3 key considerations for sustainable retirement income

Sustainable retirement income starts with flexibility, because retirees who can adjust spending after market swings may improve the odds that their savings last.

Planning horizon is just as important, since a longer retirement generally calls for a lower withdrawal rate than a shorter one.

Legacy goals also matter, because investors who want to preserve more assets for heirs or charity usually need to withdraw less each year.

The familiar 4% rule can be a useful starting point, but it should be tailored to each client’s income needs, time horizon and tolerance for change.