Alan Clopine and I will walk you through the numbers, the strategies, and the traps to avoid so you can retire with confidence. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Retirement Savings: The Real Targets

People love to throw around round numbers—$500,000, $1 million—but retirement planning is more complex than that.

• Longevity matters. If you’re 65 today, you’re likely to live well into your 80s or even 90s. That’s a long time to fund.
• Healthcare is a big expense. The average 65-year-old couple spends around $315,000 on medical costs over their lifetime.
• Inflation silently eats your purchasing power. At 3% annually, your dollar loses half its value in about 24 years.
• Taxes aren’t going anywhere. Pre-tax accounts like 401(k)s will be taxed as income later, while Roth IRAs grow tax-free. Knowing where your dollars live matters.

To plan right, you need to look at your spending habits, location, expected health costs, and tax positioning—not just the balance in your account.

2. Generating Income in Retirement

Once you’ve saved, the next question is: How do I make it last?

We explored the pros and cons of two common strategies:

Annuities

• Offer guaranteed income for life by shifting risk to an insurance company.
• A 67-year-old investing $1 million could get $6,300/month, based on Schwab’s estimator.
• Downsides? High fees, lack of flexibility, and surrender penalties.

Investment Portfolios

• More potential for growth and flexibility.
• But they come with market volatility and require smart withdrawal strategies.

We modeled different withdrawal timelines using a 6% return:

• $19,000/month for 5 years
• $8,500/month for 15 years
• $6,400/month for 25 years
• $5,600/month for 35 years

It’s all about balancing income, flexibility, and longevity.

3. Social Security Timing: The Game Changer

Social Security makes up 50% or more of income for over half of retirees—so getting the timing right is key.

• Claiming at 62 reduces your benefit by up to 30% permanently.
• Waiting until age 70 can increase your benefit by up to 75% compared to early filing.
• Married couples should coordinate benefits to maximize their lifetime payout.

For most people, it pays to delay if you can afford to—especially if you’re in good health.

4. Want to Become a Millionaire?

It’s more doable than you might think—if you start early.

• At 30, save $700/month.
• At 40, save $1,400/month.
• At 50, save over $3,000/month.

Start small, automate it, and take full advantage of employer matches. Once you hit age 50, don’t forget catch-up contributions—they can turbocharge your savings.

5. Stretching Retirement Dollars Further

Not all retirement savings strategies are about investing—cost control is just as powerful.

• Downsize your home.
• Move to a tax-friendly state. Leaving California for West Virginia could save $30,000/year in living costs.
• Trim discretionary spending. Dining out less and traveling smarter can add years of runway to your retirement funds.

We also recommend reviewing your debt picture and aiming for a lean balance sheet heading into retirement.

6. Use the Free Financial Blueprint

Don’t guess—know where you stand.

Our Financial Blueprint Tool at YourMoneyYourWealth.com lets you plug in your numbers and see where you land. It gives you a clear outlook:

• All Good
• Average
• Needs Help

The best part? It’s free, and you can do it from the comfort of your home.

Bottom line: Retirement is more than a number. It’s about strategy—income, taxes, inflation, lifestyle, and timing. With the right tools and planning, you can retire comfortably and stay there.

Intended for educational purposes only. Opinions expressed are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES:

• Investment Advisory and Financial Planning Services are offered through Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

• Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with a tax advisor or attorney regarding specific situations.

• Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

• Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

• All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

• Intended for educational purposes only and are not intended as individualized advice or a guarantee that you will achieve a desired result. Before implementing any strategies discussed you should consult your tax and financial advisors.

The post How Much Do You Really Need to Retire? Breaking Down the Numbers and Strategies appeared first on ROI TV.

If you’ve ever felt discouraged about your retirement progress, this one’s for you.

Rethinking Retirement Savings Goals

We’ve all heard it before: “You need to save 10 times your salary by the time you retire.” Fidelity suggests hitting savings milestones like one times your salary by 30, three times by 40, and so on culminating in 10x by age 67.

But here’s the truth: only 9% of Americans actually reach that goal, according to a 2025 study by Northwestern Mutual. Why? Because the system is stacked against us rising costs, student debt, inconsistent income, and delayed saving habits all make it harder to hit that number.

Aaron emphasized that it’s time to stop chasing arbitrary savings targets and start planning based on your real-life expenses.

