Is $1,000,000 Enough for Retirement? Insights & Strategies
Intro
Retirement is a significant milestone in life and a complex financial challenge. For many, the goal is to amass enough savings to ensure they can live comfortably without needing to work. One common question arises: Can one retire comfortably on one million dollars? Answering this requires examining various factors that affect retirement sustainability.
This article will delve into lifestyle choices, geographic location, investment strategies, and potential risks that may impact the feasibility of retiring on a million dollars. By analyzing financial models and projecting future expenses, we'll illuminate whether this amount constitutes a sufficient retirement fund.
Key Points Discussed
- Key factors influencing retirement sustainability
- Investment strategies for a secure retirement
- Potential risks and how to mitigate them
- Practical insights and strategies for informed decision-making
Understanding these elements lays the foundation for evaluating retirement options effectively.
Understanding Loans
Retirement planning also involves understanding financial leverage and loans. Depending on individual circumstances, loans may play a role in managing expenses before and during retirement. Here are critical aspects to consider regarding loans.
Types of Loans
- Personal Loans: Unsecured loans that can meet various personal needs.
- Student Loans: Designed to cover educational expenses, sometimes carrying long-term implications for finances.
Loan Eligibility Criteria
To obtain a loan, an individual must often meet specific requirements. These can include a minimal credit score, proof of income, and a stable employment status.
Pros and Cons of Taking Out a Loan
- Pros: Access to immediate funds, flexibility in use.
- Cons: Interest rates, potential for long-term debt.
Evaluating loans is crucial, especially if one considers their impact on retirement funding and lifestyle.
Mortgage Essentials
For many, a significant part of retirement planning includes housing. Understanding mortgage options is essential.
Overview of Types of Mortgages
- Fixed-Rate Mortgages: Provide a stable monthly payment that does not change over time.
- Adjustable-Rate Mortgages: Initial low rates that can increase after a fixed period, potentially leading to higher payments later.
Mortgage Application Process
This involves several steps, including gathering documentation, submitting an application, and going through underwriting. Understanding this process helps in planning ahead.
Home Affordability Calculations
Considering housing costs during retirement is critical. It impacts overall budgeting and financial security. Use calculators to determine how much house you can afford based on income and expenses.
Refinancing Insights
Refinancing can be a strategy to lower monthly payments or consolidate debt, but it is vital to analyze whether it aligns with retirement goals.
Reasons to Refinance a Loan
Lower interest rates, better terms, and cash-out refinancing options provide reasons to consider this move.
Steps Involved in Refinancing
Each refinancing process includes evaluating current loans, comparing rates, and applying for new terms.
How to Determine if Refinancing is Right for You
Analyze your long-term financial situation. Consider potential savings and the impact on future cash flow during retirement.
Navigating Credit Cards
While credit cards can be a useful financial tool, they also require careful management to avoid pitfalls.
Types of Credit Cards
- Cashback Credit Cards: Provide rewards for purchases.
- Rewards Credit Cards: Offer points that can be redeemed.
Credit Card Utilization Tips
Maintain a low balance relative to your credit limit to support a healthy credit score.
Avoiding Common Credit Card Pitfalls
High-interest rates, late fees, and the temptation to overspend are common traps. Staying disciplined can prevent these issues and support long-term financial health.
Protecting with Insurance
Insurance plays a fundamental role in financial strategies, especially in retirement.
Importance of Different Insurance Types
- Health Insurance: Covers medical expenses, which can be significant in retirement.
- Auto Insurance: Necessary to protect assets and comply with legal requirements.
Shopping for Insurance Policies
Compare rates and coverage across multiple providers to find the best fit.
Understanding Insurance Premiums and Deductibles
This knowledge is vital for budgeting health-related expenses during retirement.
Overall, careful consideration of these topics can lead to more informed financial decisions regarding retirement.
Understanding Retirement Needs
Understanding retirement needs is essential for anyone contemplating their future financial security. This section aims to break down the factors influencing the ability to retire comfortably. With a one million dollar nest egg, it is vital to approach retirement planning with a clear strategy. Considerations such as lifestyle aspirations, geographical location, and even personal preferences can significantly impact one’s needs during retirement. As we explore the various aspects, individuals can form a comprehensive understanding of what it truly means to prepare for retirement.
