Can We Retire at 67 with $1.4M? Jess & Ethan’s Guaranteed Income Strategy
(don’t forget to checkout the video of this case study as well)
Jess and Ethan are both 63 and dreaming of a retirement filled with travel, freedom, and financial peace of mind. Like many couples approaching retirement, they’re asking:
“Can we retire comfortably in four years — with the income we need, without worrying about market crashes, and still live our dream of spending summers in Europe?”
Let’s break down their retirement blueprint.
👥 Meet Jess & Ethan
- Both age 63
- Retirement goal: age 67
- Total investment assets: $1.4 million
- Social Security: Estimated $4,500/month combined at 67
- Jess plans to continue maxing out her 401(k) for the next four years
- Key priorities:
✅ Maximize guaranteed lifetime income
✅ Fund extended travel (especially European summers)
✅ Avoid market risk for income
🔒 Step 1: Locking in Lifetime Income
To create a reliable retirement foundation, Jess and Ethan chose a maximum fixed income strategy using an indexed income annuity.
- They earmarked $840,000 of their portfolio for this annuity
- At age 67, it will generate $6,613/month — guaranteed for life
- When combined with their $4,500/month of Social Security, their total protected income becomes:
💰 $11,113/month of guaranteed income for life
- No market risk
- Built-in inflation protection from Social Security
- Income continues even if they live into their 90s or beyond
🌍 Step 2: Funding the Fun (Travel & Flex Spending)
Not all retirement needs to be rigid and locked in. They wanted flexibility to enjoy life — especially their dream of summering in Europe.
After funding their guaranteed income:
- They’ll have approximately $845,000 remaining in their investment portfolio
- This money stays invested for growth and is used for discretionary expenses
They plan to withdraw 5.5% per year from this portfolio to create a flexible travel budget, especially in years when the market performs well.
✈️ Annual Travel Budget: $46,475
✅ Final Retirement Results
Here’s what Jess and Ethan’s strategy looks like by age 67:
- $11,113/month of lifetime income
- Zero market risk for essential income
- $46,475/year travel budget
- Total peace of mind knowing their basic lifestyle is 100% protected
- Freedom to enjoy the fruits of their hard work — without worry
Want a Retirement Plan Like This?
This is just one example of how a Safety-First Income Strategy can help couples retire with confidence, comfort, and control.
Let’s chat if you want a custom plan like Jess and Ethan’s.
Your dream retirement is possible — with the right strategy.
💬 Message me today or visit SafeWealthPlanning.com
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Enjoy this blog? You’ll probably enjoy this one as well: The 3 Best Ways to Maximize a Tax-free Legacy for Your Loved Ones
PS: I have an automated platform that allows you to shop for simplified life insurance solutions (on your own) including FREE estate planning tools
To your success,
Matt
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