Tag: Chicago

Your Guide to Layoffs, Severance, and Retirement Decisions

Your Guide to Layoffs, Severance, and Retirement Decisions

When layoffs or retirement offers appear, whether planned or not, they can stir panic and uncertainty. In this episode of Your Successful Retirement, Dennis O’Keefe, CFP®, draws on more than 30 years of experience helping telecom employees navigate these pivotal transitions. He shares a calm, practical approach to managing the emotional and financial stress that follows a sudden career shift.

You’ll learn what to consider before signing a severance agreement, the hidden tax implications many overlook, and why COBRA coverage may not be your best option. Dennis also unpacks key strategies around timing your Social Security, managing 401(k) withdrawals, and avoiding the costly pitfalls that can derail your long-term plan.

Key takeaways:

  • How to evaluate a severance package and understand its real after-tax value
  • Why preparation matters more than panic when a layoff hits
  • Smarter health insurance choices after employment ends
  • When and why to consider taking Social Security early
  • And more!

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. We believe the information presented to be reliable, but it is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.

How To Weather The Sensationalism Storm

How To Weather The Sensationalism Storm

No matter where you are or who you’re with, casual conversations often touch on the weather. Did it enhance or impede your plans? Are you prepared for the expected heatwave, hurricane, or blizzard?

In today’s mainstream media, sensationalism has become the norm, particularly in weather and finance reporting. How does this impact our perception and decision-making? What can we learn from past experiences to avoid common pitfalls?

In this conversation, Dennis O’Keefe explores the sensationalism surrounding weather reporting and its parallels with the hype often found in investing. He discusses the importance of maintaining a level head when making financial decisions, especially in a culture obsessed with excitement.

Get valuable insights into why maintaining a boring, steady approach to investing is often the best path to long-term financial health as Dennis highlights:

  • The impact of sensationalism in both weather reporting and investing
  • A look at how hype can lead to poor investment decisions, using examples from Schwab and Robinhood
  • Insights into historical investment trends, like the GameStop and AMC craze
  • Practical advice on maintaining a balanced, cautious approach to portfolio management
  • And more!

Connect with Dennis O’Keefe: 

 

All content presented is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorsement of any third party, or as a solicitation or offer to sell securities or provide investment, tax, legal, or consulting services, and should not be acted upon without obtaining specific advice from a qualified professional. 

We believe the information presented to be reliable but is not guaranteed as to its accuracy or completeness. All examples are hypothetical and for illustrative purposes only. Any opinions or statements by third parties are their own and may not be representative of the experience of others or indicative of future investment performance or success. No compensation has been exchanged for any testimonials, endorsements, and/or recognitions.