Delay 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...
Listen NowEnjoying a Healthy Retirement: EDU #2619
May 13, 2026
Chris’s Summary Jim and I are joined by Dr. Phillip Snider, in what we hope is his first appearance of many, as we discuss what a healthy retirement requires. In this episode we discuss health span versus life span, or how long a person stays vibrant and independent versus how long they simply live. Grounded in the idea that a retirement plan is not only about how long money lasts but how...
Listen NowIRMAA, Social Security, Roth 5-Year Rule, Rollover IRA Protections: Q&A #2619
May 9, 2026
Jim and Chris discuss listener emails on IRMAA appeals, Social Security survivor benefits, a Venn Diagram PSA, Roth IRA spousal rollover and the five-year rule, and Rollover IRA protections. (8:15) A listener asks whether their parents should appeal an IRMAA surcharge—triggered by a one-time annuity payout—on the basis of loss of pension income. (17:15) George asks how a serious health diagnosis...
Listen NowIs The Safe Withdrawal Rate Useful? EDU #2618
May 6, 2026
Chris’s Summary Jim and I discuss the Safe Withdrawal Rate as a projection tool before retirement, but not as the distribution tool we would use for many retirees. We address Bill Bengen’s research, the 1968 retiree scenario, Monte Carlo planning, and why a worst-case floor can limit early retirement spending on fun. We also contrast accumulation planning with distribution planning and...
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