Identity theft isn’t some far-off threat for “other people.” It’s real, it’s rising, and it hits hardest when your guard is down. And retirees are prime targets. One tossed document, one reused password, one moment of trust in the wrong caller... that’s all it takes.
Outsmart Identity Thieves with Practical Protection Strategies That Work
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs): The Silent Tax Trap Hiding in Your Retirement Plan
You’ve spent decades building your retirement savings—maybe through a 401(k), maybe an IRA. You lived below your means, invested consistently, and figured you’d get to call the shots when it came time to withdraw.
Topics: Required Minimum Distributions, Retirement, RMDs
Creekmur Wealth Advisors Recognized in Top Financial Advisory Firms List by USA Today
MORTON, Ill. — Illinois-based Creekmur Wealth Advisors, a registered investment adviser (RIA), proudly announced its inclusion in the top firms with $500 million or more in assets under management (AUM) on USA Today’s prestigious list of the Best Financial Advisory Firms in the United States and ranked in the top 10 in the state of Illinois. Creekmur Wealth Advisors was also named the highest-ranked firm outside of the Chicagoland area. This marks Creekmur’s debut appearance on the celebrated list.
Tax Tune-Up: 5 Tips to Help You Save
Retirement is a time for relaxation and financial peace of mind, but navigating tax obligations can often feel like an uphill climb. For retirees and pre-retirees, proactive tax planning isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential for preserving income, minimizing tax burdens, and securing long-term financial stability.
Countdown to Retirement: Important Checkpoints
Whether retirement feels like a distant goal or is fast approaching, staying aligned with key financial checkpoints can help you move forward with clarity and purpose. These steps act as a helpful framework to stay prepared, evaluate your strategy, and make informed decisions as you age.
What to Consider Doing in a Down Market
The Reality of Market Downturns
Market downturns are not an "if," but a "when." Like the changing seasons, corrections and bear markets are an inevitable part of economic systems. However, downturns don’t necessarily warrant panic. For retirees and those planning to retire, staying calm, informed, and strategic may help in navigating financial turbulence.
Fact or Fiction? Debunking Social Security Myths
Social Security is important for millions of Americans as they plan for or enter retirement. Yet, despite its importance, there's no shortage of misconceptions about how the program works. These myths can lead to costly mistakes, leaving you with potentially less income in retirement than you could have. Here's the truth: understanding Social Security is key to making informed choices—and optimizing not only your benefits, but your overall income and tax plan, as well.
Meaningful Milestones: A Guide to Retirement
Retirement marks the transition to a new phase of life, offering opportunities for personal growth, freedom, and new experiences. However, creating a meaningful retirement often requires thoughtful planning, financial preparation, and a proactive mindset to explore life’s possibilities.
Financial Spring Cleaning Checklist for Retirees
Spring is the season of new beginnings, and being only a few months away, it'll be here before you know it. It’s when flowers bloom, closets get decluttered, and plans for brighter days take shape. But spring cleaning isn’t just for your home or garden—it’s also the perfect time to take a fresh look at your finances.
2025 Economic Trends: Know What to Navigate
As we progress through 2025, retirement planning remains a dynamic journey requiring careful attention to changing economic conditions. For retirees and those approaching retirement, understanding current economic trends is crucial for maintaining financial stability and making informed decisions.