Will my money last?

At some point, almost everyone asks, "Will my money last?"

Even though life doesn't hand out guarantees, you can feel more confident about your answer if you prepare with the help of your Edward Jones financial advisor. We'll walk you through the process and discuss your "what if" and "how to" questions.

The answer to this question really comes down to how much you've saved and how you spend it. If you're already retired or close to retirement, focusing on what you can control now – your spending – is important.

Be flexible when taking money out

Since your spending needs may rise and fall over the years, be flexible. For example, if you can take out $10,000, but you only need $8,000, then just take out $8,000. If you feel your purchasing power is keeping pace with inflation fairly well, don’t automatically take out more every year.

Maintain a cash balance

We recommend a cash balance to cover about 12 months’ worth of living expenses, as well as a short-term fixed-income ladder (in investments like guaranteed investment certificates (GICs) for your first few years of expenses.

This may become especially important if the market drops in the first few years after you retire. Your cash reserves can help you avoid selling investments – and losing potential growth opportunities – if you face down years in the market early in retirement.

Seek income guarantees

You can receive guaranteed income* through annuities offered by insurance companies. Since certain annuities can offer insured payments for life, they may help fortify your income by providing “income insurance” – a lifetime payment stream regardless of market performance or how long you live. Like any investment, annuities have trade-offs to consider. To learn more about annuities, review our information about insurance and annuities.

Protect against unexpected or health care costs

To help combat rising long-term health care costs, you may also consider options, such as long-term care insurance, that address where care is administered and how to pay for it. These options and their coverage limitations can be complex. We recommend working with your Edward Jones financial advisor to find out what may make the most sense for you.

Review your strategy regularly

The review may be your most important step. Remember, your retirement could last 25 years or more, and undoubtedly your goals and situation will change over time. Regularly reviewing your strategy with your Edward Jones financial advisor and making adjustments, if necessary, can help ensure your retirement stays on track.

How we can help

Using these principles as a starting point. Talk with your Edward Jones financial advisor today about ways to help make your money last.