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The Pension vs. Lump Sum Decision Guide
Should I take the pension or the lump sum?
Why is my company even offering me a lump sum?
Why did my lump sum number drop $100,000?
Should I leave my 401(k) at the company?
When should I claim Social Security — and how much am I leaving on the table?
105 min total read•12 chapters•By Richard & Steven Paul, CFP®
Table of Contents
Read or listen online for free, chapter by chapter
F
Foreword
4 min2026 Updated Edition
1
The Million-Dollar Question
4 minFacing Life-Changing Financial Decisions
2
Why Is My Company Offering Me a Lump Sum?
10 minUnderstanding Pension Liabilities
3
What Are My Options?
13 minLump Sum vs. Monthly Payments
4
What Are the Fundamental Factors?
8 min5 Questions to Guide Your Decision
5
Incorporating Your 401(k)
10 minRollovers, NUA & Tax Strategies
6
Key Planning Opportunities
13 minTax Strategies, Roth Conversions & More
7
What NOT to Do
8 min6 Mistakes to Avoid
8
Finding a Financial Advisor
10 minHow to Choose Someone You Can Trust
9
When to File for Social Security
8 minTiming Your Benefits
10
How Annuities Work
10 minUnderstanding Your Options
C
Conclusion
7 min2026 Updated Edition
About the Authors
Richard Paul, CFP®
Richard has spent over 25 years helping employees and retirees navigate the complexities of pension and retirement decisions.
Steven Paul, CFP®
Steven specializes in retirement planning with deep expertise in lump sum pension analysis.
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