Amerity Financial - Blog #planningAmerity Financial - Blog #planninghttps://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/tag/planningSat, 13 Jun 2026 01:52:31 -0700http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[When Is the Right Time to Claim Social Security?]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/when-is-the-right-time-to-claim-social-securityFor many retirees, one of the most important financial decisions they'll make is when to claim Social Security benefits. While Social Security was nev ]]>

For many retirees, one of the most important financial decisions they'll make is when to claim Social Security benefits. While Social Security was never intended to be the sole source of retirement income, it can play a significant role in an overall retirement strategy.


The challenge is that there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. The age at which you claim benefits can impact how much you receive each month for the rest of your life. Understanding the timeline can help you make a more informed decision.

Age 62: The Earliest Opportunity

Most people become eligible to claim Social Security benefits at age 62. For those eager to retire or in need of income, claiming early may seem appealing. However, there's a trade-off. Claiming before your Full Retirement Age results in a permanent reduction in your monthly benefit amount. While you'll receive payments for a longer period of time, each payment will generally be smaller than if you had waited. For some individuals, claiming at 62 may still be the right choice, particularly if health concerns, employment circumstances, or immediate financial needs are factors.

Full Retirement Age: Receiving Your Full Benefit

Your Full Retirement Age (FRA) is the age at which you're eligible to receive 100% of your earned Social Security benefit. Depending on your birth year, FRA is typically between ages 66 and 67.


Many retirees view this age as a middle ground. Waiting until FRA avoids the reduction associated with early claiming while still allowing benefits to begin before age 70. For individuals who expect to rely on Social Security as an important source of retirement income, understanding their FRA can be a key part of retirement planning.


Delaying Benefits Beyond 
​Full Retirement Age

Some retirees choose to delay benefits even after reaching Full Retirement Age. Why? Because Social Security offers delayed retirement credits. In general, the longer you wait after reaching FRA, up until age 70, the larger your monthly benefit can become. During this period, retirees may rely on savings, pensions, employment income, or other retirement resources while allowing their future Social Security benefit to grow.

Age 70: The Maximum Benefit

Age 70 is the point at which delayed retirement credits stop accumulating. For those who wait until this age, monthly Social Security payments can be significantly higher than they would have been at age 62. 


Because benefits no longer increase after age 70, there is typically no financial advantage to delaying beyond this point. Individuals who expect a long retirement may view waiting as a way to increase guaranteed lifetime income.

Factors to Consider 
​Before Claiming

While the timeline is important, the right claiming age depends on several personal factors, including: Current income needs, health and life expectancy, retirement savings and investments, employment plans, marital status, survivor benefits, and overall retirement goals.


What works well for one retiree may not be the best approach for another.


The Bottom Line

The decision of when to claim Social Security is about more than simply choosing an age. It's about understanding how that choice fits into your broader retirement strategy. Whether benefits begin at 62, Full Retirement Age, or 70, taking the time to evaluate your options may help you make a decision that aligns with your financial goals and retirement lifestyle.


Please consult with qualified professionals regarding your individual situation.

]]>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 12:34:04 -0400<![CDATA[Signs You May Need Guaranteed Income]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/signs-you-may-need-guaranteed-incomeMany people spend decades focusing on building their retirement savings. Eventually, however, the conversation changes. The question becomes less abou ]]>

Many people spend decades focusing on building their retirement savings.


Eventually, however, the conversation changes.


The question becomes less about accumulation and more about income.

How will retirement savings support your lifestyle for the years ahead?

For some retirees, guaranteed income solutions become part of that conversation.


Market Volatility Causes Significant Stress

Market fluctuations are a normal part of investing, but some retirees find those fluctuations difficult to manage emotionally. If market declines consistently cause concern about paying future expenses or maintaining your lifestyle, you may place a high value on predictable income sources.