Defining Your Retirement Goals
Defining retirement goals is the foundation upon which financial planning must be built. It is not just about the dollar amount saved; it is about what you desire to experience in your retirement years. Goals can vary widely from travel and leisure to maintaining a certain standard of living. Specific goals help dictate your saving strategy and investment philosophy. For example, if one aims to travel extensively, more funds may be required than someone planning to maintain a modest lifestyle at home. Formulating clear and realistic objectives is crucial for tailoring a financial plan that aligns with personal aspirations.
Assessing Life Expectancy
Assessing life expectancy is another critical component of retirement planning. The average life expectancy has increased over recent decades, suggesting retirees may need to fund their expenses for longer periods than previously anticipated. Understanding personal health history and family longevity can provide valuable insights into how long one may need to stretch their retirement funds. Calculating a conservative estimate can help prevent the risk of outliving savings. This analysis should also consider the potential costs associated with aging, such as healthcare needs, which often rise significantly in later years.
The Role of Inflation
Inflation plays a significant role in eroding purchasing power over time, making it a crucial factor in retirement planning. While one million dollars may seem adequate today, its value could diminish in the future due to inflation. Planning must take into account expected inflation rates over the course of retirement, which influences both spending power and lifestyle choices. It’s advisable to consult resources or financial tools that project future inflation scenarios to better understand how to adjust retirement savings strategies accordingly.
"Understanding your retirement needs today ensures a secure financial future tomorrow."
In summary, comprehending retirement needs encapsulates defining personal goals, evaluating longevity, and anticipating inflation’s effects. These elements lay a strong groundwork as individuals consider whether a million dollars will suffice for their retirement journey.
Current Financial Landscape
Understanding the current financial landscape is essential in evaluating the viability of retiring on one million dollars. The economic environment influences various factors, directly impacting your retirement plan. Interest rates, investment opportunities, and market behaviors all play significant roles in determining how sustainable your financial future will be. Assessing these elements can provide a clearer picture of whether your retirement goals are achievable.
Interest Rates and Investments
Interest rates affect both the cost of borrowing and the returns you can earn on investments. A low-interest-rate environment often leads to lower returns on savings accounts and bonds. This can make it difficult for retirees to generate necessary income from these investments. Conversely, when interest rates rise, traditional savings vehicles may offer better yields.
Understanding investment options is also crucial. Stocks, mutual funds, and real estate tend to provide higher returns over the long term. However, these investments come with greater risk, especially in volatile markets. A diverse portfolio is often recommended to balance risk and return. Retirees should consider whether their investments can keep pace with inflation, which can erode purchasing power over time.
Minimizing risks through strategic management is vital. Some people prefer safer investments like certificates of deposit, while others may opt for more aggressive growth strategies. Assessing your own risk tolerance will guide your investment decisions.
Market Volatility Considerations
Market volatility refers to the fluctuations in investment prices, which can significantly impact retirement savings. A downturn in the stock market can lead to substantial losses, forcing retirees to reconsider their withdrawal strategies. It's essential to acknowledge that not all market conditions will be favorable.
During times of uncertainty, a retiree's plan should account for potential income shortfalls. It may be wise to maintain a cash reserve to navigate these fluctuations without having to withdraw from investments at a loss.
Regular assessments of your investment portfolio are important to adjust for changes in the market landscape. This evaluation helps in managing the risks associated with market volatility. Consider rebalancing your portfolio periodically to ensure that your asset allocation aligns with your retirement goals.
"The ability to withstand market volatility is key for making your retirement savings last."
Living Expenses in Retirement
Living expenses represent a crucial aspect of retirement planning. Evaluating these costs can provide a clearer picture of whether one million dollars is enough for a comfortable retirement. They encompass several factors, including necessary expenses like housing and healthcare, discretionary spending on lifestyle choices, and the effect of geographic location. Understanding these components can help to align financial resources with retirement goals.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare costs often consume a significant portion of retirement savings. As individuals age, medical needs typically increase, which can lead to higher expenses. Medicare, for example, provides essential coverage, but it does not cover everything. There are premiums, deductibles, and out-of-pocket costs that retirees must budget for.
Furthermore, long-term care is another important consideration, as it can be quite expensive if the need arises. Planning for healthcare costs involves estimating both regular medical expenses and potential emergencies. It is wise to research health insurance options and consider long-term care insurance to mitigate these costs.
