Mississippi Retirement Planning Checklist: 12 Months Before You Stop Working

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Retirement isn’t just about the date on your calendar—it’s a year-long process that requires planning and preparation. Working with a retirement planner in Mississippi can help ensure your transition is smooth, confident, and financially sound. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown of what to do in the final year before you retire.

 

 

12 Months Out: Define Your Retirement Goals
Start by envisioning what retirement looks like for you. Will you stay in Jackson or move closer to family in Madison or Ridgeland? Think about lifestyle, hobbies, and expected expenses. Review your current savings and income sources to see if they align with your goals.

 

 

9 Months Out: Review Investments & Risk Levels
Now is the time to meet with your advisor to assess portfolio risk. As retirement nears, many Mississippi retirees adjust to more income-focused strategies. Rebalancing your investments can help protect what you’ve built while maintaining enough growth to last through retirement.

 

 

6 Months Out: Estimate Retirement Income
Gather details about Social Security, pensions, and investment withdrawals. Your financial advisor in Mississippi can help calculate how much monthly income you can expect and how to optimize withdrawals for tax efficiency.

 

 

3 Months Out: Plan for Healthcare
If you’re retiring before Medicare eligibility, explore ACA marketplace options or short-term coverage to bridge the gap. For those nearing age 65, work with your advisor to evaluate Medicare Supplement versus Advantage plans and estimate future healthcare costs.

 

 

1 Month Out: Organize Accounts & Paperwork
Review all beneficiary designations, consolidate old 401(k)s or IRAs, and confirm direct deposit arrangements. Make sure your estate plan is up to date, especially if you live in areas like Flowood or Brandon where family assets often include property or small businesses.

 

 

Final Weeks: Prepare Emotionally & Financially
As you approach your last day, create a cash reserve for the first few months of retirement. Confirm your income streams are set to start and discuss an ongoing plan review schedule with your retirement planner Mississippi to keep your finances on track as your lifestyle evolves.

 

 

Quick Checklist

  • Revisit goals and expenses
  • Rebalance investments
  • Estimate monthly income
  • Choose healthcare coverage
  • Update beneficiaries and estate documents

 

 

Ready to Start Planning?
Your retirement deserves more than guesswork. Branning Wealth Management helps clients across Mississippi—from Jackson to Madison—build retirement plans backed by research and personalized strategy. Contact us today to schedule your retirement planning consultation and take the first step toward your next chapter.