursuing retirement independently—and the built-in community makes it easy to form new friendships and connections. Your Retirement, Your Way Whether you’re a lifelong learner eager to expand your horizons or simply someone who’s always wanted to “live like a local,” immersive travel may be one of the best gifts you can give yourself in retirement. As Andrew said, it’s never too late to keep learning, growing, and exploring. Retirement isn’t just about financial freedom—it’s about personal freedom. And travel, when done thoughtfully, can be one of the best ways to embrace that freedom. If you’ve ever dreamed of living abroad—even just for a month—this episode is for you. I invite you to listen to the full conversation with Andrew Motiwalla on the Retire Today podcast and start envisioning what your own “good life abroad” might look like. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: The Good Life Abroad Andrew Motiwalla on LinkedIn Five Step Retirement Plan Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Discover how step 5 of building your retirement master plan can help you leave a lasting legacy while avoiding the big 3 retirement risks. When most people think about retirement planning, they picture saving money, managing investments, and planning income. But retirement is about more than how you live—it’s also about what you leave behind. And as I often remind my clients, it’s not what you leave them, it’s how you leave them that counts. This is Step 5 in creating your retirement master plan: Leave. This final step ensures that the legacy you leave for your loved ones is intentional, meaningful, and well-prepared. The Three Big Retirement Risks Before we talk about estate documents, let’s step back and consider the risks that could derail your retirement if you don’t prepare for them. I call these the big three retirement risks: Living too long – Longevity sounds like a blessing, but it’s also the great risk multiplier. The longer you live, the more time inflation, market volatility, and health care costs have to erode your nest egg. Planning for longevity means stress-testing your retirement plan to make sure it lasts, not just for the “average,” but well beyond. Dying too soon – The flip side of longevity is the possibility that you don’t live as long as you expect. If that happens, what will your spouse or loved ones face financially? Choices around Social Security, pensions, and survivor benefits often come down to one-time, permanent decisions. Make sure you’re considering how your choices will affect the person you might leave behind. Failing health – A long retirement increases the odds of needing significant health care or long-term care. Whether you choose insurance or a self-funding strategy, you need a long-term care plan. It’s not just about the money—it’s about who will help you, where care will happen, and how those decisions align with your values. Estate Planning: Protect and Pass On Once you’ve planned for the risks, you can move to estate planning, which I like to think of as your legacy protection plan. This has two main goals: Protect yourself and your spouse. Estate planning isn’t just about what happens after you’re gone. Powers of attorney for health care and finances, health care directives, and living wills are about protecting you while you’re still alive but may not be able to act for yourself. Make inheritance easy and tax-efficient. When you’re no longer here, the goal is to simplify the process for your heirs and minimize taxes. That usually involves a will and often a trust. But don’t overlook the importance of beneficiary designations—most retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and even bank accounts pass outside your will or trust. If your beneficiary forms don’t match your overall plan, your hard work can unravel quickly. It’s About More Than Money Leaving a legacy isn’t just about dollars—it’s about leaving clarity, direction, and peace of mind. Too many families are left to navigate confusion, disputes, and court battles because the planning wasn’t done ahead of time. By planning for risks, creating the right documents, and making thoughtful decisions, you can leave behind more than just assets—you can leave behind confidence, stability, and a sense of care for those you love. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: FiveStepRetirementPlan.com – Free video course to create your retirement master plan. JeremyKeil.com – Learn more about my book Retire Today and find links to purchase. Leave a Legacy, Not a Mess – Estate Planning Guide (2025) with David Edey– Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Step Zero of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan Step One of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan  Step Two of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan  Step Three of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan  Step Four of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Learn the number 1 investing mistake people make in retirement and how to build a retirement investment plan. The market goes up, the market goes down, and too often retirees get caught chasing returns or trying to predict the next big winner. In Step 4 of the Retirement Master Plan, I want to help you avoid the number one investing mistake I see retirees make: trying to control what you can’t control. Instead of focusing on the unpredictable, like short-term stock market moves or economic headlines, you can create a retirement investment plan built on the things you can control.  The Biggest Investing Mistake Retirees Make After years of working with retirees, I’ve noticed a consistent pattern. The people who struggle the most with investing are the ones who try to outsmart the market. They want to pick the hottest stock, time their withdrawals perfectly, or find a “magic bullet” investment that bails them out of overspending. But all too often I find the reality is this: the stock market isn’t the problem—spending is. Trying to control what you can’t control almost always leads to disappointment. The better approach is to focus on two things you can control: How much money you keep out of the stock market. How much risk you take within the stock market. The Bucket Strategy One of the most effective ways to simplify your retirement investing is by using a bucket strategy. Instead of viewing your portfolio as one big pool of money, divide it into two separate buckets: The Income Bucket (Short-Term Money): This is money you’ll need in the next few years to cover spending. It belongs in safe, short-term investments—bank accounts, money markets, or short-term bonds. Think of this as your paycheck replacement. You don’t want to rely on the stock market for cash you need next year. The Growth Bucket (Long-Term Money): Everything else goes here. These are dollars that you won’t need for several years, and they can be invested in long-term assets like stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. The purpose of this bucket is growth—helping your money keep up with inflation and supporting you for the rest of your retirement. This framework takes the guesswork out of retirement investing. Short-term needs are protected, and long-term needs are invested for growth. How Much Goes in Each Bucket? That’s the big question: how much should you set aside in your income bucket? The answer depends on your comfort level and your retirement spending needs. More aggressive investors may set aside just a year or two of cash flows in the income bucket. More conservative retirees may prefer 5, 7, or even 10 years of income safely set aside. The rest belongs in the growth bucket, invested according to your personal risk tolerance. A simple way to figure this out is to ask yourself: on a scale of 1 to 10, how much risk am I comfortable with in the stock market? Your answer provides a starting point for how much of your growth bucket belongs in stocks versus bonds. Rebalancing and Refilling Retirement investing isn’t a one-time decision. Markets move, portfolios drift, and your needs evolve. That’s why rebalancing and refilling are so important. Rebalancing: Over