A general retirement planning rule of thumb indicates that you’ll need 70% to 80% of your preretirement income. Many estimates now indicate that may be too little for those who want to live an active retirement lifestyle. But when you realize how much you need to save, it’s tempting to question whether you really need even 70% of your preretirement income.
First, you should prepare a detailed analysis of your expected expenses after retirement. Sure, some expenses will decrease, typically commuting, work-related expenses, savings amounts, and possibly taxes. But other expenses are likely to go up, including travel, entertainment, and healthcare. How much you will need depends in large part on how you plan to spend your retirement years.
Keep in mind, however, that things seldom go as planned. How can you help ensure that your expenses will be lower? Consider these tips:
Pay off your mortgage. Mortgage payments often consume 30% or more of an individual’s gross income. Eliminating this expense can drastically reduce income needed for retirement. If you can’t pay off your mortgage, consider selling your home and purchasing a smaller one for cash. Not only will you eliminate the mortgage payment, but a smaller home often results in lower utility bills, property taxes, and maintenance costs.
Get rid of other debts. It’s not unusual for consumer debt payments to equal 10% to 20% of an individual’s take home pay. Try to enter retirement debt free.
Keep your automobile. Instead of purchasing a new car every couple of years, keep your current car for as long as it’s in good working order. That will eliminate car payments from your retirement budget.
Look for ways to reduce travel and leisure expenses. Look for and use senior discounts. Plan activities for non-peak times, when rates may be lower.
Consider relocating. The cost of living varies significantly from city to city and state to state. You may be able to reduce your living expenses substantially by moving to another locale. However, this is more than a financial decision. You also need to decide whether you want to move away from family, friends, and familiar surroundings.
Work at least part-time. If you still don’t have sufficient funds to support yourself during retirement, consider working at least part-time. Even a small amount of annual earnings can help significantly in funding your retirement.
Randall Wealth Management Group and Vanderbilt Financial Group are separate and unaffiliated entities.
Vanderbilt Financial Group is the marketing name for Vanderbilt Securities, LLC and its affiliates. Securities offered through Vanderbilt Securities, LLC. Member FINRA, SIPC. Registered with MSRB. Clearing agent: Fidelity Clearing & Custody Solutions Advisory Services offered through Consolidated Portfolio Review Clearing agents: Fidelity Clearing & Custody Solutions, Charles Schwab & TD Ameritrade Insurance Services offered through Vanderbilt Insurance and other agencies Supervising Office: 125 Froehlich Farm Blvd, Woodbury, NY 11797 • 631-845-5100 For additional information on services, disclosures, fees, and conflicts of interest, please visit www.vanderbiltfg.com/disclosures
This newsletter was prepared by Integrated Concepts Group, Inc. The opinions expressed in this newsletter are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual. It is suggested that you consult your financial professional, attorney, or tax advisor with regard to your individual situation. The views expressed are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect those held by Randall Wealth Management Group or Vanderbilt Financial Group. Material presented is believed to be from reliable sources and PSEC makes no representation as to its accuracy or completeness.