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Breaking the Mold: Why America’s Workforce Is Rethinking Retirement Under the 2025 Social Security Changes

by Eric Seyboldt 

The American Dream has long promised that after decades of dedication, retirement ushers in a golden era of relaxation, freedom, and stability. Yet, in 2025, that dream has evolved. With the latest Social Security changes, a growing number of Americans are rethinking retirement altogether, opting to stay in the workforce at least part-time. These individuals are reshaping their futures, reimagining their “golden years,” and finding new ways to maximize Social Security benefits.

A New Chapter for Social Security: The 2025 Changes Explained

The Social Security reform of 2025 was enacted as a strategic response to ensure the program's solvency and sustainability for future generations. Among its pivotal changes is a modified earnings test that applies to those claiming benefits before reaching their full retirement age (FRA). Previously, if someone chose to claim benefits early while continuing to work, they would face reductions if their annual income exceeded a relatively modest threshold. For example, in 2024, for every $2 earned above $21,240, $1 in Social Security benefits was withheld for those below FRA.

The new 2025 changes are designed to ease these reductions, increasing the income threshold and adjusting the penalties to a less stringent scale. Now, the allowable income limit for early retirees has increased significantly, and the withholding rate has been softened. This means early retirees can earn more without seeing as dramatic a reduction in their Social Security benefits, creating a new option for retirees who wish to ease out of the workforce gradually rather than face an abrupt transition. This adjustment provides a financial cushion for those who choose to remain engaged in work, even if it’s part-time, and enhances the appeal of working beyond the traditional retirement age.

For individuals who have reached their full retirement age, the benefits are even greater: earnings no longer affect their Social Security benefits at all, thanks to the removal of the earnings test at full retirement age. Moreover, the new regulations grant delayed retirement credits more generously than in past years, increasing monthly benefits by up to 8% per year for those who can wait until age 70 to claim.

Why the Part-Time Workforce is Rising

More than just financial survival drives this trend. For many, part-time work is a way to retain structure, purpose, and community in their lives. Working even a few days a week allows retirees to enjoy the social and intellectual benefits of staying active. With the rising cost of living, a supplemental income brings a sense of security against inflation and economic uncertainties. Retirees increasingly recognize that employment—at least part-time—offers more than a paycheck; it provides fulfillment and a chance to stay connected.

The Financial Strategy: Playing the Long Game

By staying in the workforce, retirees not only gain immediate income but also strengthen their Social Security profile. The new rules are particularly favorable to those who continue to earn, as each year worked contributes to a higher lifetime earnings average, potentially boosting future monthly payouts. For those able to delay full retirement, the financial rewards are even greater. The delayed retirement credits, which now grow at a higher rate, mean that waiting just a few extra years can significantly increase Social Security payments, offering a substantial safeguard against future expenses.

A New Vision of Retirement

Today’s retirees are crafting a flexible life, balancing meaningful work with the benefits they’ve earned. With the 2025 Social Security reforms, retirement isn’t a retreat but a new phase of opportunity. Americans are empowered to build a future on their terms, free to work and earn without losing financial security. This pioneering approach sets a powerful example, proving that retirement can be an era of renewed strength, independence, and choice—a transformative journey to savor and control.

Reach out to us for a complimentary, 10-minute consultation call. Let's explore together how we can help you protect your assets, ensuring your golden years are as fulfilling and worry-free as you’ve always imagined. Give us a call today at 614-943-2265 to schedule your consultation. Let's make your retirement dreams a reality!

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Including a Fixed Indexed Annuity In Your Portfolio Could Be a Great Move

Client: Eric, I keep hearing about Fixed Indexed Annuities, but I’m still not sure what they really offer. Should I be considering one for my retirement?

Eric: That’s a great question, and I’m glad you’re asking. Fixed Indexed Annuities (FIAs) are worth looking into, especially if you’re thinking about both protecting your savings and growing them in retirement. Let me walk you through what they can do—and share a couple of examples to show how they work in real life.

First, an FIA protects your principal—your initial investment is secure, no matter what the stock market does. For instance, I had a client, Mary, who retired right as the market took a nosedive a few years back. Her FIA allowed her to keep her original investment intact, even though her other market-linked accounts took a hit. That protection gave her peace of mind, knowing she could weather the downturn without losing the money she’d saved.

Client: That’s good to know, but what about growth? I don’t want my money to just sit there.

