Your December Retirement Checkup Guide

Hi humans, it’s me—Tootsie, your favorite English Bulldog and Chief Retirement Sniffer-Outer. December is finally here, and while many people see this month as the season of warm drinks and cozy evenings, I see it as something even better: the perfect moment for your December retirement checkup. Don’t worry—this isn’t a complicated, time-consuming deep dive. A December checkup is simply a smart, seasonal review of the financial basics that keep your retirement running smoothly. Think of it like a winter tune-up for your money: quick, simple, and designed to help you walk into the new year with confidence and clarity. Let’s get started.

Review Your Income Plan Before the Year Ends

Your income plan is the heartbeat of your retirement. December is the ideal time to pause and ask: Is my retirement income stable, predictable, and aligned with my goals? Evaluate how much of your income is guaranteed, how much depends on the markets, and whether inflation or cost-of-living changes impacted your spending this year. A strong income plan helps ensure your essential expenses remain covered no matter what the economy brings.

Check Your Risk Exposure and Consider Rebalancing

Markets can shift dramatically over a single year, and December is the right time to review your retirement portfolio risk level. You may now be holding more risk—or less—than you intended. Ask yourself: Does my portfolio still reflect my comfort level? Could a market downturn damage my long-term income? Avoiding unnecessary losses is one of the most important parts of retirement planning. Even I know that—and I once tried to hide a biscuit in a snow pile.

Evaluate Your Spending and Seasonal Expenses

December is naturally a higher-spending month for many households. Travel, gatherings, food, utilities—winter expenses add up quickly. Reviewing your annual spending habits helps you stay aligned with your income plan and prepare for the next year. This isn’t about guilt. It’s about awareness, adjustment, and staying on track.

Review Tax Opportunities Before the Year Ends

Before the year officially closes, look at your tax situation. Smart planning now can benefit you next year. Ask your professional whether things like Roth conversions, tax-efficient withdrawals, or capital gains/loss reviews make sense for you. Taxes shouldn’t quietly erode your retirement income—and December is your final chance to make strategic moves.

Refresh Your Healthcare Confidence for the New Year

Even outside open enrollment, December is a perfect time to double-check details like premiums, deductibles, prescription coverage, and expected out-of-pocket expenses. Healthcare remains one of the largest costs in retirement. A quick December review helps you avoid surprises and plan ahead with confidence.

Revisit Your Emergency Fund

Just like I keep emergency treats stored where no one can find them (I’m resourceful), retirees need a fully stocked emergency fund. Aim for 6–12 months of essential expenses in a liquid account. If you dipped into it this year, replenish it. If not, ensure the amount still fits your lifestyle and risk level.

Meet With a Retirement Income Professional

A quick end-of-year conversation with a vetted professional can help you confirm your income plan, review your risk, optimize taxes, and step into the new year with clarity. You shouldn’t have to figure everything out alone.

Tootsie’s Takeaway

A calm retirement begins with a simple December checkup. A little planning now leads to a whole lot of peace later—and that’s my kind of winter.

Want to Know More?

If you want a simple, stress-free way to review your retirement income plan before the new year, connect with a vetted retirement income professional at SafeMoney.com. The right guidance today can help make next year calmer, clearer, and more predictable.

 

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or investment advice. Consult a qualified professional for guidance specific to your situation.

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