In this episode of Not Ready Yet: Curating Conversations for the Aging Journey, financial expert Heather Clark shares practical insights on one of the biggest retirement impacts many people face: the timing of when to start withdrawals. With more than 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate retirement planning, Heather breaks down how Social Security timing, pensions, taxes, and longevity planning all work together to impact your financial future.

You’ll learn why Social Security should be viewed as a pension, how spouse benefits are affected by timing and work history, and why personalized retirement strategies matter more than one-size-fits-all advice. Heather also shares practical tools, including RMD calculators and online resources, to help you make more confident financial decisions.

Whether you’re approaching retirement, supporting aging parents, or planning for long-term financial independence, this conversation offers valuable guidance to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.

Key topics include:
• Timing your Social Security benefits
• How pensions impact retirement income
• Tax implications in retirement
• Longevity planning strategies
• Benefit optimization tips
• Using RMD calculators effectively

Resources

Social Security Administration

Schwab RMD Calculator

Next Step Wealth Management

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