# How Close Are You to Retirement? Listener Questions Answered, Ep #199

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/retirement-made-easy-302503/how-close-are-you-to-retirement-listener-questions-answered-ep-199
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/retirement-made-easy-302503/how-close-are-you-to-retirement-listener-questions-answered-ep-199.md
Podcast: [RETIREMENT MADE EASY](https://stenobird.com/podcast/retirement-made-easy-302503)
Published: 2025-11-15T10:00:00+00:00
Episode link: https://retirementmadeeasy.libsyn.com/how-close-are-you-to-retirement-listener-questions-answered-ep-199
Audio file: https://pdcn.co/e/traffic.libsyn.com/secure/retirementmadeeasy/How-Close-Are-You-to-Retirement-Listener-Questions-Answered.mp3?dest-id=2239214
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/retirement-made-easy-302503/episodes/how-close-are-you-to-retirement-listener-questions-answered-ep-199
Duration seconds: 2487

## Resource

Today, in our 199th episode, I dive into some timely updates on Social Security and answered a batch of long-overdue listener questions. We kick things off with the newly announced 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for Social Security benefits starting January 2026. While that sounds like good news, I cautioned listeners not to celebrate too quickly. Medicare Part B premiums are expected to rise by 11.6%, or about $21.50 per month, which will eat into that COLA, leaving most recipients with a net increase of only around $34.50. I argue that announcing the Social Security COLA a month before Medicare premiums is misleading and suggested both should be released simultaneously to give retirees a clearer picture of their actual income changes. I also highlight the increase in the Social Security earnings limit, which will rise from $176,100 in 2025 to $184,500 in 2026 (a 4.77% jump). This means higher earners will contribute more to Social Security before hitting the cap. On a brighter note, the stock market has been performing exceptionally well in 2025, with major indices like the S&P 500, NASDAQ, and international markets all posting double-digit gains. At Retire Strong Financial Advisors, we're seeing more people seeking second opinions on their retirement plans, especially as their 401(k)s and 403(b)s hit all-time highs. I wrap up the episode by tackling some fantastic listener questions and reminding everyone to check out our free resources and YouTube channel for more retirement planning insights. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in... (00:00) Intro. (00:27) Social Security Updates. (11:28) Roth Conversions Explained. (19:53) 401k Management Fees. (21:14) Retirement Planning for Couples. (27:19) Annuity Product Warnings. (31:07) Retir…

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## Transcript

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