Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

1. What makes your approach to retirement planning different?

Accepted Answer

Most plans are built around accumulation — grow the portfolio, hope it lasts. We build around income first: identify what your essential expenses cost, then cover them with predictable, contractually guaranteed income before any growth assets come into play.

Question 2

2. Why do you use annuities as a core part of the plan, not just an add-on?

Accepted Answer

Because they guarantee income regardless of markets—something bond portfolios can't do. The real risk isn't average returns over 30 years; it's a downturn in the first few years of retirement, compounded by withdrawals, that permanently impairs a portfolio. An indexed income rider annuity removes that risk from your income entirely. It's the tool built for the job, not a fallback.

Question 3

3. What happens to my money if the market drops right after I retire?

Accepted Answer

That's the exact scenario the plan is built for. Essential income is covered by contractual guarantees, not market performance. Growth assets stay exposed to markets but are managed actively—including moving to cash when conditions warrant—so you're never forced to sell depreciated assets to cover expenses.

Question 4

4. Are you a fiduciary?

Accepted Answer

Advisory recommendations are made under a fiduciary standard. Insurance and annuity recommendations are made under a best-interest standard consistent with state insurance regulations.

Question 5

5. How do you get paid?

Accepted Answer

A mix of commissions on insurance and annuity products and fees on managed assets, depending on which parts of the plan apply to you. It's disclosed upfront and doesn't change the recommendation.

Question 6

6. Who is this approach best suited for?

Accepted Answer

Pre-retirees and retirees, generally with close to $1M+ in investable assets, who want essential expenses covered with certainty before taking on portfolio risk. If you want pure buy-and-hold market growth, this isn't the right fit.

Our Blogs

Accumulation vs. Income Annuities: What the Illustration Doesn't Tell You

Sequence of Returns Risk: Why the Order of Returns Matters in Retirement