You Rely on Investmentsto Cover Essential Expenses

When retirement arrives, many people begin drawing income from their savings and investments. If those withdrawals are helping cover necessities such as housing, utilities, healthcare, or food, having dependable income may become increasingly important.


You're Concerned About Longevity

One of retirement's unique challenges is not knowing exactly how long income will be needed.

As life expectancy increases, retirees may spend decades relying on their retirement resources.

This uncertainty causes some individuals to explore strategies designed to provide income for life.

You Prefer Stability and Predictability

Retirement goals vary from person to person.


Some retirees prioritize growth potential, while others place a higher value on consistency and predictability. Neither approach is inherently right or wrong. The appropriate strategy depends on individual goals, risk tolerance, and financial circumstances.

ConfidenceMatters

Retirement planning is about more than account balances.


Many retirees want confidence that their income plan can support their lifestyle regardless of changing market conditions. That confidence is often one reason guaranteed income strategies become part of retirement discussions.


Final Thoughts

According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, maintaining adequate retirement income remains a major concern for retirees.

Whether guaranteed income is appropriate depends on each individual's situation, goals, and needs. Understanding your options can help you make informed decisions about how to balance growth, flexibility, and income throughout retirement.

EducationalDisclosure

This material is for educational purposes only and is not intended as financial, investment, tax, or legal advice. Any retirement income strategy should be evaluated based on an individual's objectives, financial situation, liquidity needs, and risk tolerance. Guarantees, where applicable, are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurer.

]]>Mon, 08 Jun 2026 10:26:54 -0400<![CDATA[How Annuity Interest Is Credited]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/how-annuity-interest-is-creditedUnderstanding How Annuities Earn Interest One of the most common questions retirees ask about annuities is how they actually generate growth. The answ ]]>

Understanding How Annuities Earn Interest

One of the most common questions retirees ask about annuities is how they actually generate growth. The answer depends on the type of annuity involved. Different annuity products use different methods for crediting interest, and understanding those methods can help consumers make more informed financial decisions.


Fixed Annuities

Traditional fixed annuities typically provide a stated interest rate for a defined period. The insurance company guarantees that rate according to the terms of the contract. Because the growth rate is known in advance, many conservative investors appreciate the predictability and stability these products may provide.

Fixed Indexed Annuities

Fixed indexed annuities use a different approach.


Rather than offering a fixed interest rate, these contracts may credit interest based on the performance of a market index. However, the contract value is not directly invested in the stock market. If the index performs positively, interest may be credited according to the contract's specific formula. If the index declines, the contract generally provides protection from direct market losses, subject to the terms and limitations of the contract.



Common Interest Crediting Methods

Insurance companies may use several methods when determining how much interest is credited. These can include participation rates, caps, spreads, and fixed-rate options. The exact formula varies by carrier and product. Because every contract is unique, reviewing the details carefully 

is important before making any decisions.

Why Understanding 
​Crediting Matters

According to the FINRA, annuity products can differ significantly in their features, benefits, costs, and earnings calculations. Understanding how interest is credited can help retirees evaluate whether a product aligns with their income needs, risk tolerance, and retirement objectives.

Final Thoughts

Annuities are not one-size-fits-all products. The way interest is credited depends on the type of annuity and the specific contract provisions. Taking time to understand those details can help retirees make more informed decisions and better understand how a product may fit into an overall retirement strategy.

Educational Disclosure

This material is for educational purposes only and is not investment, tax, or legal advice. Annuities are insurance products. Guarantees are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurer. Product features, rates, caps, participation rates, spreads, fees, and availability vary by contract.

]]>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 11:33:47 -0400<![CDATA[Favorite Comfort Activities During Bad Weather]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/favorite-comfort-activities-during-bad-weatherMaking the Most of a Rainy Day Not every day needs to be filled with errands, appointments, or busy schedules. Sometimes bad weather gives us permissi ]]>

Making the Most of a Rainy Day

Not every day needs to be filled with errands, appointments, or busy schedules.

