6 Changes To Social Security Happening in 2026, #292
Retire With Ryan
The landscape of Social Security is changing yet again. As we enter 2026, six big changes will impact both current and future retirees. I break down everything from the new cost of living adjustment (COLA), increases in the earnings test limit, and updated eligibility requirements, all the way to shifts in the full retirement age and the solvency projections for the Social Security Trust Fund. You’ll also hear practical tips on maximizing your Social Security benefits, how to prepare for what’s ahead, and why it’s more important than ever to have a solid retirement plan in place. ...
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Protecting Your Schwab Accounts From A RAT Attack, #291
Retire With Ryan
Have you ever fallen victim to a RAT attack? No, not the furry kind, a Remote Access Trojan attack. I’m discussing how cybercriminals use social engineering to target victims, and the real-world impact these threats can have on your investment accounts and personal information. I reveal the latest tactics scammers use, and, most importantly, offer practical tips to help you recognize warning signs, safeguard your accounts, and minimize your risk, whether you’re an individual managing your retirement nest egg or a business owner overseeing company assets. You will want to hear...
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Can I Contribute to My 401(k) and a Traditional IRA in the Same Tax Year?, #290
Retire With Ryan
A listener recently wrote in with a common and important retirement planning question: If I’m already maxing out my 401(k), can I also contribute to a traditional IRA in the same year? The short answer is yes—but whether it makes sense, and how much benefit you receive, depends on your income, tax situation, and long-term goals. In this episode, I break down how traditional IRA contributions work alongside employer-sponsored retirement plans, when those contributions are deductible, and what options are available if your income is too high for a deduction. We also explore alternative...
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Top 5 Growth ETFs to Own For 2026 and Beyond, #289
Retire With Ryan
Last week, we covered the best investments to preserve your money, but this week we are shifting gears to focus on growth. For retirees, the goal is to have an income that outpaces inflation, and historically, the best way to achieve that is by having 50% to 70% of your portfolio invested in stock funds. In this episode, I break down five specific Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) that can help you grow your wealth in 2026. I discuss why I prefer ETFs over mutual funds, specifically focusing on cost, transparency, and liquidity, and provide the exact ticker symbols and expense ratios for the funds...
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7 Best Investment Options To Preserve Your Money in 2026, #288
Retire With Ryan
This episode is your introduction to the world of conservative investing, so it’s perfect for you if you’re looking to preserve your principal and grow your money at a steady pace. I’m walking you through seven standout investment choices for 2026, ranging from high-yield online money market accounts to short-term bond funds, CDs, and Treasury bonds. We’ll discuss how to shop around for the best rates, the importance of keeping up with inflation in retirement, and the benefits and limitations of each strategy. There’s something here for anyone who wants their money to work a little...
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4 Things All Successful Retirees Do, #287
Retire With Ryan
In this episode, I’m helping you kick off 2026 by reflecting on financial habits that pave the way for a successful retirement. As we set our goals for the year ahead, I share the four key traits I’ve observed in successful retirees, drawn from years of experience working with people from all walks of life. You’ll hear practical advice on how to work hard and invest consistently, the importance of living within your means, and ways to avoid common investment pitfalls that can derail your progress. Whether you’re just starting your retirement planning or fine-tuning your financial...
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6 Stock Market Predictions For 2026, #286
Retire With Ryan
As we turn the calendar to 2026, I reveal my forecasts for the stock market, interest rates, and top asset classes, and take a look back at how my 2025 predictions stacked up against reality. From the S&P 500’s rollercoaster performance to the ongoing rivalry between growth and value stocks, and even a showdown between bitcoin and gold, I break down what the numbers were, where I hit the mark, and where I missed. You’ll also hear my insights on international versus U.S. stocks, the outlook for small caps, and what the Federal Reserve might do with interest rates in the year ahead. Get...
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Most Asked Financial Questions of 2025, #285
Retire With Ryan
2025 has been a year of significant highs and lows, a bittersweet time marked by personal loss but also tremendous growth in our community of listeners and clients. As we wrap up the year, I wanted to take a moment to reflect and, more importantly, to give back by answering the most pressing questions on your minds. In this episode, I’m tackling the top 10 most asked financial questions I received in 2025 from both clients and listeners. From the future solvency of Social Security and the reality of rising inflation to the specifics of Bitcoin and long-term care, we are covering the topics...
