Discover the keys to a successful retirement and gain valuable insights from experts in the field. Whether you’re just starting to plan or looking to refine your strategy, this class can help. You will learn about maximizing Social Security benefits, investment strategies, healthcare considerations, and much more. You’ve worked hard to provide for your family and save for your future. Learn how to define your long-term goals, keep more of what you earn, and make your money work harder for you. You will leave the class with practical information that you can apply immediately.

This two-part series is hosted by Dane County Extension and taught by a team of financial advisors from Wealth Distribution Strategies, using the Retirement Planning Today textbook from the Financial Educators Network. John Haslam from Wilson Law Group discusses Estate Planning and can answer legal questions.

Topics

• Life Planning for Retirement – Preparing for the modern retirement system
• Retirement Needs & Expenses – Ensuring your retirement plan will meet your requirements
• Potential Roadblocks & Mistakes – Avoiding waste and recognizing action areas
• Retirement Income Sources, Investments, & Distributions – Understanding your available options
• Risk Management & Asset Protection – Establishing a safe, healthy, and secure retirement
• Estate Planning – Framing your family’s future

Cost

A spouse, partner, or guest may attend with you for a single registration fee of $75.

Location

Dane County Extension Building, Driftless room (5201 Fen Oak Drive, Madison, WI 53718)

Winter 2026 Class Dates and Times

This course is held over two, three-hour sessions. When registering, you will choose one of the set of dates listed below. Classes start at 6:30pm and end at 9:30pm.

Tuesdays 3/3 & 3/10

Tuesdays 1/27 & 2/3

Thursdays 2/5 & 2/12

Wednesdays 2/11 & 2/18

Mondays 2/16 & 2/23

Thursdays 2/26 & 3/5

Add-On

The course includes a 225-page illustrated textbook called Retirement Planning Today, to be distributed in class. An additional UW-Extension publication called Family Estate Planning in Wisconsin is available as a digital download for free or as a hard copy for $15.00, which can be added at registration, and will be picked up in class.

Questions?

Questions about this class can be directed to our extension team:
608-224-3700 or extension@danecounty.gov

To ensure equal access to programs, please make requests for reasonable accommodations at least 10 days prior to the program. To request an accommodation, including language interpretation, contact: Clare Dahl, 608-224-3722.