Let’s discuss what each of these five retirement planning buckets could entail at a high level:


Wills & Estate Planning

  • Will/trusts
  • Advance Healthcare Directive (AHCD) – A document that combines a “living will” and a “medical power of attorney”
  • Financial power of attorney
  • Review of beneficiaries

Retirement Income & Cash Flow Planning 

  • Analyzing cash flow needs during retirement
  • Budgeting retirement expenses
  • Portion of today’s income needing to be saved/invested
  • Sources of income & withdrawals during retirement
  • Social Security benefits
  • Insurance coverage
  • Debt & liabilities: Mortgage, credit cards, personal loans, etc.

Investment Planning

  • Minimum returns needed for preferred retirement lifestyle
  • Risk appetite today and over time
  • Risk of portfolio vs. potential returns of portfolio
  • Portfolio analysis and review
  • Tax efficiency (IRAs, Roth IRAs, 401Ks, annuities, etc.)
  • Upside & downside potential
  • Asset allocation and portfolio mix (i.e., how much in cash, bonds, stocks, etc.)
  • Review of investment-related expenses

Tax Planning 

  • Income tax & property tax review
  • RMDs/Required Minimum Distributions
  • Roth IRA conversions
  • Charitable giving
  • Estate taxes

Healthcare

  • Healthcare expenses during retirement
  • Long-term care insurance needs
  • Life insurance needs
  • Medicare planning