The Retirement Learning Lab
Tired of feeling overwhelmed and confused about retirement planning?
You're not alone. After 30+ years of helping people navigate retirement, I've seen how the flood of conflicting financial advice paralyzes even the smartest people.
Hi, I'm Van Richards, and I created The Retirement Learning Lab to cut through the noise and give you the clarity you deserve.
Here's what makes this different: Instead of throwing more complicated strategies at you, I teach you a simple, systematic approach that actually works. My clients go from lying awake at night worrying about money to sleeping peacefully, knowing they're in complete control of their financial future.
You'll discover how to:
- Transform retirement confusion into confident action
- Maximize your income while reducing risk
- Avoid the costly mistakes that become impossible to fix later
- Create a plan so simple you could explain it to a 12-year-old
The bottom line: You only get one chance at retirement. Don't leave it to chance.
Whether you're 10 years from retirement or already there, these proven strategies will help you go from financial insecurity to complete control.
Ready to stop worrying and start winning? New episodes every week.
DISCLOSURE: Listeners must understand that this information is not financial advice; it is financial education. There is no guarantee as to the accuracy or reliability of any information presented. For more information on the limitations of the information from this YouTube Channel, please refer to the disclosure on the Richards Financial Planning YouTube page at https://richardsfinancialplanning.com/youtube-channel.
The Retirement Learning Lab
Working and Earning While Collecting Social Security: 4 Shocking Facts About 2025 Rules
Are you working while collecting Social Security? You might be making costly mistakes without even knowing it.
In this essential episode of the Retirement Learning Lab, Van Richards breaks down the four most shocking facts about Social Security earnings limits that could save you thousands of dollars.
What you'll discover:
🔍 The biggest misconception: Withheld benefits aren't lost forever - they're actually credited back to you at full retirement age as a permanent benefit increase
💑 Marriage surprise: Your spouse's income doesn't count against your earnings limit (each person is evaluated individually)
📅 Hidden flexibility: The monthly earnings test option that can save mid-year retirees who've already exceeded annual limits
💰 Income that doesn't count: Investment income, pensions, IRA withdrawals, dividends, and capital gains won't trigger the earnings test
Critical 2025 numbers you need to know:
- Under full retirement age all year: $23,400 annual limit
- Reaching full retirement age in 2025: $62,160 annual limit
- Monthly limits: $1,950 and $5,180 respectively
Van also covers the crucial difference between earnings limits and tax rules, why you should report your earnings proactively to Social Security, and special considerations for self-employed individuals.
Important note: This episode focuses solely on benefit payment rules, not taxation - which is an entirely different topic.
Whether you're 62 and considering when to claim Social Security, already collecting benefits, or thinking about returning to work in retirement, this episode provides the clarity you need to make confident decisions about your retirement income strategy.
Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Please consult with qualified professionals regarding your specific situation.
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