Sometimes bad weather gives us permission to slow down, stay inside, and enjoy simple activities that bring comfort and relaxation. 


For many retirees, those quiet days can become some of the most enjoyable.

Enjoy a Good Book

Reading remains one of the most popular indoor activities for retirees.

Whether it's a novel, biography, history book, or favorite magazine, reading can provide entertainment while also helping keep the mind active and engaged. A rainy afternoon often creates the perfect environment to settle into a comfortable chair and enjoy a good story.


Cook Something Comforting

Many people find comfort in preparing meals at home when the weather turns gloomy. Homemade soups, casseroles, slow-cooker meals, and family recipes can make the day feel warm and inviting. Cooking can also provide a sense of accomplishment and creativity.


Stay Connected

Bad weather can be an excellent reminder to reach out to family members or friends. Phone calls, video chats, or simply checking in with loved ones can help maintain important social connections and brighten the day.


Spend Time on Hobbies

Indoor hobbies offer both enjoyment and mental stimulation.

Activities like puzzles, knitting, crafting, painting, woodworking, journaling, and scrapbooking can provide a rewarding way to spend time while staying engaged.


Look Forward to What's Next

Even when you're staying home, planning future activities can be enjoyable.

Researching travel destinations, organizing family gatherings, exploring local events, or creating a bucket list can provide excitement and anticipation for the future.


Final Thoughts

According to the National Institute on Aging, maintaining social connections and staying mentally active can contribute to overall well-being as we age.


Sometimes a rainy day isn't something to avoid.

It can be an opportunity to relax, reconnect, and enjoy the simple comforts that make retirement special.

]]>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 13:16:59 -0400<![CDATA[Agree or Disagree? Retirement Edition]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/agree-or-disagree-retirement-editionRetirement looks different for everyone. What one retiree considers essential, another may completely disagree with. That's why retirement planning of ]]>

Retirement Questions That Get People Talking

Retirement looks different for everyone. What one retiree considers essential, another may completely disagree with. That's why retirement planning often involves more than numbers. It also includes personal values, goals, priorities, and lifestyle choices.


 Here are several retirement topics that spark interesting conversations.

Is Retiring at 65 Outdated?

Traditional retirement age expectations have changed significantly over the years. Some people retire earlier, while others continue working well beyond age 65 because they enjoy it or want additional income.


Do Most People Underestimate Retirement Costs?

Many financial professionals believe retirees often underestimate the impact of inflation, healthcare expenses, and the possibility of spending decades in retirement.

Is Retiring at 65 Outdated?

Traditional retirement age expectations have changed significantly over the years. Some people retire earlier, while others continue working well beyond age 65 because they enjoy it or

 want additional income.

Do Most People Underestimate Retirement Costs?

Many financial professionals believe retirees often underestimate the impact of inflation, healthcare expenses, and the possibility of spending decades in retirement.


Should Retirement Be About Experiences?

Some retirees focus on travel, hobbies, family, and creating memories. Others prioritize preserving assets and leaving a financial legacy. Neither approach is necessarily right or wrong.


Is Professional Financial Guidance Worth It?

Some individuals value working with financial professionals, while others prefer managing their own investments and retirement planning.

What's the Biggest Retirement Risk?

Market volatility often receives the most attention, but many retirees are equally 

concerned about longevity risk—the possibility of outliving their income or assets.


Does Downsizing Make Sense?

For some retirees, downsizing reduces maintenance responsibilities and monthly 

expenses. For others, remaining in a familiar home provides comfort and stability.


Should You Create a Retirement Budget Before Retiring?

Understanding future expenses can help retirees evaluate whether their 

income sources align with their desired lifestyle.


Can Part-Time Work Improve Retirement?

For many retirees, part-time work offers additional income, structure, 

social interaction, and a sense of purpose.


Final Thoughts

According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, retirement confidence is 

often linked to preparation and planning.


