5 Retirement Income Mistakes to Avoid

Building a retirement nest egg is only half the battle. How you withdraw and protect that income matters just as much. Here are five mistakes we see often.

1. Claiming Social Security Too Early

Claiming at 62 locks in a permanently reduced benefit. Waiting to full retirement age or beyond can increase your monthly income by up to 76%.

2. Ignoring Tax-Efficient Withdrawals

The order in which you tap your accounts, taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free can dramatically affect how long your money lasts.

3. Underestimating Longevity

Plan for a 30-year retirement, not 20. Guaranteed income strategies can protect against outliving your assets.

4. No Inflation Plan

Inflation erodes purchasing power. Ensure part of your portfolio is positioned to grow above inflation.

5. Retiring Without a Written Plan

A written, reviewed plan turns hope into strategy. Let's build yours together.