11 Feb Are You Retiring in 2016? BY STEVEN RINGO

As you transition out of the workforce and into retirement, make sure you take advantage of these five pre-retirement planning strategies.

When to start Social Security Benefits: One of the most important retirement income decisions you can make is deciding when to take your social security benefits. For people retiring this year, 66-years-old is the magical age when you are able to take full benefits. If you take benefits early you will have a reduced amount. If you decided to delay until 70-years-old, your benefit would increase. Utilize social security calculators at SSA.gov to help gain insight on which decision would be best based upon your financial objectives.

Decide on where to invest your 401(k), 403(b), 457s and TSPs: If you haven’t had the opportunity to move your qualified retirement plan into an IRA, now is the time to seriously consider making changes. In today’s economic climate, it’s crucial that you take advantage of strategies centered around preservation of capital for a portion of your retirement assets. These strategies also allow for growth, flexibility and portability, which are imperative while transitioning through your retirement years.

Set up Medical coverage: For most of you out there, you’re probably covered by your company’s  group  medical  plan.  It’s  important  for you to make arrangements for new coverage prior to leaving your company. At 65 years of age, you’re able to sign up for the Federal Government’s Health Insurance Program – Medicare. Medicare is broken up into different parts to help cover specific services. Visit www.medicare.gov to get a better understanding for Medicare Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D.

Plan Your Estate: According to recent studies, 60 percent of Americans do not have a will. This is a serious issue and can easily be corrected by working with an estate attorney. Estate attorneys will put together an effective plan to insure the right parties inherit your assets.

Find a Financial Partner: This could be a daunting task as there are many prospects out there when it comes to choosing the right advisor for you and your assets. Interview as many advisors as possible and make sure they’re providing solutions based upon your needs, goals and objectives. If something doesn’t seem right, move forward and don’t turn back.

I’m hopeful these five tips assist you or at least point you in the right direction as you embark on the next chapter of your life.

About Steve Ringo

Since June of 2006, Steve has helped hundreds of pre-retirees and retirees with many concerns regarding retirement.

Partnering with some of the industry’s top Safe Money Radio experts has given him the opportunity to build life-long relationships with individuals and their families.

Steve founded Westridge Equity Partners, LLC in May of 2007. He wanted a firm that put their clients first and provided trusted, reliable, and effective financial solutions. Through his practices, many of his clients navigated the 2007 and 2008 financial crisis untouched. This is a testament to his future commitment in the financial services industry.

Steve’s faith in God guides his business life just like it guides his personal life. He lives in Prosper, Texas with his wife, Erica and three daughters, Kylie, Dylan, and Kenzie. When not working or hanging out with family and friends, you will most likely find him competing in CrossFit or outdoors hunting and enjoying the escape from the concrete jungle.

If you have any questions please visit my website at www.westridgeequity.com or call the office

today!

Steve Ringo

(972)362-1126

steve@westridgeequity.com