Free Retirement Registry Checklist

1. Financial Planning

Review Retirement Savings

• Confirm balance and investment strategy in 401(k), IRA, pension, etc.

• Meet with a financial advisor for a retirement income plan.

• Assess other retirement assets (stocks, bonds, real estate, etc.).

Estimate Retirement Expenses

• Create a detailed monthly budget (housing, healthcare, lifestyle).

• Include future costs such as long-term care insurance.

• Consider inflation and potential emergency expenses.

Social Security

• Review Social Security benefits and eligibility.

• Decide the best age to start claiming Social Security benefits.

• Check for any other pension benefits (company, government, etc.).

Taxes in Retirement

• Understand the tax implications of withdrawing from retirement accounts.

• Plan for income tax in retirement (state and federal).

• Evaluate tax-saving strategies (Roth IRA conversions, etc.).

Create an Estate Plan

• Draft or update your will.

• Set up the power of attorney and healthcare proxy.

• Consider creating a trust if applicable.

• Review life insurance policies.

2. Health and Insurance

Health Insurance

• Confirm eligibility for Medicare (and supplemental insurance options).

• Review current health insurance (through an employer or the marketplace).

• Set up long-term care insurance (if needed).

Healthcare Providers

• Review medical history and ensure records are updated.

• Find new doctors or specialists if needed.

Prescription Medication

• Ensure prescriptions are in order and explore Medicare drug plans.

• Consider a medication management plan.

Vision and Dental

• Review dental and vision insurance options.

3. Retirement Transition

Retirement Date

• Confirm your official retirement date with your employer.

• Notify your employer about your retirement plan (2-6 months in advance).

• Prepare for an exit interview and offer any knowledge transfer.

Pension or Severance Plan

• Review retirement or severance package options.

• Confirm payout options for pensions or retirement plans.

Downsize or Relocation

• Evaluate whether to downsize your home or relocate.

• Begin decluttering and organizing important documents.

• Consider moving closer to family or into retirement communities.

4. Personal Preparation

Social & Emotional Readiness

• Reflect on your social life post-retirement.

• Create hobbies or activities you’ll enjoy to fill your time.

• Build a social network or consider volunteering.

• Plan ways to stay mentally and physically active.

Time Management

• Plan how you’ll spend your days (travel, hobbies, family).

• Set goals for learning new skills or exploring new interests.

• Look into part-time work or consulting if interested in staying active.

5. Legal and Documentation

Update Legal Documents

• Review or create a living will, healthcare proxy, and advance directives.

• Make sure beneficiary designations are current.

• Store important documents securely (wills, insurance policies, etc.).

Update Identification

• Ensure driver’s license and other identification cards are current.

• Consider getting an ID card for senior discounts and services.

6. Final Steps Before Retirement

Retirement Party or Celebration

• Plan a retirement celebration to mark the occasion (optional).

Final Employer Details

• Confirm the last day of work and ensure all paperwork is complete.

• Schedule an exit interview or meeting with HR for benefit explanations.

Post-Retirement Finances

• Set up automatic withdrawals or direct deposit for retirement income.

• Transition from employee benefits to retirement accounts (health, life insurance, etc.).

Review Your Will and Estate Plan Again

• Ensure your estate plan reflects your current wishes.

7. Stay Engaged

Retirement Activities

• Plan for active involvement in the community, volunteering, or travel.

• Explore options for part-time work, consulting, or pursuing passion projects.

Continue Learning

• Consider taking classes or pursuing new certifications or interests.

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