Financial Choices Matter

In this episode of Financial Choices Matter, Charles recounts a time when he and Sheri helped two sisters navigate a tough financial situation. After watching one of Charles’ webinars, the sisters sought his advice after a troubling annuity product was sold to them. Tune in as Charles explains how they fought for their clients' best interests, ultimately helping them get back nearly $1 million from a poor investment choice. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:52 – The tale of two sisters 7:39 – Doing the right thing 10:02 – Working with the right professional Resources for this episode: Finra https://www.finra.org/ Broker Check https://brokercheck.finra.org/ Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

Inflation is one of those financial topics that can feel elusive and often misunderstood. Despite recent reports showing a decline in Consumer Price Index (CPI) numbers, many of us still haven’t felt any real relief when it comes to our day-to-day expenses. Why does this disconnect exist? Listen in as Charles makes it easy to grasp the impact of inflation on everyday life. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:07 – Milton Friedman’s monetary phenomenon example 4:55 – Government regulation and inflation 7:38 – Compounding effects of inflation 9:20 – Planning for inflation in retirement Resources for this episode: Money To Apples Charts https://www.ftportfolios.com/Commentary/EconomicResearch/2024/10/24/three-on-thursday---inflation-simplified Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

Obviously, we all have to pay taxes. But, depending on income levels, some people are paying more into the system than others. In this episode, Charles breaks down exactly who is paying what, using clear charts and visuals to make it easy to understand. This can stir up a lot of frustration, especially if you or someone you know feels they’re shouldering more (or less) of the tax burden than they should. We’ll explore the sources of these frustrations and shed light on where tax dollars come from and how they’re distributed. There’s a lot of valuable insight in this episode that you don’t want to miss, so enjoy the show! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:43 – Who is paying what 6:15 – Where the frustration is coming from 8:32 – Working with a tax professional 10:14 – The impact of tax efficiency on retirement Are The Wealthy Paying Their Fair Share? https://www.ftportfolios.com/Commentary/EconomicResearch/2024/10/10/three-on-thursday---are-the-wealthy-paying-their-fair-share Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

Think of your financial future like a jigsaw puzzle. Each piece- whether it's taxes, insurance, retirement accounts, or estate planning- represents a critical part of your financial life. Without the box cover it’s hard to know how each piece fits. Understanding how the pieces of your financial puzzle interact is key to achieving your long-term goals. That’s why having someone to help you put it all together who understands the big picture can be incredibly beneficial. As you listen to this episode, consider how your own financial puzzle is coming together. Do you have a clear view of the box cover? Are there pieces that don't quite fit? Tune in and let’s explore this concept together! Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 2:58 – The key pieces of the retirement puzzle 4:21 – The risks of DIYing your retirement 6:29 – Why you should talk to a professional 8:31 – Finding the right fit 11:41– Listener question Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

Long-term care is a topic that often gets swept under the rug, but it is such a critical part of retirement planning. In this week’s episode, Charles and Marc discuss an article from Investment News that highlights some interesting statistics and misconceptions surrounding long-term care. Did you know that three out of four people will require some form of long-term care in their lifetime? Despite this, only a small percentage actually have long-term care insurance. Charles explains how many people mistakenly confuse long-term care insurance with other types of coverage, like disability or health insurance, which can lead to expensive consequences later on. Join us as we explore the realities of long-term care needs and share practical advice on how to approach this important topic with your financial advisor. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 1:09 – Long-term care misconceptions 5:22 – Average length of long-term care 8:13 – The importance of long-term care discussions 11:31 – Listener question about financial involvement Resources for this episode: Article from Investment News https://digitaledition.investmentnews.com/articles/draining-the-pool-of-confusion-surrounding-long-term-care-insurance Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

We’ve got another listener question episode for you today! Tune in as Charles answers a few questions from podcast listeners like you. In this week’s edition, a listener named Wendy asks if it's okay to have all her 401k money invested in American Funds or if she should diversify into other investments. Charles also tackles a question about how aggressive one’s retirement savings goals should be to retire by 60. He explains how these goals can vary depending on your retirement timeline and shares what future factors you would need to consider. While the right savings amount differs for everyone, Charles walks us through the process of setting those goals. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:07 – Wendy asks “I rolled over a 401k to an advisor a couple of years ago, and he put all the money into something called American Funds. Is that an okay fund, or should I be invested in other things as well? Kind of feels like one thing seems a little weird. What are your thoughts?” 5:07 – Tony asks “I'm 50 years old. Would like to retire before I'm 60. I'm willing to save aggressively to make that happen. How do you determine how much you’ll need to save for something like that each month?” Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

