1. Retirement
EPF.18d examine the fundamental
workings of Social Security and the
system's effects on retirement planning
EPF.18e contrast alternative retirement
plans

2. For many individuals, Social Security is their only retirement plan.
The amount one receives depends on several factors.
Social Security has several types of benefits.
EPF.18d examine the fundamental
workings of Social Security and the
system's effects on retirement
planning

3. What is the purpose of Social
Security?
 Social Security was designed as a safety net
to provide income to older people when they
could no longer work.

4. What determines how much one
receives in benefits?
 Social Security benefits are determined
by the amount an individual has
contributed to the system and the
individual’s age when claiming
benefits.

5. What are the types of benefits
provided through the Social Security
system?
 Social Security benefits include
disability and survivor benefits, as
well as retirement income.

6. What are some of the concerns about
Social Security when planning for
retirement?
For retirement planning, Social Security
payments are likely to be less than
income has been.
Most retirees will need to supplement
through
savings, investments, continued
employment, or adjusted lifestyle.

7. EPF.18e contrast alternative
retirement plans
There are many types of retirement plans. There are
costs and benefits to each.

8. What types of retirement plans are
available?
 Individual Retirement Account (IRA)
 tax-sheltered annuity (TSA)
 Keogh plan
 annuity
 employer retirement plan
 public pension plan.

9. What are the costs and benefits of
each?
Evaluating retirement plans requires
knowledge of the costs and benefits of
each type.
For example, one cost of an IRA is the severe
early-withdrawal fee, which is countered by
the benefit of contributions reducing taxable
income.