The Toolbox

The Pension Election

Lump sum or monthly. Single life or survivor. Priced side by side — because this is one of the few retirement decisions that genuinely cannot be undone.

01What they offered you From your election paperwork

Your plan gives you these numbers. Enter whichever options you were offered — leave anything blank that does not apply.

Lump sum offeredIf a cash-out option exists Single life — monthlyPays you, stops at your death Joint 100% — monthlyContinues in full to your spouse

Joint 50% — monthlyHalves at your death Does it adjust for inflation?Most private pensions do not Is the plan well funded?Check the annual funding notice

02The two of you

Your age at election Spouse's ageLeave blank if single Plan to what age?For the lifetime comparison

If you took the lump sum, what would it earn? Conservatively — this money has a job Inflation

03Side by side

04What this tells you

This compares the options your plan offered, in today's dollars, using the assumptions you enter. It does not account for taxes, which apply to pension income as ordinary income and to a lump sum only when withdrawn from the IRA you roll it into. Pension elections are almost always irrevocable. Run this, then talk it through with someone before you sign.

Rose Wealth LLC is a registered investment advisor (CRD #: 334740). Information provided is for educational purposes only, not personalized advice. Our services aim to support your financial journey, but all investments involve risk, including potential loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Information believed accurate but not guaranteed. Consult with our team for personalized guidance. Rose Wealth LLC does not provide legal, accounting, or tax advice. Insurance products and annuities offered through John Merkel, Texas Insurance License #943284, are not obligations of Rose Wealth LLC.