May Refuge Refresh - Thankful for Freedom
(You can access the actual email with formatting and images HERE).
Hi Refuge friends,
Can you believe, summer is just about here?! For many, this month brings a mix of sunshine, graduations, sports and barbecues—but also, importantly, a time to pause and remember. Memorial Day is a little over a week away and reminds us of the courage and sacrifice of those who gave so much for the freedom we enjoy. It’s a powerful reminder to live intentionally—grateful for the freedoms we have and mindful of the legacy we’re building. Whether through your finances, your relationships, or your daily choices, you have the chance to invest in things that are truly meaningful. Let’s live intentionally.
As always, I’m here if there’s anything I can help with or if you just want to talk through a financial question. Have a great weekend!
–Tim
SMILE
A homeless guy asks a notoriously tight rich man if he can spare some change. “Money doesn’t just grow on trees!” the rich guy says, before coming up with a shrewd idea. “If you’ll come by my house tomorrow, I’ll pay you $20 to paint my porch.” The homeless man agrees and the rich guy walks away smiling because he failed to mention that the porch is a huge wrap-around. But when the homeless man arrives the next day, he doesn’t seem at all upset. In fact, he knocks on the door just an hour later to announce that he’s done and even gave it an extra coat of paint. Smiling to himself, the man hands over $20. “Thanks!” the homeless man says, turning to leave. “And by the way, it’s not a Porch, it’s a Lamborghini.” 😂
LEARN
Retirement Savings
According to the Federal Reserve's 2022 Survey of Consumer Finances, nearly 46% of U.S. households do not have any retirement account assets. This incredible statistic highlights the importance of proactive retirement planning to ensure financial security in later years. (Source)
Financial Tip
Think differently
Start treating your monthly savings allotment as a non-negotiable expense. By doing so, it will become a habit and you’ll be paying your future self first. Start small, if necessary. Whether it’s for a 3-6 month emergency fund, a big purchase or retirement planning, your future self will thank you!
What’s the Difference?
Medicare Supplement vs. Medicare Advantage
*(For much better formatting, click the link at the top of the post to see the original image)
| Medicare Supplement | Medicare Advantage
———————————-|———————————————-|——————————————————-
Coverage Structure | Works with Parts A, B & D | Bundles Parts A, B & often D
———————————-|———————————————-|——————————————————-
Extras Included | Rarely (no dental, vision, gym, | Often includes dental, vision, hearing,
etc.) gym, etc.
———————————-|———————————————-|——————————————————-
Monthly Cost | Higher monthly premium | Usually low or $0/month premium
(increases with age)
———————————-|———————————————-|——————————————————-
When You Pay | Mostly upfront | Pay-as-you-go with copays and
(monthly premium) coinsurance
———————————-|———————————————-|——————————————————-
Out-of-Pocket Risk | Low—few surprises if you | Higher—costs can add up to a MOOP
get sick (max-out-of-pocket)
———————————-|———————————————-|——————————————————-
Best For | People who prefer predictable | People who want extra perks and
costs and nationwide access lower monthly costs
———————————-|———————————————-|——————————————————-
PONDER
“Life is 10% what happens to us and 90% how we react to it.”
— Charles Swindoll
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) 2025 Refuge Financial Solutions. All rights reserved.
