RETIREMENTGUY

When deciding on the optimal age to claim Social Security benefits, conventional wisdom – backed by much of the academic research – often favors delaying benefits until age 70. This conclusion is rooted in models that rely on expected value: the assumption that the 'best' decision is the one that maximizes lifetime benefits in dollar terms. To create these models, researchers often use a very low (or even 0%) real discount rate, under the logic that the 'guaranteed' nature of

2026 brings new retirement rules that could cost you thousands if you’re not prepared. The IRS has released its updated contribution limits for 2026, and whether you're in the early stages of building wealth or fine-tuning your glide path into retirement, these changes offer an opportunity to do more with your money. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of it. https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewrosen/2025/12/18/what-2026-means-for-your-retirement-savings-plan/

The White House unveiled new information about “Trump accounts” on Wednesday, including an additional donation from billionaire hedge fund manager Ray Dalio and his wife, Barbara, to help fund the savings accounts for kids. In the last week, a number of companies, including BNY and BlackRock, also announced they would match contributions to Trump accounts for their employees to encourage early wealth-building. https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/17/trump-accounts-dalio-blackrock-bny

A recent column in The Washington Post by housing finance expert Jim Parrott placed much of the blame for the current housing shortage on a tax that, he argued, discourages older adults from selling their homes. I’m glad Parrott raised the important issue of seniors staying in their homes as they age. But his diagnosis is largely wrong. Tax law may play a small part in their unwillingness to move, but there are much bigger reasons that families, and policymakers, need to c