by Joe Allaria CFP®, MBA | Oct 5, 2026 | Article, Q & A, Retirement Planning
Medicare Advantage vs. Medigap: How Illinois Retirees Can Compare the Tradeoffs Key Takeaways Neither Medicare Advantage nor Medigap is better for everyone. The right fit depends on your doctors, prescriptions, travel habits, budget, and how much cost uncertainty...
by Joe Allaria CFP®, MBA | Sep 30, 2026 | Article, Q & A, Retirement Planning
How Much Should You Budget for Healthcare Costs in Retirement? Key Takeaways There’s no single healthcare number that fits every retiree. The right budget depends on your coverage, age, health needs, and how much spending Medicare and supplemental insurance...
by Joe Allaria CFP®, MBA | Sep 14, 2026 | Article, Retirement Planning
Medicare Planning at 65: A Guide for Illinois Retirees Key Takeaways Your Initial Enrollment Period is time-sensitive, and the month you act in changes your coverage start date. Waiting until your birthday month or later can delay coverage or create a gap you...
by Joe Allaria CFP®, MBA | Aug 12, 2026 | Article, Estate Planning, Retirement Planning, Tax Planning
Illinois Capital Gains Tax: What It Means for Retirement Planning Key Takeaways Illinois taxes capital gains at one flat rate, in retirement or otherwise. Most taxable gains are taxed at the state’s 4.95% individual income tax rate, no matter your age or how...
by Joe Allaria CFP®, MBA | Aug 6, 2026 | Article, Retirement Planning, Risk Management
Medicare Planning After 60: 8 Questions to Answer Before You Enroll Medicare covers millions of Americans, yet is still widely misunderstood. Knowing when to enroll in Medicare, what Medicare covers, and the costs associated are just a few crucial things to know as...
by Joe Allaria CFP®, MBA | Aug 6, 2026 | Article, Retirement Planning
7 Social Security Mistakes & How to Avoid Them Bad Social Security advice and poor claiming strategies continue to cost retirees, especially those eligible for spousal, survivor, and divorced retirement benefits. Social Security has provided benefits to...
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