Retiring together sounds like a dream—but is it the right move for your financial future?

For many couples, the idea of stepping into retirement hand in hand sounds ideal: more time to travel, enjoy hobbies, and simply slow down together. But like most things in financial planning, the decision to retire at the same time isn’t just about lifestyle—it’s also about strategy.

At Clarity Financial, Caroline Raker helps couples navigate this deeply personal decision by asking the right questions and creating customized retirement income plans that support both partners.

Here’s what you need to consider before you both hand in your notice.

1. How Will This Impact Your Retirement Income?

When both spouses retire at once, your household loses two incomes at the same time. That means your Social Security timing, pension benefits, and investment withdrawals need to be carefully coordinated.

Caroline helps couples:

• Evaluate the impact of claiming Social Security early vs. delaying for a higher benefit

• Consider Fixed Indexed Annuities to generate income without market downside risk

• Design a withdrawal strategy to avoid running out of savings too soon

Coordinating your retirement income streams is critical to avoiding surprises—and ensuring peace of mind.

2. What About Healthcare Coverage?

If one spouse retires before age 65, they’ll need coverage until they qualify for Medicare. Caroline works with clients to:

• Explore COBRA, ACA plans, or spousal employer coverage

• Coordinate Medicare enrollment and supplement plans

• Evaluate long-term care options for both partners

Healthcare is one of the most significant costs in retirement—and needs to be part of your joint plan.

3. Are You Both Emotionally Ready to Retire Together?

Retirement isn’t just a financial transition—it’s a lifestyle shift. Some couples thrive with more time together. Others need space, structure, or time to adjust.

Caroline often guides couples through:

• Lifestyle planning exercises

• Conversations about expectations and goals

• Creating part-time income or volunteer opportunities

Your retirement should bring joy, not tension. Open communication and shared vision are key.

4. Does It Make Sense for One Spouse to Work Longer?

In some cases, it may make financial sense for one partner to keep working:

• To delay Social Security for a higher benefit

• To keep employer-sponsored health insurance

• To reduce strain on retirement savings

Caroline helps couples model scenarios to see which combination supports their long-term security best.

The Clarity Financial Approach

Every couple is different. That’s why Caroline Raker offers:

• Personalized retirement timing strategies

• Social Security and Medicare guidance

• No-fee access to A+ rated annuity products

• Workshops and one-on-one sessions designed for educators, nonprofits, and faith-based clients

At Clarity Financial, we help you make thoughtful decisions that reflect both your financial goals and the relationship you’ve built over a lifetime.

Let’s Plan Your Retirement Together

Whether you choose to retire together or stagger your exit, the best decision is an informed one.

📞 Schedule your free consultation with Caroline Raker today.
Let’s create a plan that supports both your finances—and your future as a couple.

📩 [email protected]
🌐 clarityfin.net
📱 540-858-1464

With Clarity Financial, your future is more than a number—it’s a relationship we care about.