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With a world of information at our fingertips, we can find reviews, history, product specifications, and more details than we’ll ever need about anything we want to buy. In other words, before making a major purchase, we can arm ourselves with information to make the best choice possible.

Before becoming a financial adviser, I worked with the U.S. Department of Forestry for 8 years after earning my bachelor’s degree in forestry from the University of Montana, where I would eventually return to complete my MBA. My experience in the forestry industry helped me to shape my philosophy and approach toward financial planning, and I enjoy working with people in the industry where I began my professional journey and launched my first consulting business.

Long-term care costs are an increasingly important component of most people’s retirement plans. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, more than half of people turning 65 this year will need long-term care at some point in their lives.

Retirement is arguably one of life’s most significant milestones. But with so many moving pieces, unforeseen circumstances, and questions about health, longevity, and the economy, how do you plan for the final decades of your life in a way that gives you confidence, not worry? In other words, how can you dream big and plan accordingly so all your bases are covered?

Nothing beats a 401(k). You just fill out a form, check a few boxes, pick an investment such as a target-date fund, and you immediately start saving for retirement (sometimes with an employer match to boot!). Simple, right? While it may be easy to sign up for a retirement plan through your employer, some planning tips could make your 401(k) work harder for you. Let’s go over some of the basics so you can get the most out of your retirement fund.

We all have those moments in our lives that help to shape us into who we will become. For me, one of my earliest defining moments was seeing my dedicated parents work to give their three young sons a good life. Both of my parents were teachers who were committed to growing the young minds in their care. I witnessed my parents navigate complex financial and lifestyle decisions when my mom made the decision to stay home with us kids and we became a single-income household.

Social Security benefits provide a key component of your post-retirement income. Understanding how Social Security benefits work is a critical component to retirement planning, as you will need to draw on multiple sources of income to maintain your desired lifestyle.