Social Security, Annuity RMDs, Annuity Laddering: Q&A #2622
May 30, 2026
Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security survivor and ex-spouse benefits, using annuity income to satisfy RMDs, and annuity laddering strategies for both SPIAs and DIAs and MYGAs. (6:30) George writes in about a cousin who turns 62 in November 2026 and whose ex-spouse recently passed away — he wants to know what survivor and ex-spouse Social Security claiming options may be...
Listen NowIncome Annuities in Retirement: EDU #2621
May 27, 2026
Chris’s Summary Jim and I discuss income annuities in retirement as a lead-in to National Annuity Awareness Month, using a Fidelity Viewpoints article to frame the discussion. We walk through the article’s points on essential expenses, paycheck-like income, and management simplicity later in retirement. We also distinguish traditional income annuities from more complex annuity products and...
Listen NowSocial Security, Withdrawal Strategy, HSAs, 4% Rule, Roths, Retirement Trust: Q&A #2621
May 23, 2026
Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on Social Security spousal benefits, portfolio withdrawal strategy for early retirement, HSA and Medicare premiums, the 4% rule, Roth self-employed 401(k)s, Roth conversions, and retirement trusts. (10:45) A listener asks whether her husband claiming Social Security on his own record before she files at 70, including as early as 62, would reduce his eventual...
Listen NowDelay Period Funding Strategy: EDU #2620
May 20, 2026
Chris’s Summary: Jim and I discuss a listener’s strategy for funding the delay period in this dialog show. A 59-year-old chemical engineer shares his plan to transition from 100% equities by purchasing TIPS only when his portfolio reaches new market highs. We cover his Social Security claiming strategy, concerns about CPI-based inflation adjustments relative to Minimum Dignity...
Listen NowIRMAA, Social Security, Tax Diversification, Delay Period, Inherited IRA: Q&A #2620
May 16, 2026
Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on the SSA-44 and IRMAA process for a couple approaching Medicare, Social Security survivor benefit strategy, tax diversification for young investors, HSA vs. IRA prioritization and spending strategy during the delay period, and inherited IRA RMD rules for non-eligible beneficiaries. (15:30) A listener approaching Medicare asks how the SSA-44 process applies...
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