time, your portfolio might shift away from your intended risk level. Rebalancing helps you bring it back in line, so you’re not accidentally taking on too much (or too little) risk. Refilling the Income Bucket: As you spend from your income bucket, you’ll need to replenish it with profits from the growth bucket—ideally after the market has been up. This ongoing process ensures that your retirement plan adjusts with you, rather than leaving you vulnerable to market swings. Focus on What You Can Control Remember, you can’t control the stock market, the economy, or political changes. But you can control: Your spending Your Social Security filing strategy Your tax planning Your allocation between short-term and long-term investments Your diversification and rebalancing decisions When you focus on these controllable factors, you’ll build a retirement plan that is far more resilient and less stressful. Final Thoughts Step 4 of the Retirement Master Plan is all about creating a clear, practical investment strategy. By focusing on the income and growth buckets, regularly rebalancing, and refilling when needed, you’ll avoid the trap of trying to control what you can’t. Next week, I’ll share the final step—planning for what you’ll leave behind. But for now, take some time to assess your own retirement buckets. Are you balancing safety with growth in a way that supports your dream retirement? Because when you know more about your money, you’ll feel better about your money—and you’ll make better decisions for your future. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: FiveStepRetirementPlan.com – Free video course to create your retirement master plan. JeremyKeil.com – Learn more about my book Retire Today and find links to purchase. Step Zero of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan Step One of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan  Step Two of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan  Step Three of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Learn how to keep more of your retirement income through tax planning in step 3 of the 5 step retirement plan. When people think about retirement planning, they usually focus on two big questions: How much do I need to spend? and How much will I make in retirement? Those are important, but there’s a third question that often gets overlooked—and it could make or break your plan: How much of your money do you actually get to keep? That’s what Step 3 of creating your retirement master plan is all about: keeping more of your hard-earned money through smart tax planning. Why Taxes Matter So Much in Retirement During your working years, your income is pretty straightforward. You earn a salary, and taxes get withheld from your paycheck. In retirement, things look very different. You now have more control than ever before over what your tax bill will look like. That’s because you can decide when and how to pull money from your accounts. Two factors play the biggest role here: Timing – the year (and sometimes even the month) when you withdraw money. Type – the type of account you take money from, like a traditional IRA, Roth IRA, brokerage account, or savings. Making smart decisions with timing and type could mean saving thousands of dollars in unnecessary taxes over the course of your retirement. The Power of Timing Here’s a simple example: if you withdraw money on December 31st versus January 1st, that income falls in two completely different tax years. Just a week’s difference could completely change your tax outcome. But timing isn’t just about the calendar—it’s about your retirement phases: Before vs. after you stop working Before vs. after age 65 (Medicare starts) Before vs. after age 63 (Medicare looks back two years at your income) Before vs. after you turn on Social Security Before vs. after age 73 (required minimum distributions begin) Married filing jointly vs. filing as a single survivor Every one of these milestones creates “before and after” windows where your tax planning can make a huge impact. If you’re not planning around these, you might end up paying more than you need to. The Role of Account Types Not all withdrawals are created equal: Traditional IRA/401(k): Taxable as income when withdrawn. Roth IRA: Withdrawals are generally tax-free. Brokerage Accounts: You’ll pay capital gains tax when you sell investments for more than you paid. Savings Accounts: Withdrawals are tax-free, though interest earned is taxable each year. The key is mixing and matching withdrawals across these account types in a way that minimizes taxes now and later. Roth Conversions: The #1 Tax-Smart Tool If there’s one strategy that makes the biggest difference in retirement, it’s Roth conversions. Converting part of your traditional IRA into a Roth lets you pay taxes now (often at a lower rate) in exchange for withdrawals later. But there are three big myths I hear all the time: “I can’t convert because I’m retired.” You can always convert as long as you have money in a traditional IRA. “I can’t convert because my IRA is too big.” You don’t have to convert the whole thing. You can convert in small amounts over multiple years. “More conversions are always better.” Sometimes there is a wrong time & amount to convert. The best approach is to convert the right amount, at the right time. This is what I call the Golden Rule of Roth Conversions: choose the right year and the right amount. Get that right, and you could save tens of thousands of dollars. Get it wrong, and you might pay unnecessary taxes you can’t undo. A Real-Life Example I worked with a couple who had room to do Roth conversions while staying in the 24% tax bracket. We created a plan to spread their conversions out over three years. But they decided to convert everything at once, thinking it wouldn’t matter. Unfortunately, it did matter. Instead of keeping their conversions at the 24% tax bracket, much of their income spilled into the 32% and even 35% bracket. The result? I estimate they paid $23,000 more in taxes than they needed to. That’s why timing and amount are so important. Tax planning in retirement isn’t a yes-or-no decision. It’s about making the right move at the right time. Keeping More of What’s Yours At the end of the day, Step 3 of your Retirement Master Plan is all about keeping more of what you’ve worked so hard to save. Taxes are one of your biggest expenses in retirement, but with careful planning, you can reduce their impact and free up more money to spend, share, and enjoy. If you’d like to dive deeper into this, check out my book Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in 5 Simple Steps, or head over to JeremyKeil.com to learn more. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: Step Zero of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan Step One of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan Step Two of Creating Your Retirement Master Plan www.5StepRetirementPlan.com  Get your copy of “Retire Today” Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Learn how to maximize your Social Security and pension benefits in your retirement income plan. Just because you’ve stopped working doesn’t mean you’ve stopped making money. In fact, some of the most important financial decisions you’ll ever make happen right at the start of retirement—and many of them are one-time, often irreversible choices. Get them right, and you could add hundreds of thousands of dollars in lifetime income. Get them wrong, and you may leave that money on the table. That’s why Step 2 of creating your retirement master plan is all about building a lifetime income plan. At its core, this step focuses on Social Security and pensions, two of the most significant income sources for retirees. Unfortunately, I see too many people making decisions based on myths rather than math. Let’s walk through some of the most common misunderstandings and what you can do instead. Myth #1: “It doesn’t matter when you file for Social Security—it all evens out.” This is one of the biggest misconceptions I hear. People think that if you file early at 62, you’ll get a smaller benefit for longer, and if you file late at 70, you’ll get