The problem with "I'll just pull from savings"
When your income depends entirely on a portfolio, you're always one bad year away from an uncomfortable choice: sell low or cut spending. Most retirees don't want that uncertainty. A bucket approach separates money you need now from money you can afford to leave alone — so you stop watching market swings with one eye on the calendar.
Who this strategy works well for
- People within 5–10 years of retirement who want to reduce sequence-of-returns risk.
- Retirees who want a floor of guaranteed income separate from Social Security.
- Couples who want to make sure household income stays stable regardless of what the market does.
How we help
Map what you need each month
We start with your actual expenses — fixed costs, variable spending, and what you'd need to feel comfortable — to define the income target.
Identify what's already guaranteed
Social Security, pensions, and any existing annuities count toward the floor. We build from what you already have.
Fill the gaps with the right tools
If there's a shortfall between guaranteed income and what you need, we walk through options — fixed annuities, income riders, or laddered safe assets — without selling you more than you need.
Common questions
Is this the same as an annuity?
Annuities are one tool in the bucket approach — not the whole thing. Whether an annuity makes sense, and which kind, depends on your situation. We'll explain all the options so you can decide without pressure.
What if I have a financial advisor managing my investments?
This kind of planning complements investment management — it's about the income layer, not replacing your advisor. We often work alongside people who already have someone managing their portfolio.
How much income do I need to guarantee?
The number varies by person. A common starting point is covering essential fixed expenses — housing, food, insurance, healthcare — with guaranteed income, and leaving discretionary spending to your portfolio.