At Pathwise Group, we understand that financial wellness is a journey unique to each individual. Throughout life, we all experience different Life Stages that shape our priorities, challenges, and financial goals. Recognizing and planning for these stages can provide the stability and foresight necessary to achieve financial wellbeing. With Pathwise’s Life Plan, you’ll find personalized resources and tools to navigate each stage, ensuring you’re prepared for both expected and unexpected events.

What Are Life Stages?

Life Stages refer to the distinct phases people encounter throughout their lives, each defined by specific financial needs and objectives. At Pathwise, we focus on four primary Life Stages—Early Career, Family Planning, Retirement Planning, and Guardian+—to help you make informed decisions tailored to your unique circumstances. By identifying which stage resonates most with your current situation, you gain access to focused resources that make managing your financial wellness simpler and more effective.

How Does Pathwise Use Life Stages to Help You Plan for the Future?

The Pathwise Life Plan is built around these key stages, helping you navigate each phase with confidence. We offer a range of tools, from the Sage Financial Wellness Assessment to one-on-one advisory meetings, so you’re never alone in your journey. By determining which Life Stage you’re in, Pathwise can connect you with resources to help you plan for your immediate needs and future aspirations.

Whether you’re just beginning your career, focusing on family, or preparing for retirement, Pathwise’s Life Stages model guides you through crucial financial decisions. The flexibility of our approach means that as you progress through different stages, Pathwise evolves with you, ensuring that you’re always equipped with relevant support and strategies.

Pathwise Life Stages in Detail

Early Career

The Early Career stage is an exciting time, often marked by newfound independence and the beginning of financial responsibility. However, this stage also presents challenges, such as managing debt and establishing a foundation for long-term financial security. Pathwise offers guidance on:

• Building Savings Habits: Starting to save early is crucial. Pathwise helps you develop strategies to create emergency funds and build wealth over time.
• Debt Management: Whether it’s student loans or credit card debt, Pathwise provides tools to help you tackle and manage your debts effectively.
• Investment Foundations: Investing may seem daunting, but getting started early can have significant long-term benefits. Pathwise advisors can help you understand your options and establish a diversified portfolio suited to your goals.

The focus during this stage is on creating a strong financial base that sets you up for future success. With Pathwise’s support, you can confidently navigate the early stages of your financial journey.

Family Planning

The Family Planning stage introduces a new level of financial complexity. As you build or grow your family, your priorities shift toward providing security and stability for your loved ones. Pathwise can assist you in:

• Budgeting for New Expenses: From childcare to education savings, family planning requires careful budgeting to meet increased financial responsibilities.
• Emergency Fund Planning: Preparing for the unexpected is essential when others depend on you. Pathwise helps you create and maintain an emergency fund tailored to your family’s needs.
• Education and Future Planning: Saving for your children’s education or planning for other future expenses can seem overwhelming. Pathwise offers strategies and tools to make these goals more manageable.

By focusing on these key areas, Pathwise ensures that your family’s financial wellbeing remains secure, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—your loved ones.

Retirement Planning

Retirement Planning is often associated with excitement and apprehension. This Life Stage requires careful preparation to ensure you can enjoy the retirement you’ve envisioned. Pathwise offers expert guidance on:

• Risk Management: Retirement planning involves understanding various risks, including longevity, inflation, and healthcare. Pathwise helps you mitigate these risks through strategic planning.
• Income Optimization: Making the most of your retirement savings involves determining the best ways to draw income. From Social Security to pension planning, Pathwise offers tailored advice for optimizing your retirement funds.
• Comprehensive Planning: Pathwise supports you with a holistic approach, covering everything from tax implications to healthcare and estate planning, so you can retire on your terms.

Pathwise’s resources and one-on-one advisory sessions ensure that your retirement is as stress-free and fulfilling as possible, giving you peace of mind for this next chapter of life.

Guardian+

Guardian+ is a comprehensive service designed for individuals responsible for family members, children, or other dependents. This Life Stage often requires additional planning to protect your loved ones and ensure their future security. Guardian+ offers support in areas like:

• Life Insurance and Estate Planning: Ensuring that your family is protected is essential. Pathwise advisors can help you assess your needs and find the right life insurance and estate planning solutions.
• Long-Term Care and Financial Advisory: As a guardian, you may face unique challenges related to long-term care and investment planning. Pathwise provides access to a network of experts who can guide you through these complex issues.
• Comprehensive Tax Support: Tax considerations are critical for families and guardians. Pathwise offers strategies to minimize tax burdens and maximize benefits for your family.

Guardian+ is designed to give you the tools and guidance needed to make informed, confident decisions for the future of those who depend on you.

Additional Resources for Your Financial Journey

Pathwise is committed to supporting you at every Life Stage, with resources and personalized advice that adapts to your needs. Explore more about our approach with the following resources:

• Learn more about the Pathwise Worksite Approach
• Explore Guardian+ and its benefits
• Discover how the Sage Financial Wellness Assessment can guide your journey