As you get closer to moving into retirement, it is important to take some time to map out what needs to be done before you actually retire. As with all good plans, organizing your steps for three to five years before you expect to retire will help you ease into your next phase of life better prepared and with less stress.
1. Complete Any Outstanding Home Repairs and Improvements
Whether you plan on staying in your current home or selling it to downsize, it’s important to take care of any outstanding home repairs and make improvements to your property while you are still bringing in an income. These improvements will allow for a more comfortable retirement environment and/or will help you sell your property for a higher price.
2. Evaluate the Life of Your Automobile
Take the time to make sure your automobile is in good condition and able to provide you with your transportation for as long as you plan on driving. If your car is in need of repair, consider doing so while still working and/or purchase a newer vehicle that you can pay off before retirement, so you don’t have to worry about expensive repairs.
3. Create a Retirement Budget
Most retirees live on a fixed income, so it is imperative that you take the time to create a realistic budget based on your lifestyle. Take into consideration any pension you may have, your expected Social Security income, any 401k investments and/or Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) that you expect to use to live on in retirement. Equally important, create a list of expenses, to ensure you have enough money saved to cover your expectations.
4. Pay Off Any Debt You Have
Paying off any debt you have, including your mortgage, will make your expenses much more comfortable in retirement. This may require you to live on less income now, so you can pay off your debt quickly and retire with ease.
5. Look at Your Health Insurance Options
Take a good look at your after retirement health insurance plan options and pricing before you retire. If you decide to retire after 65, you will still want to review your health insurance options with an expert so you can chose the right Medicare plan for your needs.
*Wheelhouse Investment Services professionals are registered representatives of CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. Representatives are registered, securities sold, advisory services offered through CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. (CBSI), member FINRA/SIPC, a registered broker/dealer and investment advisor which is not an affiliate of the credit union. CBSI is under contract with the financial institution to make securities available to members. Not NCUA/NCUSIF/FDIC insured, May Lose Value, No Financial Institution Guarantee. Not a deposit of any financial institution. CUNA Brokerage Services Inc. is a registered broker/dealer in all fifty States of the United State of America.
Everyone knows the song “She works hard for the Money” by Donna Summer and so does he. Leading up to retirement is all about contributing to others. It’s about working to create a good life for you and your family. Most of us are very comfortable working, making money, taking care of others and delaying our fun for the future. All of this is wonderful, however it’s important to take a step back and see what we want to do in retirement, because the next phase of life is really about you! You have worked hard for your money and now it’s time for you to relax and enjoy.
As you begin to dust off the list of things you set aside to focus on working, you’ll find that you are a pretty fun, creative and friendly person who is ready to live and enjoy life. There are hundreds and hundreds of things to do right here in San Diego, but we thought we’d outline a few resources to help you practice your “inner fun” now so you can transition into retirement with ease:
1. Join the Meetup App and Meet People with Similar Interests
Technology has its faults, but it also has its perks. One advantage to retiring in a high-tech world is Meetup.com, an app available to help you find people near you who have similar interests, as well as explore fun ideas that you may not have even thought about. Meetup has groups that hike together, play Ukulele together, speed date, learn languages and even paint as a group. They meet during the day, on the weekends, in the evenings and across the county. We recommend trying a few – you’ll be glad you did.
2. Visit a San Diego County YMCA
With over 20 locations throughout the County of San Diego, there is bound to be a YMCA campus near your home. In fact, to find one near you, visit www.ymcasd.org. The YMCA of San Diego County offers a variety of programs, services and initiatives that enable people to realize their full potential and empower us to live healthier lives. From exercise classes to cooking courses to virtual programs, the YMCA has some fun things to try as you move into retirement and beyond. Don’t hold back, check out their program guide today.
3. Take Free or Low-Cost Classes and Learn Something New
San Diego has several resources to those interested in learning new things. We have community colleges, universities and annex programs. We have online learning opportunities as well as in-person classes. One program that has a lot to offer is San Diego Continuing Education. In fact, they even have classes specifically designed for those who are 55+. Choose from classes focused on digital media, automotive, fashion, ceramics and more. San Diego Continuing Education began right here in our community in 1914, so this is a well-respected program that has been training and offering development to those who live in San Diego for over 100 years. We think it’s safe to say, they know what they are doing so give one of their classes a try.
4. Volunteer in Your Local Community
Put your personal talents into action by volunteering in your local community. The County of San Diego has a wonderful program to help match your talents and interests with a complimentary volunteer opportunity. They have programs that allow volunteers to work with animals, help with the environment and even provide legal services to those in need. Visit their site today and explore the myriad of options, there’s lots to choose from and they all look fun.
We wish you the best as you move into retirement and look forward to bumping into you as you try new things throughout the county. Retirement is going to be fun, we promise.
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