a larger benefit for fewer years—so it must all balance out. That logic might have been true back in 1983, the last time major Social Security changes were made. But two big things have changed since then: Interest rates are much lower. In the 1980s, if you took your benefits early and invested them, you could count on double-digit bank interest rates. Today, that’s just not the case. We’re living longer. Advances in medicine and healthier lifestyles mean people are living well into their 80s and beyond. The longer you live, the more valuable waiting for that larger Social Security check becomes. The bottom line: today, the math overwhelmingly favors waiting, especially for the higher earner in a couple. Myth #2: “I’ll just take Social Security early and invest the money myself.” I see spreadsheets all the time where people try to “prove” that filing early and investing the money comes out ahead. But those spreadsheets rarely account for important realities: Inflation adjustments. Your Social Security benefits grow with inflation, something no spreadsheet investment can perfectly replicate. Survivorship benefits. If you’re the higher earner, delaying increases the amount your spouse may receive if you pass away first. Tax advantages. Social Security is typically taxed more favorably than withdrawals from IRAs and 401(k)s. Research has shown that, on average, you’d need an 8% annual investment return to come out ahead by filing early. That’s possible in the market, but it’s far from guaranteed—whereas the higher Social Security benefit from waiting is. Myth #3: “I won’t live long enough to reach the break-even point.” Some people dismiss delaying Social Security because they think the odds of living long enough to benefit just aren’t there. But the statistics tell a different story. A 62-year-old man in average health who doesn’t smoke has a 70% chance of living to 80. A 62-year-old woman has an 80% chance of reaching 80. For couples, the odds are even stronger: there’s a 90% chance that at least one spouse will live past 80. So if you think delaying isn’t worth it because you might not live long enough, the math shows that you’re actually betting against the odds. Why Social Security Is Like Insurance It helps to think of Social Security for what it really is: old-age and survivor’s insurance. It’s designed to protect you if you live longer than expected, if inflation rises faster than you planned, or if your investments don’t perform as well as you hoped. Filing decisions should be based on maximizing that protection for you and your spouse. What About Pensions? Many retirees also have pensions, and similar myths apply. But there are two key differences: No inflation adjustments. Unlike Social Security, most pensions don’t grow with inflation, which means their purchasing power decreases over time. Lump sum vs. monthly payments. With pensions, you often face the choice between taking a lump sum or monthly payments. Here’s where caution is critical. Financial advisors sometimes push clients toward lump sums because they get paid for managing that money. Monthly pensions don’t generate fees, which means there’s less incentive for advisors to recommend them—even if they’re the better choice for you. That’s why you need to do the math carefully. Compare the actuarial value of the monthly payment versus the lump sum, and factor in survivorship benefits for your spouse. This isn’t a decision to make lightly. Turning Myths Into Math The truth is, most people make costly mistakes with Social Security and pensions. Studies show that couples, on average, lose about $180,000 in lifetime benefits because of poor Social Security decisions. That’s why I urge you to base your retirement plan on math, not myths. Your Social Security and pension are designed to provide steady, reliable income for life. By making smart, math-driven decisions today, you can ensure that income is maximized—not just for you, but also for your spouse and family. Final Thoughts Step 2 of your retirement master plan is all about creating your lifetime income plan. That means thinking carefully about Social Security, pensions, and how they’ll support you over the decades of retirement. Don’t rely on guesses, gut feelings, or myths. Instead, take the time to do the math—or better yet, work with someone who can walk you through the analysis. If you want to dig deeper into these strategies, you can check out my book Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in Five Simple Steps at JeremyKeil.com. And for more resources, head over to FiveStepRetirementPlan.com. Because knowing more about your money will help you feel better about your money—and that leads to making better money decisions in retirement. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retire-today/id1488769337  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: Order your copy of “Retire Today” 5StepRetirementPlan.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Order your copy of Jeremy Keil’s new book “Retire Today” available now. I am so excited to share some big news with you: my new book, Retire Today, is officially available! This book is the result of years of helping people transition into retirement and seeing firsthand what works—and what doesn’t. My goal in writing Retire Today was to give you a simple, step-by-step guide to creating your own retirement master plan. Because the truth is, retirement doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right process, you can feel confident, prepared, and ready to enjoy life on your terms. Why I Wrote Retire Today Over the years, I’ve met countless people who’ve asked me the same questions: When can I actually afford to retire? How much will I spend in retirement? What if I run out of money? How do taxes, health insurance and Social Security fit into the picture? What I realized is that most people don’t need complicated formulas or jargon—they need a clear framework that helps them make smart choices and avoid costly mistakes. That’s exactly what Retire Today delivers. It’s not about chasing the “perfect” retirement plan. It’s about creating a personalized plan that works for you. What You’ll Find in the Book Inside Retire Today, I walk you through the five steps to creating your retirement master plan. Each step is designed to answer the most important questions you’ll face: How much will I spend in retirement? How can I maximize my monthly lifetime income? What can I do to reduce taxes? How can I make my investments last? How do I create and protect my legacy? Each chapter includes real-life examples from people I’ve worked with. These aren’t just theories—they’re practical lessons that show you how small changes can make a big difference in your financial future. Why This Book Matters Now We live in uncertain times. Markets go up and down, tax laws change, and healthcare costs continue to rise. But no matter what happens, you can take control of your retirement today by following a clear, proven process. The sooner you start, the more flexibility and confidence you’ll have. That’s why I encourage you not just to read the book—but to act on it. Where to Get Your Copy You can get your copy of Retire Today right now by visiting JeremyKeil.com. And here’s my challenge to you: don’t just buy the book and put it on the shelf. Work through the steps. Build your plan. And take that first action toward the retirement you’ve always dreamed of. Ready to Retire Today? This isn’t just the title of the book—it’s a mindset. Retire Today means having the confidence to know you’re prepared, whether you retire tomorrow, five years from now, or later down the road. So if you’ve been waiting for the right time to take your retirement seriously, that time is now. Grab your copy of Retire Today, start building your retirement master plan, and take control of your future. Because your best years are ahead—and they start today. