The importance of budgeting. You won’t be able to withdraw an unlimited amount of money in retirement, so a retirement budget is a necessity. Some retirees forego one, only to regret it later.
Run the numbers before you retire. Years before you leave work, sit down for an hour or so and take a look at your probable monthly expenses. Perhaps you decide that you’ll need about 75-80% of your end salary in retirement. Perhaps closer to 65-70%. There’s no “right” answer for everyone. Online calculators may help you get at least a basic understanding initially, but remember – a qualified financial professional is likely going to be able to take more into account for you than a simple calculator could.
You first want to look for changing expenses: housing costs that might decrease or increase, health care costs, certain taxes, travel expenses and so on. Next, look at your probable income sources: Social Security (the longer you wait, the more income you may potentially receive), your assorted IRAs and 401(k)s, your portfolio, possibly a reverse mortgage or even a pension or buyout package.
While selling your home might leave you with more money for retirement, there are less dramatic ways to increase your retirement funds. You could realize a little more money through tax savings and tax-efficient withdrawals from retirement savings accounts, by reducing your investment fees, or by having your phone, internet and TV services bundled from one provider.
Budget-wreckers to avoid. There are a few factors that can cause you to stray from a retirement budget. You can’t do much about some of them (sudden health crises, for example), but you can try to mitigate others.
* Supporting your kids, grandkids or relatives with gifts or loans.
* Withdrawing more than your portfolio can easily return.
* Dragging big debts into retirement that will nibble at your savings.
Budget well & live wisely. A carefully thought-out budget – and the discipline to stick with it – may make big difference in the long run.
About the Independent Financial Advisor
Robert Pagliarini, PhD, CFP® has helped clients across the United States manage, grow, and preserve their wealth for nearly three decades. His goal is to provide comprehensive financial, investment, and tax advice in a way that is honest and ethical. In addition, he is a CFP® Board Ambassador, one of only 50 in the country, and a fiduciary. In his spare time, he writes personal finance books. With decades of experience as a financial advisor, the media often calls on him for his expertise. Contact Robert today to learn more about his financial planning services.
