Step 1 of 10 10% Which financial planner referred you?(Required)-- Choose Your Financial Planner --Beverly P. EppsCheryl EvansCraig ClitesJon P. LaFramboiseJoseph KutschbachMichael HammersleyNick YawRichard EppsRobert HeubeckTodd HartshornTonya HelselOther: No one referred meName(Required) First Last Phone(Required)Email(Required) 1. For you, is max funding a 401(k) more efficient than contributing up to the employer match?(Required) I believe that max funding a 401(k) is a more efficient approach. By contributing the maximum allowed amount, I can take full advantage of the tax benefits and compound growth potential over the long term. I feel that contributing to the employer match is more efficient for me. I find it important to consider other financial goals. By contributing enough to receive the full employer match, I can also make the most of "free" money. Unsure 2. Where you are financially today, would it be wiser to prioritize preserving the initial investment or focusing on potential market gains when considering your allocation of funds?(Required) For me, preserving the initial investment takes precedence. As I approach retirement, capital preservation becomes more crucial than aggressive growth. While potential market gains are enticing, I'd rather ensure that my principal remains intact. My primary focus is on trying to maximize potential market gains, I believe that taking calculated risks can lead to higher returns, especially in the long term. Given my risk tolerance and time horizon, a more aggressive allocation that prioritizes growth. Unsure 3. Today would it be more advantageous for you to invest in a Roth IRA or a Traditional IRA?(Required) I find investing in a Roth IRA more advantageous. While contributions are not tax-deductible upfront, the ability to withdraw earnings tax-free during retirement is a significant benefit. This aligns well with my goal of minimizing taxes. I tend to lean toward a Traditional IRA for its immediate tax benefits. By deducting contributions from my current income, I can lower my tax liability now. However, I understand that I will pay taxes later. Unsure 4. Which option makes more sense for reducing taxes: a tax-deductible account or tax-deferred investments?(Required) I believe that tax-deferred investments and investments make more sense for my family. This approach aligns with my desire to minimize taxes over the long term. I lean towards tax-deductible accounts as a way to reduce taxes. Taking the tax deduction upfront can provide immediate financial relief and potentially reduce my current tax burden. Unsure 5. When considering retirement strategies, what's your preference between a guaranteed income stream for life or an income derived from systematic withdrawals for as long as they’ll last?(Required) I find a guaranteed income stream for life to be more appealing. Knowing that I'll have a consistent income throughout my retirement provides peace of mind. This option aligns well with my risk-averse nature and ensures I won't outlive my funds. I prefer an income derived from systematic withdrawals. This approach allows me to maintain control over my investments and adapt to changing financial circumstances. While it carries some level of risk, I appreciate the flexibility it offers. Unsure 6. Which type of life insurance matches my lifestyle, permanent life insurance or term life insurance?(Required) I lean towards a permanent life insurance for my family. I find value in long-term financial security and certain benefits like cash value accumulation, tax advantages, income replacement, and my desire to leave a legacy I lean towards term life insurance. It provides the coverage I need during the years when financial obligations and dependents are most pressing. I can then allocate the savings from lower premiums towards other investments. Unsure 7. What are the key factors I should keep in mind when evaluating different avenues for taxadvantaged income, such as real estate investments or annuity contracts?(Required) When evaluating tax-advantaged income avenues, I prioritize efficiency and stability. Investments like annuity contracts align better with my risk-averse nature, offering predictable income over time. I'm more open to exploring real estate investments for tax-advantaged income. The potential for rental income and property value appreciation align with my preference for tangible assets. Unsure 8. As I navigate investment choices, would it be more efficient to opt for an investment with low fees or to explore options with a potential high-performance rate?(Required) I tend to prioritize investments with low fees. High fees can eat into overall returns and impact my long-term growth potential. Minimizing fees aligns with my goal of optimizing every dollar I invest. I'm inclined to explore options with a high potential performance rate. I believe the benefits outweigh slightly higher fees, especially if this aligns with my desired strategy. Unsure 9. Please rank the following options in order of your preference for securing supplemental income: 1 = Most Preferred 6 = Least PreferredCash value of whole life insurance(Required) Investing in stocks or other financial instruments.(Required) Real estate investments(Required) Starting a small business or side gig like Example: Airbnb, consulting.(Required) Delaying retirement and continuing to work(Required) Social Security benefits supplement savings(Required)