When we think about retirement, many of us envision a time when we can finally relax, enjoy our hobbies, and spend quality time with our loved ones. However, for many middle-class retirees, the reality often falls short of these dreams. The financial landscape has shifted dramatically over the past few decades, and many seniors find themselves in situations they hadn’t anticipated.
The Shift from Pensions to Retirement Accounts
One of the most significant changes in retirement planning has been the move from defined benefit plans, like pensions, to defined contribution plans, such as 401(k)s and IRAs. This transition began in the 1970s when Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code was introduced. While these plans allowed individuals to take control of their retirement savings, they also shifted the responsibility of ensuring a secure retirement from employers to employees.
In the past, workers could rely on pensions to provide a steady income during retirement. Today, most retirees depend on their retirement accounts, which are subject to market fluctuations and require careful management. This change has led to uncertainty for many middle-class retirees, who often fear running out of money or being unable to maintain their standard of living.
The Tax Dilemma
Another challenge are the tax implications of withdrawing from retirement accounts. Many retirees are hesitant to draw from their savings because they fear the tax burden. This reluctance can lead to situations where seniors live frugally, despite having substantial savings. It’s not uncommon to hear stories of retirees who live modestly while their retirement accounts grow, only for their heirs to spend the money quickly after inheriting it. This is a shame because the retirees need not have lived frugally if they knew they had enough money to live comfortably.
The introduction of the Secure Act in 2020 further complicates this issue. Previously, beneficiaries of retirement accounts could stretch the tax-deferred growth over their lifetimes. However, the Secure Act requires that most beneficiaries withdraw the entire balance within ten years, potentially pushing them into higher tax brackets and reducing the amount of money available for growth.
The Illusion of a Death Tax
There is a common misconception about the existence of a death tax that affects middle-class Americans. While the federal estate tax applies only to estates exceeding $13 million for individuals and $27 million for married couples, many people still believe they will face hefty taxes upon passing away. The truth is, the real concern for most middle-class retirees lies in the taxes on their retirement accounts, which are subject to ordinary income tax rates when distributed.
What You Need To Do
For middle-class retirees, understanding these challenges and planning accordingly is crucial. The traditional retirement planning methods may no longer suffice in this complex financial environment. Here are some steps retirees and soon-to-be retirees can take to better prepare for the future:
- Educate Yourself: Learn about the tax implications of retirement account withdrawals and the changes brought about by the Secure Act. Understanding how these factors impact your finances can help you make informed decisions.
- Consult a Financial Advisor: A qualified financial advisor can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. They will help you to navigate the complexities of retirement planning. You can contact us at the Sechler Law Firm to get details of financial advisors we work with and can recommend. It is important for us to be able to communicate with your financial advisor. This is because it has been common practise for financial advisors to recommended that all accounts be beneficiary designated. While this may work, we urge caution especially if you have minor children who would inherit money before they are able to properly manage it. This is why we believe it is important to work together with your financial advisor, to view your situation from all angles and mitigate the problems.
- Consider Estate Planning: Estate planning isn’t just about deciding who gets your assets after you pass away. It’s also about protecting your wealth from unnecessary taxes and ensuring a smooth transfer of assets to your heirs. Contact us at Sechler Law Firm to assist you. Call 724 841 1393 or attend one of our workshops.
- Stay Informed: The financial landscape is constantly changing. Staying informed about new laws, tax regulations, and investment strategies is essential for maintaining your financial security.
Let us Help YOU
In conclusion, while the challenges facing middle-class retirees are significant, they are not insurmountable. By taking proactive steps and seeking the right advice, retirees can secure the comfortable and fulfilling retirement they envisioned.
Let us help you to create an effective estate plan which will work for you. Register now to attend one of our “Three Secrets to Protect Your Legacy” Workshops. We host these workshops in various locations around Greater Pittsburgh. Visit sechlerlawfirm.com/workshops to register.