How Do I Get My Money Out in Retirement?
Have you ever wondered if you could take a break from work or even retire early without compromising your financial stability? If you are part of the FIRE movement, you might already be tracking your way towards such a goal. (CountAbout makes it easy with their FIRE tool). However, even if you think you might have enough money to retire, it can be overwhelming to navigate complex decisions around taxes, investments, and withdrawals can feel overwhelming. On top of the nuts and bolts of withdrawals and taxes, there are often family dynamics to consider- college educations, school districts, and potentially even judgement from still living parents. If this situation sounds relatable to you, you might be interested to read this case study submitted to Kristy Shen of Millennial Revolution.
My only hesitation is that this FIRE plan is very dependent on rental income, which is not passive. I have friends who tried to retire using rental income, only to have their tenants turn their property into a weed grow op. Do you really want to deal with that kind of crap in retirement?
~Kristy Shen, Millennial Revolution
In the case study, Shen lays out strategies to transition smoothly from their high stress, high income job into their desired lifestyle of leisure. Key recommendations include strategically selling company RSUs (restricted stock units) after a year to take advantage of the 15% capital gains tax bracket while monitoring the possibility of dropping into the 0% bracket if their spouse decides to retire earlier. Shen also advises leveraging rental income cautiously, given its unpredictable nature, and considering a Roth IRA conversion ladder when their income drops. With a $1.1M portfolio and clear financial goals, the reader is well-positioned to FIRE but must plan for flexibility if their lifestyle shifts. Whether you’re eyeing a sabbatical or mapping out early retirement, this case study offers actionable insights for tackling complex financial decisions.
Should You Use Your Savings for a Bigger Down Payment or Keep it for Emergencies?
Do you own your own home? If not, perhaps you might have dreams of one day becomming a homeowner. In thase case, you’re likely trying to amass enough money for a donwpayemnt. At the same time, experts say that you should have 3-6 months worth of income as an emergency fund. With these conflicting goals, have you ever wondered if you should pour your savings into a bigger down payment on a home or keep it as a cushion for life’s unexpected surprises? It’s no easy decision. A bigger down payment can save you money in the long run with lower monthly payments, better loan terms, and possibly avoiding private mortgage insurance (PMI). On the other hand, draining your savings could leave you vulnerable to emergencies, from unexpected medical bills to sudden job losses. So, how do you strike the right balance between financial security and homeownership goals?
Remember, buying a home is a big deal—but so is peace of mind. The key is to strike a balance between being financially responsible and not living in a state of perpetual anxiety. After all, what’s the point of having a house if you can’t afford to furnish it or, you know, fix it when the roof starts leaking?
~MoneyMiniBlog
This article on the MoneyMiniBlog breaks down the pros and cons of each approach and offers a third, balanced option: splitting the difference. By putting down enough to improve your loan terms while keeping an emergency fund intact, you can achieve both stability and flexibility. It also highlights key factors to consider, such as job security, interest rates, and future plans, to help guide your decision. Ultimately, the right choice depends on your unique circumstances and risk tolerance. Whether you lean toward a larger down payment or prioritize peace of mind, this article emphasizes the importance of creating a sustainable financial plan that works for you and is definitely worth a read if you’re trying to purhcase real estate in the near future.
How Much is Enough: 10 Ways We Enabled Today’s Out-of-Control Tipping Culture
Have you ever swiped your card and got a bit angry when the cashier flipped the iPad around to reveal a tipping screen? It now seems like there are very few transactions that don’t have an option to leave a tip. What began as a token of appreciation for exceptional service has morphed into a complex cultural norm that often feels obligatory. From digital payment systems that nudge higher percentages to social media pressure showcasing extravagant tips, modern tipping culture has spiraled into a phenomenon that leaves many patrons questioning what they are supposed to do. Is tipping still a voluntary act of gratitude, or has it become another layer of financial stress?
As tipping becomes increasingly ingrained in our societal norms, the question of how much is enough becomes more complicated. It’s no longer just about rewarding good service; it’s about meeting societal standards.
~ Our Debt Free Family
This article explores ten interconnected factors fueling today’s tipping culture, including societal expectations, digital conveniences, and even guilt. It highlights the delicate balance between recognizing service workers’ dependence on tips and questioning whether our practices have gone too far. With insights into the psychological and practical drivers behind “tipflation,” it also encourages open conversations about redefining tipping norms. If you’ve ever debated the right amount or felt burdened by tipping, this piece offers a thought-provoking look at how we got here and where we might go next.