Planning for retirement can feel overwhelming—especially when you’ve spent years working hard and now want to enjoy the fruits of your labor. With so many financial advisors available, it’s important to choose one who truly has your best interests at heart. For many boomers and seniors, working with an independent financial professional can offer a level of personalized, unbiased advice that is essential for a secure retirement.
In this article, we’ll explore the differences between independent financial professionals and captive advisors, and explain why an independent advisor might be the right choice for your retirement planning needs.
When planning for retirement, many people focus on 401(k) plans or traditional IRAs, but there’s another option that’s ideal for small businesses: the SIMPLE IRA. This retirement plan provides tax advantages, employer contributions, and an easy-to-manage structure, making it a great choice for businesses with 100 or fewer employees.
With new contribution limits for 2025, now is a great time to explore whether a SIMPLE IRA is the right choice for you. In this article, we’ll explain what a SIMPLE IRA is, how it works, its benefits, potential drawbacks, and recent updates for 2025. Read More
Market volatility can be a retiree’s worst nightmare. The ups and downs of the stock market can significantly impact a portfolio, especially when retirees need to withdraw funds for living expenses. This is where Volatility Buffer Accounts (VBAs) come in—providing a financial cushion to protect retirement savings during downturns. But are they the right strategy for you? In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of VBAs, explore different types, and discuss how they can be strategically used in a retirement plan. Read More
A fixed indexed annuity (FIA) is a financial product designed to provide growth potential without the risk of direct exposure to the stock market. It is a type of annuity contract issued by an insurance company, where returns are linked to the performance of a stock market index, such as the S&P 500. Unlike variable annuities, FIAs offer a guaranteed minimum return, ensuring that contract holders never lose their principal due to market downturns.
FIAs have become an increasingly popular choice for retirement planning, offering a balance between risk and reward. While they do not provide direct stock market participation, they allow individuals to benefit from potential market gains while maintaining principal protection. Read More
Retirement planning is no longer just an individual responsibility—it has become a critical aspect of employee financial wellness programs. As companies strive to attract and retain top talent, offering comprehensive retirement plans that address financial wellbeing in retirement has become essential. Employees who feel secure about their retirement prospects are more engaged, productive, and loyal to their employers.
This article explores the key components of comprehensive retirement plans, their impact on employees’ financial wellness, and strategies for employers to optimize their retirement benefits. Read More
Planning for retirement involves choosing the right savings plan, but the differences between 401(k) vs. 403(b) vs. 457 can be confusing. Whether you work in the private sector, a nonprofit, or a government job, understanding the pros and cons of these tax-advantaged accounts is crucial.
This guide provides a detailed 401(k) vs. 403(b) vs. 457 comparison, including investment options, employer matching, annuities, taxes, and contribution limits. If you’re wondering which plan is best for your retirement, this article will help you decide. Read More
Retirement tax planning is essential to ensuring financial security in your golden years. Without proper planning, taxes can eat into your savings, reducing the income you depend on. However, with smart strategies—such as leveraging annuities and life insurance—you can optimize your tax liability while ensuring a steady income stream for the rest of your life.
This guide will explore how to reduce taxes in retirement, maximize your income, and integrate tax-efficient financial tools like annuities and life insurance into your plan. Read More
When most people think of life insurance, they envision a policy that provides financial security for their loved ones after they pass away. However, life insurance, particularly Indexed Universal Life Insurance (IUL), can be a powerful financial tool that enhances your retirement plan in multiple ways. Beyond providing a death benefit, an IUL can offer tax advantages, cash value growth, and flexible income strategies that support a stable and secure retirement.
What is Indexed Universal Life Insurance (IUL) and How Does It Work?
If a Retirement Plan or Annuity is Qualified, This Means…
When planning for retirement, understanding how your income sources will be taxed is crucial. One key concept to grasp is whether a retirement plan or annuity is qualified or non-qualified. These classifications directly impact how contributions, growth, and withdrawals are taxed—affecting your financial strategy both before and during retirement.
What Does “Qualified” Mean in Retirement Planning?
A qualified retirement plan or annuity meets specific requirements set by the IRS and the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). These plans are typically tax-advantaged, meaning contributions are made pre-tax, investments grow tax-deferred, and distributions are taxed as ordinary income when withdrawn. Read More
Brent Meyer, founder of SafeMoney, interviews Derick S. Buckley, a certified IFW financial professional and the principal of The Buckley Insurance Group, LLC. In this discussion, they delve into Derick’s unique approach to retirement planning, his commitment to client success, and his insights on the industry.
Spotlight interview with Brent Meyer and Derick Buckley
Brent Meyer: Derick, thank you for joining me today. Let’s start with your retirement planning philosophy. What’s the core principle that drives your approach?
Derick Buckley: Thank you, Brent. Our philosophy is simple: financial education goes beyond numbers. It’s about helping people ‘Get There’ and live their best lives in retirement. We strive to provide clear, unbiased, fact-based financial guidance and solutions that allow our clients to enjoy retirement without the stress of running out of money.
Brent Meyer: That’s a powerful vision. Your agency is well-regarded for its client-first approach. Can you tell us about your experience and the reputation you’ve built? Read More
Start a Conversation About Your Retirement What-Ifs
Start a Conversation About Your Retirement What-Ifs
Already working with someone or thinking about getting help? Ask us about what is on your mind. Learn More
What Independent Guidance Does for You
What Independent Guidance
Does for You
See how the crucial differences between independent and captive financial professionals add up. Learn More
Stories from Others Just Like You
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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