Tag: TIAA

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TIAA Traditional: How Can I Balance Annuitization with Other Income Strategies? (Ep. 5)

TIAA Traditional: How Can I Balance Annuitization with Other Income Strategies? (Ep. 5)

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For many, the word “annuitization” can feel confusing or intimidating. But understanding it can unlock powerful retirement income strategies.

In this episode, Greg Shepard explains what annuitization really means, who it’s best for, and the key benefits and risks to be aware of. He also breaks down how it works within TIAA plans, when to consider it, and the hidden tax and inflation factors you need to keep in mind.

Key takeaways:

  • What annuitization means and how TIAA provides fixed lifetime income
  • How to combine annuitized income with flexible sources like rollover IRAs and Social Security
  • Why annuitization may benefit people who are less comfortable with managing money
  • The estate planning pitfalls of annuities and what beneficiaries need to know
  • The impact of inflation on annuities and why delaying annuitization may be more advantageous
  • And more!

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Top 5 Questions You Should Ask Your TIAA Wealth Advisor (Ep. 4)

Top 5 Questions You Should Ask Your TIAA Wealth Advisor (Ep. 4)

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Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with complex products and advice that may not always align with your best interests.

In this episode, Greg Shepard breaks down five essential questions every TIAA participant should ask their advisor. He explains how to spot hidden fees, evaluate income strategies, and make informed choices that keep your money working for you. Greg also stresses the importance of education, transparency, and staying proactive about your retirement plan.

Key takeaways:

  • The importance of clarifying an advisor’s true investment philosophy and whether it aligns with your goals
  • Why relying solely on lifetime income could expose you to inflation risk
  • What to know about advisor fees, expense ratios, and trading costs
  • How to prepare for income changes in evolving interest rate environments
  • Tax efficiency strategies, including Roth conversions and planning for withdrawals
  • And more!

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Understanding TIAA’s Hidden Nuances (Ep. 2)

Understanding TIAA’s Hidden Nuances (Ep. 2)

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Many higher education and medical professionals depend on TIAA for their retirement savings, yet most don’t fully understand the fine print.

From liquidity restrictions to overlooked contract details, the consequences of not asking the right questions can be costly.

This week, Greg Shepard breaks down the most common misunderstandings about TIAA Traditional and explains why a personalized approach is critical.

His mission is clear: simplify the complexities so you can make informed decisions well before retirement.

Greg discusses:

  • Why TIAA’s complexities often only become clear close to retirement
  • The importance of knowing whether your TIAA Traditional funds are liquid or illiquid
  • How over-concentration in TIAA Traditional can derail retirement plans
  • Why contract details are often missed and how to find them
  • The need for customized strategies rather than a one-size-fits-all approach
  • And more!

Connect with Greg Shepard: 

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