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: Retire Today – Podcast Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: Order your copy of “Retire Today” Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil explains step 1 of the 5 step retirement plan: retirement spending. When it comes to retirement planning, one of the biggest questions people ask is: Where do I start? The truth is, before you think about investments, taxes, or even when to claim Social Security, you need to figure out one thing—how much you’re going to spend in retirement. This is what I call Step One in creating your retirement master plan, which I’ve outlined in my book Retire Today. While many people assume retirement planning begins with assets and income, I believe it begins with spending. After all, if you don’t know what you’ll spend, how can you know how much income you’ll need? Why Many Budgets Fail When I sit down with people, their first instinct is often to start building a retirement budget. They think they need to track every coffee, grocery run, and gas fill-up to get an accurate picture. But here’s the problem—budgets are almost always wrong. People underestimate their spending, forget about irregular costs, and end up thousands of dollars off the mark. I’ve seen it happen time and again. Instead of building from the ground up, there’s a simpler formula that works nearly every time: Income – Savings = Spending. Whatever comes from your paycheck into your checking account typically gets spent—unless you’re intentionally saving it. By starting here, you can find your true monthly lifestyle amount without overcomplicating things. The Story of Thomas Take Thomas, for example. He had what I thought was the best budget I’d ever seen—two years of detailed expense tracking. Every expense logged, every penny accounted for. He proudly told me he spent $7,000 per month. When we broke it down, though, we realized he didn’t need years of tracking to figure this out. His income was $104,000 per year. He saved $20,000 into investments. That left $84,000 for spending—or $7,000 per month. Exactly what his “perfect” budget said, but it took him two years to arrive at something the formula showed in minutes. Don’t Confuse Saving with Growing One caution I often give people is not to confuse saving with growing. If you’re putting $500 into savings every paycheck, but pulling it out later for property taxes or vacations, that’s not saving—it’s managing cash flow. True saving means money you set aside for the long-term, not just for short-term annual expenses. This distinction matters because when you’re projecting retirement spending, you need to know what’s truly ongoing versus what’s temporary or irregular. The Costs People Forget Even when people nail down their monthly lifestyle amount, I often see them forget two of the biggest retirement costs: Health Insurance – Before 65, you’ll likely pay much more out of pocket than once Medicare kicks in. A good rule of thumb is budgeting around $1,000 per person per month, but this varies widely. Taxes – Many retirees underestimate taxes, or treat them like a fixed bill. But taxes are flexible—you can plan, shift, and smooth them over time. That’s why I recommend using tax planning software or working with a planner who can show you different strategies. Don’t Forget the “Non-Lifetime” Expenses Your monthly lifestyle spending is the foundation, but retirement also comes with non-lifetime expenses—costs that won’t last forever, but you should still plan for. These often include: Paying off a mortgage (which eventually goes away). Buying a new car (which will likely happen more than once if you retire in your 60s). Home renovations and repairs (you’ll notice more when you’re home full-time). Big trips and family events. If you don’t plan for these, they’ll sneak up and throw your retirement plan off track. Why Step One Matters Most Retirement is not about hitting a magic savings number—it’s about matching your income to your lifestyle. Step one is figuring out your lifestyle amount: how much you need each month to live comfortably. Once you know that, the rest of the retirement plan—your investments, your tax strategy, your Social Security timing—can all be built around it. Too many people start at the wrong end of the problem. They focus on how much they’ve saved, and then try to make their lifestyle fit. But if you start with your lifestyle first, you’ll have a plan that feels realistic, sustainable, and personalized. Take the First Step If you’re planning for retirement, start today. Look at your income, subtract your true savings, and you’ll know your lifestyle amount. Then, don’t forget to factor in health insurance, taxes, and those one-time expenses. This is step one of creating your retirement master plan. Once you’ve got it, you’ll have a clear starting point to build the retirement you deserve. And if you want to go deeper, my book Retire Today walks you through all five steps in detail. Because the truth is simple: if you know more about your money, you’ll feel better about your money—and you’ll make better decisions in retirement. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: Retire Today – Podcast  Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: www.5stepretirementplan.com www.JeremyKeil.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Retirement Revealed Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil explains why personalized longevity estimates are the most important number in your retirement planning. When most people think about retirement planning, the first number that comes to mind is how much money they’ll need to retire. And while that’s an important figure, I believe there’s another number that matters even more. I call it your retirement longevity number – and understanding it could have a significant impact on your retirement. Why Your Retirement Longevity Number Matters Your retirement longevity number is about more than just life expectancy. It combines two crucial questions: When will your retirement begin? How long are you likely to live once it starts? Those two factors together determine how long your retirement will actually last. And the truth is, most people get both wrong. Many people assume they’ll work until 65. Yet surveys from the Employee Benefit Research Institute show that, on average, people retire about three years earlier than they expected. Health issues, job loss, or family responsibilities often force people into retirement before they’re ready. On the other side of the equation, people underestimate their longevity. Too often, we use the wrong life expectancy number—like the one we see in news articles that cites the “average American life expectancy” of 78 years. But that’s the life expectancy of someone born today, not someone who’s already made it to 60 and beyond. If you’re reading this, you’ve already beaten those earlier odds. Why the Newspaper Numbers Don’t Apply to You Here’s the reality: if you’ve made it to age 60, your life expectancy isn’t 78. It’s closer to 84. And that’s just the average. Half of people will live longer than that. But even more important is recognizing that life expectancy is not an expiration date. The chance you’ll die exactly at your life expectancy is only about 3.5%. That means almost everyone will live either shorter or longer than that estimate. So if you’re planning to retire at 65 and think you’ll only need your money to last until 78, you’re setting yourself up for a rude surprise. In reality, the average person retiring at 62 will live until 84. That means planning for a 22-year retirement instead of the 13 years you might have originally expected. That’s a 69% longer retirement than you thought you’d need to prepare for. The Cost of Underestimating Retirement Getting your longevity number wrong can have big financial consequences. If you underestimate how long you’ll live, you risk running out of money when you need it most. If you overestimate, you may end up working longer than you have to, or living too conservatively in retirement. That’s why it’s so important to get a personalized estimate. Don’t just pull a number out of the air—like 85, 90, or 95. Instead, use tools designed to give you a better estimate based on your unique situation. A Better Way to Estimate Longevity One resource I recommend is LongevityIllustrator.org. In just five minutes, you can input your age, health, and