According to a recent survey by Bankrate, roughly 25% of Gen Zers and 21% of Millennials are not saving enough for emergencies. This statistic is alarming, considering that 44% of Americans said they couldn't cover a $1,000 emergency out of pocket. What’s causing this? While some claim that inflation is to blame, Charles points out that one of the biggest obstacles to financial stability is financial illiteracy. The lack of financial education in American schools means that many young people feel ill-prepared to manage their finances. Let’s chat about creating healthy financial savings habits and what you can do to set yourself up for success. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:49 – Gen Z and Millennial saving regrets 1:59 – The importance of financial literacy 5:20 – Being responsible over your actions 8:36 – Finding financial resources and advice Check out the Bankrate article: https://www.bankrate.com/investing/americans-biggest-financial-regrets-survey/ Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

Ever had that “light bulb” moment when everything just clicks? Retirement planning is full of them. Charles has had many clients experience these moments of clarity throughout the planning process, one of which he’s going to share with us today. If you're ready to experience your own "aha" moment and take control of your retirement planning, reach out to Charles Scott and his team at Pelleton Capital Management. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 0:00 – Intro 0:34 – A memorable client experience 2:42 – What is the “aha” moment? 5:36 – Intellectually and emotionally owning your plan Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

In this episode of Financial Choices Matter, Charles Scott tackles some common yet critical retirement planning questions from listeners. Charles offers insightful advice on managing portfolios, Social Security benefits, and the importance of risk allocation. He also delves into the pros and cons of consolidating old 401(k) plans and the complexities of having investments, taxes, and legal documents handled by the same firm. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge that could help you make more informed financial decisions for a meaningful retirement. Here’s some of what we discuss in this episode: 1:00 - Mary asks "My portfolio dropped quite a bit earlier this year and then recovered some. But it’s still down a bit from where it was at its peak. I’m retired and rely totally on this money for income because I haven’t started my Social Security. I’ve been wanting to wait until age 70 to start it, but now I’m wondering if I should take it now?" 6:20 - Patrick asks "I have two old 401Ks that I’ve been meaning to rollover for a while. I also have a third 401K with my current employer. Should I roll the old ones into the current 401K or into an IRA instead? It sure would be nice to have it all under one account to make the value look bigger!" 10:40 - Ronnie asks "Is it a good idea or bad idea to have my investments, taxes, and legal documents for my estate all handled by the same firm?" Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PelletonCapitalManagement

In today's episode, we're taking it back to the basics to start 2024 on the right foot. Listen in as we cover the 5 crucial parts of financial planning. From understanding income and expenses to risk management, we'll cover the pillars that make up a comprehensive plan. Show Notes: 0:48 - Main Topic: 5 Part To Financial Planning 2:00 - Income 4:41 - Tax Planning 8:22 - Estate Planning 11:10 - Investment Planning 14:44 - Risk Management 18:12 - Mailbag: Carl Asks About Selling Land Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/

In today's episode, we're focusing on a critical aspect of retirement planning: healthcare costs. How well-prepared are you to handle medical expenses after you retire? We'll discuss everything from Medicare complexities to strategies for managing unexpected health-related expenses. Tune in as we break down the essentials of healthcare financial planning for retirees. Show Notes: 0:45 - Main Topic: Strategic Planning for Retiree Healthcare 1:55 - Misconceptions 4:35 - Major healthcare related expenses 9:36 - Long term care insurance 13:59 - Mailbag: Jenny asks what she should do with her raise Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/

There's a lot going on in the financial industry. In today's episode, Charles is going to address some of the things that are driving him crazy in the community, from the plethora of confusing financial designations to the lack of attention given to long-term care planning. At the end of the episode, Charles answers a listener question about combining finances and discusses the importance of financial communication in a relationship. Show Notes: 1:05 - Main Topic: What’s Buggin’ Charles? 1:54 - Designations 6:11 - Not Enough Emphasis On Long Term Care Conversations 17:54 - Mailbag: Valerie Asks For Advice On Combining Finances Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/

Are we on the brink of a retirement renaissance or stormy seas ahead? On this episode, we jump into the pressing issues of Social Security, healthcare, taxes, stock market trends, and long-term care. Whether you're an eternal optimist or cautious pessimist, this episode will equip you with perspectives to plan your retirement years with confidence as we ask the longstanding question, “Is the glass half full or half empty?" Show Notes: 0:55 - Main Topic: Future Of Retirement 2:49 - Long Term Care 6:37 - Longevity 9:01 - Taxes 13:38 - Stock Market 16:38 - Mailbag: Randall Asks If He Should Start Working With A Financial Advisor Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/

Are you nearing “retirement age?” If so, let’s explore that pivotal question you’ll soon face: Should you retire or continue working? We’ll unravel the intricacies of this decision, addressing both financial and emotional aspects, and help you find out if you’re truly ready to retire. Show Notes: 0:32 - Main Topic: Ready Or Not Retirement 2:18 - Don’t Want To Retire 7:46 - Lack Of Confidence 11:09 - Not Enough To Retire 15:38 - Mailbag: Greg Asks If He Should Take The Pension Buyout, Or Go With The Monthly Payments Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/

