Often when calculating retirement income, we make assumptions that are simply wrong. This is not necessarily caused by any lack of financial literacy. It’s because the rules can be less than obvious and no matter how much research we do, we can still miss...
Retirement Advice Articles
Drowning in debt
When advice helps turn things around When Andrew Dunkerley first met Jim and Alice* he was concerned that there might be little he could do to help them achieve a reasonable retirement income. That was because they had more than $100,000 in credit card debt...
Approaching 66 -70? Key decision-making time
This is the second part of a two-part article which defines the key decisions you will face as you move through your 60s. Last week Gary pointed out that 65 is not Age Pension age – he is, of course, correct – but we are recommending you consider key trigger...
Can you really afford to help your grown-up kids?
Do you believe that the so-called generational wars are a media beat-up? Or is there actual conflict between baby boomers and their children for a fair share of the financial pie? It’s a question worth considering at a time when Australia is undergoing the...
Income test rules: Simple answers to tricky questions
They say a picture is worth a thousand words. But in the world of retirement income, an example is often worth even more. That is no doubt why our many members enjoy our comments and Q&A articles – by reading about other people’s situations, they can...
Is your will legal and does it reflect your wishes?
Peace of mind is a cornerstone of a secure retirement. While many Australians prioritise financial security, ensuring your wishes are carried out after you're gone is equally important. This is where having a valid will comes in. Our recent July 2024...
How to achieve financial wellbeing
Being wealthy is very much in the eye of the beholder. While one person’s sense of wealth might come from their health, another’s could rest upon the strength of their relationships. Yet someone else might measure their wealth by the size of their super,...
Making the most of the 4th pillar – homeownership
Keeping Retirement Simple – Part 9 If you’re fortunate enough to own your home – about 3 of 4 of our clients do – then you have a great opportunity to consider what role your house plays in your retirement plans. For Australians overall, housing is...
You can’t take it with you, but you can leave it behind
Keeping Retirement Simple – Part 8 After the recent (disastrous for Biden) Trump-Biden debate, Poland’s top diplomat tweeted “It is important to manage our ride into the sunset.” And another commentator said, “We can’t beat Father Time; he’s never been...