Retirement Planning Blog

How Medicare and Annuities Work Together in Retirement

How Medicare and Annuities Work Together in Retirement

As Americans approach retirement, two of the most critical pieces of the financial puzzle come into focus—healthcare coverage and guaranteed income. While these two concerns are often addressed separately, the strategic integration of Medicare and annuities can create a powerful, synergistic retirement plan. Done right, this pairing can help retirees reduce financial uncertainty, protect their nest egg, and ensure lasting peace of mind.

In this article, we’ll explore how Medicare and annuities complement each other, how to maximize their combined benefits, and why smart retirees are using this strategy to navigate retirement with confidence. Read More

Retiring in 2025? What the ‘Peak 65’ Boom Means

Retiring in 2025? What the 'Peak 65' Boom Means

As 2025 unfolds, the United States reaches a historic demographic milestone—“Peak 65”. This year, a record 4.2 million Americans will turn 65, with more than 11,400 people reaching retirement age every day. This unprecedented shift marks the largest cohort of Baby Boomers entering retirement and signals a new era for financial and retirement planning.

With traditional pensions fading and retirement lifespans stretching into decades, retirees are seeking dependable income solutions. At SafeMoney.com, we believe one solution is rising to meet this challenge: annuities—especially Fixed Index Annuities (FIAs). Read More

3 Retirement Risks Annuities Solve—and Why They Matter

June is Annuity Awareness Month—a time to spotlight a retirement tool that often goes overlooked but has never been more important. In today’s uncertain financial landscape, many retirees are vulnerable to risks that can quietly erode their financial security.

The good news? Annuities—when used correctly—can be a powerful solution to three of the most pressing retirement risks: longevity, market volatility, and income shortfalls.

Whether you’re approaching retirement or already there, understanding how annuities work to manage these risks could be the difference between guesswork and confidence. Read More

Why Annuities Are a Smart Move in Today’s Volatile Market

Why Annuities Are a Smart Move in Today’s Volatile Market

A Safe Harbor in a Storm: Annuities Gain Appeal in Uncertain Times

Market volatility is back in the headlines—and it’s forcing many retirees and near-retirees to confront a difficult truth: the traditional 60/40 portfolio may no longer offer the steady, reliable income they once counted on. As interest rates fluctuate, inflation lingers, and equity markets swing wildly, Americans are turning to annuities as a strategic solution to help weather the storm.

In fact, annuities are quietly becoming one of the most sought-after tools for retirement income planning in 2025. Their promise of guaranteed income, protection from market loss, and the ability to hedge longevity risk makes them especially attractive in times like these.

As reported by Barron’s, financial professionals are increasingly embracing annuities—not just for their safety features, but because they fill a growing gap in how people plan for income once the paycheck stops. Read More

Financial Literacy for Retirement Confidence

Financial Literacy for Retirement Confidence

Retirement is supposed to be a time of peace, not panic. Yet for millions of Americans nearing their golden years, retirement brings more questions than answers. Do I have enough saved? When should I claim Social Security? How do I make my money last? These are not just casual concerns—they are deeply personal, and the answers can make or break your financial future.

The good news? Financial literacy is the key to clarity. The more you understand about money, the more power you have to take control of your retirement needs and plan with confidence.

In this article, we’ll break down how financial literacy directly impacts your retirement, the common pitfalls it helps you avoid, and the steps you can take today to feel more secure in your financial future. Read More

Annuity Rate Shifts in 2025: What Retirees Need to Know

Annuity Rate Shifts in 2025: What Retirees Need to Know

An estimated $63 billion worth of annuity contracts are coming due in 2025—here’s what that means for your money and how to take advantage of current annuity rates.

If you purchased a fixed-rate annuity (also known as a MYGA – Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity) in the past few years, your contract may be nearing the end of its guaranteed term. In 2025, over $63 billion worth of MYGA contracts are expected to mature, representing one of the largest waves of annuity turnover the industry has ever seen.

This surge creates both an opportunity and a decision point for consumers: Should you renew, roll over, or reallocate your annuity dollars?

Let’s break it down. Read More

Secure Your Retirement Income During the Fragile Decade

Secure Your Retirement Income During the Fragile Decade

Retirement marks a significant transition in life, bringing both opportunities and challenges. One of the most critical periods in retirement planning is the “fragile decade,” encompassing the five years before and after retirement. During this time, financial decisions have a profound impact on the sustainability of your retirement income. This guide explores effective strategies to navigate this pivotal decade, ensuring a stable and secure retirement. Read More

Best Website for Retirement Info and Planning Help

Best Website for Retirement Info and Planning Help

Planning for retirement is one of the most important financial decisions you’ll make—and finding the right information can be overwhelming. With thousands of articles, advisors, and calculators online, how do you know who to trust? If you’re searching for the best website for retirement info or looking to build a clear, confident strategy for your future, SafeMoney.com is a trusted source that brings clarity, transparency, and unbiased education to the retirement planning process.

In this article, we’ll explore what sets SafeMoney.com apart, how it supports consumers and financial advisors alike, and why it’s rapidly becoming the go-to destination for those seeking reliable retirement planning information. Read More

Sudden Retirement Syndrome: What to Do If You’re Not Ready

Sudden Retirement Syndrome:

Retirement is supposed to be the reward at the end of decades of work.
But what happens when the end sneaks up on you—and you’re not ready? Whether due to forced layoffs, an unexpected health scare, or simply procrastination, many Americans face what’s now being called Sudden Retirement Syndrome—and it’s more common than you might think.

This isn’t just about finances. It’s also about fear, uncertainty, and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with realizing your retirement date is looming, and your plan is… nonexistent. Let’s break down what Sudden Retirement Syndrome is, how it impacts your well-being, and most importantly—what you can do to take control, even if time is short. Read More

Kevin Smith on Fiduciary Planning and Client Education

safemoney.com spotlight series interview

Kevin M. Smith, founder of KMS Safe Money Solutions, shares how his fiduciary, education-driven approach helps clients reduce taxes, plan for healthcare, and retire with confidence. In this exclusive Spotlight Series interview, Kevin explains why ethics, ongoing education, and personalized planning are the foundation of a successful retirement.

In this Spotlight Series interview, Brent Meyer, Founder of SafeMoney.com, speaks with Kevin M. Smith, founder of KMS SafeMoney Solutions, about his fiduciary, education-first approach to retirement planning. With a deep understanding of tax reduction, healthcare planning, and income protection, Kevin shares how he helps clients retire with confidence and clarity. Through ongoing education, ethical guidance, and truly personalized strategies, Kevin empowers individuals to make informed decisions and protect their financial future—without pressure or confusion. Read More

Next Steps to Consider

  • Start a Conversation About Your Retirement What-Ifs

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    Start a Conversation About Your Retirement What-Ifs

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  • What Independent Guidance
    Does for You

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    What Independent Guidance
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    See how the crucial differences between independent and captive financial professionals add up. Learn More

  • Stories from Others
    Just Like You

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    Stories from Others
    Just Like You

    Hear from others who had financial challenges, were looking for answers, and how we helped them find solutions. Learn More

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