New Retirement Radio with Dennis Prout Podcast

On this week’s show, we will honor the legacy of Charlie Munger, Vice President of Berkshire Hathaway, who passed away on November 28. His road to success was one where he started from nothing and achieved what very few others have by sheer hard work, associating with the best people he could, sprinkled in with significant talent honed over the years with significant research and experience. His axioms can help those pursuing higher achievement and a general attitude that can motivate us all. Next, Heidi will discuss the pros and cons of taking Social Security earlier or later (as the case may be) to help you potentially make a better decision as you think about retirement. Heidi’s information is from Heather Schreiber, RICP, and her monthly Social Security newsletter. This is an extensive piece, which we’ll discuss over the next two weeks, so we can fully cover all the material. Last, Deann will cover the interesting stats of billionaires passing on inheritances to their children and the amazing transformation occurring in that space. So much to cover in so little time!

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A recent headline on a story of James Caan’s estate read, “Estate of James Caan Whacked in Tax Case.”As you might guess, there is a lot to learn from others’ misfortunes. In this case, some unfortunate planning and advice put James Caan and his estate on the wrong side of the IRS. In the end, his estate owed almost $1 million in taxes and penalties. On this week’s show, we’ll discuss estate planning and the best ways to avoid tax consequences. Next, Heidi will discuss the economy and opportunities you might take advantage of given the anticipated eventual decline of interest rates. You might be surprised what these might mean and the thought leaders weighing in on this. We can’t always predict the future, but we can see indicators that can be very helpful in ascertaining where things might go. Last, Deann will provide us with plenty of stats to bolster and bring additional background to our discussion.

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Giving can be a good thing,so on today’s show we’ll discuss how you might do that and where might be the best place to utilize those funds. We’ll also continue by reviewing some deep and complex questions financial advisors asked Ed Slott at a recent conference in September. These questions will help with the everyday issues advisors are facing with their clients. Also, during our class last week, the Ed Slott team expressed their own frustrations with the complexity of new regulations and the questions still unanswered by the IRS. So we’ll shed some more light on these issues to hopefully help you navigate your finances and help with your ultimate best interest (no pun intended)!

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As we near the end of 2023, which is only about seven weeks out (can you believe it!?),it’s time to focus on end-of-the-year financial planning strategies as well as what’s in store for 2024.On this week’s show, we’ll discuss Ed Slott’s most recent newsletter, and questions to Ed from financial advisors at his most recent Successful IRA workshop. This will help us be aware of planning options with IRAs as well as learn some useful, not-so-common strategies. Natalie Choate will weigh in on charitable thoughts for IRAs that will help expand our potential. Next, Heidi will discuss new contribution amounts available for 2024 in IRAs and other retirement accounts, which are almost all increasing, giving you ever more flexibility with your retirement investments. Last, Deann will share new stats that will shed more light on these subjects. Your questions are always welcome!So tune in and take control!

Look out! Here comes the economy!So much to talk about and so little time should be the theme for this week’s show as we dive into what the major money management and economic firms are saying. You may ask,“What does this mean for me?”We’ll talk about how the markets are doing; how you can play offense in a very defense-oriented environment; and how you might further your own situation to actually take advantage of today’s higher interest rates. We’ll help you think through your options and potentially make better choices for your future. History can be very useful in helping us all gain more perspective about our current world. As always, questions are welcome! Call or text during the show and we’ll do our best to provide answers.Tune in and take control!

Social Security!Just when you thought you could do without it, here comes the check in the mail!(Just kidding, of course.)Last year at this time, we had Bob Simpson, Manager of our local Social Security office, on the show to speak about Social Security and the COLA (cost-of-living adjustment) that was announced. On today's show, Bob will talk about another recent COLA made for those taking benefits starting January of 2024. While this is helpful information, there are several other changes being made to Social Security that we need to discuss, as well as benefit questions we continue to receive from our clients that you should be made aware of. As always, your questions are always welcome as we continue to navigate the complexities of retirement together. Bob is an extremely knowledgeable Social Security representative who should be helpful in answering your questions.

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November is just a few weeks away, which means the December 31, 2023, deadline for retirement planning is quickly approaching.Now is the timeto wrap up the year with RMD, QCD and Roth conversion planning and focus on retirement planning for 2024.

On today’s show, Heidi will discuss the key features to the SECURE 2.0 Act provisions that will become effective January 1, 2024. It’s important for the advisors, as well as clients, to stay up to date and plan ahead for the important changes ahead. Nathan will discuss the five tax moves retirees should consider before December 31, as well as some strategies to help make your retirement income last. Deann will bring the stats with updates on our economy and the topics discussed.

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According to the Center for Medicare Advocacy, as of March 2023, nearly 65 million people are enrolled in Medicare, an increase of almost 100,000 since September 2022.Deciding on healthcare is a significant part in planning for your retirement. There are many factors to consider when educating oneself in the complex field of Medicare. Fortunately, there are professionals who specialize in this and can help navigate eligible enrollees through the process … and we know two of them!

Laverna Witkop and Dawn McConnell fromFord Insurance Agencywill join us LIVE on the show today. They will cover all the basics of Medicare as well as talk about the open enrollment period, known as the Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug Plan annual election period, or AEP, which is October 15 through December 7. It’s time to review and pay attention to changes. This also might be a good time to jump in! Open enrollment for individual health insurance plans is from November 1 to January 15, 2024.Now’s the time to ask the experts, so have your questions ready.

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Today’s show will feature a special guest, Jennifer Ewing,who has lived in Traverse City for more than 25 years and has worked in the Human Resources field for more than 32 years.Unfortunately, Jennifer lost both of her parents, but she has gained much firsthand knowledge as the executor of her parents’ estate. Deann and Nathan will discuss Jennifer’s experience, covering all the helpful tips – what she wishes she had known, what she’s glad she knew prior to her parents’ deaths, and all the nuggets of knowledge in between.

Though this is a sobering topic, we hope to share some vital information for both parents and their children in planning for and ultimately facing the inevitable. Know there are financial professionals who can and will help navigate you through the details. Know to be tenacious and keep asking questions. Know that you’re not alone. Jennifer’s experience and contagious energy are sure to bring a lively show.

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We all remember the famous Wendy’s ad a couple of decades ago in which an older woman asked where the beef was in her burger.On today’s show, we’ll try to answer that question in terms of investment and/or allocation opportunities for you. Sometimes opportunity doesn’t knock … you must open the door! Capital Group, which oversees American Funds Group, recently published an update whose title is both intriguing and apropos:“As rate hikes near end, historic investor opportunity may begin.”The advisors at Capital Group believe we’re on the cusp of a major transition, where long-term investors can find attractive income opportunities as central banks pivot from restrictive monetary policies to something much more accommodative. Both Heidi and I (Dennis) will discuss these issues related to your longer-term investments and what your options might be to control risk and take advantage of the potential opportunity. Nathan will bring the stats, and there are a fair number this week, with updates on inflation and many others as we delve into the world of your money.

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