Retiring Today

Contrary to what we're often told, our product is not the plan. A retirement plan does include investments but the comprehensive customized plan incorporates a lot of other moving parts. In this never heard before podcast, Loren and Molly will be discussing the junk drawer of investments and the best way to organize them. 

Every stage of life brings new financial milestones, and retirement is no different. From your 50s through your 70s, there are decisions you will make that can significantly affect your confidence, income, and lifestyle in retirement. In this episode, the Retiring Today team showcases our first digital magazine — Your Retirement Milestone Guide. This new resource is designed to help you see the full picture of retirement planning and understand why timing and preparation make such a difference.You’ll also meet Adventurous Angie — a newly retired professional who spent 47 years with the same company. Learn how she earned her nickname, what’s on her multiple “bucket lists,” and how she’s making the most of retirement after answering the big question: Am I ready? Angie’s story brings these milestones to life, showing how clarity and planning can turn uncertainty into confidence.--Download your copy of the Retiring Today Magazine at https://bit.ly/4nDw5eEReady to take the next step? Schedule a RetireReady Call at https://bit.ly/4933lZb--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Clint HuntrodsCertified Financial Fiduciary®, PhDhttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/clint-huntrods/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation.The testimonial shared in this episode is provided by a current client, who did not receive compensation for their experience with Merkle Retirement Planning. This testimonial does not present conflicts of interest due to the relationships or services offered. This published testimonial is representative of this individual’s experience only. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Is it true you have to enroll in Medicare at 65 even if you're still working? Will Medicare cover all of your health care needs? What actually happens if you enroll late? There’s a lot of confusion around Medicare — but understanding how it works before you enroll can help you feel more confident about the choices you need to make.In this episode, we walk through common Medicare assumptions and separate fact from fiction. Each topic reflects real situations people face as they approach 65, and understanding the facts can help you feel more prepared when it's time to make your Medicare decisions.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a RetireReady Call at https://bit.ly/4933lZbGet the tools you need to prepare for retirement with the Retire Your Way Toolkit: https://bit.ly/4nPqqDx--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/AnnaMarie MorrowDirector of Medicare & Long-Term Carehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/annamarie-morrow/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation.Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

In this Indiana Jones–inspired episode, we return to the Cave of Question to tackle one of the biggest challenges facing those 55 and older: How do I start planning for retirement?It’s easy to feel lost in the maze of decisions around Social Security, Roth conversions, Medicare, and more. That’s why this journey is about more than finding answers, it’s about uncovering the Compass of Clarity. To get it, we must work through each puzzle of the six pillars of retirement planning: lifestyle, income, taxes, investments, health care, and legacy.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/4933lZb to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/4nPqqDx--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Clint HuntrodsCertified Financial Fiduciary®, PhDhttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/clint-huntrods/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Enter the "Cave of Questions" in this Halloween-themed episode of Retiring Today, where we take you on an Indiana Jones-inspired adventure to uncover what really matters in retirement planning — especially if you're 55 and wondering, "Do I have enough?"As we search for the Hourglass of Time, we break down the six essential pillars of retirement planning: lifestyle, income, taxes, investments, healthcare, and legacy. Whether you're a few years from retirement or simply unsure where to begin, this fun yet informative journey will help you visualize your next steps with clarity.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/4933lZb to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/4nPqqDx--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Chawn HonkompCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, CPA® https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/chawn-honkomp/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Inheriting assets can carry emotional weight and financial complexity. In this episode of Retiring Today, we explain the five most common types of inherited assets and how they're taxed, transferred, and treated under current rules. Key Takeaways:- The five main asset types: cash, brokerage accounts, retirement accounts, real estate, and insurance/annuities.- Why inherited IRAs come with a 10-year distribution window for non-spouses.- How real estate gains can trigger capital gains taxes—or be excluded if handled carefully.- The difference between inheritance, estate, and income tax at the federal and state levels.Whether you're receiving an inheritance or planning your legacy, understanding these rules can help you make more confident, informed decisions.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a 15 RetireReady Call now at https://bit.ly/4g9X8fB to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/47t0J6f--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Clint HuntrodsCertified Financial Fiduciary®, PhDhttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/clint-huntrods/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Planning for retirement means more than saving money—it means preparing for the realities that can shape your future. Today, we count down the top 10 retirement wake-up calls that reveal what many retirees wish they had known sooner.This episode speaks directly to individuals and families ages 55+ preparing for retirement. It’s a reminder that the most confident retirements begin with thoughtful planning—not assumptions. --Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/4msJwyt to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/41opXPl--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Chawn HonkompCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, CPA® https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/chawn-honkomp/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation.Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Many investors fall into recognizable patterns—behaviors that can create challenges during retirement. Whether it’s reacting too quickly to market swings, holding onto the wrong investments, or waiting for the perfect moment that never comes, these habits can affect your long-term retirement goals.In this episode, you’ll meet four common investor types: the panic seller, the sideliner, the clinger, and the looky-loo. Each one reflects a different emotional approach to investing, but there are also strategies to counter these tendencies. From dollar-cost averaging and diversification to tax loss harvesting, you’ll learn ways to turn uncertainty into opportunity.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/4msJwyt to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/41opXPl--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Chawn HonkompCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, CPA® https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/chawn-honkomp/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

