How I Review My Annual Social Security Statement
December 4, 2008 by MJP
Filed under Social Security
I receive my annual Social Security Statement like clockwork each fall. The contents of the statement, particularly the estimate of my retirement benefits, were of particular interest this time because of the dramatic economic and stock market events of 2008. Read more
Striving for a Mortgage-Free Life
December 3, 2008 by MJP
Filed under Mortgages, Debt, and Credit
If you read much in the area of personal finance you will frequently come across heated debates about the merits of living in a paid-for house as compared to having a mortgage. Some folks will argue that mortgage money is cheap and that taking into account the tax benefits, it makes more sense to keep the mortgage and use the extra cash to invest. I get that. Other folks point to the emotional benefits of being debt-free and actually owning your home free and clear of any mortgage obligations. I get that too. Read more
I’m Still Counting on Social Security – How About You?
December 2, 2008 by MJP
Filed under Social Security
If you are like me, you have read and heard many people proclaiming that Social Security will disappear and not be there when it is our turn to retire and collect benefits.
I don’t believe it. And even though I am a strong proponent of being responsible for your own financial future, I am counting on Social Security being there for baby boomers and beyond.
This is Why Social Security is Here to Stay Read more
How and Why I Bought Long Term Care Insurance
November 29, 2008 by MJP
Filed under Long Term Care
Mrs. GoTo and I recently bought long-term care policies for ourselves. I actually did it through my employer although the policies are such that we can take them with us.
This post discusses the analysis and logic we considered in making this purchase. Read more
The Benefits of a Pre-Retirement Vacation Home
November 28, 2008 by MJP
Filed under Vacation Homes
For our 25th wedding anniversary, Mrs. GoTo and I decided to skip the extravagant party and exotic vacation. Instead, we purchased a pre-retirement vacation home. (That’s our lake house on the left, with a bunch of our extended family visiting for the week.) We’ve owned our second home now for seven years. So far, we love it. Read more
