When you plan retirement as a couple, your decisions are intertwined — especially Social Security timing and protecting the surviving spouse.
This guide covers how couples can coordinate income and prepare for the day one partner is on their own.
Coordinating two income timelines
Aligning retirement dates, benefits, and withdrawals across both spouses.
Protecting the surviving spouse
Planning for the income drop when one spouse passes away.
Building survivor income
How guaranteed income can help protect a surviving spouse, subject to the insurer's claims-paying ability.
This guide is for general educational purposes only and is not financial, tax, or legal advice. Tim Hartle is an independent insurance professional. Annuity guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company and are not FDIC insured. Rules and product features vary by situation and by state. Please consult a qualified advisor about your own circumstances.
Social Security strategies for couples
Spousal and survivor benefits and how claiming order matters.