Scott Sandell Champions Financial Literacy for Retirement Readiness

The Foundation for Personal Financial Education (FPFE) is making strides in advancing financial literacy, particularly for those approaching retirement. Led by Scott Sandell, who founded the Arizona branch in 2016, FPFE’s mission is to provide unbiased financial education, free from sales tactics and hidden agendas. This initiative has gained traction, especially during the pandemic, which necessitated a shift from in-person classes to virtual platforms, thereby reaching thousands across the country.

Transforming Financial Education

Established in 1994 and headquartered in San Diego, FPFE operates as a nationwide nonprofit organization. Sandell’s vision emerged from witnessing a proliferation of misleading financial sales events in Arizona. He expressed concern about the “overwhelming presence of sales events” that often distort information, emphasizing the need for clarity in financial education. FPFE’s classes are designed to be engaging and informative, focusing on retirement readiness and tailored for individuals within ten years of retirement.

Sandell dedicates significant time and effort to developing class curricula, managing outreach, and delivering lessons. Local governments, libraries, and businesses actively support FPFE, contributing to its mission of transparent financial education. The organization stands on three core values:

1. **Genuine Education**: Offering actionable knowledge without sales pressure.
2. **Retirement Focus**: Classes tailored specifically for those nearing retirement.
3. **Community Driven**: Counteracting the influence of high-pressure sales tactics.

Essential Topics for Retirement Planning

FPFE offers monthly classes covering crucial topics that assist individuals in preparing for retirement. Notable subjects include:

– Taxes in Retirement
– Estate Planning
– ROTH Account Benefits
– Inflation and Long-Term Care
– Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)
– Income Production Strategies

The classes aim to spark critical questions and promote wiser financial decision-making without any associated costs or obligations.

In a significant collaboration, the Social Security Administration partnered with Sandell to create a six-part video series. This series addresses vital information, including recent policy changes and practical tips for reaching out to the SSA. These videos, along with other essential resources, are available at FPFEAZ.org.

For couples preparing for retirement, Sandell emphasizes the importance of effective communication regarding financial matters. His YouTube channel, “Planning Before Investing,” offers practical advice for couples on how to discuss investments, estate planning, and other critical topics openly.

FPFE aims to serve a diverse range of individuals, including those approaching retirement, retirees, and married couples. The organization provides a platform for anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of financial information and counteract misleading sales-driven advice.

Sandell believes that acquiring the skills necessary for a successful retirement is a learning process that requires effort. He asserts, “Transitioning and thriving in retirement is a skill not easily learned,” highlighting the importance of the education FPFE provides.

About Scott Sandell: He is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and has over two decades of experience in fiduciary financial services. In addition to his role at FPFE, he owns the Secure Estate Solutions company, which serves communities both in the U.S. and abroad.

For those interested in enhancing their financial literacy, FPFE offers free classes that are accessible to everyone. Interested individuals can check the schedule online to begin their journey toward financial independence and retirement preparedness. Classes are available in-person at local libraries, online via Zoom, or on-demand.

For further information regarding FPFE’s offerings, individuals can visit FPFEAZ.org or explore the educational resources available on Sandell’s YouTube channel at YouTube.com/@planningbeforeinvesting. Additionally, inquiries can be directed to 800-345-3155 for more details on services and availability.