other personal factors to get a more realistic picture of how long you might live. This isn’t about predicting the future with certainty. It’s about preparing yourself for a range of possible outcomes so you and your family aren’t caught off guard. Once you have your number, start by asking: What happens if I live shorter than expected? What happens if I live longer than expected? Building your retirement plan with these possibilities in mind gives you flexibility and security no matter what happens. Start Three Years Earlier Another simple adjustment I encourage people to make is to move up their retirement age estimate by three years. If you think you’ll retire at 65, run the numbers as if you’ll retire at 62. That way, you’ll be ready if retirement comes sooner than expected. And here’s the good news: being financially ready earlier gives you more options. You might retire early by choice. Or, if circumstances push you out of the workforce, you’ll be prepared instead of panicked. Why This Number Should Come Before Everything Else In my book Retire Today, I outline five steps to creating a retirement master plan. But before even starting with step one, I encourage you to begin with what I call step zero—figuring out your retirement longevity number. Without it, every other calculation is flawed. How much income you need, how much to save, when to take Social Security—all of these hinge on how long your retirement could last. Take the First Step Today So, what’s the most important number in your retirement planning? It’s not your nest egg balance. It’s not even your projected monthly expenses. It’s your retirement longevity number. If you want to feel confident about your retirement, start here. Figure out when your retirement might really begin, and how long it’s likely to last. Adjust your plan accordingly. Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-revealed/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: Is Your Retirement Facing a Midlife Crisis? With David Blanchett Is Your Retirement Plan Flawed? With David Blanchett  EBRI/Greenwald Retirement Confidence Survey www.longevityillustrator.org  www.5stepretirementplan.com Pre-order a copy of “Retire Today” (9/2 release) by Emailing podcast@KeilFP.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Mr. Retirement Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil interviews Anthony Napolitano about how he managed to adapt his retirement plan after an unexpected end to his career.  I often tell people that the majority of folks don’t get to choose the exact moment they retire. It’s a reality that’s hard to face, but it’s a truth I’ve seen play out time and again. That’s why I believe having a plan, even if you think you’re decades away from retirement, is the best kind of insurance you can have. I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Anthony Napolitano on my podcast, Retire Today. Anthony’s story is a perfect example of why having a retirement plan is so crucial. He’s about 15 months into his retirement journey, and his story is a powerful reminder that while the road to retirement may be “somewhat planned, somewhat unplanned,” a solid foundation can make all the difference. The “Aha!” Moment: From Saving to Planning Anthony’s background is in finance, and he’s always been a “personal finance kind of nerd”. He consistently saved money throughout his working years, but he didn’t have an actual retirement plan until he was 47. His “aha!” moment came during a conversation with a colleague who asked him, “Do you actually have a retirement plan? Do you know where your income is going to come from?”. This question prompted Anthony to get serious about his future. He worked with an advisor and created a plan that projected his income and expenses until age 95. This was the first time in his life he had such a detailed roadmap. His initial goal was to retire at 55, a full eight years away. But as often happens, life had other plans. A Serendipitous Retirement Anthony’s career path wasn’t a straight line to the finish. He was “downsized” from his company after 25 years. This unexpected break gave him a taste of what retirement might be like, and it really “steeled [his] nerves” and made him get serious about his plan. He eventually found another senior executive role, but two years later, he was retired again due to another “corporate restructuring”. While the timing wasn’t his choice, Anthony was ready. He’d had the benefit of a financial plan and had spent the year leading up to his retirement focusing on the non-financial side of things. He had also started listening to personal finance podcasts during his daily walks, which reignited his love for the subject and gave him a ton of confidence. Anthony’s story confirms what I’ve seen in my practice and what the data shows: on average, people retire about three years earlier than they plan. But having a plan in place gave Anthony the confidence to say, “I’m doing all right,” even when the decision was made for him. Beyond the Numbers: The “Retirement Life Plan” I was particularly impressed with Anthony’s “retirement life plan.” He’s a very structured person, and he’s applied that structure to his life in retirement. He didn’t want a generic “bucket list” but rather a framework for a balanced and purposeful life. He created four pillars for his plan: Health: He maintains a routine of daily walks and strength training a few times a week. Mindset/Hobbies: This was the area he had to work on the most, as he didn’t have many hobbies while working. Now, he enjoys hiking, cooking, traveling, off-roading, and gardening. Purpose: Anthony found his purpose in combining his love of sports and personal finance with his desire to help kids. He coaches at a local high school and is developing a financial literacy program for students. Relationships: Recognizing that relationships are crucial, especially for men who often struggle to maintain them, Anthony created a “friends project”. He has a weekly calendar reminder to reach out to friends, rekindling old connections and strengthening existing ones. This structured approach allows him to constantly update and work on his life, ensuring he’s not just “floating around”. It also gives him a way to hold himself accountable and measure his progress. A Journey of Self-Discovery One of the most surprising things Anthony discovered was the challenge of being overcommitted, even to things he loved. He started coaching and working at a winery, two things he had always wanted to do. But the schedule and lack of freedom began to feel like a burden. He realized he needed to say “no” more often and find a better balance. This realization is a testament to the fact that retirement is a journey, not a destination. It’s a time for trial and error, for exploring new things, and for continuously evolving. Anthony is grateful he can go through this process while he’s healthy and can fully enjoy it. His worst day in retirement is still better than his best day at work. Anthony’s story is an inspiring example of how a thoughtful, proactive approach to both the financial and non-financial aspects of retirement can lead to a fulfilling and purposeful life. If you’re interested in sharing your own retirement story, please email me at podcast@keilfp.com. I’d love to hear it. Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-revealed/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify Additional Links: “Are You Headed for Retirement Heaven or Hell? With Mike Drak” – Retire Today Episode 243 www.forthenapos.com – Anthony Napolitano Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Retirement Revealed Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

