Retirement planning involves much more than choosing investments and saving enough money. Financial Advisor David Gearhart highlights five common retirement mistakes—from waiting too long to plan and overlooking taxes to taking too much investment risk or making emotional decisions—and explains how thoughtful planning can help reduce financial stress.

Large IRA or 401(k) balances can trigger Medicare surcharges through IRMAA once Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) begin at age 73. Even modest withdrawals can push income over IRMAA thresholds, raising Medicare Part B and D premiums. Strategies like Roth conversions, Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs), and delaying Social Security can help reduce future IRMAA exposure. Speak with a Whitaker-Myers advisor to protect your retirement income.