Show Me the Money: How to Protect Your Retirement Income Without Stressing Over Every Market Swing
You remember Jerry Maguire shouting “Show me the money!” in that famous scene? For many pre-retirees, the question isn’t just about showing the money—it’s about protecting it.
Retirement brings a new challenge: how do you keep your hard-earned savings safe while still making sure they last? Market swings, inflation, taxes, and unexpected expenses can all chip away at your nest egg. Here’s the good news: with the right strategies, you can balance growth with protection.
Practical ways to protect your retirement income:
Lock in guaranteed sources. Social Security, pensions, and certain annuities provide steady income you can count on.
Balance risk and safety. Diversify—keep some assets in growth accounts, but make sure others are protected from downturns.
Build a cash cushion. Having 6–12 months of expenses in cash can help you ride out volatility without tapping your investments.
Review your insurance. Health, long-term care, and life insurance can protect your savings from being drained unexpectedly.
Revisit annually. Just like rewatching a classic movie, reviewing your plan keeps it fresh and relevant to your life.
