Whether you're planning for retirement or already retired, one thing remains constant: the need for clear, unbiased financial guidance. I'm Van Richards, and I specialize in retirement income planning for Texas retirees, with a particular focus on Social Security optimization—the foundation of every retirement income plan.
If You're Approaching Retirement (Ages 55-65)
You're facing one of the most important financial decisions of your life: when and how to claim Social Security. Get it wrong, and you could lose over $100,000 in lifetime benefits. Get it right, and you'll have reliable, inflation-protected income for life.
If You're Already Retired (Age 65+)
You've worked decades to build your retirement savings. Now you need that money to work to generate a reliable income without running out.
If You've Recently Experienced a Significant Change
Major life changes create complex financial issues with Social Security and other financial resources. You may have options you don't even know about.
Social Security First, Everything Else Second
Social Security is the only retirement income source that:
That's why I always start with Social Security strategy. Once we've optimized your benefits, we build the rest of your retirement income plan around that foundation.
Strategies that Match Your Risk Tolerance for Peace of Mind
After decades in this business, I've learned that most retirees want to manage their risks—they want to sleep well at night knowing their income is secure. That may entail probability-based investments versus safety-based accounts, all depending upon your preferences.
Education Before Sales
I created The Complete Social Security Planning Guide and give it away for free because I believe you deserve to understand your options before making any decisions.
I also provide:
You'll never feel pressured to buy something you don't need or fully understand.
As a Chartered Financial Consultant® (ChFC®) and a Retirement Income Certified Professional (RICP®), I bring advanced education and decades of experience to help you navigate your retirement journey. But credentials alone aren't enough—it's also important to understand how you pay for the services I offer and which role I'm serving in.
Depending upon your needs, I may serve multiple roles:
Advice Only Option
Fee-Based Planning (through Richards Financial Planning, LLC):
Insurance Products
Insurance products usually pay a commission. For some products, Mr. Richards can serve as the agent (through A. Van Richards, Independent Agent). In that capacity, he may be paid a commission for that product. Receiving a commission for a financial product does present a conflict of interest. For clients who choose the Advice Only option, if insurance is necessary, purchasing it through Mr. Richards may be an option, but it is not a requirement.
Here's my promise: I'll always tell you which role I'm acting in and how I'm compensated for each service.
Why this matters: Receiving a commission introduces a potential bias, which is why I disclose it clearly and offer alternatives I believe transparency builds trust.
My understanding of retirement planning comes from both professional expertise and real-world experience. I know that retirement doesn't always happen according to plan. Whether it's market changes, health challenges, or workplace transitions, I help you prepare for both the expected and unexpected. This insight drives my commitment to creating robust, flexible retirement plans that can adapt to life's changes.
Ready to start planning for a secure retirement? Schedule a complimentary 15-20 minute conversation to discuss your specific needs and see how we can help.
My understanding of retirement planning comes from both professional expertise and real-world experience. I know that retirement doesn't always happen according to plan. Whether it's market changes, health challenges, or workplace transitions, I help you prepare for both the expected and unexpected. This insight drives my commitment to creating robust, flexible retirement plans that can adapt to life's changes.
Ready to start planning for a secure retirement? Schedule a complimentary 15-20 minute conversation to discuss your specific needs and see how we can help.
Copyright © 2025 Van Richards - All Rights Reserved.
Advisory services offered through Richards Financial Planning, LLC, a registered investment adviser. Insurance products and services offered through A. Van Richards as an independent insurance agent.
Richards Financial Planning, LLC and A. Van Richards are separate entities. Securities and advisory services are not FDIC insured, not bank guaranteed, and may lose value. For more information, see our Form ADV Part 2A or contact us at 713-320-6124 or van@vanrichards.com
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