Preparing for Retirement: Building Confidence and Control for the Next Chapter.

Why It Matters

Retirement is a major milestone and one of the most important financial transitions women face. Planning for this phase requires understanding your income sources, expenses, and how to protect your savings over potentially several decades.

Women often live longer than men and may face unique challenges such as career breaks, lower lifetime earnings, and managing finances solo later in life. Careful preparation can help ensure your retirement years are secure and fulfilling.

Common Retirement Challenges for Women

  • Longer life expectancy requiring more savings

  • Gaps in work history impacting Social Security and pensions

  • Managing healthcare and long-term care costs

  • Adjusting to a fixed income after years of earning

  • Protecting savings from inflation and market risks

Example:
Joanne paused her career for caregiving, which lowered her Social Security benefits. By starting to save aggressively in her 50s and delaying Social Security claims, she improved her retirement outlook.

How to Build Confidence in Your Retirement Plan

1. Know Your Retirement Income Sources

Understand your:

  • Social Security benefits

  • Pension plans

  • Retirement accounts (401(k), IRA)

  • Other income (rental, part-time work)

2. Estimate Your Retirement Expenses

Plan for essentials like housing, food, and healthcare, plus lifestyle costs such as travel or hobbies.

3. Consider Longevity and Inflation

Plan for a retirement that could last 20+ years. Factor in rising healthcare costs and inflation’s impact on purchasing power.

4. Create a Withdrawal Strategy

Develop a plan for how and when to draw from your retirement accounts to sustain your income.

5. Review and Update Your Plan Regularly

Life and markets change. Schedule periodic reviews to adjust your strategy as needed.

What To Do Next

Take Steps Toward Retirement Confidence

✅ Calculate estimated Social Security benefits
✅ Review retirement account balances and contributions
✅ Project retirement expenses realistically
✅ Develop a withdrawal and income plan
✅ Schedule regular plan reviews

Final Thought

Retirement is a new chapter—one that can bring freedom and fulfillment with thoughtful planning. Building confidence and control today helps create the secure future you deserve.

Your retirement plan is a living document—keep it flexible and focused on your goals.

Ready to Plan Your Retirement with Confidence?

We’re here to help you navigate retirement planning with clear, practical steps tailored to your needs.

👉 Reach out to us at bri@apriem.com today