Build a Retirement Plan Around Your Lifestyle

Instead of focusing on income multipliers or that $1 million myth, Aaron encouraged viewers to ask a more important question: What will I actually spend in retirement?

If you’re a strong saver now putting away 20–25% of your income you may be in a better position than you think. Why? Because you’re used to living on less, which means you’ll likely need less in retirement too.

Track your spending, account for healthcare, hobbies, and travel, and build a savings plan that supports your retirement lifestyle not someone else’s spreadsheet.

Social Security: A Game-Changer for Retirement Income

One of the most overlooked elements in retirement planning? Guaranteed income. That includes Social Security, pensions, and annuities sources of income that don’t rely on the market.

Aaron ran the numbers. For someone who needs $60,000 a year in retirement and expects to receive $30,000 in Social Security, they’d only need to save about $930,000 to cover the rest. For someone needing $40,000 annually with the same Social Security benefit, the needed nest egg drops to just $430,000.

And for modest couples? Social Security could cover nearly all of their retirement spending no million-dollar portfolio required.

Boosting Retirement Readiness, One Step at a Time

If you’re behind on your savings goal, don’t panic adjust. Aaron suggested:

• Increasing your savings rate by just 1–2%
• Working part-time during retirement
• Delaying retirement by one or two years
• Downsizing or trimming unnecessary expenses

These small changes can make a big difference without requiring a complete overhaul of your lifestyle. It’s not about perfection it’s about progress.

Market Volatility Is Changing Retirement Expectations

With ongoing inflation and unpredictable markets, more Americans are scaling back their retirement goals. The average target savings amount fell from $1.46 million in 2024 to $1.26 million in 2025.

But that’s not necessarily bad news. More people are embracing phased retirement, working part-time, or offering consulting services. Others are relocating to lower-cost areas to stretch their dollars further and prioritize simplicity over extravagance.

Retire on Your Terms, Not Someone Else’s

Stop letting the million-dollar myth hold you hostage.

The real strategy is to understand the gap between what you’ll spend and what you’ll receive from guaranteed income. That’s what determines how much you actually need to save. And millions of Americans retire successfully without ever hitting that $1 million mark.

If you want a retirement plan that works, start with these three steps:

1. Track your current expenses
2. Calculate your expected income streams
3. Create a savings plan that fills the gap

Retirement isn’t about a magic number it’s about living the life you want, sustainably and confidently.

All writings are for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not provide investment or financial advice of any kind.

The post Forget the Million-Dollar Myth: A Realistic Approach to Retirement Planning appeared first on ROI TV.

The Retirement Readiness Pop Quiz

1. What age do you plan to retire?

It sounds simple, but most people underestimate this. The average retirement age in the U.S. is 62, often not by choice.

2. How long will you live?

Consider current life expectancy: about 84 for men and 87 for women. A 65-year-old couple has a 50% chance one of them lives to 92.

3. How much annual income will you need?

Base it on lifestyle goals, not a vague percentage of pre-retirement income.

4. How much have you saved for retirement so far?

Roughly 46% of U.S. households have $0 saved. Where do you stand?

5. How much do you plan to spend annually in retirement?

Create a detailed budget, including discretionary and fixed expenses.

6. What are your sources of retirement income?

Include Social Security, pensions, rental income, annuities, and investment withdrawals.

7. When will you claim Social Security?

Claiming early at 62 reduces benefits permanently. Delaying increases them significantly.

8. What is your Social Security breakeven age?

This is the age when total lifetime benefits from claiming later surpass those from claiming early.

9. Are you coordinating benefits with your spouse?

Delaying the higher earner’s benefit can increase survivor income.

10. What is your retirement savings goal?

Fidelity suggests 10x your income by age 67. Is your number realistic?

11. What is your withdrawal strategy?

The 4% rule is a starting point. Will you withdraw the same amount each year, or adjust with the market?

12. What is your portfolio allocation?

Stocks vs. bonds? Domestic vs. international? Are you considering risk tolerance and time horizon?

13. Are you accounting for inflation?

With 3% inflation, $1 today will be worth $0.81 in 20 years.

14. Have you considered healthcare costs?

Fidelity estimates a 65-year-old couple may need $300,000 for out-of-pocket medical expenses.

15. Are you planning for long-term care?

Consider whether you want insurance or will self-insure. Long-term care can derail a retirement budget.