Housing Expenses
Housing expenses can vary greatly depending on location and personal choices. For many retirees, mortgage payments will become a key factor unless the home is paid off. Even so, property taxes, maintenance, insurance, and utilities can add to the financial burden. Considering options like downsizing or relocating to an area with a lower cost of living can play a significant role in reducing these expenses.
In addition, housing arrangements such as rentals may be attractive in retirement but come with their own set of costs. It’s essential to evaluate the trade-offs between the comfort of owning a home and the flexibility of renting. Each choice will impact the overall financial picture.
Lifestyle Choices and Their Impact
Lifestyle choices significantly affect living expenses in retirement. The desire to travel, pursue hobbies, or dine out can lead to increased expenditures. Planning for discretionary spending is just as important as budgeting for essentials.
Determining a comfortable lifestyle involves a balance between wants and needs. Retirees must ask themselves how important certain activities are and how they fit within their budget. Sustainable spending habits can enhance quality of life without jeopardizing financial stability.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a realistic budget that accommodates both necessary and discretionary expenses. By understanding and forecasting these needs, individuals can better assess the feasibility of living on a one million dollar nest egg.
Withdrawal Strategies
As individuals approach retirement, one significant consideration emerges: how to withdraw funds from their retirement savings in a sustainable manner. Withdrawal strategies are essential as they dictate not only the longevity of your financial resources but also the lifestyle you can maintain throughout retirement. This section examines the importance of effective withdrawal strategies, highlighting specific elements, benefits, and critical considerations.
Understanding Safe Withdrawal Rates
The concept of a safe withdrawal rate is crucial for anyone considering retirement on a fixed amount, such as one million dollars. It refers to the percentage of your nest egg that you can withdraw annually without depleting your resources too quickly. A commonly cited safe withdrawal rate is 4%, a figure derived from historical market performance and longevity studies.
However, this figure is not universally applicable. Several factors must be considered:
- Investment Portfolio Composition: The mix of stocks, bonds, and other assets can significantly impact withdrawal sustainability. For example, a portfolio heavily weighted in stocks may endure market fluctuations better than one consisting mainly of bonds, thus affecting the safe withdrawal rate.
- Market Conditions: Future returns can differ vastly from historical trends. A prolonged market downturn immediately after retirement could necessitate a lower withdrawal rate to avoid running out of funds.
- Inflation: The cost of living generally rises over time. Therefore, delivering increases to the withdrawal amount while factoring in inflation is vital to maintain purchasing power.
Calculating the safe withdrawal rate involves assessing these factors while ensuring that your funds last throughout your retirement. It is prudent to engage in simulations and stress testing against economic scenarios to arrive at a personalized withdrawal strategy.
Bucket Strategy Explained
The bucket strategy is another pragmatic approach to managing withdrawals in retirement. Under this strategy, retirees segment their investments into different "buckets" based on the anticipated time horizon for their needs. Typically, this involves:
- Short-term Bucket: This bucket covers the immediate needs, generally containing cash and stable assets. It secures funds needed for the first few years of retirement, reducing the stress of market volatility on immediate withdrawals.
- Medium-term Bucket: This includes moderate risk investments, such as bonds or dividend-generating stocks. It provides access to funds in the intermediate term, usually spanning five to ten years.
- Long-term Bucket: This focuses on growth-oriented investments, like stocks or real estate, aimed at sustaining and growing wealth over the long haul. These assets are not intended for immediate access and can withstand market fluctuations.
Using the bucket strategy allows retirees to balance the need for liquidity against market exposure. This method provides peace of mind and a disciplined approach to withdrawals, ensuring that funds are available while strategically optimizing for growth potential.
Engaging with a financial advisor could refine your withdrawal strategy. Tailored guidance can mitigate risks while aligning with your unique financial situation.
Geographic Considerations
When planning for retirement, one cannot overlook the impact of geographic choices. The cost of living varies significantly across different regions. This can greatly influence how far a retirement fund stretches. Choosing to retire in an area with a lower cost of living can extend the longevity of one’s savings, allowing for a more sustainable lifestyle.
Additionally, geographic location affects access to healthcare, quality of life, and even community engagement opportunities. It is crucial to consider these aspects when determining retirement viability with a nest egg of one million dollars.
