Ainsley Carbone, a Retirement Strategist at UBS, and Justin Waring, a Senior Total Wealth Strategist at UBS, tackle essential insights for retirement planning in 2025. They discuss key updates on Medicare premiums and Social Security adjustments, alongside new contribution limits for retirement accounts. Ainsley and Justin highlight the importance of liquidity management and tax-efficient withdrawals to prepare for escalating healthcare costs. They also navigate changes in estate tax policies, underscoring the need for strategic planning as retirement landscapes evolve.
In 2025, retirees need to prepare for increased Medicare premiums and assess their net income adjustments from Social Security benefits accordingly.
Individuals saving for retirement should pay attention to the updated contribution limits for Health Savings Accounts and 401(k) plans to enhance their financial growth.
Deep dives
Medicare and Social Security Updates for 2025
In 2025, retirees should be aware of significant changes in Medicare and Social Security. The standard monthly premium for Medicare Part B will increase to $185, reflecting a 5.9% rise, while income-related surcharges for higher-income households will also be affected similarly. Additionally, a 2.5% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will apply to Social Security benefits; however, many recipients may not experience a comparable net increase due to the increased Medicare premiums. It's crucial for retirees to assess how these alterations impact their overall income and expenses to better understand their spending power for the year ahead.
Retirement Savings Strategies for 2025
For those still saving for retirement, changes to contribution limits are important to note. Health savings account contributions will now allow up to $8,550 for family plans and $4,300 for individuals, encouraging tax-free growth for qualifying medical expenses. Moreover, the maximum deductible contribution for 401(k) plans will rise to $23,500, and with employer contributions, the total can reach $70,000 annually, facilitating potential mega backdoor Roth conversions. Catch-up contributions have also expanded, allowing those aged 60 to 63 to contribute significantly more, reflecting a move to enhance savings for near retirees.
Considerations for New Retirees in 2025
Individuals planning to retire in 2025 should focus on developing or revisiting their liquidity strategies to ensure they can comfortably manage spending in the early years of retirement. It's recommended that they assess their tax situation thoroughly, considering the tax implications of withdrawals from tax-deferred accounts, as these can create taxable events that impact overall income. Additionally, understanding and planning for rising healthcare and long-term care costs will be pivotal for new retirees, especially with anticipated increases in these areas. By evaluating these factors, retirees can establish a more resilient financial plan that suits their needs.
With a new year underway, Ainsley and Justin rejoin the conversation to explain what retirees, along with those preparing for retirement, should know in 2025. These considerations span social security and Medicare, to long-term care costs, estate planning, and more. Featured are Ainsley Carbone, Retirement Strategist, and Justin Waring, Senior Total Wealth Strategist, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy
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