16. Have you created a tax plan?

Taxes can be your biggest expense in retirement. Are you strategically withdrawing from pre-tax and Roth accounts?

17. Are you prepared for required minimum distributions (RMDs)?

RMDs start at age 73 or 75, depending on your birth year, and apply to pre-tax accounts.

18. Do you have a written retirement plan?

Only 33% of workers do. A written plan increases confidence and retirement success.

Key Takeaways from Joe and Big Al

• Start early and save consistently $750/month from age 30 or $1,530/month from age 40 can grow to $1 million by retirement.
• Use Roth conversions while tax brackets remain low until 2026.
• Don’t underestimate healthcare or inflation plan ahead.
• Your investment vehicle matters less than your asset allocation.

Intended for educational purposes only. Opinions expressed are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES:

• Investment Advisory and Financial Planning Services are offered through Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

• Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with a tax advisor or attorney regarding specific situations.

• Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

• Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

• All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

• Intended for educational purposes only and are not intended as individualized advice or a guarantee that you will achieve a desired result. Before implementing any strategies discussed you should consult your tax and financial advisors.

The post Retirement Pop Quiz: 18 Questions to Get You Ready to Retire appeared first on ROI TV.

Retirement Planning for Jay and Her Husband

Jay and her husband are planning to retire in their late fifties or early sixties. Their current financial situation includes $285,000 in retirement savings, $200,000 in Roth IRAs, $85,000 in a rollover IRA, $75,000 in a Roth 401(k), and $10,000 in a brokerage account. Jay expects to receive a $50,000 annual pension starting in her early sixties, while her husband anticipates Social Security benefits ranging from $1,250 at age 62 to $2,450 at age 70.

Their assets also include a primary home valued at $800,000 with $330,000 remaining on the mortgage at 3.25% interest, and a rental property worth $800,000 generating $30,000 annually in net rental income. With monthly expenses around $8,000 and inflation-adjusted retirement expenses projected to hit $137,000 annually in 12 years, the team recommends aggressive saving to reach $1.5 million in retirement assets. Leveraging Roth IRAs, a Solo 401(k) for her husband, and maintaining a stock-heavy portfolio are key strategies due to their long investment horizon.

Asset Allocation and Investment Strategy

Jay’s Roth IRA and brokerage accounts are predominantly invested in stocks, aligning with her long-term goals and the presence of a fixed-income pension. The team supports this strategy, emphasizing low-cost index funds for diversification and growth. They also recommend continuing to max out Roth IRAs and contributing to a Solo 401(k) for her husband to optimize tax-free growth.

Bridging the Retirement Income Gap

To bridge the gap between early retirement and the start of pension and Social Security benefits, Jay and her husband plan to use their brokerage account, rental income, and retirement savings. They are considering selling their primary home and moving into their rental property to unlock equity and reduce living costs. Calculating inflation-adjusted living expenses is crucial to ensure their savings last without depleting assets prematurely.

Pension vs. Bond Investment Comparison

A question from Micah in South Dakota asked whether a $40,000 annual pension equates to having $1,000,000 in bonds under the 4% rule. Joe and Big Al confirmed that it is indeed comparable, as $40,000 annually from a pension matches the income generated by a $1 million bond portfolio withdrawing at 4% per year. While pensions offer guaranteed income and stability, bonds provide flexibility but come with market risks.

Roth Conversion Strategy for Barney and Betty

Barney and Betty, both retired, have $1.3 million in tax-deferred IRAs, $200,000 in Roth accounts, and $34,000 in pension income with cost-of-living adjustments. They plan to receive $60,000 annually in Social Security starting at age 70, with monthly expenses ranging between $6,000 and $7,000.

The team recommends maximizing Roth conversions up to the 12% tax bracket to lower future required minimum distributions (RMDs) and optimize their tax position. They explained the difference between marginal tax rates, which apply to Roth conversions, and effective tax rates, which are blended averages. Taking advantage of the 12% bracket allows for strategic tax planning.

General Retirement Planning Advice

The team emphasizes the importance of setting long-term goals, calculating future expenses with inflation, and targeting a specific savings amount to achieve financial independence. Leveraging tax-advantaged accounts like Roth IRAs and Solo 401(k)s, maintaining a stock-heavy investment portfolio for growth, and planning for cash flow needs during retirement are crucial. Consulting with financial professionals can help optimize complex scenarios involving multiple income sources and varied retirement timelines.