Retirement isn't one-size-fits-all.


That's why questions like these can help people think more intentionally about 

what retirement success means to them.

]]>Wed, 03 Jun 2026 12:18:23 -0400<![CDATA[Healthy Habits Couples Can Do Together]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/healthy-habits-couples-can-do-togetherBuilding healthy habits is not always easy. But for many people, having a partner involved can make consistency feel more realistic, enjoyable, and su ]]>

Why Healthy Habits Can Be Easier With a Partner

Building healthy habits is not always easy.

But for many people, having a partner involved can make consistency feel more realistic, enjoyable, and sustainable. Whether you’re retired, approaching retirement, or simply focusing more on wellness, healthy habits do not have to be solo activities.

Walk Together

Walking is one of the simplest healthy routines couples can build together. Daily walks can support movement, provide time for conversation, and create regular opportunities for connection. Because walking requires minimal equipment and can fit many lifestyles, it’s often an accessible habit for couples of different activity levels.

Cook Meals Together

Healthy routines extend beyond exercise. Preparing meals at home together can help support healthier eating patterns while also creating shared experiences and teamwork around everyday routines. Cooking can become both a practical habit and meaningful quality time.

Explore Shared Activities

Many couples enjoy creating healthy habits through hobbies and recreation. Activities such as gardening, biking, yoga, dancing, fitness classes, or sports like pickleball can combine movement, enjoyment, and social connection. Trying new activities together may also help keep routines interesting.

Build Small Wellness Goals

Healthy habits do not need to be dramatic. Small goals — like staying hydrated, improving sleep routines, stretching more often, or adding extra movement throughout the day — can be easier to maintain with mutual encouragement and accountability.

Remember Emotional Health Matters Too

Health involves more than physical activity alone. Stress management, emotional support, social connection, and spending intentional time together can also contribute to overall well-being and healthy aging.

Final Thoughts

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, healthy lifestyle habits such as nutrition, movement, and stress management support overall health. For many couples, building these habits together can make wellness feel more practical, more consistent, and more enjoyable. Because sometimes healthy living isn’t about perfection — it’s about creating sustainable routines that fit real life.

]]>Tue, 02 Jun 2026 13:14:15 -0400<![CDATA[Why Have Annuities Gotten Such a Bad Rap?]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/why-have-annuities-gotten-such-a-bad-rapWhy Annuities Carry a Negative Reputation For many retirees, the word “annuity” immediately brings certain concerns to mind: high fees, complicated con ]]>

Why Annuities Carry a Negative Reputation


For many retirees, the word “annuity” immediately brings certain concerns to mind: high fees, complicated contracts, poor returns, or limited access to money. But part of the issue is that many consumers view annuities as one single product category — when in reality, several very different types exist. That distinction matters.


The Four Major Types of Annuities

There are four primary categories of annuities, and they serve different purposes.

Immediate annuities are generally designed to provide income payments. Fixed annuities focus on guaranteed interest accumulation. Variable annuities involve market exposure through investment subaccounts and have historically generated much of the criticism associated with annuities. Fixed index annuities are insurance products that may combine protection features with growth opportunities linked to market indexes, depending on contract terms. Understanding these differences can help explain why broad statements about annuities are often oversimplified.


Where Much of the Criticism Originated

Many historical concerns about annuities came from experiences with some variable annuity products.

Certain contracts involved market risk, fees, complex structures, rider expenses, or disappointing outcomes during market downturns. As a result, some consumers generalized those experiences across the entire annuity category.However, not every annuity operates the same way.



How Modern Fixed Index Annuities Differ

Modern fixed index annuities are structured differently than variable annuities. Depending on the contract, they may include features such as:

  • Protection from direct market losses
  • Interest crediting linked to market indexes
  • Optional guaranteed income riders
  • Optional chronic illness or long-term care enhancements

Features, limitations, surrender schedules, costs, and availability vary by insurer and contract.



