By Steve Crawley, PhD, Executive Director • BMA Financial
This article is based on insights from FaithFi’s podcast with Matt Bell.
“So teach us to number our days, that we may get a heart of wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).
A recent FaithFi podcast featuring Matt Bell of Sound Mind Investing provided a powerful reminder: a small delay in retirement can make a significant difference in your long-term financial security. According to a Stanford study, working just 3 to 6 months longer can boost your retirement readiness as much as saving an extra 1% of your income every year — for 30 years. That’s not wishful thinking — it’s math.
Why? Two big reasons:
• Your Social Security grows — For every year you delay claiming past full retirement age, your benefit increases by 8%.
• Your annuity income increases — The older you are when purchasing retirement income products, the higher the payout.
For us in the BMA Retirement Plan, Social Security is one leg of the retirement stool — our BMA plan is another. Let’s maximize both.
And working longer has more than just financial perks. It provides you with additional time to save, fewer years of drawdown, as well as purpose, community and rhythm.
This isn’t just about numbers — it’s about stewarding your time, energy and calling. If you’re married, talk and pray through this decision together — unity matters. And remember, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Tools, wise counsel and God’s wisdom are available. Let’s finish well — on purpose and with margin.
If you would like to listen to the podcast, visit faithfi.com/faithfi/why-delaying-retirement-could-make-all-the-difference-with-matt-bell-7818.
At BMA Financial, our desire is to assist you in becoming a better steward of God’s resources. Please let us know how we can help you! Contact us today!
Need Help? Contact us today at bmafinancial.org/contact. We are ready to serve you. Not a BMA Financial Member Yet? Schedule a free Financial Assessment at bmafinancial.org to see how we can help you manage God’s money, God’s way, for God’s glory!
