Retirement scan

Nearly 72% of Americans opted to stay the course and stick to their investment plan during the crisis, a survey found.

For one, clients will owe taxes still on the distributions, unless they recontribute the money into the account within three years.

“Traditionally, 401(k)s generally have some really good investment options that you wouldn’t be able to do on your own,” an expert says.

Retirees will end up locking in substantial losses if they decide to cash out their investments during a bear market to generate income.

Market volatility brought on by the coronavirus pandemic may present a great time to invest, as many stocks are being sold at bargain prices.

By extending their working years, seniors can see an increase in their Social Security payouts.

Seniors should focus on what they can control — such as their reaction to market volatility and their long-term savings.

In some cases, workers who have received severance pay have the option of investing the money for retirement and other long-term goals.

Older clients are advised to take extra steps to protect their finances as the current crisis may leave them prone to making poor financial decisions.

“[By extending the tax deadline], they automatically extended the deadline to make an IRA contribution last year,” an expert says.

Clients are advised to minimize spending and tap possible sources of cash and credit, including their tax refund.

Market plunges are normal and stocks are likely to recover and earn a positive return over the long term, says an expert.

“I don’t think the volatility will be over until we’re finished with this virus,” one RIA says.

“Having retirement assets in both traditional and Roth accounts can help clients hedge their tax bets for retirement,” an expert says.

Clients are advised to keep some of their savings in cash and focus on their long-term prospects.

Retirees tapping their long-term savings accounts for income in an emergency are advised to strongly consider reducing their withdrawal rates.

While younger clients may be putting away more money than Gen Xers and baby boomers, they’re not better prepared for retirement compared with their older counterparts, experts say.

These retirement vehicles can be less complex and cheaper than alternatives.

“Find ways to generate income,” says one financial planner.

While some retirees have seen a substantial increase in spending, many others are enjoying financial freedom.