The More Important Question

Rather than asking whether annuities are universally “good” or “bad,” a more useful planning question may be: What financial objective is the product designed to address? Some retirees may prioritize guaranteed income. Others may focus on market participation, liquidity, flexibility, or long-term growth.

Different financial tools may serve different planning goals.



Final Thoughts

According to the FINRA, annuity products can differ significantly in benefits, costs, features, and risks.

That’s one reason education and suitability matter when evaluating retirement strategies.

Understanding the distinctions between annuity categories can help retirees move beyond broad assumptions and make more informed financial conversations possible.


Educational Disclosure

This material is for educational purposes only and is not investment, legal, or tax advice. Annuities are insurance products and are not appropriate for every investor. Guarantees are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurer. Features, fees, surrender charges, limitations, and availability vary by contract. 

]]>Mon, 01 Jun 2026 11:42:02 -0400<![CDATA[Why Locking In Today’s MYGA Rates for 5 or 7   Years Could Be a Smart Move]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/why-locking-in-today-s-myga-rates-for-5-or-7-years-could-be-a-smart-moveWhy MYGAs Are Getting Attention For retirees and pre-retirees focused on safety, stability, and predictable growth, Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities — c ]]>

Why MYGAs Are Getting Attention

For retirees and pre-retirees focused on safety, stability, and predictable growth, Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities — commonly called MYGAs — have become a growing topic of interest. With interest rates remaining stronger than much of the previous decade, some conservative savers are asking an important question: should guaranteed rates be locked in now before they potentially change? While no one can predict future rates with certainty, it’s a topic many investors are evaluating.


What Is a MYGA?

A MYGA is an insurance product that functions similarly to a bank CD in certain ways. An investor places money into the contract for a specified period — often 3, 5, or 7 years — and receives a guaranteed fixed interest rate for the selected term. Because MYGAs are not directly invested in the stock market, they may appeal to individuals seeking stability and predictable growth rather than market exposure.


Why Some Investors Are Looking at Current Rates

Over much of the last decade, conservative savers faced historically low interest rates. Savings accounts, CDs, and other low-risk vehicles frequently offered limited returns. Today’s environment is different. According to the Federal Reserve, interest rate conditions shift over time in response to broader economic factors. That means future guaranteed rates available on products like MYGAs may not remain unchanged indefinitely. Because of this, some conservative investors explore whether locking in a multi-year rate fits their financial goals.


Why Longer Terms May Appeal to Retirees

Five-year and seven-year MYGA contracts may attract individuals who value:


  • Predictable growth
  • Reduced exposure to market volatility
  • Structured planning timelines
  • Tax-deferred accumulation

These terms may be particularly relevant for retirees who prioritize stability and do not anticipate needing immediate access to all invested funds.


MYGAs Compared With Bank CDs

MYGAs and bank CDs share some similarities, including fixed rates and principal guarantees. However, they can differ in important ways such as tax treatment, issuer type, liquidity provisions, and contract structure. Whether one option is appropriate depends on a person’s financial goals, risk tolerance, and access needs.


Final Thoughts

Retirement planning is not always about maximizing returns.

For many retirees, it’s also about predictability, stability, and protecting assets from unnecessary volatility. For conservative investors, evaluating whether a 5- or 7-year guaranteed strategy aligns with long-term retirement goals may be a worthwhile conversation.


Educational Disclosure

MYGAs are insurance products and are not bank deposits or securities. Guarantees are backed solely by the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company. Rates, surrender charges, fees, liquidity provisions, and contract terms vary. This material is for educational purposes only and is not investment, legal, or tax advice.