When it comes to investing for retirement, not all the advice you hear is accurate or helpful. Today, we’re putting eight common retirement investment beliefs to the test in a round of Retirement Fact or Fiction.Drawing on real-life examples, historical data, and years of helping families and individuals plan for retirement, Loren Merkle and Haley Gutschenritter join Molly Nelson to explain why some of these statements hold up—while others may create confusion.These are statements we hear often—statements that can influence retirement decisions. But just because they’re common doesn’t necessarily make them accurate.1. Fact or Fiction: “The stock market is too risky for retirees.”2. Fact or Fiction: “It’s safer to keep money in a savings account.”3. Fact or Fiction: “Bonds are always safer than stocks.”4. Fact or Fiction: “I can just live off the dividends and never touch my principal.”5. Fact or Fiction: “I should avoid taking money from investments when the market is down.”6. Fact or Fiction: “I can just follow the 4% rule and never run out of money.”7. Fact or Fiction: “Market timing is key to high returns.”8. Fact or Fiction: “Annuities are always a bad investment.”--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/45FD9k4 to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/41PHm3x--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Haley Gutschenritter CFP®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/haley-gutschenritter/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Retirement planning isn’t just about your investments — it’s about your lifestyle, your goals, and how you want to live every single day after you stop working. In this episode of Retiring Today, we reveal seven essential questions that every financial advisor should ask you as you prepare for retirement.From Social Security election strategies to building recession-resistant income, this conversation highlights the value of personalized planning, tax diversification, and long-term care strategies that actually reflect how people live in retirement.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a RetireReady Call now at http://bit.ly/41sY3lb to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/3Jm0bVC--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Clint HuntrodsCertified Financial Fiduciary®, PhDhttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/clint-huntrods/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Long-term care is one of the most overlooked—but essential—parts of retirement planning. This episode breaks down what long-term care actually includes, how much it may cost, and why it’s important to have a plan that integrates long-term care before exploring insurance options. A hypothetical example illustrates how long-term care costs can affect a retirement portfolio and the types of solutions available today, from hybrid life insurance to investment-based strategies. With the right planning, you can move forward with clarity and confidence.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/44EE4St to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/3Tipp9q--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/AnnaMarie MorrowDirector of Medicare & Long-Term Carehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/annamarie-morrow/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/-- This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation.Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Taxes don’t stop when your paycheck does, and what you think you know about taxes in retirement could cost you. In this episode of Retiring Today, we break down five common assumptions about retirement taxes and reveal whether they’re fact or fiction.Each statement is explored in detail to help you understand how retirement income, account types, and where you live can all shape your future tax bill.These five retirement tax beliefs are put to the test:Fact or Fiction: My taxes will be lower in retirement.Fact or Fiction: Social Security benefits are tax-free.Fact or Fiction: Qualified Roth IRA withdrawals are always tax-free.Fact or Fiction: RMDs only apply to traditional IRAs.Fact or Fiction: Moving to a no-income tax state eliminates all taxes.If you are preparing for retirement, this conversation will help you separate myth from reality and build a more informed plan for the future.--Ready to take the next step?  Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/44vkHew to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/4liS4ab--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Haley Gutschenritter CFP®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/haley-gutschenritter/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/--  This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation.Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC.  MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

