Money Mentors

Sure, it might seem like the sky is falling if you're listening to the 24/7 news channels, but if you're looking for perspective on the tariff talk and the market downturn, this week's episode is for you. Gary Mattson & Gerald Green of Mattson Financial Services give some insight on how their investment philosophy works for retirement savers at times like this, and discuss how market dips may be an opportunity for some to consider a Roth conversion. Nervous and need a second opinion? Schedule a chat at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Yes, all the talk of tariffs and rising prices might make people a little nervous about retirement, but a new survey says people are also tired of being told to "cut back." On this week's episode, Laurel Steward and Gary Mattson of Mattson Financial Services discuss how they help clients enjoy the same lifestyle in retirement that they enjoyed while they were working. We also tackle how to find the "Goldilocks" savings strategy for retirement. Need a second opinion on your plan? Connect for a chat at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Taxes don't go away in retirement. In fact, they can cause a few surprises. On this week's episode, Gary & Laurel discuss what surprises people the most - and how to avoid the common mistakes that can cost you money. Plus, does it make sense to give your assets away while you're still here to enjoy it with your family - or leave a legacy when you're gone? We'll discuss the pros & cons. Check out our upcoming events on Taxes in Retirement at www.MattsonFinancial.com/Events.

More and more individuals and couples are making six-figure incomes today, but that puts pressure on them to also create a six-figure income for retirement. On this week's episode, Gerald Green and Marcus Grost of Mattson Financial Services discuss how they approach building an income strategy for generating that kind of retirement paycheck from an investment portfolio - and some of the opportunities and challenges along the way. Wondering how much you'll need to retire? Schedule a chat with your Money Mentors at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Warren Buffett's annual letter to shareholders is out - and it includes a few takeaways for retirement investors. On this week's episode, Gerald Green and Marcus Grost of Mattson Financial Services break down some of Warren's classic lessons on investing, and some of his latest revelations about handing over the reins when he's ready. Check out more retirement lessons at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

From big corporations to the federal government, we're hearing more and more about buyout offers in the headlines. But before you accept that severance package or early retirement offer, there are some steps to consider. On this week's episode, Gary Mattson of Mattson Financial Services walks through a hypothetical scenario and what you might want to think through before you sign on the dotted line - especially if you're close to retirement. Need a second opinion on your buyout offer? Connect with us at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

You've been saving for years in your retirement savings accounts, whether that's a 401(k), IRA, TSP or 403(b). But did you know you have a silent partner waiting for their share when it's time to start spending that money? This week, Laurel Steward and Corey Davis of Mattson Financial Services discuss the tax IOU that comes due in retirement and how you can help minimize that tax liability with prior planning. We'll also discuss IRMAA - what is it, and how it could impact your Medicare premiums. Submit your questions to your Money Mentors at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

If you're a federal employee or a public servant - whether that be a firefighter, teacher, or other government worker - there are some recent changes that may impact your retirement planning. On this week's episode, Laurel Steward and Corey Davis of Mattson Financial Services explain what to do if you're on the receiving end of one of the recent federal buyout offers. And we'll update you on the Social Security Fairness Act and how that could impact some public service workers. Need help figuring out how the changes impact you? Schedule a chat at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

The first few weeks of the new Trump administration has included a flurry of economic activity - but what does the threat of new tariffs and the possibility of extended tax cuts mean for your bottom line? Laurel Steward of Mattson Financial Services helps you break through some of the noise on this week's episode. Let us help you put the focus on your personal economy with a customized retirement review. Schedule a chat now at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

We think retirement planning should be important at all stages of life, but there are certain ages when key decisions could help determine just how successful you are when you're ready to stop working. This week, Laurel & Taylor Steward of Mattson Financial Services break down the key Retirement Milestones from 50 to 73, and how each step can help you along the journey. If you're hitting one of these milestones and need some help, reach out for a retirement review at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

We kick off our special series on taxes this tax season on what your tax forms might help you address about your retirement tax strategy. Plus, Laurel & Taylor Steward of Mattson Financial Services tackle a question about Roth conversions and income, and help clear up some confusion about conversions versus contributions. Need a second opinion on your retirement tax strategy? Let's talk. Schedule a chat at www.MattsonFinancial.com by clicking on the calendar button. 

From continuing high inflation to rising taxes, there's a lot coming at us in 2025. On this week's episode, Laurel & Taylor Steward of Mattson Financial Services break down 5 issues that could impact middle-class retirees the most this year, and how to prepare yourself for them. Start the new year strong with a portfolio check-up. Schedule a chat now at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Made any financial resolutions for the new year? Fidelity says most Americans who have plan to 'live practically,' and are worried about unexpected expenses. On this week's episode, Laurel & Taylor Steward of Mattson Financial Services discuss why that may be the case, and how to achieve some of those practical goals financially. Need a jump start on those dreams, goals and desires? Schedule a retirement chat now at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

There are all kinds of things to remember when it comes to retirement, but on this week's list, Laurel Steward and Gerald Green of Mattson Financial Services discuss Kiplinger's list of the 4 Do's and Don'ts of Retirement - plus the one thing they say you should never do. When it comes to your retirement questions, feel free to reach out with yours anytime at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

One of the most common questions about retirement is often "When should I claim my Social Security benefits?" On this week's episode, Laurel Steward and Gerald Green of Mattson Financial Services discuss the program's full retirement age, how it's changing in 2025 and what to consider when you're making the decision on when to claim your benefits. Plus, we'll discuss the retirement paycheck that's waiting for President Biden when he retires in January! Find more retirement resources at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Despite uncertainty about inflation, interest rates and the election, the market's been pretty resilient in 2024. On this episode, Gerald Green and Corey Davis of Mattson Financial Services discuss the lessons we can take away from Wall Street in 2024 and apply to how we approach portfolio decisions in the New Year. 2025 is also a great time for a portfolio check-up. Schedule yours now at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Living to 100 is not out of the question these days. Just ask Laurel's grandma! On this week's episode, your Money Mentors from Mattson Financial Services discuss the possibility and how to plan for it financially. Need a plan that gets you through the go-go, the slow go and the 'no go' years? Set up a complimentary retirement review now at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Now that we know the outcome of the election, it's time to plan ahead for what might be coming financially under the new administration. This week, Laurel and Taylor Steward of Mattson Financial Services discuss 4 changes that could be coming under President-elect Trump based on what he discussed during the campaign, and how it could impact your finances. Plus, we'll discuss how to tune out some of the market noise and focus on your own strategy. If it's time to review your strategy, connect for a quick chat now at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

Once you reach your 50's and 60's, you get invitations in the mail all the time to steak dinners offering to teach you about various financial topics. But before you accept that next invitation, listen to this week's episode, which includes a cautionary tale about one man's experience - as Laurel & Gerald discuss the questions you might want to ask about a particular advisor or investment. Need a second opinion on your plan? Feel free to connect for a chat now at www.MattsonFinancial.com. 

If you're already in goal setting mode for 2025, this week's episode is for you. Laurel & Taylor Steward of Mattson Financial Services discuss some of the changes the IRS has announced for tax and retirement planning purposes for the new year that may benefit you - including a 'super' catch-up contribution for some retirement savers. Plus, we'll discuss the steps you might want to consider if you think you've already met your retirement goals. Go ahead and schedule your new year retirement check up now at www.MattsonFinancial.com.