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Operation Retirement Readiness

Operation Retirement Readiness

By: Mike Hunsberger & Amy King
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About this listen

Amy & Mike, 2 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ Professionals, talk about how military members can prepare for transition and how Veterans can prepare for ultimate retirement. Topics include: military benefits like SGLI, Survivor Benefit Program, Thrift Savings Plan, and GI Bill as well as budgeting, investing, taxes, and college planning. Disclaimer: This podcast represents the views of the hosts and guests. It's for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax, financial, or legal advice. All information is regarded to be from reliable sources. It is not individual advice.Mike Hunsberger & Amy King Economics Personal Finance
Episodes
  • Episode 38 - Listener Questions: Focus on Post Retirement
    Jun 12 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Amy and Mike address questions from their audience regarding financial planning for individuals in their 60s, 70s, and 80s. They discuss the importance of creating a drawdown strategy in retirement, the impact of marital status changes on financial planning, and the critical aspects of estate planning for seniors. The conversation emphasizes the need for updated financial plans, tax implications, and the significance of open discussions with family about estate wishes.


    Chapters

    00:00 Navigating Retirement Transitions

    01:45 Creating a Drawdown Strategy

    12:09 Adapting to Marital Changes

    16:15 Estate Planning Essentials for Seniors


    Takeaways

    • Creating a drawdown strategy is essential for retirement income.
    • Social security and pensions often form the foundation of retirement spending.
    • Decumulation strategies are more complex than accumulation strategies.
    • It's important to spend early in retirement to enjoy life.
    • Changes in marital status require an updated financial plan.
    • Estate planning is crucial as one ages, especially in their 70s.
    • Open discussions with family about estate wishes can prevent conflicts.
    • Waiting to update financial documents can be risky as one ages.
    • Tax implications change with marital status and should be considered.
    • Having trusted advisors is important for making sound financial decisions.


    Operation Retirement Readiness: www.operationretirementreadiness.com


    Schedule a consultation with Mike: https://nextmissionfinancialplanning.com/contact/


    Schedule a consultation with Amy: https://www.instarfp.com/contact


    Disclaimer: This podcast represents the views of the hosts and any guests. It is for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax, financial, or legal advice. All information is regarded to be from reliable sources. The hosts are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional, individualized advice.

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    31 mins
  • Episode 37 - 529 Day
    May 29 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Mike and Amy discuss the importance of college savings, particularly through 529 plans. They explore various aspects of education funding, including the impact of student loans, how to determine the right amount to save, the tax advantages of 529 accounts, and what expenses can be covered. They also address concerns about what happens to 529 funds if a child does not attend college, the role of grandparents in contributing to these plans, and how to choose the right 529 plan for individual needs.


    Takeaways

    • College savings is a significant financial goal for families.
    • Starting to save early is crucial for education funding.
    • 529 accounts offer tax-free growth for education expenses.
    • Qualified expenses for 529 withdrawals include tuition, room, and board.
    • Unused 529 funds can be transferred to other family members.
    • Grandparents can contribute to 529 plans without affecting financial aid.
    • Choosing the right 529 plan involves comparing fees and investment options.
    • State tax advantages can influence the choice of a 529 plan.
    • Understanding the rules around 529 withdrawals is essential for maximizing benefits.
    • It's important to stay informed about changes in education funding policies.


    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to College Savings and 529 Plans

    03:13 Understanding Student Loans and Their Impact

    06:13 Determining the Right Amount to Save for Education

    09:18 Tax Advantages of 529 Plans

    12:32 Qualified Expenses Covered by 529 Plans

    15:15 Options for Unused 529 Funds

    18:25 Contributions from Grandparents and Other Relatives

    21:20 Choosing the Right 529 Plan


    Operation Retirement Readiness: www.operationretirementreadiness.com


    Schedule a consultation with Mike: https://nextmissionfinancialplanning.com/contact/


    Schedule a consultation with Amy: https://www.instarfp.com/contact


    Disclaimer: This podcast represents the views of the hosts and any guests. It is for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax, financial, or legal advice. All information is regarded to be from reliable sources. The hosts are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional, individualized advice.

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    28 mins
  • Episode 36 - Getting to 70
    May 15 2025

    Summary

    In this podcast episode, Mike Hunsberger and Amy discuss the unique aspects of retirement planning for military retirees, focusing on the importance of understanding pensions, social security timing, and investment strategies. They emphasize the need for a thoughtful approach to financial planning that allows for a fulfilling lifestyle post-retirement, while also addressing end-of-life expenses. The conversation highlights how military retirees can enjoy greater financial security and flexibility compared to their civilian counterparts.


    Chapters

    00:00 Understanding Military Retirement Planning

    03:34 The Importance of Social Security Timing

    06:08 Investment Strategies for Retirement

    09:34 Designing a Fulfilling Post-Retirement Life

    12:32 Financial Security and Lifestyle Choices

    15:08 Planning for the Future: A Roadmap to Retirement


    Takeaways

    • Military retirement planning is unique due to pensions.

    • Social security timing is crucial for maximizing benefits.

    • Investment strategies should consider long-term growth.

    • Retirement lifestyle can be designed around personal goals.

    • Income security allows for more spending freedom in retirement.

    • Planning for end-of-life expenses is essential.

    • Military retirees often have more financial options.

    • Understanding your numbers is key to effective planning.

    • A fulfilling post-retirement life requires thoughtful design.

    • Financial planning can help achieve desired retirement outcomes.


    Operation Retirement Readiness: www.operationretirementreadiness.com


    Schedule a consultation with Mike: https://nextmissionfinancialplanning.com/contact/


    Schedule a consultation with Amy: https://www.instarfp.com/contact


    Disclaimer: This podcast represents the views of the hosts and any guests. It is for informational purposes only and should not be considered tax, financial, or legal advice. All information is regarded to be from reliable sources. The hosts are not responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this podcast. This podcast is not intended to replace professional, individualized advice.

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    22 mins

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