]]>Fri, 29 May 2026 12:41:36 -0400<![CDATA[Why Today’s Index Annuities May Be More Attractive Than Ever]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/why-today-s-index-annuities-may-be-more-attractive-than-everIf you’ve looked into index annuities before, you may be surprised to learn that today’s environment has made them even more compelling than they were ]]>

If you’ve looked into index annuities before, you may be surprised to learn that today’s environment has made them even more compelling than they were just a few years ago. Changes in interest rates and bond markets have strengthened the potential benefits these products can offer, creating new opportunities for individuals planning for retirement.


To understand why, it helps to take a quick look behind the scenes.

A few years ago, interest rates were historically low. While index annuities were still a valuable tool for many retirees seeking a balance of growth potential and protection, insurance companies faced certain limitations. Because insurers invest heavily in bonds, lower bond yields meant they had less interest income to work with.


That matters because insurance companies use a portion of that interest income to purchase options tied to market indexes. These options help power the growth potential within an index annuity.


Today, the landscape has changed.


With bond rates rising, insurance companies are earning more interest from their bond investments. Higher yields can allow them to purchase more options, which may translate into more competitive crediting strategies and stronger growth opportunities for consumers. In simple terms, today’s index annuities may have a more powerful “engine under the hood” compared to similar products available during periods of lower interest rates.


For retirees and pre-retirees, this can be particularly meaningful. Higher bond yields may contribute not only to improved growth potential but also to stronger guaranteed income opportunities, depending on the product and its features. The appeal of index annuities has long been their combination of principal protection and market-linked growth potential. In today’s rate environment, many products are building on those strengths with enhanced competitive features.


The takeaway? Rising bond rates have changed the landscape. While every financial situation is unique, today’s index annuities may offer stronger potential benefits than comparable products from just a few years ago. As always, it’s important to review your options carefully and speak with a qualified financial professional to determine what strategies align with your retirement goals.

]]>Wed, 27 May 2026 11:41:04 -0400<![CDATA[How to Avoid Feeling Isolated at Home in Retirement]]>https://www.amerityfinancial.com/blogs/post/how-to-avoid-feeling-isolated-at-home-in-retirementRetirement often brings flexibility, freedom, and more control over your schedule. But for some retirees, it can also bring an unexpected adjustment: ]]>

Why Isolation Can Become a Retirement Challenge

Retirement often brings flexibility, freedom, and more control over your schedule. But for some retirees, it can also bring an unexpected adjustment: feeling isolated at home. Without work routines, daily interactions, and structured schedules, social connection can gradually decrease. That’s why emotional well-being and social engagement are important parts of retirement planning — not just finances.

Maintain Some Structure

One helpful strategy is keeping a regular routine.


Activities such as walking, volunteering, fitness classes, hobbies, religious gatherings, or community events can help create structure and provide opportunities for interaction.


Having recurring activities scheduled throughout the week may help reduce feelings of disconnection.

Stay Connected Intentionally

In retirement, social connection sometimes requires more intention.

Phone calls, lunches, coffee meetups, family visits, neighborhood activities, or hobby groups can help maintain relationships and encourage ongoing interaction.


Waiting for connection to happen naturally may become harder once regular workplace interactions disappear.

Try New Interests

Retirement can also create opportunities to explore new hobbies and interests.


Learning something new, joining a club, taking classes, gardening, reading groups, cooking, art, or travel activities can help create engagement, purpose, and social interaction.

Use Technology When Helpful

Technology may also support connection.


Video calls, online communities, group messaging, and virtual learning opportunities can help retirees stay connected with family, friends, and shared-interest communities — especially when travel or distance creates challenges.

Why Social Connection Matters

According to the National Institute on Aging, loneliness and social isolation can affect both mental and physical health as people age. That makes social connection more than a lifestyle issue — it can be an important part of overall well-being.


Final Thoughts

Retirement is about more than leaving work behind.


It’s also about building a lifestyle that supports purpose, relationships, engagement, and personal fulfillment. Because avoiding isolation isn’t just about staying busy.

It’s about staying connected to people, activities, and the things that make life meaningful.


]]>Wed, 27 May 2026 11:22:08 -0400