Retiring in a Low-Cost Area
Opting for a low-cost area can provide substantial financial benefits. For instance, states like Mississippi, Arkansas, and New Mexico frequently rank low in living expenses.
- Housing Costs: Properties tend to be more affordable. This includes both rentals and purchases. A lower mortgage can free up funds for other expenses.
- Utilities and Services: Localities with reduced costs typically offer lower utility bills, which can increase monthly disposable income.
- Everyday Expenses: Groceries, transportation, and entertainment tend to be cheaper in these regions. Consequently, retirees can maintain their desired lifestyle with reduced financial strain.
However, moving to a low-cost area also comes with challenges.
- Access to Services: Smaller towns might lack essential services such as specialized healthcare or public transport.
- Employment Opportunities: For those who may want to work part-time, job availability can be limited depending on the area.
Tax Implications by State
Different states have varying tax structures that can significantly influence retirement finances. Understanding these implications is essential.
- State Income Taxes: Some states impose a higher income tax. This can diminish monthly income if one is withdrawing from retirement accounts.
- Sales Taxes: States like California have high sales taxes, which can affect budgeting for everyday purchases.
- Property Taxes: Local government assessments can lead to higher expenses for homeowners. Keeping an eye on your property tax rate can prevent unexpected costs.
- Retirement Benefits Taxation: Some states do not tax retirement income, such as Social Security and pensions. This could play a crucial role in total income retention.
"Deciding where to retire is as much about financial strategy as it is about lifestyle preferences"
By pioneering thorough research into these factors, retirees can make well-informed decisions. Managing geographic considerations smartly can lead to a more comfortable retirement journey.
Potential Risks to Retirement Savings
Understanding the risks that can jeopardize your retirement savings is essential for effective financial planning. A nest egg of one million dollars may seem substantial, but various factors can erode its value over time. It is not just about accumulating wealth; it’s also about protecting it from unforeseen threats. By recognizing these risks early, individuals can implement strategies to mitigate potential losses and ensure their retirement funds remain intact throughout their retirement years.
Market Downturns and Their Effects
Market downturns pose a significant risk to retirement savings. When the market experiences a downturn, the value of investments can drop sharply, impacting the overall worth of your portfolio. Such declines can be especially devastating for those who are approaching retirement age or are already retired. If a significant market correction occurs soon after you retire, you might be forced to withdraw funds from your investment portfolio at depressed values.
Consider this critical aspect: the sequence of returns risk, which refers to the order in which investment returns occur. A market downturn early in retirement, followed by lower average returns, has a compounding negative effect on a retiree’s financial health. Therefore, having a strategy in place to weather such downturns is crucial.
For example, diversifying your investments across asset classes can cushion the impact of market fluctuations. Alternatives such as bonds or even cash reserves can provide a buffer during volatile periods, allowing you to avoid selling stocks at a loss.
"Planning for market downturns requires foresight. Don’t wait for the next crash to assess the effects on your portfolio."
Unexpected Expenses
Unexpected expenses can also present a real threat to retirement savings. Life can be unpredictable—emergency medical expenses, home repairs, or even unplanned travel can strain your finances. It is essential to factor in these possibilities when planning for retirement.
One key method to handle unexpected costs is to maintain an emergency fund. Financial experts suggest having at least six months' worth of living expenses saved in a liquid account. This reserve can be a safety net, preventing you from dipping into your retirement investments when life throws a curveball.
Furthermore, implementing a detailed budget can assist in tracking spending and identifying areas where you can cut costs, allowing for more flexibility in your retirement planning.
Supplementing Retirement Income
In retirement planning, it is essential to consider how to supplement your retirement income, especially if your savings are restricted to one million dollars. While this amount can provide a decent nest egg, individuals may find it necessary to seek additional income sources to maintain their desired lifestyle. Factors such as inflation, rising healthcare costs, and unpredictable life events can exhaust even the most well-prepared budgets. Secure income sources can help mitigate these risks and provide financial stability.
Part-Time Work Options
Engaging in part-time work during retirement offers several benefits. It not only provides extra income but also keeps individuals socially engaged and mentally active. Many retirees choose roles that align with their interests or past careers, which can lead to job satisfaction and a sense of purpose. Furthermore, part-time work can serve as a buffer against market fluctuations. Retirees might want to explore opportunities in fields like consulting, teaching, or service industries, depending on their skills and interests. A flexible schedule often allows individuals to work when they want, maintaining a work-life balance that is crucial during retirement.