“Retirement Revealed” is Now “Retire Today”! Introducing the next chapter of the “Retirement Revealed” podcast as “Retire Today” After six years and 250 episodes of helping you turn your retirement savings into retirement income, we’ve got some exciting news: the Retirement Revealed podcast is now the Retire Today podcast! Why the change? There are two big reasons—and both are worth celebrating. 1. A Fresh Start with Familiar Wisdom First, after hundreds of episodes and years of invaluable conversations with financial experts and retirees, I felt it was time for a fresh start. Don’t worry—this isn’t a complete overhaul. And we’re still focused on the same core mission: helping you retire confidently by turning your savings into income and avoiding big retirement mistakes. But just like your retirement plan needs to adapt and evolve, so does this podcast. That’s why I’ve rebranded the show with a name that better reflects what we’re all about: taking action today to create your retirement master plan. 2. A New Book: Retire Today The second reason for the change? I’m publishing a book! My new book is called “Retire Today: Create Your Retirement Master Plan in Five Simple Steps”. It’s the culmination of everything I’ve learned over my 22 years as a retirement-focused financial advisor. And I’m beyond excited to share it with you. If you want a preview or want to get on the pre-sale list, just email me at podcast@keilfp.com. I’d love to send you a discounted copy as a thank-you for being a loyal listener. What to Expect from the Retire Today Podcast Over the next few weeks, I’ll be diving deep into the five-step retirement plan from the book. You might already be familiar with the framework, but now I’m bringing it to life—on the podcast and in print. Here’s a sneak peek at the steps: Step 1: Spend This is all about understanding how much you need to spend each month in retirement. We’ll explore how to calculate your true retirement income needs and how long you might need that income to last. Step 2: Make Just because you retire doesn’t mean you stop making money. We’ll look at maximizing your Social Security, pension, and other income sources so you’re not leaving money on the table. Step 3: Keep No one likes paying more taxes than they have to. This step is about keeping more of what you earn by creating a tax-smart retirement strategy. Step 4: Grow Here’s where investing comes in. It’s important—but only after you know how much you need, how long you’ll need it, and how to keep more of it. We’ll walk through how to invest based on when you’ll need the money and how much risk you’re comfortable taking. Step 5: Leave Finally, we’ll talk about legacy. Do you want to leave behind assets—or just a big tax bill? We’ll discuss how to plan for the legacy you truly want to leave. A Mindset Shift Beyond the numbers, retirement requires a mindset shift. Many people struggle with going from accumulating savings to actually spending it. We’ll explore how to confidently step into the next chapter of your life—mentally and financially. What’s Next? To kick off the Retire Today podcast, I’ll be sharing a true retirement story from a listener who was laid off the same day he bought his second home. Spoiler alert: thanks to solid planning, he’s now enjoying his retirement more than ever. So if you’ve been enjoying Retirement Revealed, you’re going to love Retire Today. It’s the same mission, with a fresh look and a powerful new resource–get on the pre-order list by emailing podcast@KeilFP.com today! Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retire Today” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retire Today to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-revealed/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetireTodaySpotify  Additional Links: www.5stepretirementplan.com Pre-order a copy of “Retire Today” (9/2 release) by Emailing podcast@KeilFP.com  Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Retirement Revealed Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil explores the incoming changes resulting from the “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” and how they might impact your retirement. Big tax changes are on the horizon—and if you’re nearing or in retirement, you need to pay attention. On this episode of the Retirement Revealed podcast, I dive into how President Trump’s “One Big, Beautiful Bill” (OBBB) might impact your retirement plan. This legislation brings a mix of permanent, temporary, and eyebrow-raising changes to the tax code, many of which could directly affect your income, deductions, Medicare costs, and charitable giving strategies. Let’s break down what retirees need to know. 1. The Myth of “Permanent” Tax Brackets One of the most buzzworthy changes is the permanence of the current tax brackets. For the past few years, retirees rushed to do Roth conversions before tax rates were scheduled to rise at the end of 2025. But now, those lower rates are considered permanent. But let’s be honest—permanent in Washington, D.C., doesn’t always mean forever. As Stephen Jarvis of the Retirement Tax Podcast often says, “The tax code is written in pencil, not pen.” So while this may slow the urgency of Roth conversions, the potential for future changes still makes forward-thinking tax planning essential. 2. The New “Senior Bonus” Deduction Perhaps the biggest headline for retirees is the new “Senior Bonus Deduction.” Starting at age 65, individuals can now claim an additional $6,000 deduction (or $12,000 for couples), regardless of whether they take the standard or itemized deduction. It’s a valuable benefit—but there’s a catch. This deduction begins to phase out once your modified adjusted gross income hits $75,000 (single) or $150,000 (joint), which could create a hidden marginal tax increase for those over the threshold. When you add this to the complexity of how Social Security and Medicare costs are calculated, this seemingly simple deduction could actually lead to an unexpected tax bite. I’ll be breaking down how this plays out visually in upcoming videos on my Mr. Retirement YouTube channel. 3. Social Security Taxation: No Change (But Still a Big Deal) Despite some speculation, the OBBB does not change how Social Security is taxed. Up to 85% of your Social Security income is still taxable depending on your other income levels. But don’t ignore this just because it’s staying the same. Small changes in income—like selling stock or taking an IRA distribution—can trigger bigger tax bills than you’d expect. That $1 you pull from your traditional IRA might actually lead to $1.85 in taxable income. That’s how you go from the 12% bracket to effectively paying 22%. 4. Bunching Deductions May Be More Important Than Ever The standard deduction is increasing to $15,750 (single) and $31,500 (joint). This makes it even harder to get a benefit from itemizing deductions like charitable gifts and property taxes. But don’t give up on deductions yet! “Bunching” strategies—grouping two years’ worth of donations or property tax payments into one tax year—can still be incredibly powerful. And with changes to the SALT (State and Local Tax) deduction cap temporarily increasing from $10,000 to $40,000 between 2025 and 2029, this could create new windows for smart planning. 5. Encouraging Charitable Giving for Everyone One positive change is the return of the above-the-line charitable deduction for non-itemizers. Starting in 2026, you can now deduct up to $1,000 (single) or $2,000 (joint) for charitable giving even if you don’t itemize—permanently. It’s not a game-changer, but it might nudge some people to give more, and that’s a win in my book. And for high-income earners in the 37% bracket, charitable deductions are now limited to a 35% benefit—something to consider in your giving strategy. 6. Big Income? Watch for Hidden Tax Traps If your income is around $500,000–$600,000, pay extra attention. Between the loss of SALT deductions and the standard tax rate, your marginal tax cost could approach 45.5%. Whether you’re a retiree taking a large IRA withdrawal, selling stock, or a business owner receiving a bonus, planning when and how you receive that income could save you tens of thousands in taxes. 