Smart Retirement Planning Takes More than Saying I Do
Couples need healthy communication to be on the same page, and women have a vital role to play in the process.
When couples plan their retirement, they should take into account a simple fact of life: On average, women live longer than men. A woman who reaches 50 is likely to live to 83, while a man who reaches 50 is likely to live only to 79. A healthy 65-year-old woman will live, on average, to age 85, while the typical 65-year-old man will live, on average, to 82. This basic principle is important when it comes to retirement planning.
Gregory Ricks is the founder and CEO of Gregory Ricks & Associates, a Registered Investment Advisory Firm, as well as an insurance professional and radio host of "Winning at Life." He is also the founder of Total Wealth Authority, a team of outside financial, tax and estate planning professionals.
Kevin Derby contributed to this piece.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
How to Plan a Microvacation That Actually Feels RestfulHow a simple long weekend can boost your mood, reduce stress and make winter feel shorter.
-
We're retired and fight more than ever. Should we take a break?Can taking a break save a marriage? We asked professional relationship therapists for advice.
-
Turning 59½: 5 Planning Moves Most Pre-Retirees OverlookAge 59½ isn't just when you can access your retirement savings tax-free. It also signals the start of retirement planning opportunities you shouldn't miss.
-
Turning 59½: 5 Planning Moves Most Pre-Retirees Overlook
Age 59½ isn't just when you can access your retirement savings tax-free. It also signals the start of retirement planning opportunities you shouldn't miss.
-
Are Your Retirement Numbers Not Looking Good? A Financial Adviser Runs Through Your OptionsIf you're worried about a shortfall between your income and expenses in retirement, you're not alone. But there are ways you can make up the difference.
-
How to Make the Most of These 2 Tax Breaks ASAP (They Have Expiration Dates)Taxpayers can strategically use these temporary tax opportunities in particular to lock in long-term tax savings. Here's how.
-
What Changed on January 1: Check Out These Opportunities Created by the New Tax LawA deep dive into the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) reveals key opportunities in 2026 and beyond.
-
Beat the Money Blues With This Easy Financial Check-In to Get 2026 Off to a Good StartAs 2026 takes off, half of Americans are worried about the cost of everyday goods. A simple budget can help you beat the money blues and reach long-term goals.
-
Do Self-Storage REITs Deserve Space in Your Portfolio? It's a Yes From This Investment AdviserSelf-storage is an overlooked area of the real estate market, even though demand is strong. Investors can get in on the action through a REIT.
-
4 Simple Money Targets to Aim for in 2026 (And How to Hit Them), From a Financial PlannerWhile January is the perfect time to strengthen your financial well-being, you're more likely to succeed if you set realistic goals and work with a partner.
-
Estate Planning Isn't Just for the Ultra-WealthyIf you've acquired assets over time, even just a home and some savings, you have an estate. That means you need a plan for that estate for your beneficiaries.
