Dallas - Retirement Solutions : Financial Strategies for Todays Retirees

Copyright 2014 Michael Dallas, CFP. All rights reserved.

Published by:
Franklin & Grant Publishing
Michael Dallas, CFP
817-763-8191
800-747-RETIRE (7384)

No part of this book may be copied, downloaded, stored in a retrieval system, further transmitted or otherwise reproduced, stored, disseminated, transferred or used, in any form or by any means without prior written agreement from Michael Dallas, CFP.

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is published with the understanding that the information herein is provided as is, without warranty of any kind, express or implied, and that all such warranties are hereby disclaimed. The contents of this book should not form the basis for specific action without first obtaining the counsel of competent professional advice.

Hardback: 978-0-9776986-2-2

Paperback: 978-0-9776986-3-9

eBook: 978-0-9776986-4-6

Editing: Christine Keleny

Cover and Interior Design: Ghislain Viau

A lthough its been over three decades since I started my career in the finance world, I remember it as if it happened yesterday. My hopes were high, yet I had no idea how rewarding my new professional life would be. The best unforeseen benefit was spending the better part of a decade working aside my son, Michael Dallas. The days we spent creating Retirement Solutions for our clients were some of the happiest times of my life.

Of course, every mother is proud of her children. In my case, however, Ive got plenty of reasons to brag. Over the years, Michael has accomplished so much, and its been an honor and a pleasure watching him exceed my expectations. Even when he was a little boy, I saw the same drive and ambition that I see in Michael today. Exceptionally bright and exceedingly hard working, Michael continually amazed me over the years with his long list of achievements. Our family didnt blink an eye when we found out he would close out his college years as a summa cum laude graduate with a 4.0 (straight A) average or that he aced his CFP exam on his first attempt.

Let me assure you, though, Michaels success is not just a by-product of his intelligence and diligence its also because he genuinely cares about people. Case in point: While in his early 20s, Michael befriended an elderly lady who resided in his neighborhood. Struggling to maintain her independence, she needed assistance but had no one to help. Of his own accord, Michael ran errands for her and did minor fix-it jobs at her home several times a week. While hes a bit older now, my son is still the same kind-hearted, helpful man he always has been. When I watch him speak to groups, consult with someone requesting his help, or devise a financial solution for a retiree, Michaels concern radiates. It really is no wonder that his clients trust and adore him.

Best of all, though, I am grateful for our wonderful friendship. I look back with such fondness at the years we spent co-hosting our call-in radio program here in the Fort Worth-Dallas area. I cant tell you how many listeners remarked with delight about our close bond, which to this day remains rooted in equal measures of love and respect.

Quality is intrinsic to Michaels business philosophy. This book is no exception. Of all the tenets and topics he explores on these pages, I think Michaels positive focus on financial solutions impresses me most of all. He sincerely wants to minimize worries and maximize results to help his readers achieve the best retirement possible. In his typical easy-to-grasp way, Michael presents the information simply and succinctly. By incorporating individual case studies based on real-life scenarios, he adds a personal touch absent from typical financial books. Readers truly will feel as if hes talking directly to them. As a retiree myself, I appreciate that. I know you will too.

So sit back, relax, and read this incredible book, written by one of the most talented financial experts out there, Michael Dallas, CFP. After you finish, you will be armed with the tools you need to become a worry-free retiree.

Jeanette Alexander, CFP

W riting a book is, for the most part, a solitary experience. Authors spend hours on end in front of a screen, recording their ideas, watching as words turn into sentences and sentences into chapters. As their volume starts to take shape, however, most writers look to others for opinions on how the project is shaping up. In my case, that small but savvy group of advisors included my mother, Jeanette Alexander, CFP. I am eternally grateful for the time she spent painstakingly reading, proofing, and providing her industry expertise to help Retirement Solutions become the best it could possibly be.

In fact, the inspiration for this book individualized solutions to optimize retirement years came in large part from working with Mother for more than 10 years. One of the most generous, caring people I know, my mom sincerely wanted the best for each of our clients. I watched closely as she helped them map out the most rewarding retirements possible, gleaning priceless wisdom along the way. Teacher, mentor, and friend my mother served all of those roles.

Her remarkable influence, however, doesnt end there. A three-time cancer survivor who resigned from hospice care alive and well, my mother is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of positivity. Ever the optimist, shes taught me the value of hard work and the importance of following your dreams.

Thank you, Mother.

Michael Dallas, CFP

In everything I do, I believe people are important.
Michael Dallas, CFP

I ve worked with retirees for many years, and while each persons situation is unique, a common thread unites them all: Each person wants the absolute best retirement possible. After raising kids, climbing career ladders, and managing the typical minutiae of life, they all are hoping their golden years will be a time when they can finally relax and reap the rewards of their many labors. After sitting down and putting pen to paper, though, what they quickly find is this: Realizing that vision is achievable only with the proper solutions in place.

Many decisions regarding myriad financial issues must be made. For example, retirees have to know how much cash to set aside for living expenses, as well as how much money to keep invested. They want to have enough finances to live comfortably with some earmarked for fun activities like the vacations of which theyve always dreamed but they also need to ensure they have plenty set aside to pay their bills. Its a lot to think about. Its also a lot to worry about. The strategy I always prescribe? I study my clients situation and, based on their individual needs, supply specific tools to help them achieve their goals in the most stress-free way possible.

This book is your toolbox. Not every tool will apply to you, but many will. Pick and choose what you need. Then get ready to chart the retirement course youve always hoped for.

Remember 1975? A gallon of gas was 59 cents. Bread cost 75 cents. An average new home could be purchased for less than $40,000. Someone with a pension of $1000 per month felt secure about the future. It is a drastic understatement to say prices have risen since then. Inflation can easily strangle unwary, fixed-income retirees and prevent them from fully enjoying the best years of their life.