7. Estate Tax and 529 Plan Updates The estate tax exemption is increasing to $15 million per person (indexed for inflation), so most retirees still don’t need to worry about the “death tax.” But one area where retirees might get involved is with expanded 529 plan flexibility. More education expenses are eligible, and new “Trump Accounts” are on the horizon. These are retirement-style savings accounts for newborns, funded up to $5,000 per child—no earned income required. If you’re a grandparent who wants to kickstart a child’s retirement, this could be a valuable tool. Final Thoughts This tax bill is massive, and we’ve only scratched the surface. But here’s the takeaway: retirement planning isn’t just about how much you have—it’s about how you use it. Understanding how your income, deductions, and gifting strategies interact with tax law can mean the difference between running out of money or having enough to leave a legacy. If you want to see how these new changes might affect your retirement plan, reach out to us at Keil Financial Partners or shoot us an email at podcast@keilfp.com. And be sure to check out our Mr. Retirement YouTube channel for visuals that help you make smarter money decisions. Because if you know more about your money, you’ll feel better about your money—and make better money decisions. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retirement Revealed” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retirement Revealed to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-revealed/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetirementRevealedSpotify  Additional Links: “Breaking Down The “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”: Impact Of New Laws On Tax Planning” – Kitces.com Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Retirement Revealed Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Media Disclosures: Disclosures This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure Consumers should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosures Alongside, LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside, LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside, LLC. Additional information about Alongside, LLC – including its services, fees and any material conflicts of interest – can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A. The content of this media should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only. Additional Important Disclosures

Jeremy Keil breaks down the Investopedia.com list of the 11 best low-risk investments for 2025 When people talk about low-risk investments, it’s usually because they’re trying to avoid surprises. And let’s face it—if you’re retired or planning to retire soon, surprises are not your friend. That’s why I took a deep dive into a recent Investopedia article listing the “11 Best Low-Risk Investments: Safest Options for 2025” and unpacked what these options really mean for investors nearing or in retirement. The number one question every investor needs to ask isn’t “what’s the highest return I can get?” It’s “When do I need this money?” Time horizon is everything when you’re choosing between short-term and long-term investments. Let’s walk through what Investopedia got right, what they got wrong, and how you can potentially make better choices for your retirement future. 1. Preferred Stock: Low-Risk? Not So Fast Investopedia put preferred stock at the top of their list. I’m not convinced that’s where it belongs. Preferred stock is like a hybrid between stocks and bonds. It pays a fixed dividend, which sounds comforting—until the market drops. In 2022, preferred stocks were down 18.3%, which was actually worse than the S&P 500’s 18.1% decline. If you’re looking for stability, that’s a tough pill to swallow. The lesson here? Fixed dividends don’t guarantee safety. Preferred stock might play a role in your portfolio, but calling it “low risk” might be a stretch. 2. High-Yield Savings Accounts: A True Safe Bet Now this is more like it. High-yield savings accounts are FDIC-insured and can offer 4%+ interest as of mid-2025. Compare that to the national average of 0.42%, and you see why parking your short-term cash here makes a lot of sense. If your money is just sitting in a regular savings account, it’s probably time to move it. Online banks often offer better rates, and they carry essentially the same protections as your brick-and-mortar bank. 3. Money Market Funds This one’s tricky. A money market account is a savings product offered by a bank and FDIC-insured. A money market fund is an investment through your brokerage that is not FDIC-insured—but typically offers higher yields and flexibility inside an IRA or brokerage account. Both can be solid options depending on your need for access and insurance coverage. 4. CDs Certificates of Deposit (CDs) are familiar to most investors. But don’t just chase the highest interest rate. Match your CD’s maturity with when you actually need the money. If you need it in two years, you may not want to buy a one-year CD with the intention to roll it over—you’re gambling on future interest rates. 5. Treasury Bills: U.S.-Backed and Flexible Treasuries are popular for a reason—they’re backed by the U.S. government and highly liquid. Through a brokerage account, you can buy Treasuries that mature when you need your money. Even better, if you have to sell early, they tend to hold value better than CDs, which may carry stiffer early withdrawal penalties. 6. TIPS: Great Inflation Protection, Not Immune to Volatility Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS) sound great on paper, and they do provide a hedge against inflation. But that doesn’t mean they’re immune to losses. In 2022, TIPS dropped 12%. If you’re buying them for short-term needs, you could get burned. 7 & 8. Triple-A Bonds & Bond Funds There’s a myth out there that individual bonds are safer than bond funds. In reality, bond funds are just bundles of individual bonds. The key factor is duration—how long until the average bond in the fund matures. The longer the duration, the higher the risk when interest rates move. 9. Municipal Bonds: Tax-Friendly but Not Risk-Free Municipal bonds are attractive for their tax advantages—especially for those in higher tax brackets. But keep in mind, they’re not backed by the federal government. If the issuing municipality runs into trouble, so could your investment. 10 & 11. Annuities and Cash Value Life Insurance These two are often misunderstood. Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities (MYGAs) offer CD-like stability but are backed by insurance companies rather than banks. Cash value life insurance can provide tax-deferred growth and tax-free death benefits, but you’re paying for those features. As with any insurance product, read the fine print—especially the rules for accessing your money. Final Thoughts: Think Strategy, Not Headlines I appreciate Investopedia for sparking the conversation. Laying out these options side-by-side allows for a simpler comparison, but if you’re a longtime “Retirement Revealed” listener, you likely know what’s coming next. Trying to pick just one of these types of investments exclusively opens the door to the specific downside related to your choice–either the risk of loss or missing out on the missed growth opportunity that would have been available elsewhere. The takeaway isn’t to just pick an item off their list. It’s to understand how each of these fits into your retirement income plan. The three things you always need to ask: When do I need this money? What are the risks—up and down? How liquid is the investment? Watch the full video to see me break down each of these 11 investments—and help you figure out which ones actually fit into a smart retirement strategy. And if you want help turning your savings into a sustainable income stream, let’s talk.  Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retirement Revealed” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retirement Revealed to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-revealed/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetirementRevealedSpotify  Additional Links: “11 Best Low-Risk Investments: Safest Options for 2025” – Investopedia.com Investing in 2025: Simple Strategies with Joseph Hogue of Let’s Talk Money! – Retirement Revealed Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Retirement Revealed Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team Disclosures: This podcast is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any listener. