Conversation Starters for Retirees and Seniors
Getting Started
Once you leave the workforce, it is important to talk with your loved ones about how to ensure that you retain your financial security and independence throughout your retirement. Ask yourself, your partner or your adult children these questions to help you re-evaluate your financial plan in retirement.
Budgeting
- Are your projections for your retirement needs accurate?
- Will you be able to enjoy the lifestyle you wanted (i.e. travel or recreational activities)?
- Have you planned for unforeseen expenses due to inflation and medical expenses?
- Could you downsize to reduce living expenses?
- Have you made arrangements for someone to manage your finances if your health should decline?
Saving
- Have you planned for rising health care costs?
- Does someone you trust have copies of your estate planning documents and accounts information?
- Do you have an emergency fund for unexpected financial hardships?
- Who can you seek advice from to leave an inheritance?
- Do you know all commissions, penalties, taxes and fees for withdrawing or rolling over retirement funds?
Investing
- Who manages your investments and gives you investment advice?
- Does your mix of investments match the level of risk you want at this stage of life?
- Do you understand the risk and benefits of financial products promoted to senior investors, such as reverse mortgages, variable annuities or life settlements?
- Do you know all commissions, penalties, taxes and fees for withdrawing or rolling over your retirement funds?
- Who will handle your investments if your health starts to decline?
Scams and Frauds
- Where can you verify an investment opportunity and promoter?
- What are the red flags of investment scams and frauds?
- What can you do to make sure a potential investment is not a scam?
- What should you do if you suspect fraud?
