Three questions which can avoid or cause longevity risk and whether you pass any burden onto family are when to take Social Security to, how to pay for long-term care and how to prepare for one’s final day. Here are things you must consider.
-- Florida | February 9, 2026: With Social Security and healthcare in the news, many wonder if they can retire without regret. Three decisions they cannot afford to get wrong are Social Security, long-term care and funeral debt. These decisions can save or wipe hundreds-of-thousands of dollars from one’s retirement savings.
Unfortunately, there is plenty of bad advice available. Not even Social Security is allowed to provide guidance; they must only share the information on the screen pertaining to your account. And while well-meaning family and friends have plenty of advice, keep in mind what works for one is not necessarily ideal for another. Too many variables to consider and they are different for each person.
The three questions whose answers can avoid or cause longevity risk (too much life and not enough money) and whether you pass any burden onto family are when to take Social Security to maximize income and minimize taxes, how to pay for long-term care without bankrupting the family, and how to prepare for one’s final day.
This is why Eddie Vélez of YourCareRep LLC, a Registered Social Security Analyst (RSSA®), shares that, “Beneficiaries need to understand how the four policies they have through Social Security (annuity, life, disability and health) work. There are so many rules to consider, that the average household loses $110K in lifetime income, with other studies showing as much as $182K. Moreover, they pay more in taxes, biting into their retirement when they need it most. And while the fourth policy, Medicare, provides for most health care needs, it does not cover long-term care, which can be devastating to a family.”
When it comes planning for long-term care at home, assisted living or in a nursing home, it is never too late to act. Having qualified thousands of clients for benefits to pay for long-term care, Sean W. Scott, Esq., a 36-year veteran Elder Law Attorney, explains that planning ahead is usually better but if you did not, there are still options available to preserve and protect the family’s assets, even if you are already in care. Most people are not aware they can get financial help to pay for care, while still protecting their hard-earned assets. Sean says, “Many of my clients are caring for an aging spouse, parent or loved one, and they are often overwhelmed by complex rules, rising care costs and uncertainty about the future. Often, they seek help from well-meaning friends, healthcare professionals or financial planners. However, they can give terrible advice that leaves you exposed to legal and financial risk. Don’t ask a fish how to climb a tree. It’s not what they do. Get advice from an experienced professional instead.”
Long-term care planning is only a part of the issues facing us as we age, we must also face the day no one escapes, death. Most people ignore this part, often to their family’s financial peril. Hoping for the best is not a good strategy. Knowing what tools are available and picking the best solution is fundamental to providing a smooth and cost-efficient transfer of assets to your beneficiaries. This is why speaking with an experienced Funeral Director early is highly recommended.
Michael Moloney is a third-generation funeral director, U.S. Navy veteran, and owner of St. Petersburg Funeral Home & Memorial Chapel. With over 35 years of experience, Michael has a deep understanding of one of life’s most impactful moments. He works with all families, with a particular focus on veterans and their unique benefits. Michael says, “Families deserve clarity and confidence during a time when decisions can feel overwhelming. I help families understand their options and guide them when arrangements must be made either quickly or in advance. I anticipate needs and offer options that families often don’t realize exist, whether it be timing considerations or overlooked benefits that can significantly ease both emotional and financial stress. I empower families to make thoughtful, informed choices that truly honor the life of the person they’ve lost.”
While there are other factors to consider for some people, all people will deal with these three regardless. And these three make a HUGE impact on all the rest. The choices made will pay dividends or have severe ramifications. Make sure to speak with a professional consultant. Many offer free consultations. Always verify that they have the proper credentials and experience to guide you. After all, if they do not, they might as well be a well-meaning family member or misguided healthcare professional who will not suffer the consequences of the advice they gave you.
CONTACT INFORMATION:
About the company: YourCareRep is a veteran‑owned, fiduciary insurance agency and Registered Social Security Analyst firm that educates and advocates for people navigating Social Security, retirement and Medicare. While serving anyone who needs help, YourCareRep specializes in veterans and retirees, helping clients optimize their Social Security claiming strategies, reduce retirement tax exposure, and select Medicare and related health plans that protect their health and assets. Based in Florida, the agency partners with top‑rated insurers to provide no‑cost consultations and tailored solutions across Medicare, Medicare Advantage, prescription drug coverage, life and final‑expense insurance, and caregiver support resources.
Contact Info:
Name: Eddie Velez
Email: Send Email
Organization: YourCareRep LLC
Address: Tampa Bay, Florida
Phone: 727-459-1887
Website: https://yourcarerep.com
Release ID: 89183057
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