Some common part-time roles retirees consider include:
- Retail jobs: These can be suitable for those who enjoy customer interaction.
- Freelancing: Writing, graphic design, or consulting can generate income while allowing for flexibility.
- Tutoring or teaching: Sharing knowledge in a subject of expertise can be fulfilling.
Passive Income Streams
Building passive income streams is another compelling strategy for supplementing retirement income. These income sources require an initial investment of time or money but can generate a steady cash flow without constant effort. Identifying and establishing passive income can significantly enhance financial security and reduce reliance on capital gains or market fluctuations.
Common options for passive income include:
- Rental properties: Owning property can provide consistent monthly income through renting.
- Dividend stocks: Investing in stocks that pay dividends can yield regular payouts without selling the asset.
- Peer-to-peer lending: This involves lending money to individuals or companies through online platforms, earning interest in return.
A well-thought-out strategy that incorporates both part-time work and passive income sources can offer financial resilience. Leveraging these methods can help ensure that individuals are not solely dependent on their retirement savings, which is particularly important when assessing the viability of retiring on one million dollars.
"Having diverse income sources not only supports financial stability but also enhances overall quality of life in retirement."
By anticipating how to supplement income, retirees can create a more flexible financial plan, allowing them to adapt to life’s uncertainties.
Planning for Longevity
Planning for longevity is a crucial aspect of retirement strategy. It involves assessing not just your current financial situation but also estimating how long your retirement savings need to last. A longer lifespan offers many opportunities for enjoyment and fulfillment but it also demands careful financial planning. If you aim to retire comfortably, your financial foundation must reflect these extended years ahead.
Understanding your emotional and financial readiness is essential. Retiring later can yield more savings and larger Social Security benefits. It is also wise to consider the impact of health on your expenses. Chronic conditions or unexpected health issues can escalate costs in retirement.
Additionally, one must evaluate the necessary resources to sustain a desired lifestyle. This includes housing, healthcare, and everyday living expenses. With life expectancy rates increasing, it is more important than ever to ensure your savings can cover these costs effectively.
Prioritizing longevity in your retirement plan involves:
- Regular assessment of your financial portfolio: Adjust your asset allocation to reflect changes in the market and your age.
- Investment in health insurance: Long-term care insurance can offset potential high medical costs down the line.
- Building a flexible budget: Creating a budget that can be adjusted for income fluctuations and unexpected expenses will help manage your funds better.
"Failure to plan is a plan to fail." - This quote encapsulates the necessity of thoughtful planning.
Preparing for a longer life means you can enjoy your retirement years without constant financial worry. It ensures that you live not just longer, but also with quality in your life.
Are You Prepared for a Longer Life?
Are you prepared for a longer life? This question is significant for many people considering retirement. Various factors play a role in how you prepare. The first step is to assess your current health. If you are in good shape, the likelihood of a longer retirement increases.
Financial metrics such as savings, investments, and projected expenses also need regular review. This helps gauge if your current strategy will meet future needs. Not all retirement savings are created equal; different sources of income have distinct tax implications and accessibility.
Consider the following elements:
- Health: Maintain a healthy lifestyle to reduce long-term healthcare costs.
- Emergency savings: Set aside funds for unexpected expenses that can arise during longer retirement years.
- Comfortable living arrangements: Prepare for possibly downsizing income and expenses. If you want to move, factor in housing markets.
- Social connections: Engaging in relationships can keep you mentally sharp and improve emotional health, potentially leading to a longer, fulfilling life.
Reflecting on your future and taking precise steps now can ensure a life of comfort and security in your later years. Understanding the interplay of these elements is vital to comprehensive retirement planning.
Making Adjustments
Making adjustments is crucial for those considering retirement on a million dollar nest egg. As life continues to evolve, so do financial situations and needs. Understanding how to make proper adjustments can lead to a more secure retirement experience. It involves regular assessments of income, expenses, and investments. By staying alert to changes in personal and economic circumstances, individuals can adapt their strategies to ensure that they do not outlive their savings.
