Blogs

Want to Improve Retirement Outcomes? Make Sure Employees Understand Social Security Basics New research reveals Americans have a significant knowledge gap regarding Social Security benefits. According to a recent survey 1, more than half of Americans express confidence that they know exactly how to optimize their Social Security benefits. However, only 6% actually understand all the factors that determine the maximum benefit someone can receive. In addition, the report highlighted additional knowledge gaps: A full 39% don’t know at what age they are eligible to receive their full benefits...

A recent survey confirms that there is no single path to retirement. Franklin Templeton’s June 2021 “Voice of the American Worker” survey confirms that retirement today feels “less cookie cutter than it used to be,” according to 82% of those polled. The survey found that individuals can benefit from personalized guidance to achieve their financial goals — an area where a financial advisor can help. The survey also showed that many participants are looking to their employers for more tools and resources. But most of all, the survey found that the way participants think about retirement is...

Why Young People Need to Pay Themselves First Webinar View Full Webinar Presentation By investing for retirement through your employer-sponsored plan, you are taking steps to achieve your financial freedom. Choosing to participate is just one step in managing your financial savings strategy. As a young person, paying yourself first is just one pillar of personal finance and encourages sound financial habits. All it takes is a little dedication and a lot of discipline. Building savings is a powerful motivator and there are plenty of mental benefits to seeing your savings balance grow...

Mental Health and Money Webinar View Full Webinar Presentation Worrying about finances can have an impact on mental health and affect how you manage your money. HTLF Retirement Plan Services invites you to watch our latest financial wellness webinar, “Mental Health and Money.” Understand how the two influence each other and learn to recognize your money and mood patterns. Improving your mental and financial health will influence how you deal with debt, financial issues, and stress. This on-demand webinar is a great opportunity to identify steps you can take to break the debt cycle and find...

According to the 2021 Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate, an average retired couple age 65 may need approximately $300,000 saved (after tax) to cover health care expenses in retirement. There are a number of factors behind this escalating cost challenge. In general, people are living longer, and health care inflation continues to outpace the rate of general inflation. In addition, according to Gallup’s 2021 Economy and Personal Finance Survey, the average retirement age is 62, which is 3 years before the Medicare eligibility age of 65. Of course, the amount you’ll personally need will...