From the category archives:

Retirement Guide

With the combination of a tough economy and increasing longevity, many adults find themselves looking for work-life balance even after they’ve officially retired. That’s because a modern retirement doesn’t necessarily mean the end of working. Many retirees continue to work part-time or even full-time jobs to earn extra income, meet new people or find personal fulfillment.

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Organize Your Lifestyle Shopping

by Dave Schreiner on April 27, 2012

As you move from the life stage driven by your children and career, to a time where you’ll have more discretion in how you allocate your time and talent, a little organizing can go a long way. Here’s a simple four-step process that can help position you for continued life satisfaction.

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How to Prepare for Living on a Fixed Income

by Bill Ness on April 9, 2012

Retirement is appealing because it gives you the freedom to slow down, relax and do whatever you want to do with your time. Of course, that freedom comes at a cost. Living on a fixed income means learning how to have the lifestyle you want on the money you already have.

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According to Money Magazine, an adult who wants to retire in their 50s or early 60s would need 10 to 16 times their salary saved by the time they stop working. Of course, suggestions like this are only a rule of thumb and not a strict guideline for a successful retirement. Plans for your own retirement will vary widely depending on your situation.

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Is It Better to Finance or Pay Cash?

by Bill Ness on December 12, 2011

For most homeowners, investing in a new home requires taking on a mortgage to cover a portion of the cost. But that isn’t always the case. Retirees who are downsizing from their family home may find themselves in a position to choose whether they want to finance or pay cash. But which is the best choice?

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Must Read Advice for Retiring on a Fixed Income

by Bill Ness on November 7, 2011

While the idea of retiring can be exciting, it also comes with some common concerns. No longer having a job means relying on a fixed income from the savings plans and tools you put in place during your career.

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Do You Plan to Die Broke or Leave an Inheritance?

by Bill Ness on September 30, 2011

In 1997, financial advisor Stephen Pollan and author Mark Levine stirred up some controversy with the four-step plan presented in “Die Broke.” This radical book became a national bestseller, but not everyone agrees with Pollan’s financial strategy, which includes essentially giving up on the idea of retirement. Many Baby Boomers are more comfortable with the conventional approach of saving for the future and leaving an inheritance to their children, but there’s no doubt that Pollan’s strategy has changed the way some active adults approach their golden years.

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What is the Best Age to Claim Social Security?

by Bill Ness on September 23, 2011

If you’ve begun thinking about claiming Social Security benefits, you probably have many questions. Should you claim them as soon as you are eligible or wait to maximize your benefits? What are the tax implications and how do benefits differ if you are married?

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How to Retire When You Are Broke

by Bill Ness on August 22, 2011

While retirement might be out of reach if you are truly broke, it may still be possible when your nest egg is much smaller than you had expected it would be. There are many ways to cut back on costs or supplement your income during retirement. Of course, you may have to get creative with your expenses and adjust your expectations to make it work.

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5 Best Low Tax Retirement States

by Susan Quilty on May 19, 2011

When it comes to saving money, most retirees understand the benefits of moving to a low tax retirement location. However, some of the most tax-friendly retirement states may not be the best fit when you consider other factors such as climate, culture and proximity to family and friends.

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55Places.com Unveils New Look and Major Upgrades

by Susan Quilty on May 18, 2011

Buying a new home is always a major investment, but there is even more to consider when you are also choosing between active adult communities. To help you make your best decision, 55Places.com provides overviews of hundreds of age-restricted and age-targeted communities across the country. And now, 55Places.com’s fresh new design makes it easier than ever.

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Yes, a 60-Year Old Can Get a 30-Year Mortgage

by Susan Quilty on May 13, 2011

Older adults often assume that they would not be eligible for a 30-year mortgage. Legally, however, banks can only offer loans based on financial qualifications alone. This means applicants cannot be turned away based on their age, whether they are 50, 60, or even 90 years old.

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Will You Outlast Your Retirement Savings?

by Susan Quilty on February 21, 2011

Though most active adults understand the importance of saving for retirement, many may underestimate the amount of money they will need to have saved. This is especially true as the average lifespan is growing and workers can no longer expect defined-benefit pension plans or social security income. How can you be sure that you will not outlast your own retirement savings?

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“Fullback” Retirees Rushing Back North

by Susan Quilty on January 14, 2011

Many retirees have recently become fullbacks, and that doesn’t mean that they have taken up football. Instead, this is a statement about the growing trend of retirees who choose to return, and remain, in the northern United States.

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Top Retirement Trends of 2011

by Susan Quilty on January 3, 2011

As 2011 begins, it’s time to take a look at a few of the trends that appear to be on the rise among active adults across the country. Four common trends include: working during retirement, opting for energy efficient homes, choosing accessibility features, and making fitness a priority.

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