As the financial landscape continues to shift, so must the way Americans think about money and retirement. People nearing retirement need to be ready to take control of their financial futures. It can be challenging because the income planning process is often complex.

One way to approach a seemingly complicated decision process is through the use of a simple framework, such as the “Allianz 4 C’s”. The 4 C’s framework is brilliant in its simplicity and its ubiquity; as a tool, it breaks down a complex concept (retirement income) into simpler and easier to remember pieces.

It does this all without advocating any particular solution or company.