In this episode of the Retirement Made Easy Podcast, we dive deep into the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for Social Security. We break down how the COLA works and what it means for your retirement planning.

With the 2025 COLA coming in at 2.5%, we explore how this adjustment could affect your benefits—whether you’re still working or already collecting Social Security. We also discuss the projected rise in Medicare Part B premiums and why it’s crucial to plan conservatively for future costs.

Tune in to discover how the COLA can be a powerful tool in your retirement strategy, while understanding the importance of not relying too heavily on it. If you’re planning for retirement, this episode is packed with essential insights to help you build a more secure financial future.

• [2:13] Check out our free resources at RetirementMadeEasyPodcast.com
• [3:18] How Social Security’s cost-of-living adjustment works
• [8:25] What type of COLA should we project for the future?
• [10:36] Expected future cost of Medicare Part B premiums
• [13:25] The COLA is incredibly powerful
• [17:40] Retirement is a journey—not a finish line
• [20:25] Plan conservatively and err on the side of caution

• 3 Steps to Retirement Planning
• Cost-of-Living Adjustment History
• Monthly Part B Premiums and Annual Percentage Increases
• Calculating Medicare Part B costs

• Email at: Gregg.gonzalez@lpl.com
• Podcast: https://RetirementMadeEasyPodcast.com
• Website: https://StLouisFinancialAdvisor.com
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One of the biggest questions people have about retirement planning is: “Will I have enough saved?” This episode of Retirement Made Easy dives into just that—how to determine the “magic number” you’ll need to retire comfortably and securely.

From evaluating your current expenses to assessing your future goals, we will start to cover all the bases to help you calculate your retirement needs with confidence.

Whether you're thinking about traveling, leaving a legacy for your loved ones, or simply covering the basics, this episode offers practical steps to ensure your money lasts through retirement, no matter how long that might be.

Listen in to find out how to navigate expenses, balance risk, and prepare for a lasting retirement.

• [2:50] Get free resources at RetirementMadeEasyPodcast.com
• [4:56] Look at your expenses, budget, and income
• [12:04] What do you like to spend money on?
• [14:42] How much will you need to save?
• [18:35] Do you want to leave an inheritance?

• 3 Steps to Retirement Planning
• I'm 65 With $1 Million - How Much Can I Expect to Spend in Retirement?
• EveryDollar

• Email at: Gregg.gonzalez@lpl.com
• Podcast: https://RetirementMadeEasyPodcast.com
• Website: https://StLouisFinancialAdvisor.com
• Follow Gregg on LinkedIn
• Follow Gregg on Facebook
• Follow Gregg on YouTube

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When it comes to retirement, healthcare planning isn’t just an afterthought—it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Will your current savings cover future healthcare expenses? How will you bridge the gap if you retire before Medicare kicks in? Without a solid plan, unexpected medical costs could delay your dream retirement.

In Episode #173, we break down the key questions and strategies you need to consider to stay ahead of healthcare challenges in retirement. Whether you’re planning for your own retirement or helping a spouse navigate Medicare options, this episode will arm you with the tools to retire on time and on your terms.

• [1:45] The five pillars of retirement planning
• [2:20] Check out RetirementMadeEasyPodcast.com for free resources!
• [3:41] Do you have to wait until you’re 65 to retire and get on Medicare?
• [6:31] Saving in an HSA can cover healthcare expenses
• [10:53] Will healthcare expenses delay your retirement?
• [13:07] What will Obamacare cost per month?
• [16:18] Does your employer pay out unused vacation days?
• [17:49] Why would you consider transferring money into an HSA?
• [20:44] The basics of Medicare + supplements
• [25:53] Benefits and drawbacks of Medicare Advantage plans
• [30:23] Does your plan adequately adjust for inflation?
• [31:09] Check out the Retirement Made Easy YouTube channel

• 3 Steps to Retirement Planning
• Obamacare Federal Poverty Level

• Email at: Gregg.gonzalez@lpl.com
• Podcast: https://RetirementMadeEasyPodcast.com
• Website: https://StLouisFinancialAdvisor.com
• Follow Gregg on LinkedIn
• Follow Gregg on Facebook
• Follow Gregg on YouTube

Subscribe to Retirement Made Easy
On Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts