By LouAnn Schulfer, AWMA®, AIF®
Accredited Wealth Management Advisor^SM
Accredited Investment Fiduciary®

It’s well understood that statistically, women outlive men.  We often marry men who are older than we are, so the gap widens as to how long we may live without our husbands.  Therefore, planning for the long term is a greater reality for women.  A common theme that I hear among both single and married women as they continue to mature is that they like things to be more secure in life.  Things like, being able to afford newer, safer and more reliable vehicles.  Not having debt payments like a mortgage.  Low volatility investments and guaranteed sources of income to meet ongoing expenses.  A healthcare plan that is understandable and useful.  A long term care plan that does not run the risk of exhausting personal assets yet offers freedom of choice and control as to what kind of care is received, where care is received, and who is providing care.

Security provides comfort.  Security also requires a higher level of planning, which takes time.  Each of the above examples can easily be addressed and planned for with enough time and money.  Time is important because if the money is falling short in a financial plan, time allows for adjustments to be made.  Planning is an ongoing, dynamic process.  Our lives and the things around us constantly change and likely will require periodic course corrections.  The great news is, for women who wish to pursue a level of security, they tend to understand the necessity for and the discipline of long term planning.

LouAnn Schulfer is co-owner of Schulfer & Associates, LLC Wealth Management and can be reached at (715) 343-9600 or louann.schulfer@lpl.com.  www.SchulferAndAssociates.com
Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor.  Member FINRA/SIPC.