Legacy planning is more than just deciding who gets what—it's about making things easier for your loved ones and making sure your wishes are honored. This episode walks through five common estate planning mistakes that can cause stress, confusion, and financial problems down the road. We talk about the power of updating your beneficiaries, why having a will or trust matters, and how to make sure your spouse is taken care of if something happens to you.This episode covers topics like estate planning, legacy planning, retirement planning, wills and trusts, beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, Social Security planning, and more—so you can plan with confidence and achieve peace of mind.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/3ZtIQ2x to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/3FSU8GS--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Chawn HonkompCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, CPA® https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/chawn-honkomp/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/-- This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation.Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

You’ve saved, you’ve budgeted, and you’ve run the numbers—but have you really thought about how you’ll live in retirement? In this episode, we highlight common lifestyle pitfalls that can lead to boredom, frustration, or missed opportunities.We explore four key traps many retirees fall into: making emotional decisions, spending too little out of fear, letting others’ opinions influence your choices, and entering retirement without a clear sense of purpose.This episode shines a light on the lifestyle pillar, offering insights to help you align your time, values, and resources—so your retirement feels intentional and meaningful.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/4jDirGq to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/45Jd59n--Loren MerkleCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Chawn HonkompCFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®, CPA® https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/chawn-honkomp/Molly NelsonHost of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/-- This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.

When was the last time you thought about your estate plan—or whether you even have one? In this episode, Loren Merkle and Molly Nelson sit down with estate planning attorney Charlie Bottenberg to explore why legacy planning matters and how it fits into a comprehensive retirement plan.If you haven’t created your own plan, the state already has one for you—and it might not reflect your wishes. Learn the difference between a will and a trust, how to avoid probate, and what happens if powers of attorney and medical directives aren’t in place when you need them most. This episode is for anyone looking for clarity and confidence as they prepare for the future.--Ready to take the next step? Schedule a call now at https://bit.ly/43jVtiT to get answers to your retirement questions.Get the tools you need to prepare for retirement with our complimentary toolkit: https://bit.ly/456rOLv--Loren Merkle, CFP®, RICP®, Certified Financial Fiduciary®https://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/loren-merkle/Molly Nelson, Host of Retiring Today with Loren Merklehttps://merkleretirementplanning.com/staff-members/molly-nelson/Charlie Bottenberghttps://brickgentrylaw.com/attorneys/charlie-bottenberg-- This video does not constitute an offer to sell, a solicitation of an offer to buy, or a recommendation of any security or any other product or service by Merkle Retirement Planning LLC, Elite Retirement Planning LLC, MRP Insurance LLC, or any other third party regardless of whether such security, product or service is referenced in this episode. Furthermore, nothing in this episode is intended to provide tax, legal, or investment advice and nothing in this episode should be construed as a recommendation to buy, sell, or hold any investment or security or to engage in any investment strategy or transaction. Merkle Retirement Planning, LLC does not represent that the securities, products, or services discussed in this episode are suitable for any particular investor. You are solely responsible for determining whether any investment, investment strategy, security or related transaction is appropriate for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial circumstances and risk tolerance. You should consult your business advisor, attorney, or tax and accounting advisor regarding your specific business, legal or tax situation. Medicare services provided through MRP Insurance, LLC. Any and all other services related to insurance are an outside business activity and are not offered through or supervised by Elite Retirement Planning, LLC. MRP Insurance, LLC, is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government agency. This is an advertisement for insurance. By responding to the ad, you will be put in contact with a licensed insurance agent offering Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare Supplement Plans, and Prescription Drug Plans. We do not offer every plan available in your area. Currently we represent [5] organizations which offer [22] products in your area. Please contact Medicare.gov, 1-800-MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) to get information on all of your options.