Retirement is commonly thought of as when you get to do things you’ve wanted to do for years. Unfortunately, many of those things you want to do often cost a pretty penny. This is in addition to the typical expenses that arise during your golden years. It’s vital to make wise financial decisions during these years to protect your finances so you don’t outlive your resources. Here are 13 money mistakes you must avoid during your retirement years in an effort to stay on track.
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Not Changing Your Spending Habits
Many retirees aren’t able to create new streams of cash flow. If you’ve planned accordingly and have a sizable nest egg, that’s one thing.
Regardless, if you don’t change your spending habits it can spell doom for your budget. You don’t have to live like a miser, but it’s important to be realistic about how you spend. Unless you plan on getting back into the workforce, it’s best to adjust your spending to embrace moderation.
Not Planning For Inflation
Inflation doesn’t care that you’re retired. If the last few years show us anything, it’s that inflation can take a significant bite out of your finances.
It’s best to work with an advisor who can help you make a plan to manage the impact of inflation on your finances.
Underestimating Medical Costs
Reports indicate the average retiree should plan to spend upwards of $315,000 on medical expenses. Medicare is great, but it doesn’t cover everything.
You’re still on the hook for deductibles, co-payments, dental, vision, and hearing services, just to name a few things. Look for ways to reduce your costs and plan for the worst.
Retiring Too Soon
Retiring early is everyone’s dream. Doing it too early can result in a lower amount for Social Security.
It can also reduce the amount you’re able to save. Even extending your retirement date by a year or two can make a significant difference.
Filing For Social Security Too Soon
If you can, put off claiming Social Security as long as you can. Doing it at 62 may be tempting, but you will receive 25 percent less than if you do it at 66. Worse yet, it’s 32 percent less than if you were to wait until you’re 70.
Every situation is different, but do what you can to put it off as long as possible.
Not Earning Extra Income
If you have the time and desire, don’t overlook working on the side to create cash flow. Retirees are able to earn income, but they should make sure to do it wisely. You don’t want to impact what you receive via Social Security.
Purchasing Needless Insurance
By the time you retire, you may be self-insured and not need coverage. However, that’s not the case for everyone.
Furthermore, it’s best to avoid pitches from sales reps trying to sell you expensive coverage you may not need. Speak with an advisor if you’re unsure if options make sense for you.
Being Too Aggressive With Your Investments
We all have a different tolerance for risk. However, being too aggressive with your investments, particularly during retirement years, can have a detrimental impact on your budget.
It’s advisable to consult with your financial planner before taking on any unnecessary risks. They can help guide you to a plan that will put you in the best position possible to maximize return without putting your principle at risk.
On the other hand, you also don’t want to swing to the other side and be too conservative. Surprisingly, it could end you end in the same result – not providing enough for when you need it.
Underestimating Your Life Expectancy
We all hope to live a long life. Underestimating your life expectancy can have a ruinous impact on your finances in retirement. Let’s say you live five or six years longer than you’re planning – your finances must account for that added time.
According to The Hill, life expectancy rises as you age. For example, The Hill states, at age 60, the average American man can assume they’ll reach 82 years; and a woman, 85. As you approach and enter retirement, make sure to take a generous approach to your life expectancy. That will help ensure you can make the appropriate plans to maximize your resources.
Not Having Enough Savings
It’s best for retirees to have one year of expenses saved. These savings should be fluid, and not having enough puts you at risk of incurring debt or not being able to cover an expense. If you’re not retired yet, act to save as much as possible.
Select a competitive, high-yield savings account, such as CIT Bank, that will help your savings grow as much as possible.
Spending Too Much On Your Adult Children
It’s difficult to say no to family. Plus, it’s fun to spoil grandchildren. It’s best to keep that in check.
There’s no way to finance retirement. It’s one thing to help adult children when they’re in need. Just don’t make it a pattern.
Falling Prey to Scams
Seniors are the most targeted group for scam artists. It’s best to view things you’re unsure of with some speculation.
If you’re unsure, ask a trusted friend or family member. Fraud is possible both online and in person, so do your due diligence with everything.
Not Staying Active
Retirement is a time to relax, but it’s not a time to cease physical activity.
Exercise has an obvious physical benefit. It also has various mental benefits. Include active events in your life. Doing so may also offer a dual benefit of reducing medical expenses.
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I’m John Schmoll, a former stockbroker, MBA-grad, published finance writer, and founder of Frugal Rules.
As a veteran of the financial services industry, I’ve worked as a mutual fund administrator, banker, and stockbroker and was Series 7 and 63-licensed, but I left all that behind in 2012 to help people learn how to manage their money.
My goal is to help you gain the knowledge you need to become financially independent with personally-tested financial tools and money-saving solutions.
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