In this episode, we tackle the common complaints and fears about financial situations during retirement. We'll discuss which concerns are well-founded, which are based on misconceptions, and offer insight on how retirees can best navigate their financial future. Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ Show Notes: 0:37 - Main Topic: Retirement Planning Complaints 2:18 - Too Much Risk 4:39 - Fees Are Too High 7:50 - Social Security Won’t Be Enough To Cover My Expenses 9:08 - My Account Didn’t Do Very Well 10:57 - I Only Hear From My Advisor When They Want To Sell Me Something 13:32 - Mailbag: Brian Asks About Long Term Care Policies

It’s not just the financially uncertain who need to think carefully about their retirement plan. Even those who feel confident in their retirement savings might still have important questions to answer and decisions to make. In this episode, we'll explore the three retirement planning mindsets: those who have no idea if they can retire, those who think they have enough money to retire, and those who know for sure they have enough money to retire. We'll discuss the key considerations and next steps for each of these mindsets to help you prepare for a fulfilling retirement. Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ Show Notes: 1:23 - Main Topic: Unsure, Confident, or Certain: Retirement Planning Next Steps 1:59 - I Have No Idea If I Can Retire 5:11 - I Think I Have Enough Money To Retire 7:57 - I Know I Have Enough Money To Retire 9:35 - New Long-Term Care Product 14:07 - Mailbag: Laura Asks If Her Account Is Too Small For Her Financial Advisor To Care About

In the complex world of retirement planning, there are countless pitfalls one could fall into. In this episode, we've distilled it down to what we believe are the top 5 mistakes to watch out for. Avoiding these crucial missteps can have a significant impact on the success of your retirement plan. So, join us as we delve into these key issues and learn how to navigate them effectively when it's your turn to plan for retirement. Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ Show Notes: 0:33 - Main Topic: The 5 Biggest Money Mistakes In Retirement Planning 2:00 - Ignoring Tax Implications 5:01 - Starting Social Security Too Early 6:34 - Ignoring Long-Term Care Costs 8:24 - Update Your Plan 9:19 - Poor Communication Between Spouses 13:22 - Mailbag: Bill Is Concerned About Bank Investments 17:54 - New Long Term Care Product

Are you aware that not all retirement accounts are created equal? It's crucial to understand the purpose and advantages of each type of account to make the best choice for your future. In this episode, we'll delve into the different types of retirement accounts, including 401(k)s, IRAs, Roths, and several other examples. We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons of each and give you insights into the purposes they serve so that you can make an informed decision. Join us and discover why understanding the purpose of these accounts is essential for securing a comfortable retirement. Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ Show Notes: 1:30 - Main Topic: Retirement Savings Basics 2:10 - 401(k)s, 403(b)s, & 457 Plans 3:17 - Pros Of Traditional Accounts 5:32 - IRAs 7:22 - Simple IRAs 8:16 - HSAs & FSAs 11:35 - Annuities, CDs, & Dividend Stocks 12:35 - How Do You Choose Which Account Is Right For You? 14:42 - Mailbag: Claire Asks If She Should Push Her Retirement Date Back

Are you preparing for retirement but feeling confident that you have covered all the expenses? Well, think again... It turns out that many retirees overlook some crucial expenses that can leave them financially vulnerable. In this episode, we explore the retirement expenses that most people tend to forget, including skyrocketing medical bills, unexpected travel costs, taxes, and much more. We'll discuss practical tips and strategies to help you plan for these expenses and ensure a secure and comfortable retirement. Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ Show Notes: 0:39 - Main Topic: Retirement Expenses For Which You Forgot To Plan 1:57 - Medical Expenses 4:50 - Unexpected Travel 6:31 - Taxes 8:20 - Housing Maintenance 9:48 - Inflation 13:26 - Mailbag: Jackson Asks How To Handle Fear Of The Market 16:05 - Upcoming Online Workshop

A million dollars is a goal that many people strive to earn for their retirement nest egg, but how far can that lump sum actually carry you? Today we will be looking at an article that breaks down how far a million dollars go in various states. CNBC Article: https://www.cnbc.com/2022/12/17/states-where-1-million-dollars-retirement-savings-runs-out-fastest.html Contact: Phone Number: 480-513-1830 Website: https://pelletoncapital.com/ Show Notes: 0:34 - Main Topic: How Far Does A Million Bucks Go 1:34 - Most Expensive States 3:57 - Surprising Finds 8:38 - Why You Need To Plan 11:09 - Mailbag: Martha Asks About RMDs 16:45 - New Long Term Care Solution