What to Know About Retirement Planning in Lincoln County, OR

At Financial Freedom Wealth Management Group, we’ve walked alongside individuals and families in Lincoln County for over two decades. Whether you’re planning to retire here on the coast or already enjoying life after work, understanding the local retirement landscape is key to building lasting financial freedom. 

Here’s what we believe you should know when it comes to retirement planning in Lincoln County, Oregon: 

Understanding Local Employer Retirement Plans 

If you’ve worked for Lincoln County or other local public entities, chances are you’ve participated in plans like the Oregon Public Employees Retirement System (PERS) or a 401(k)/457 plan. But many people don’t realize the decisions they make at retirement—like when to draw PERS or how distributions can have long-term tax and income consequences. 

As you prepare for retirement, we recommend understanding what’s in your PERS benefits statement, plan rules, and distributions. 

Retirement Planning Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All 

Lincoln County is home to entrepreneurs, engineers, medical professionals, and retirees from public service to name a few. Some want to stay in their homes forever; others dream of traveling or helping grandkids through college. The point is, no two retirement plans are totally alike but there are key questions you’ll need to answer: 

• How much income do I need to live comfortably in retirement? 

• When should I personally start Social Security? 

• What’s the right tax-efficient distribution strategy for me? 

• What’s my plan for long-term care and medical costs? 

Leveraging Local and State Resources 

Lincoln County offers a surprising number of supportive programs for retirees, from senior nutrition services to primary care and behavioral health resources, through the county’s Health & Human Services Department. For those needing assisted living, adult foster homes, or aging-in-place guidance, there are valuable local directories and placement specialists you can connect you with. 

Common specialists include: 

• Oregon Cascades West Council of Governments (OCWCOG) 

• Local legal aid and elder law professionals 

• Medicare and Medicaid specialists 

Thinking Beyond the Numbers 

We believe your retirement plan shouldn’t just be about your money; it should reflect your whole life.  Yes, numbers matter. But real retirement planning starts with asking deeper questions: 

• What kind of life do you want to lead in retirement? 

• What legacy do you want to leave? 

• What fears are holding you back? 

These are conversations we encourage people to have every day because that’s what true financial freedom is all about. 

Get the Support You Need to Plan Wisely 

If you’re nearing retirement, newly retired, or helping a parent plan their next chapter, we recommend talking with a financial advisor to understand your options, avoid common pitfalls, and build a plan that fits your values and your lifestyle right here in the heart of Lincoln County.