Conclusion

Successful retirement planning involves strategic saving, smart asset allocation, and careful tax planning. By leveraging tax-advantaged accounts, investing in low-cost index funds, and bridging income gaps with diversified savings, retirees can ensure lasting financial security and the flexibility to enjoy their golden years.

Intended for educational purposes only. Opinions expressed are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Neither the information presented, nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Consult your financial professional before making any investment decisions. Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice.

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES:

• Investment Advisory and Financial Planning Services are offered through Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. A Registered Investment Advisor.

• Pure Financial Advisors, LLC. does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult with a tax advisor or attorney regarding specific situations.

• Opinions expressed are subject to change without notice and are not intended as investment advice or to predict future performance.

• Investing involves risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values.

• All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, we make no representation as to its completeness or accuracy.

• Intended for educational purposes only and are not intended as individualized advice or a guarantee that you will achieve a desired result. Before implementing any strategies discussed you should consult your tax and financial advisors.

The post Answering Viewer Questions on Retirement Planning, Roth Conversions, and Income Optimization appeared first on ROI TV.

As someone who lives and breathes personal finance, I think it’s time we take a deeper look at what’s driving this increase and how to make sense of it in your own retirement planning.

Retirement Savings Goals Are Rising Fast
The $1.46 million goal is a response to several trends: people are living longer, healthcare costs are rising, inflation has eaten into purchasing power, and a safe withdrawal rate today is more conservative than it was in the past. All of that makes it harder for retirees to stretch their money across a 20- to 30-year retirement.

What Should You Save Each Month?
Let’s break down what it takes to hit $1.46 million by age 65, depending on when you start and your annual rate of return:

• Start at age 20: $572/month at 6%, $315/month at 8%, $170/month at 10%
• Start at age 30: $1,100/month at 6%, $450/month at 10%
• Start at age 40: $2,200/month at 6%, $1,200/month at 10%
  Clearly, the earlier you start, the better. Compound interest does the heavy lifting when you give it time to work.

What the Market Tells Us
Historically, the S&P 500 has delivered a 10% annualized return, but actual returns vary by decade. If you started investing:

• In 1979, you’d need $195/month to hit $1.46 million—about $737/month today after adjusting for inflation.
• In 1989, it’d take $532/month, or about $1,500/month in today’s dollars.
• In 1999, it jumps to $1,257/month, or around $2,600/month today.
  Planning for the full range of outcomes is crucial because market returns aren’t guaranteed, especially over shorter time frames.

What Does Retirement Actually Cost?
The good news is that most people don’t spend $1.46 million in retirement. The median household spending for retirees is about $64,000 a year. If you had a $1.46 million portfolio and used a 4% withdrawal rate, you’d generate around $58,400 per year—just short of the median. That’s where Social Security fills the gap.

For a couple getting $3,000/month in Social Security, you only need to cover about $2,400/month with your own savings. That requires a portfolio of roughly $720,000—not $1.46 million.

When You Claim Social Security Matters
Let’s look at how the age you claim Social Security affects the savings you’ll need:

• Claim at 62: You’ll receive about $1,200/month per person. That leaves a $3,000/month gap, requiring a $900,000 portfolio.
• Claim at 70: Benefits increase to $2,000/month each, reducing the gap to $1,400/month. You’d only need $420,000 saved to bridge that gap.
  So yes, delaying Social Security can significantly reduce the savings burden.

How to Plan Realistically
The most important step? Start with your actual retirement expenses—not a random target from a national survey. Then build your plan around that number, factoring in Social Security and potential healthcare costs. Most retirees don’t have a million dollars saved and still manage to live comfortably. The key is to plan smart, save consistently, and adjust as needed.

Final Thoughts
Forget the hype. You don’t need a round number or a million-dollar portfolio to retire well. What you need is a plan that fits your life, your values, and your goals. Start early if you can. Be consistent. Use your resources wisely. And always remember—financial peace of mind is the real goal, not just the biggest number in your bank account.

Let me know what your retirement number is in the comments. I’d love to hear how you’re planning your future.

All writings are for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not provide investment or financial advice of any kind.

The post Is $1.46 Million Enough to Retire? What You Really Need Based on Your Age, Lifestyle, and Social Security appeared first on ROI TV.