As we grow older, we start thinking more about the income we’ll have in retirement. We want to ensure a comfortable and secure future. This is where working with a Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP) comes in handy.
The RICP designation is a professional certification program that focuses on retirement income planning. It is designed to help financial professionals provide clients with the knowledge and tools they need to create a comprehensive retirement income plan.
I was drawn to this program because I have seen the anxiety and emotional uncertainty that my clients face when they enter this stage of life and find themselves financially unprepared. As an RICP, I focus on creating sustainable retirement income plans, which take into account factors such as inflation, market volatility, and longevity risk. By doing so, I can help my clients create a plan that will provide them with a steady stream of income throughout their retirement years.
My goal is to be a seasoned resource for people who are approaching or are at retirement and need help formulating a plan for the next phase of their lives. Often, this includes caring for an elderly relative in addition to managing one’s own affairs. As a volunteer community educator for the Alzheimer’s Association, I deliver presentations on financial health and stability. Many times, I talk to people who have found themselves unprepared to make financial decisions for someone else. They don’t know where to start, and then decisions regarding their own financial life are pushed aside. It is important to be prepared for unexpected events and have the necessary tools to manage the emotional and financial stress that comes with the role of a caregiver without jeopardizing one’s own financial future. The crux of the matter is that it is nearly impossible to make informed decisions when in crisis mode. Many of us will be in this situation, and I want to ensure my clients are financially prepared.
But why should you care about the RICP designation?
If you’re approaching retirement age or are already retired, working with CFP and RICP-designated advisers can provide you with peace of mind. You’ll know that your retirement income plan has been created with your best interests in mind and that you are working with someone that has the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the complexities of retirement planning.
So, what exactly does the RICP designation entail? It covers a wide range of topics, including Social Security, annuities, investments, and taxes. It also delves into the psychological and emotional aspects of retirement, such as how to help clients adjust to the changes that come with retirement and how to help them maintain a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
In conclusion, the RICP designation is a valuable indication that you have found someone that can create a comprehensive retirement income plan. It provides financial professionals with the knowledge and tools they need to help their clients navigate the complexities of retirement planning, and it can provide individuals with the peace of mind they need to enjoy their retirement years to the fullest. So, if you’re approaching retirement age or are already retired, consider working with a financial professional who has earned the RICP designation.
Random fact: Did you know that the average retirement age in the United States is 62?
To my current clients, I appreciate that you’ve picked me to work with you to ensure that you’re taken care of through every stage of your retirement years. If you’re ready to work with someone who is well qualified (a CFP, CPA, and RICP) but also someone who genuinely cares about your goals and personal experience of your retirement years, then please reach out and schedule a call today.