Will My Money Last? How to Create a Sustainable Retirement Income Plan

The #1 Fear in Retirement: Running Out of Money

One of the biggest fears among retirees today isn’t the stock market, inflation, or even healthcare costs—it’s running out of money. If you’ve ever found yourself lying awake wondering whether your nest egg will go the distance, you’re not alone. Longevity is a blessing, but without a sustainable income strategy, it can also feel like a financial risk.

Three Keys to Building a Reliable Retirement Income Plan

The good news? With thoughtful planning and innovative strategies, you can transform uncertainty into confidence. A sustainable retirement income plan isn’t just about numbers—it’s about creating a roadmap that ensures your money works for you, not the other way around.

Here are three critical elements of a lasting plan:

Know Your Expenses
Start by organizing your essential (needs) and discretionary (wants) expenses. This clarity helps you determine how much income you’ll truly need throughout retirement.
Map Your Income Sources
Consider all streams of income—Social Security, pensions, annuities, IRAs, 401(k)s, brokerage accounts, and even part-time work or rental income. Aligning guaranteed income with fixed expenses is a foundational strategy.
Use a Smart Withdrawal Strategy
Whether you use the 4% rule, a bucket strategy, or dynamic withdrawal planning, a sustainable strategy strikes a balance between growth, preservation, and tax impact.

Protecting Your Nest Egg From Market & Longevity Risk

Imagine waking up each morning in retirement knowing your income is dependable and built to last. It’s not just about avoiding overspending—it’s about feeling secure. Yet many retirees don’t revisit their income plan often enough, especially when market conditions or personal needs shift.

Working with a retirement planner ensures your plan adapts as you do. With professional guidance, you can avoid common mistakes like tapping the wrong account too early or exposing yourself to unnecessary taxes.

Take the First Step Toward Sustainable Retirement Income

At Heritage Financial Planning, we created the HFP S.T.A.R. Strategy (Seasonal Transition into Advanced Retirement) to guide pre-retirees through each critical phase of retirement. From generating income and managing taxes to adjusting investments for longevity and market risk, we help you make strategic decisions before and after you retire.

Don’t leave your future to chance. Contact us today to schedule a personalized retirement income planning session and start your next chapter with confidence.

Click here to learn more about our HFP STAR Strategy process.