I know how much I will need to cover my expenses each month in retirement (80% of your current monthly budget is a solid estimate).

I have estimates for how much extra I will spend each year on travel, home improvements, gifts, medical care, and other one-off expenses.

I have a clear understanding of the guaranteed income I will receive from sources such as Social Security, pensions, annuities, veteran's benefits, etc.

I understand that as of 2023, an average retired couple age 65 may need approximately $315,000 saved.¹

My income strategies account for inflation (if I need $100,000 this year, I will need $186,000 in 20 years to have the same quality of life at 3% inflation).*

I understand all my Social Security options and how to maximize my guaranteed lifetime income.

My spouse and I have coordinated our claiming strategies to maximize our income.

Our income strategy protects a surviving spouse from loss of income.

I have adequate liquid cash on hand for emergencies and unexpected expenses so that I'm not forced to liquidate investments.

A financial professional has looked over my income strategy to identify any problems or mistakes.

I have completed a risk questionnaire and understand all the risks I'm taking with my retirement savings.

I understand that my investing strategy will need to change in retirement so I don't run out of money later in life.

My income strategy includes guaranteed income to protect my lifestyle from market volatility.

I understand "sequence-of-returns" risk and that withdrawing too much when my portfolio has lost value can have a lasting negative effect on my retirement.

I have run multiple portfolio scenarios with different growth and inflation assumptions and am confident that my withdrawal needs are "safe."

My income plan is flexible, and I've planned for the inevitable ups and downs of the stock market.

A financial professional has reviewed my market plan and assumptions to identify any problems.

I have reviewed my strategies in light of recent tax legislation to make sure I'm using every opportunity to potentially lower my taxes now and in the future.

I understand how Taxable, Tax-Deferred, and Tax-Free wealth buckets work, and how my drawdown strategy helps maximize my after-tax income.

I understand that Medicare and Social Security depend on the future fiscal stability of the U.S.

I understand that the debt held by the U.S. is expected to reach 6.9% of GDP in 2033 and my future tax rates may increase.²

I am staying abreast of changing tax rules and working with a financial professional to proactively plan for future taxes.