Re-evaluating Your Financial Plan
Regularly re-evaluating your financial plan is an integral part of ensuring retirement sustainability. A static plan may quickly become ineffective. This can happen due to shifts in expenses or lifestyle choices, such as moving to a new city, changing health status, or even adjusting spending habits.
- Monthly Budget Reviews: Keeping track of your spending each month helps understand where adjustments are necessary. This could reveal areas of overspending or opportunities for savings.
- Investment Performance Assessments: Investments may not perform as initially expected. Check how stocks, bonds, or real estate are doing. Rebalancing your portfolio can help meet financial goals better.
- Future Expense Predictions: Spending can change over time and especially in retirement. Prepare for unknown expenses, such as sudden health care needs. Having an emergency fund is essential.
An effective financial plan should evolve with your life circumstances instead of remaining static.
Adapting to Life Changes
Life can bring unexpected twists that require adjustments to one's financial strategy. Whether it’s a change in health, loss of a spouse, or even gaining inheritance, each situation can dramatically affect financial stability.
- Health Changes: Health conditions can mean increased medical costs. Recognizing this early can prevent depletion of retirement savings.
- Relocation Decisions: Moving to a different state or even a different country can impact tax obligations and cost of living. Evaluate these factors carefully.
- Work Adjustments: Some may feel they need or want to return to work part-time, while others may have to adjust to less income. Adjusting plans accordingly can alleviate financial pressures.
Each adjustment serves as a foundation for maintaining a stable financial outlook in retirement. Being proactive is key, rather than waiting for issues to arise.
The Role of Financial Advisors
In the complex landscape of retirement planning, financial advisors play a pivotal role. Their expertise can significantly influence how individuals manage their savings and investments to ensure financial stability throughout retirement. The importance of their guidance cannot be overstated, especially for those considering retiring with a million dollars. A financial advisor assists in tailoring strategies that align closely with one’s retirement goals, taking into account individual circumstances such as health, lifestyle preferences, and retirement age.
Effective retirement planning involves not only asset allocation but also a thorough analysis of potential risks. It's crucial for retirees to have a well-defined withdrawal strategy, and a financial advisor can help structure this approach. They provide insights on market conditions, tax implications, and the effect of inflation, allowing clients to make informed decisions. This support can be especially vital during uncertain economic times, when market volatility might pose a threat to retirement savings.
"The right financial advisor can turn a million-dollar retirement nest egg into a sustainable and thriving portfolio."
In essence, financial advisors are not just a luxury; they are an essential support system for anyone looking to maximize their retirement funds and navigate the challenges accompanying the transition to retirement.
When to Seek Professional Guidance
Deciding when to engage a financial advisor can be influenced by a variety of personal and financial factors. Many individuals find it beneficial to seek professional advice several years prior to retirement. This early engagement allows for comprehensive planning and any necessary adjustments to one's financial strategy. Individuals nearing retirement age may need guidance on how to optimize their portfolio or adjust their withdrawal strategies to accommodate longer life expectancies.
Signs that it’s time to consult with a financial advisor include:
- Changes in financial circumstances, such as inheritance or job loss
- Confusion about investment options or market conditions
- Uncertainty about healthcare costs and their potential impact on financial plans
- Major life events like marriage or divorce that could affect financial priorities
- Lack of confidence in making large financial decisions
By recognizing these signs early, individuals can set themselves up for a smoother transition into retirement.
Selecting a Financial Advisor
Choosing the right financial advisor is a critical decision that can have far-reaching implications for retirement planning. Factors to consider include the advisor’s qualifications, experience, and fee structure. It’s advisable to look for advisors who hold relevant designations, such as Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA). These credentials often indicate a level of expertise and commitment to high ethical standards.
Key steps to selecting a financial advisor:
- Research potential candidates: Look for advisors who specialize in retirement planning or wealth management. Online reviews and recommendations from trusted sources can provide valuable insights.
- Schedule consultations: Many advisors offer initial meetings for free. Use these opportunities to gauge compatibility and communication styles. Your advisor should be someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing personal financial information.
- Understand the fee structure: Advisors may charge commissions, flat fees, or a combination. Ensure the fee arrangement aligns with your financial situation and expectations.
- Evaluate their approach: Ask about their investment philosophies and strategies. Make sure their approach matches your risk tolerance and retirement goals.