The Fragile Decade: Why Timing Matters With market volatility driven by trade tensions, inflation concerns, and geopolitical instability, retirees and near-retirees are understandably anxious about their financial futures amid market uncertainty. The impact of market uncertainty on retirement planning cannot be overstated. Market uncertainty can stem from numerous factors, including economic downturns, changes in government policies, and global events. It’s crucial for retirees to understand these influences and how they may affect their financial plans. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many experienced sudden changes in their investment values. This illustrates that being prepared for unexpected events is key to financial security. Being aware of market uncertainty allows retirees to make more informed decisions and better prepare for potential financial challenges. In times of market uncertainty, maintaining liquidity can provide peace of mind and security. Adapting your budget during periods of market uncertainty is essential to cope with changing economic

The real Truth About Annuities? Let’s be real: annuities are like shoes. Some fit like a dream and support you for miles. Others? They leave you with financial blisters and a limp in your retirement stride. At Jacobs Financial Services, we don’t believe in stuffing every client into the same financial footwear. When it comes to annuities, the truth is simple – they’re not for everyone. And anyone who tells you otherwise is probably more interested in their commission check than your long-term comfort. So, What Is an Annuity? An annuity is a financial product typically used for retirement planning. In exchange for a lump sum or series of payments, an insurance company agrees to provide you with regular income – sometimes for life. Sounds nice, right? Well, it can be. But there are different types (fixed, variable, indexed), each with its own benefits, risks, and fine print. And that’s

Retirement planning is one of the most significant milestones in life. It’s the moment when the hustle of your working years gives way to the freedom to enjoy your time on your own terms – whether that means travel, hobbies, family time, or simply slowing down. But getting there doesn’t happen by accident. It takes some careful retirement planning, a bit of foresight, and a willingness to adapt as life unfolds. This guide breaks down what retirement planning really means, what to consider, and how to stay on track without getting overwhelmed. Effective retirement planning involves understanding your goals and setting a timeline to achieve them. What Does “Retirement” Really Mean? Consider including retirement planning as part of your regular financial discussions. Retirement isn’t just about stopping work. It’s about replacing your paycheck with a plan that supports your lifestyle. For some, that means retiring early and living simply. For

Retirement should feel like a reward – not a risk. You’ve worked hard for decades, made smart decisions, and now it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. But if the thought of another market downturn keeps you up at night, you’re not alone. Protecting your nest egg is one of the most critical aspects of preparing for retirement – and that’s where a Fixed Indexed Annuity’s (FIA) benefits shine. In this guide, we’ll break down what a Fixed Indexed Annuity is, why it’s a powerful choice for retirees, how it can protect and grow your retirement savings, and the exclusive FIA benefits we offer at Jacobs Financial Services. What Is a Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA)? A Fixed Indexed Annuity is a retirement savings product that combines the stability of traditional fixed annuities with the potential growth of market-linked investments – without direct exposure to market risk. Here’s the

You’ve worked for decades, poured countless hours into building a career, and now you’ve reached the moment that was supposed to be the reward – retirement. The dream? Travel, family time, peaceful mornings with no alarm clocks. But for many retirees, that dream can quickly get hijacked by a ruthless culprit: market volatility. If your retirement savings ride the roller coaster of Wall Street, every dip can feel like a gut punch. And let’s be real – unlike your working years, there’s no overtime shift or big promotion coming to bail you out. So how do you enjoy retirement without stressing over every stock market swing? It starts with protection-first planning. Why Market Volatility Can Be Devastating in Retirement When you’re retired, your savings aren’t just numbers on a screen – they are your paycheck, your lifestyle, your security blanket. Here’s the issue:Market downturns hurt more after retirement because you’re

At Jacobs Financial Services, our mission has always been clear: to guide individuals toward a secure and fulfilling retirement through expert retirement planning. That’s why we’re thrilled to share a proud moment in our journey – our President and CEO, Tom Jacobs, had the incredible honor of stepping onto the floor of the Chicago Board Options Exchange (Cboe), alongside our trusted partner, American Equity. This experience wasn’t just a photo op – it was a reflection of the growing impact Jacobs Financial Services continues to make in the retirement planning and financial services industry. A Leader in Retirement Planning Tom Jacobs has built his career – and our company – around a passion for helping people retire with confidence. His leadership has been instrumental in helping our clients navigate complex financial landscapes, ensuring they have the right strategies in place for income planning, wealth protection, and long-term financial security. From