Social Security and employer benefits can be important pieces of retirement.
But don't build a retirement plan around assumptions.
Get the actual information.
Before deciding what you may need to add, understand what you already have.
Social Security
Create or review your official Social Security record.
Look at:
- Your earnings history
- Estimated retirement benefits
- Your full retirement age
- How claiming at different ages affects estimated benefits
- Potential spouse or survivor considerations where applicable
Your decision about when to claim Social Security can affect the amount of your monthly benefit.
Employer Benefits
Review:
- Pension benefits
- 401(k), 403(b) or similar plans
- Employer contributions
- Vesting
- Retiree health benefits
- Life insurance
- Stock or other compensation programs
- Survivor benefits
- Beneficiary designations
The Mistake to Avoid
Don't say: "I think I'll get about…"
Find out.
Retirement decisions are easier to evaluate when estimates and benefit information come from the official sources rather than memory or assumptions.
Questions Worth Asking
- What does my Social Security statement actually show?
- What happens if I claim earlier?
- What happens if I wait?
- What employer benefits continue after retirement?
- Which ones end?
- What happens to my spouse if I die?
- Are my beneficiary designations current?
GEMACE Perspective
Before deciding what you may need to add, understand what you already have.
You don't have to become an insurance expert. But you should understand enough to ask better questions, recognize what matters and make more informed decisions.
How Does This Fit Into Your Life?
GEMACE LifeMap™ begins with your family, responsibilities, goals, concerns and what you're already counting on before discussing possible solutions.
You don't have to become an insurance expert. But you should understand enough to ask better questions, recognize what matters and make more informed decisions.
Educational Information
This material is provided for general educational purposes only and is not intended as individualized insurance, financial, investment, tax or legal advice. Individual circumstances vary. Insurance products, features, availability, eligibility, costs and policy provisions vary by insurer, product and applicant. Review actual policy documents and consult appropriately licensed or qualified professionals regarding your individual circumstances.