Protecting Your Nest Egg: Because You Can’t Retire Twice
You have spent decades contributing to 401(k)s, IRAs, and savings accounts. You have done the hard work of accumulation. But as you transition into retirement, the 'rules of money' change. When you are no longer receiving a paycheck and time is no longer on your side to 'wait out' a market crash, the priority must shift from growth at all costs to preservation of principal.
Social Security Planning Resources
The Social Security Retirement Planner: Build Your Foundation
A good place to start thinking about your transition is with the Social Security Retirement Planner. This tool points out specific factors you may want to consider as you prepare for the future.
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Estimate Your Benefit: Sign in to your Personal mySocialSecurity Account to see your actual earnings history and 2026 benefit estimates.
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Quick Calculator: Not ready to sign in? Use the SSA Quick Calculator for a rough estimate based on your current age and income.
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Life Expectancy: Use the Life Expectancy Calculator to help decide how many years of income you need to plan for.
Timing Your Benefits: When is the Right Time for You?
Deciding when to "turn on" your Social Security check is a permanent decision. These SSA tools can help you test different scenarios.
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Full Retirement Age: Find your exact Full Retirement Age (FRA) based on your birth year.
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Working After Retirement: Find out how your earnings affect your benefits if you plan to keep working in Havasu after you claim.
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Family & Spousal Benefits: Discover how family members may qualify for benefits based on your work record.
Transitioning to Medicare: The Age 65 Milestone
Even if you aren't ready to retire yet, you may still need to sign up for Medicare. The timing of your Medicare enrollment is often tied to your Social Security status.
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Applying for Medicare Only: If you are close to 65 and want to Apply for Just Medicare (without starting your Social Security check), you can do so online in about 10 minutes.
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Automatic Enrollment: If you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you turn 65, your Medicare Part A and Part B will start automatically.
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Employer Plan Changes: Be aware that many health insurance plans change automatically at age 65. We recommend a "Coverage Audit" at least 4 months before your birthday.
