25 Jul 2023
How to keep your finances on track once you leave the workforce
When you’ve worked hard all your life to build up your nest egg, the last thing you want to do is fritter it away too quickly. In this article, we look at the common money mistakes people in retirement make, and how you can do your best to avoid them.
1. Not taking control of your super
It’s important to know what your options are for getting access to your superannuation when you retire. You can take it as a lump sum, an allocated pension or an annuity. To find out more about accessing your super speak to us to determine what’s right for you.
2. Not knowing your entitlements
Don’t make the mistake of not knowing what payments you’re eligible for in retirement. This may include government benefits, such as the Age Pension, carer’s allowance or disability support through to concessions on health and travel.
3. Spending like you’re still working
Dipping into your savings or your super money regularly will soon whittle away your hard-earned savings. Find out about ways to manage your money in retirement to help you free up your cash flow and keep an eye on your expenses.
4. Not managing your investments
Just because you’re retired, doesn’t mean you should be complacent about your investments. It’s important to consider your personal situation. If you have investments feel free to contact us.
5. Not managing your debts
Consider all your options for reducing your debts, as you may not have enough funds to last you through your retirement. Be careful about paying too much interest on your debts. If you need to pay off your home loan, make sure you’re aware of how selling your home or investment property affects your entitlements.
6. Spending your retirement savings on the kids
If you plan to give money to your children (or grandchildren) to to help them financially, be aware of how gifting or going guarantor might affect your tax and your lifestyle in retirement.
7. Letting your insurance lapse
It’s tempting to reduce your outgoings in retirement by cutting back on things like insurance. But before you do, consider whether you could cut back in other ways first.
8. Taking expensive holidays
Make sure your choice of destination fits within your overall budget, bearing in mind you need your money to last the distance in retirement.
9. Buying a new vehicle
When you retire it’s very tempting to use your super to buy a new car to last you through your retirement. If you’re serious about watching where your money goes, you might want to think about making your current vehicle last a bit longer, but you’ll need to weigh up the maintenance costs versus buying another one.
Your retirement is in your hands, so try to make the most of the money you’ve got and invest wisely to make it last. But don’t forget to take care of your health to give yourself the best chance of going the distance in retirement.
To find out more about planning for a comfortable retirement, call us today.
If you have any questions or your personal circumstances have changed please do not hesitate to contact your financial adviser.
General Advice Warning - Any advice included in this article has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on the advice, you should consider whether it’s appropriate to you, in light of your objectives, financial situation or needs.
