Social Security, QLACs, and ETFs: Q&A #2505

Jim and Chris discuss listener questions relating to Social Security, QLACs, TIPS ETFs, and buffered ETFs.

(9:00) A listener who worked in Australia in the late 1980s asks how the U.S.-Australia Totalization Agreement might affect their Social Security benefits. Jim and Chris discuss whether their earnings record can be adjusted and what steps to take.

(16:00) The guys respond to a listener with a sizable public pension who is considering claiming Social Security at 62 and investing the funds. They analyze the strategy and explain why delaying benefits is often the better choice for protecting the Minimum Dignity Floor.

(47:30) Jim and Chris address a question about QLACs and IRA valuations: Should the end-of-year fair market value of a QLAC inside an IRA be included when calculating the total IRA balance for pro-rata basis conversion purposes?

(58:15) George asks about TIPS ETFs—if phantom income from inflation adjustments isn’t reinvested, does that diminish or eliminate inflation protection?

(1:07:30) A listener nearing retirement lays out their funding strategy for a 5.5-year delay period and beyond. Jim and Chris share their thoughts on the approach and the role of buffered ETFs.

Show Notes: Article discussed in Question 2

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