Answers to Your Questions Q) Should I pay down my mortgage faster? A) Paying down your mortgage faster can be a good financial move if you have extra funds and want to retire debt-free. I personally do not want to have a mortgage payment in retirement, I would rather have that money to spend on the things I love to do. But you may have a very low mortgage interest rate and not want to pay off your mortgage so quickly. I believe part of a good retirement plan is to have your fixed expenses as low as possible in retirement. So let’s create a plan you are comfortable with to have that mortgage paid off, perhaps by retirement age. Q) What are the benefits of waiting to start Social Security? A) Here are a few reasons why you may consider waiting to start your Social Security benefits: 1. Higher Monthly Payments: Your monthly benefit increases if you delay claiming Social Security beyond your full retirement age, up to a maximum at age 70. This can provide a more substantial and stable income in retirement. Employee Spotlight 2. Increased Survivor Benefits: If you're married, a higher benefit can benefit your surviving spouse as they may be eligible for a higher survivor benefit based on your delayed retirement credits. Lindsay Freeman 3. Tax Efficiency: Depending on your overall financial situation, delaying Social Security can reduce the taxable portion of your benefits or lower your tax liability. It can also allow for an ideal time for Roth Conversion. The years between retirement and required minimum distributions are a great time to consider Roth Conversions. Keep in mind that the decision to delay Social Security should consider your individual circumstances, health, life expectancy, financial needs, and other sources of retirement income. It's a complex decision, and consulting with an advisor at RFG Wealth Advisory can help you make an informed choice. Intern Corner Hi everyone! My name is Elizabeth, and I’ve been an intern here at RFG since June! I’m currently finishing out my CFP-required coursework at UNT and will be done in December. I’m learning what it takes to become a great CFP through my Financial Planning Capstone this semester, as well as working here at RFG. I’ve learned so much working here. The advisors and team have helped train me in exceptional planning for and serving clients in a way no classroom can. Thank you, RFG, for expanding my knowledge in the financial advisory world. Emilio & Susan at the I also just got engaged a few weeks ago! Lots of exciting and happy things are going on right now! Robson Ranch HOA Expo. Elizabeth Bedunah