A useful pre-retirement meeting should make assumptions visible, not replace them with “you should be fine”.
Bring expected spending, every retirement account, other income, debt, dependants, medical costs and estate information. Ask for figures in today’s buying power and for a clear split between guaranteed and market-dependent income.
Test more than the preferred case. An earlier retirement, higher inflation, lower returns, longer life or large family obligation can change the result. Discuss fees and tax across the full arrangement. If an annuity purchase, withdrawal or transfer is proposed, identify what cannot later be reversed.
Prepare these questions
- What after-tax monthly income is supported?
- Which assumptions drive that answer?
- What happens under an early market loss?
- How will income rise with inflation?
- Which debt or large cost remains at retirement?
- What changes if one spouse lives much longer?
- Which legal or tax questions are unresolved?
Try this now
Ask for a written decision page showing choices, trade-offs, implementation order and review date.
Reassurance may feel good for a meeting. A robust retirement transition needs evidence and a response plan for when reality differs.
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