August Refuge Refresh - The Season of Change
(You can access the original email with formatting and images HERE—trust me, it looks a lot better!).
Hi Refuge friends,
There’s something about August that feels like a transition point in the year, right? Summer is winding down and new routines are beginning (we’re trying to figure out this new school routine with our kids)! Before we know it, we’ll be heading into the final few months of 2026. It’s a good reminder to be intentional with the time we have—whether that means working toward a goal, getting our finances in order, or simply making time for the people and things that matter most.
Thanks for reading—I hope you find something helpful, interesting and/or encouraging in this month’s Refuge Refresh!
—Tim
SMILE
Reaching the end of a job interview, the Human Resources Officer asks a young engineer fresh out of MIT, “And what starting salary are you looking for?” The engineer replies, “In the region of $125,000 a year, depending on the benefits package.” The interviewer inquires, “Well, what would you say to a package of five weeks vacation, 14 paid holidays, full medical and dental, company matching retirement fund to 50% of salary, and a company car leased every two years, say, a red Corvette?” The engineer sits up straight and says, “Wow! Are you kidding?” The interviewer replies, “Yeah, but you started it.” 😂
LEARN
Great Resource!
Medicare 101 Seminars
Medicare can be confusing, which is why each year I host FREE Medicare 101 educational seminars to help make it simpler! Join me at the Pueblo West Library September 21st @ 4pm or October 1st @ 6pm as we break down the basics, answer common questions, and help you better understand your Medicare options—feel free to invite a friend or loved one who could benefit! You can RSVP by contacting me directly or by using this LINK.
Key Definition
Roth IRA/401(k)
A Roth IRA or Roth 401(k) allows you to contribute money that has already been taxed and then potentially grow it tax-free for the future. Unlike Traditional retirement accounts, where taxes are deferred until you withdraw the money, qualified Roth withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free—making Roth accounts a valuable way to protect some of your retirement income from future tax increases.
Survey Says!
Rising Healthcare Costs
We often think about having enough income in retirement—which is important—but healthcare expenses can have a major impact on even the best-laid plans. In a recent Nationwide survey, 73% of U.S. adults listed healthcare expenses getting out of control as one of their top retirement fears. It's a good reminder that preparing for retirement isn't just about how much you've saved—it's also about planning for the risks that could affect those savings. (Source).
PONDER
“You don’t have to be great to start, but you have to start to be great.”
– Zig Ziglar
Disclaimer: All information provided is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment, legal or tax advice, an offer to buy or sell any security, insurance product or any other financial product.
For Medicare: Currently, we represent 12 organizations which offer 90 products in the Southern Colorado area. You can always contact Medicare.gov, 1‑800‑MEDICARE, or your local State Health Insurance Program for help with plan choices.
Read our full disclosures HERE.
Copyright (C) 2026 Refuge Financial Solutions. All rights reserved.
