There’s a growing conversation around the future of Social Security—specifically, whether it might be privatized.

For anyone approaching retirement, that’s not just a policy debate. It’s a real financial concern.

I recently contributed to a GoBankingRates article on how to prepare if Social Security changes. Below are the key takeaways—plus a look at how we help clients protect themselves from uncertainty at Compound Advisory.

1. Don’t Rely Solely on Government Benefits

Whether Social Security remains as-is, becomes privatized, or shifts in eligibility—one thing is clear: you can’t build your retirement on the assumption it’ll carry the load.

“A successful retirement plan shouldn’t depend on a single source of income, especially one controlled by Congress,”
— Heath Harris, Compound Advisory

We design layered retirement income plans that combine personal investments, tax-advantaged withdrawals, and safety nets—so Social Security becomes a bonus, not a lifeline.

2. Take Control of Your Retirement Timeline

Too many people think retirement starts the day they file for Social Security.

“Instead of assuming Social Security starts at 62 or 67, focus on building a plan that gives you the freedom to retire when you want to, regardless of government changes,”
— Heath Harris

That includes building cash reserves, Roth income ladders, or securities-backed credit lines to create flexibility on your terms.

3. Increase Your Ownership, Lower Your Risk

If Social Security were ever privatized, your future payments could be subject to market performance or political decisions.

To counter that risk, we recommend diversifying across:

• Taxable brokerage accounts

• Roth IRAs and conversions

• Rental income or passive real estate

• Annuity alternatives (only when truly justified)

• SBLOCs and other portfolio income tools

True financial independence means you own your plan—not just hope someone else funds it.

4. Stay Ahead of Policy Shifts

Big retirement threats don’t always come from the market. They often come from Washington.

That’s why our Compound Cultivator™ process includes regular reviews of:

• Legislative changes

• Tax code updates

• Social Security proposals

• Required minimum distributions (RMDs)

• Medicare premium brackets

Reacting late costs money. We prefer to plan ahead.

Read the Full Article Where I’m Featured:

Ways To Prepare for Retirement in Case Social Security Is Privatized – GoBankingRates

You can’t afford to gamble on a single source of retirement income.
Let’s make sure your future doesn’t hinge on politics.

→ Book your free retirement assessment and we’ll show you what a diversified, tax-smart, private retirement plan actually looks like.