The Get Ready For The Future Show

Will Social Security still be there when you retire — or will it be 22% less than you're counting on? The 2026 Social Security Trustees' Report moved the trust fund depletion date up to 2032 — one year sooner than last year's estimate. A nonpartisan watchdog says it's the worst shape the program has been in since 1983, with the 75-year funding shortfall now at its highest level since 1977. The fixes have been on the table for decades. But the longer Congress waits, the more painful they get — a 34% payroll tax hike today, 40% if they wait until 2034. And the current administration has no specific plan. Your retirement is on you. Social Security needs saving.

Did you know your 401(k) could hold up to $70,000 in annual contributions — not just $23,500? The Mega Backdoor Roth is one of the most powerful retirement tools available inside a workplace plan, and most employees have no idea it exists. This week, Crystal found out her employer just added it — we break down exactly what it is, who it's right for, and what to watch out for. Also this episode: how to simplify an overwhelming investment portfolio without losing performance, how to budget for international travel in retirement, and what adult children need to know when helping aging parents with finances and legal documents in their 80s. Real questions. Real answers. Every week on the Get Ready for the Future Show.

"My wife and I both have pensions. How should we coordinate those with our Social Security and investments?" We’re answering YOUR questions on this week’s Get Ready For The Future Show! ✅ I’m 55 and still have $30,000 in student loans. Should I pay them off or focus on maxing my 401(k)? ✅ We’re retiring next year and wondering how much we should keep in cash vs. invested. What's a good rule of thumb? ✅ We’ve never tracked our expenses, but we know we’re spending more than we should. How do we start budgeting without getting overwhelmed? All this straight talk and more LIVE, Wednesday at 11:30! 🎙️ – ❓ Have your own questions? Call or text us at 501.381.5228 or email show@getreadyforthefuture.com . We’re here to help you navigate the journey to true financial independence. See you there! – #financialindependence #retirementplanning #specialneedstrust #estateplanning #401krollover #retirementsavings #catchupcontributions #investing #marketvolatility #financialadvisor #financialplanning #personalfinance #genwealthfinancialadvisors #money #financialeducation #financialliteracy #investmentstrategy #QandA #podcast #radioshow #radio

"We’ve always had separate accounts and we’re both retiring next year. Is it time to combine, or should we keep things separate?" We’re answering YOUR questions on this week’s Get Ready For The Future Show! • I inherited my dad’s IRA last year and I’m confused about the 10-year rule. Do I have to take distributions every year or just by the end? • I’m in my early 60s and have never worked with a financial advisor. How much does it typically cost, and what should I expect from that relationship? • Our adult son is struggling financially. We want to help without enabling bad habits. What’s the best way to support him? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 4/8/2026

Are retirement taxes the biggest threat to your financial future? A new study shows that 70% of Americans are worried about taxes in retirement, and for Gen X, that number jumps to 80%. If you’re relying on a 401(k) or IRA, this is a conversation you can’t afford to ignore. In this episode of Fastest 4 Minutes in Finance, we break down: • Why withdrawals from tax-deferred accounts can push you into higher tax brackets • How your income could increase Medicare premiums by thousands • The hidden risk of waiting too long and getting hit with Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) • Smart strategies like Roth conversions and tax diversification to create more tax-free income

“I’ve heard the first few years of retirement are the most financially vulnerable. Why is that, and what can I do about it?” We’re answering YOUR questions on this week’s Get Ready For The Future Show! • I’m 50 and recently divorced. I split retirement assets in the divorce, but now I’m not sure if I’m still on track. How do I rebuild with a 15-year timeline? • We’re both 62 and wondering if it’s better to take Social Security now or wait until 67. The break-even math is confusing. • Our financial advisor is retiring soon. What should we look for when choosing someone new? And if you've got a question you want answered on the show, call or text 501.381.5228! Or email your question to show@getreadyforthefuture.com! Originally aired 3/25/2026

An inheritance can be a gift — or a burden. We’re answering YOUR questions on this week’s Get Ready For The Future Show! ✅ We just inherited my parents’ house. Should we sell it now or hold it as a rental? ✅ I have several IRAs from different jobs. Should I consolidate them into one account? ✅ We’re retired and have plenty invested. Do we still need a separate emergency fund? ✅ We’re in our early 70s. Is a reverse mortgage ever a good idea — and what should we watch out for? We’ll break down the pros, cons, and planning considerations behind each of these important retirement decisions. All this straight talk and more LIVE, Wednesday at 11:30! 🎙️ – ❓ Have your own questions? Call or text us at 501.381.5228 or email show@getreadyforthefuture.com . We’re here to help you navigate the journey to true financial independence. – #financialindependence #retirementplanning #inheritanceplanning #reversemortgage #IRA #retirementincome #financialadvisor #financialplanning #personalfinance #genwealthfinancialadvisors #financialeducation #financialliteracy #investing #investmentstrategy #QandA #podcast #radioshow #radio