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Top 5 Tax Benefits of 529 Plans, #284
Retire With Ryan
529 college savings plans are a favorite tool for families looking to fund education, but recent updates have made them even more compelling. With the passing of the One Big Beautiful Tax Act in 2025, there have been some exciting changes to what you can use 529 funds for, including expanded coverage for K-12 tuition, test fees, vocational programs, and support for learning differences. I also discuss the various tax advantages of contributing to a 529 plan, like state tax deductions, tax-deferred growth, and even the ability to roll leftover funds into a Roth IRA for your child. He offers...
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4 Ways To Receive A Tax Deduction For Charitable Contributions in 2025 and 2026, #283
Retire With Ryan
In the season of giving, we’re discussing making charitable contributions in 2025 and 2026. Americans are known for their generous donations to worthy causes, but understanding the best ways to give and maximize your tax benefits is key. This episode covers four effective strategies for making charitable contributions, from utilizing Qualified Charitable Distributions (QCDs) from your retirement accounts to cash donations, gifting highly appreciated stock or real estate, and using donor-advised funds. I also break down recent and upcoming tax law changes that impact your ability to itemize...
info_outlineHave you ever fallen victim to a RAT attack? No, not the furry kind, a Remote Access Trojan attack.
I’m discussing how cybercriminals use social engineering to target victims, and the real-world impact these threats can have on your investment accounts and personal information. I reveal the latest tactics scammers use, and, most importantly, offer practical tips to help you recognize warning signs, safeguard your accounts, and minimize your risk, whether you’re an individual managing your retirement nest egg or a business owner overseeing company assets.
You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in...
- [00:00] What is a RAT attack?
- [02:45] Avoid clicking unknown links.
- [06:28] Preventing fraud through active monitoring.
- [09:44] Enhancing network security strategies.
- [10:48] Tips for staying secure online.
The Escalating Threat of RAT Attacks
There are an estimated 2,200 cyberattacks every day, or one every 39 seconds. Global financial damages from cybercrime are projected to rise from $9.5 trillion (2024) to an estimated $10.5 trillion in 2025. It’s no longer a matter of if, but when, the next attack will happen.
How a RAT Attack Unfolds
Most RAT attacks begin with “social engineering”, that is, psychological manipulation designed to get you to act against your best interest. This can look like an email or text from what appears to be a trusted company (think Schwab, Amazon, or EZ Pass), urging you to click a link or download an attachment.
Do not click these links or download unknown files, even if the message creates a sense of urgency or familiarity. Even a simple PDF can be the Trojan horse that installs malware without you noticing.
Once delivered, the RAT malware quietly installs itself, evading your detection. It can come bundled with software downloads, or even through “drive-by” downloads, just visiting a compromised website can infect your device without any clicking at all.
More Than Just a Headache
Recently, cybercriminals hacked a client’s phone and attempted to transfer money from their investment account. Because my team actively monitors accounts and receives real-time alerts from Schwab, we caught the fraudulent activity before funds were lost. But not everyone is so lucky, if hackers compromise your credentials and accounts aren’t closely watched, money could be transferred out, leaving you to face a lengthy investigation to recover your hard-earned savings.
Simple Habits for Preventing Attacks
Most successful attacks don’t involve sophisticated hacking, they leverage human error. Train yourself (and if you’re a business owner, your staff) to recognize phishing emails and suspicious texts. Verify unexpected requests directly with the company, never through the provided links.
Lock Down Access
Implement “least privilege” access, using strong, unique passwords and two-factor authentication for every account. For investment platforms and email, enable notifications for any account activity, so you’re alerted instantly to suspicious changes.
Secure remote connections with a Virtual Private Network (VPN) and avoid unsecured public Wi-Fi. If you must work remotely, use your cell phone’s secure hotspot rather than free Wi-Fi at a coffee shop. And never log on to bank or brokerage accounts on shared or public networks.
Monitor and Layer Security
Constant vigilance is your shield. Regularly monitor account activity and set up a system of alerts. Layer your security by combining access controls, firewalls, and regular updates. Always verify new contacts or software installations, adopt a “zero trust” mindset: trust, but always verify.
Stay One Step Ahead
No single solution can prevent all RAT attacks, but a combination of awareness, good digital habits, and layered security makes a world of difference. Being informed is your best defense. Activate two-factor authentication, review your notifications and account alerts, and approach every digital interaction with a healthy dose of skepticism.
Resources Mentioned
- Retirement Readiness Review
- Subscribe to the Retire with Ryan YouTube Channel
- Download my entire book for FREE
Connect With Morrissey Wealth Management
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