Eric: Exactly, and that’s what makes FIAs unique. They’re linked to a stock market index, like the S&P 500, so you can benefit when the market is doing well. Let me give you an example. Another client, Jim, had some of his savings in an FIA last year, and when the market went up, he saw some gains. But when the index dropped the next year, his FIA didn’t lose a dime. He was able to capture some of the upside without taking on the downside risk. FIAs give you that balance between growth and protection—something that can be really valuable as you’re approaching or in retirement.

Client: What about income? I keep hearing stories of people running out of money in retirement, and that really worries me.

Eric: That’s a valid concern, and it’s becoming more common as people are living longer. With an FIA, you can set up a lifetime income option, which means it can pay out regular income for as long as you live. For example, one of my clients, Linda, was concerned she’d outlive her savings because her parents both lived into their 90s. Her FIA gives her steady monthly payments, giving her confidence that she won’t run out, no matter how long she lives. That kind of predictability can really help with budgeting and overall peace of mind.

Client: And taxes? How does this fit in with everything else tax-wise?

Eric: Good question. FIAs grow tax-deferred, meaning you don’t pay taxes on your gains each year—they stay invested and keep compounding over time. This deferral can make a difference in the growth of your account, as your savings compound without getting reduced by taxes annually. Then, when you eventually start taking withdrawals, you’ll pay taxes on your earnings, but by then, you’ll have given your investment time to grow.

Client: Sounds like there’s a lot to it. Do you think it’s right for everyone?

Eric: FIAs are ideal for those who want protection, growth, and a stable income. They’re perfect for people nearing or in retirement who need a balance of security and opportunity. If you want to grow your savings while protecting what you’ve built, we can look at how an FIA might fit into your overall plan and tailor it to your needs.

Client: Thanks, Eric. This sounds like it’s worth looking into further.

Contact us for a free, brief 10-minute consultation. Together, we can discuss ways to safeguard your wealth and ensure your retirement years are as enjoyable and stress-free as you've envisioned. To arrange a complimentary 10-minute consultation call us today at 614-943-2265. We're here to help turn your retirement aspirations into reality.

Fixed annuities can be an essential component of a well-rounded retirement strategy, offering security, predictability, and efficiency in financial planning.

Here are current fixed annuity rates and their durations from Top A-rated carriers (subject to change at any time, not FDIC insured):

Short-Term Rates Bounced Up! Don’t Wait To Lock These Fixed Annuity Rates In Today!

3-year: 5.00% (under $100k Deposited)

3-year: 5.15% (over $100k Deposited)

5-year: 5.10% (under $100k Deposited)

5-year: 5.35% (over $100k Deposited)

Please feel free to call Eric at 614-943-2265 if you’d like to ask any questions or request information on these fixed annuities or other retirement topics that are on your mind.

REAL ASSETS, Invest Like the Ultra-Wealthy

Have You Considered Adding ‘Real Assets’ like Gold or Bourbon to Your Investment Portfolio?

Amid today’s economic unpredictability, savvy investors are turning to physical assets to safeguard their retirement funds. Real assets like gold and bourbon barrels are gaining traction as effective ways to shield wealth. These tangible investments act as a strong buffer against the impact of rising prices and extensive money printing while also offering valuable diversification, even during more stable economic times.

Historically, physical assets have shown resilience, often outperforming other investments during periods of market instability. They provide a dependable line of defense against potential financial disruptions. Adding tangible assets to your investment strategy can be a prudent and rewarding choice.

In light of current economic conditions, physical assets could offer a smart approach to reinforcing the stability of your financial plans. Interested in exploring how these investments could add strength to your portfolio?

Allocating funds into the asset class known as “Real Assets” may be a strategy that you should consider.

Ask us how to Rollover a portion of Your IRA or 401k To A BOURBON IRA (www.bourbon.fund/how-it-works/) or a GOLD IRA (see link below) and:

• Safeguard your assets from the collapsing dollar

• Incorporate the ‘REAL ASSET’ class into your portfolio like the ultra-wealthy

• Hedge against the current high-inflation conditions

• Protect your retirement assets against economic crises

Just get in touch. We make it easier than ever.

Feedback or Questions?

You’re invited to get in touch with us if you’d like to find out how the Novus Financial Group can help you on your journey to a happy, fulfilling life in Retirement. 

Office: 614-943-2265

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Investment advisory services are offered by duly registered individuals on behalf of CreativeOne Wealth, LLC a Registered Investment Adviser.

The content we provide here isn’t financial advice and cannot be taken as such. Please speak to your financial advisor before making any investment decision. Also, note that every investment comes with its risks and drawbacks. Lastly, we would like to remind you that past results cannot guarantee future returns.

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