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. The views and opinions expressed are those of the host and any guest, current as of the date of recording, and may change without notice as market, political, or economic conditions evolve. All investments involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Legal & Tax Disclosure:  Listeners should consult their own qualified attorney, CPA, or other professional advisor regarding their specific legal and tax situations. Advisor Disclosure: Alongside LLC, doing business as Keil Financial Partners, is an SEC-registered investment adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or expertise. Advisory services are delivered through the Alongside LLC platform. Keil Financial Partners is independent, not owned or operated by Alongside LLC. Additional information about Alongside LLC—including its services, fees, and any material conflicts of interest—can be found at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/333587 or by requesting Form ADV Part 2A.The content of this episode should not be reproduced or redistributed without the firm’s written consent. Any trademarks or service marks mentioned belong to their respective owners and are used for identification purposes only.

Exploring Heather Schreiber’s 5 costly Social Security traps and exploring options of how to handle them. I’ve seen it time and again throughout my career: the intricacies of navigating Social Security can trip up just about anyone. So when I saw the headline “5 Sneaky Social Security Traps” in Heather Schreiber’s newsletter, I knew right away this was going to be something that deserved a closer look on the podcast. Let’s dive into these 5 Social Security traps–and these aren’t just random quirks—that can lead to unexpected gaps in income, tax surprises, or permanent reductions in your benefits.  1. The Entire Month Rule You might think that turning 62 means you’re automatically eligible for Social Security that month. Not quite. Social Security has a quirky rule: you have to be 62 for the entire month to receive benefits for that month. If your birthday is on June 15, you don’t qualify for June’s benefit. Instead, your eligibility starts in July, and your first payment doesn’t arrive until August. What’s even weirder is that the SSA counts your birthday as the day before you were born. So if you’re born on June 2, you’re considered 62 starting June 1 and therefore eligible for June benefits (which are paid in July). If you’re planning on your Social Security check arriving the month you turn 62, you could be left waiting an extra month or two—potentially throwing off your cash flow. 2. Rest in Peace, Now Return to Sender Just like you must be alive the entire month to earn that month’s benefit, if someone passes away mid-month, they don’t qualify for that month’s Social Security payment—even if it’s already been deposited. This can be a shock to surviving spouses or family members when the SSA takes that money back. If a loved one passes away on June 14, and the June payment was already deposited in early July, that money must be returned. It wasn’t “earned” under SSA rules. So whether you’re filing for your own benefit or helping a family member, remember: Social Security is earned month-by-month—and only if you’re alive for the full month. 3. Lump Sum FOMO: When Free Money Isn’t Always Free When you file for Social Security after your full retirement age, you have the option to take up to six months’ worth of benefits retroactively. That sounds great—who doesn’t like a lump sum? But here’s the catch: taking that lump sum means your official filing date is backdated. So if you file at age 68.5 and take six months retroactive payments, SSA treats you as if you filed at 68—reducing your benefit by 4%. That “free” $18,000–$20,000 could cost you thousands more over the course of your retirement. Sometimes it’s worth it, but many people take the lump sum without realizing the long-term cost. 4. Under-Withholding Today May Lead to Regret Tomorrow Here’s a situation I see far too often: retirees who start taking Social Security, forget to set up federal tax withholding, and then get a surprise bill come tax season. Unlike pensions or employer paychecks, Social Security doesn’t automatically withhold taxes unless you fill out a separate form (Form W-4V). If you don’t do this and your Social Security income is taxable, you could owe hundreds—or thousands—at tax time. Take the time to set up appropriate withholding levels. SSA allows you to choose from 7%, 10%, 12%, or 22%.  5. Medicare IRMAA and the Two-Year Lookback When you hit age 65 and enroll in Medicare, your premiums for Part B (and possibly Part D) can go up significantly if your income from two years ago was high. This IRMAA (Income-Related Monthly Adjustment Amount) surcharge can sneak up on you—especially if you had a one-time event like a Roth conversion, large capital gain, or business sale. If you had a significant drop in income due to retirement, job loss, or other life event, you can appeal your IRMAA using a life-changing event form (SSA-44). I’ve helped dozens of clients successfully reduce their IRMAA—and save hundreds each month on premiums. Plan Smart, Prepare for Surprises Social Security can be a crucial part of your retirement income. It’s not just about “when” you file—it’s about “how” you plan around it. Whether it’s making sure you’re eligible for your first check, avoiding tax pitfalls, or preparing for Medicare surprises, proactive planning may give you more options to address situations as they arise. Don’t forget to leave a rating for the “Retirement Revealed” podcast if you’ve been enjoying these episodes! Subscribe to Retirement Revealed to get new episodes every Wednesday. Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/retirement-revealed/id1488769337 Spotify Podcasts: https://bit.ly/RetirementRevealedSpotify  Additional Links: Heather Schreiber, HLS Retirement Consulting Extra Medicare Cost IRMAA Appeal form SSA-44 Social Security Withholding form W-4V Supercharge your Social Security Benefit with These 5 Tips – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel How Social Security Affects Your Retirement Taxes – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel When is the Right Time to File for Social Security? – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel How to Use the Social Security Quick Calculator (and Why It Matters If You Retire Early!) – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Social Security Earnings Limit 2025 – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Average vs. Maximum Social Security – Where Do You Stand? – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Social Security and Work: How Much Can You Make in 2025? – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel WHEN Will You Get Your Social Security Benefits Each Month? – Mr. Retirement YouTube Channel Connect With Jeremy Keil: Keil Financial Partners LinkedIn: Jeremy Keil Facebook: Jeremy Keil LinkedIn: Keil Financial Partners YouTube: Retirement Revealed Book an Intro Call with Jeremy’s Team === Disclosures Videos/Podcasts/Blogs (media) published prior to June 30, 2025, were recorded and approved while the advisor was affiliated with Thrivent Advisor Network. These media reflect the advisor’s views and interpretations at that time. The information and disclosures contained in those media were believed to be accurate and complete as of the date of recording, but may not reflect current market conditions or Alongside, LLC, policies. All content is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute personalized investment advice. Read below for current disclosures and potential conflicts of interest. This media is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not consider the investment objectives, financial situation, or particular needs of any consumer. Nothing in this program should be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice, nor as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any security or to adopt any investment strategy. 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