Defining Financial Independence
[3:22] – Independence From Government Assistance Is A Good Thing.
- We’re not saying the government’s bad, but it’s good not to have to rely on Uncle Sam. Having independence from government assistance gives you the freedom to choose how you want to be cared for in retirement.
[5:22] – Achieve Financial Independence From Family.
- Simply put, you don’t want to have to rely on your children to take care of you in retirement. If you spend too much on them now, you’ll be relying on them later.
[6:30] – Don’t Rely On Your Job.
- It’s a freeing feeling not to have to rely on your job for a paycheck. Continue working or start a second career because you find your work to be fulfilling, not out of necessity.
[7:58] – Independence From Wall Street Is Desirable.
- Hear us loud and clear. We’re not saying you need to take your money out of the market when you retire. Instead, we’re suggesting a change in perspective. Your income shouldn’t be dependent on the market in retirement. We don’t want you to have to cut your paycheck simply because Wall Street has had a bad day.
[14:40] – The Drawbacks Of A 401(k).
- The 401(k) is a wonderful tool for building wealth, but it’s not the best fit for everyone. Joel shares examples of instances in which a 401(k) might not be for you.
[15:14] – If Your Employer Doesn’t Match Your Contributions, Your 401(k) Becomes Less Appealing.
- Don’t miss what we’re saying. For most people, the 401(k) is a great tool for building wealth. However, if your employer doesn’t match your contributions, you could do better with that money in other places.
[16:49] – Are Future Tax Increases Worrying You?
- If so, perhaps the 401(k) isn’t for you. After all, tax rates are at historic lows right now, and 401(k)s are tax-deferred accounts. This means if taxes rise, you could find yourself with a hefty tax bill when the time comes for you to withdraw from your 401(k).
[18:41] – Don’t Leave Your Money Behind.
- If you’re leaving your company, consider taking your money with you. Roll that 401(k) into an IRA or somewhere else.
Information presented here is considered current as of the created date. Over time, some information presented may become stale. We recommend you consult with your Financial Professional before making any changes based on information contained here.
Johnson Brunetti is a marketing name for the businesses of JB Capital and JN Financial.
Investment Advisory Services offered through JB Capital, LLC. Insurance Products offered through JN Financial, LLC.
The guarantees provided by any type of insurance contract are based on the claims-paying ability of the insurance company.
Related Resources
-
How Can I Enjoy My Retirement Savings Without Fear of Overspending?
The fear of running out of money keeps many retirees from truly enjoying their hard-earned savings without worry. After decades of nurturing your nest egg, the thought of seeing your progress slip… -
Podcast Episode 468: Are You Prepared for the Great Wealth Transfer?
Prefer to watch? Click here to watch and listen on YouTube. An estimated $105 trillion in assets will pass down from Baby Boomers and the Silent Generation to heirs through 2048. But transferri… -
Do I Need Life Insurance in Retirement?
Around 52% of Americans own some type of life insurance policy. But once you retire, some of your biggest financial obligations may be behind you. When you reach this point, you may wonder whether… -
Podcast Episode 467: 7 Milestone Ages for Retirement Planning
Prefer to watch? Click here to watch and listen on YouTube. Retirement planning comes with a surprising number of age-based rules and opportunities. Knowing what changes at each stage can help… -
Key Retirement Milestones by Age
In This Article… Preparing for retirement isn’t just about choosing when to stop working. You must also recognize the key age-based milestones that can shape your financial future along the w… -
Podcast Episode 466: Is Long-Term Care Insurance Worth It?
Prefer to watch? Click here to watch or listen on YouTube. Long-term care is one of the biggest financial blind spots in retirement planning. About 58% of people falsely believe Medicare will c… -
How Should I Withdraw From My 401(k) Before I’m Forced To?
When turning your investments into retirement income, it’s important to consider the impact of taxes. Once required minimum distributions (RMDs) begin, you’ll generally have to withdraw money from… -
Podcast Episode 465: Teacher Retirement Planning: What You Should Know
Prefer to watch? Click here to watch and listen on YouTube. After decades of serving others, teachers deserve clarity about their retirement planning options, which often differ from those avai… -
I’m 10 Years Away from Retirement – What Should I Be Doing?
If you’re about 10 years from retirement, now is the time to start building a plan for the life you want to live. Think about how you want to spend your time in retirement and the lifestyle you en… -
Podcast Episode 464: How Long Will My Investments Last in Retirement?
Prefer to watch? Click here to watch and listen on YouTube. One of the biggest concerns people have as they approach retirement is whether their money will be enough to support them. In additio…
-
Richard S.Richard S. is a client of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for his statement.
“We have been extremely happy with our advisor and the services offered. We previously had accounts with another advisor. We had no issues, but chose to consolidate everything with Johnson Brunetti. We made a great decision with that.”
Testimonials received in response to Johnson Brunetti survey conducted in 2024 and in 2026. Please click each respective year for a description of the respective survey and a summary of the survey results.
-
John & Laura U.John & Laura U. are clients of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for their statement.
-
Joe D.Joe D. is a client of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for his statement.
“Your model is working well, continue to keep your focus on your clients. The podcasts are an effective way of communicating information and real life stories. Your business is supporting your clients’ many different real life stories.”
Testimonials received in response to Johnson Brunetti survey conducted in 2024 and in 2026. Please click each respective year for a description of the respective survey and a summary of the survey results.
-
Jackie L.Jackie L. is a client of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for her statement.
“I love how everyone in the company makes us feel. Like we are one big happy family. I wouldn’t change anything!”
Testimonials received in response to Johnson Brunetti survey conducted in 2024 and in 2026. Please click each respective year for a description of the respective survey and a summary of the survey results.
-
Donald & Donna K.Donald & Donna K. are clients of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for their statement.
“It’s been one of the best things my wife and I have ever done. The clarity, support, and professionalism have made a real difference for us.”
Testimonials received in response to Johnson Brunetti survey conducted in 2024 and in 2026. Please click each respective year for a description of the respective survey and a summary of the survey results.
-
Annette L.Annette L. is a client of Johnson Brunetti and received no compensation for her statement.