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Being able to retire comfortably is a top concern for many older Americans. A recent AARP survey found that 61% of Americans aged 50+ are worried that they will not have enough savings when they retire.
Social Security, a cornerstone of American retirement ideals, was a central election issue for voters in the recent election, when Donald Trump proclaimed, “Seniors should not pay taxes on Social Security” on Truth Social.
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However, those taxes currently help fund the program’s revenue and are crucial for retiree payouts. Removing them would create a significant shortfall, potentially affecting the program’s long-term sustainability. The U.S. Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB) estimates Trump’s plans would lead to a 33% cut in benefits by 2035.
Whatever happens during the second Trump administration, Americans will be looking to strengthen their retirement savings to ensure they can comfortably bounce back if the country’s retiree safety net starts to unravel.
Preparing for Social Security’s uncertain future
A recent analysis from the CRFB estimated that if Trump’s proposal was implemented, Social Security’s funds would run out by 2031.
Preparing for any changes to Social Security is a smart move. And with the average monthly SSA payout standing at just $1,862 and the possibility of a further cut, you’ll want to look for other ways to secure your financial future.
But where to start?
With Advisor.com, you can find the best financial advisor for your needs — both in terms of what they can offer your finances, and what they’ll charge to work for you.
Advisor.com is a free service that helps you find a financial advisor who can co-create a plan to reach your financial goals. By matching you with a curated list of the best options for you from their database of thousands, you get a pre-screened financial advisor you can trust.
You can then set up a free, no obligation consultation to see if they’re the right fit for you.
Strategies for a secure retirement
Consistent contributions are a cornerstone of effective retirement planning. By steadily investing, you’re able to benefit from the power of compound returns, too.
You also may want to invest in steady asset classes, which can be more resilient during economic downturns.
Diversify your IRA
By diversifying with both asset classes and account types, you can build a tax-efficient portfolio that accommodates both your current and future needs.
For example, gold and other precious metals can help stabilize your retirement portfolio. With inflation and market volatility in mind, gold has become a popular option for those looking to protect their assets over time.
The reason is straightforward: these precious metals can’t be printed in unlimited quantities by central banks like fiat money. And because their value isn’t tied to any one currency or economy, these metals could provide protection during periods of economic uncertainty.
Opening a gold IRA with the help of Goldco allows you to invest in gold and other precious metals in physical forms while also providing the significant tax advantages of an IRA.
With a minimum purchase of $10,000, Goldco offers free shipping and access to a library of retirement resources. Plus, the company will match up to 10% of qualified purchases in free silver.
If you’re curious whether this is the right investment to diversify your portfolio, you can download your free gold and silver information guide today.
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Tap into real estate
Commercial real estate can also serve as a strong addition to your retirement portfolio.
While the office sector has taken a big hit post-pandemic, a recent report from Cushman & Wakefield commented that “for the first time in years, the retail market is at a point of being supply-constrained — at least for space in quality shopping centers." Heightened demand plus insufficient supply could drive increased rents, and strong returns for those invested.
First National Realty Partners (FNRP) allows accredited investors to diversify their portfolio through grocery-anchored commercial properties, without taking on the responsibilities of being a landlord.
With a minimum investment of $50,000, investors can own a share of properties leased by national brands like Whole Foods, Kroger and Walmart, which provide essential goods to their communities. Thanks to Triple Net (NNN) leases, accredited investors are able to invest in these properties without worrying about tenant costs cutting into their potential returns.
Simply answer a few questions — including how much you would like to invest — to start browsing their full list of available properties.
Save for — and in — your retirement
Last, but definitely not least, it’s essential to have an emergency fund in retirement. Those burdensome surprises are a reason Harris’s website states she plans to cut taxes for 100 million working and middle class Americans, and Trump proclaimed he’ll “make American lives affordable again” at a North Carolina rally in August 2024.
When money is tight, it’s extra important to have funds set aside for unexpected expenses like a trip to the hospital or a bout of car trouble.
To get started, a high-yield account, such as a Wealthfront Cash Account, can be a great place to grow your emergency funds, offering both competitive interest rates and easy access to your cash when you need it.
A Wealthfront Cash Account can provide a base variable APY of 3.50%, but new clients can get a 0.65% boost over their first three months for a total APY of 4.15% provided by program banks on your uninvested cash. That’s over nine times the national deposit savings rate, according to the FDIC’s October report.
With no minimum balances or account fees, as well as 24/7 withdrawals and free domestic wire transfers, you can ensure your funds remain accessible at all times. Plus, Wealthfront Cash Account balances of up to $8 million are insured by the FDIC through program banks.
As you get closer to retirement, every dollar starts to matter more. Rising health care costs, uncertain markets and fixed incomes can make it harder to stretch your savings — especially if you’re trying to plan for decades ahead. You might want to consider joining senior-focused organizations like AARP for discounts on almost everything — from prescriptions and dental plans to travel, entertainment and insurance.
As one of the most trusted organizations for older Americans, AARP not only offers money-saving perks, but they can also help you make informed financial and health decisions. AARP members get access to guides that can help you make the most of Social Security, choose the right Medicare plan, and uncover other government benefits — potentially saving you thousands.
Sign up with AARP today and get 25% off your first year.
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This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.