Are You Withdrawing Too Much in Retirement? Here are Smart Pacing Tips to Make Your Nest Egg Last

Retirement should feel like freedom—not a financial guessing game. But one of the most common missteps retirees make is withdrawing money too quickly, unknowingly risking the longevity of their savings.

Here’s what you need to know to pace your income withdrawals with precision:

The 4% Rule Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All This popular guideline is a starting point—not a strategy. Market conditions, life expectancy, and lifestyle needs all affect how much you can safely take out.

Sequence of Returns Risk is Real Taking large withdrawals in a down market can permanently damage your portfolio. A flexible withdrawal strategy can help minimize this risk.

Tax-Efficient Withdrawals Matter How and when you withdraw from taxable, tax-deferred, and tax-free accounts can greatly impact your overall tax burden and net income.

Don’t Forget Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) Once you turn 73, you must start taking RMDs from certain retirement accounts. Planning ahead can prevent unnecessary tax surprises.

Reassess Annually Life changes, markets shift—your withdrawal strategy should evolve, too. An annual income review helps ensure your plan is still aligned with your goals.