Episode 7: Avoiding Costly Retirement Mistakes
In this episode of The Road Rules for Retirement show, wealth expert Mark Fried discusses critical aspects of retirement planning. They explore the Retirement Readiness Review, a four-step process that helps retirees assess their income, manage risks, and ensure their savings last. Key topics include the penalties for early Social Security withdrawal, strategies to maximize benefits, and the importance of timely Medicare enrollment to avoid costly penalties. The episode also covers 401(k) and IRA withdrawal rules, the tax advantages of Net Unrealized Appreciation (NUA) for company stock, and the severe consequences of missing Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs). Throughout the discussion, Mark emphasizes the value of personalized financial advice and long-term planning to secure a comfortable retirement.