The Unsung Role of Budget Planning in Retirement
More important than determining your investment strategy, outlining your post-retirement expenses can help ensure your money lasts a lifetime.

Sometimes, the little things make a big difference.
You probably remember the proverb about how for want of a nail, eventually, the kingdom was lost. As you edge toward retirement, you don't want to lose your kingdom because of a detail you hadn't figured on.
Isaac Wright, president of Financial Dynamics & Associates, is a comprehensive financial planner who has helped retirees for more than 15 years. He also is author of Navigate Your Way to a Secure Retirement.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Keith Morelli contributed to this article.
Investment advisory services offered through Global Financial Private Capital LLC, an SEC Registered Investment Adviser.
Get Kiplinger Today newsletter — free
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.

Isaac Wright, president of Financial Dynamics & Associates, is a financial adviser and licensed insurance professional with a focus on retirement planning and asset preservation for families and retirees. He has assisted families and retirees in reaching their financial, retirement and estate planning goals for more than 15 years. He is the author of Navigate Your Way to a Secure Retirement.
-
Why a Law Firm Secretly Recording Client Conversations Is Wrong (and Illegal)
A law firm that has been recording client conversations without the clients' knowledge or permission and has threatened employees if they speak out faces legal and ethical challenges.
-
Is Your Social Security Earnings Record Wrong? Here's How to Fix It
Your Social Security benefits are based on your Social Security earnings record. It's important to review your records to avoid having your benefits reduced.
-
Donating Complex Assets Doesn't Have to Be Complicated
If you're looking to donate less-conventional assets but don't know where to start, this charity executive has answers, such as considering a donor-advised fund (DAF) for its tax benefits and ease of use.
-
Think a Repeal of the Estate Tax Wouldn't Affect You? Wrong
The wording of any law that repeals or otherwise changes the federal estate tax could have an impact on all of us. Here's what you need to know, courtesy of an estate planning and tax attorney.
-
In Your 50s? We Need to Talk About Long-Term Care
Many people don't like thinking about long-term care, but most people will need it. This financial professional recommends planning for these costs as early as possible to avoid stress later.
-
Social Security Pop Quiz: Are You Among the 89% of Americans Who'd Fail?
Shockingly few people have any clue what their Social Security benefits could be. This financial adviser notes it's essential to understand that info and when it might be best to access your benefits.
-
Two Estate Planning Issues You Should Never Overlook
This estate planning attorney explains why proper asset titling and beneficiary designations make a big difference when it's time to transfer your wealth.
-
The Three Retirement Tax Issues I Nag My Clients About
A financial professional highlights areas of tax planning that retirees should have on their radar as they finalize their retirement plan.
-
How to Turn Education Planning Into Retirement Planning
Nervous about investing in a 529 plan? If college doesn't pan out, the money can now be rolled over into a Roth IRA, which will grow tax-free until retirement.
-
How Financial Advisers Can Help Clients Navigate the SSFA
The Social Security Fairness Act's big changes and new opportunities could require adjustments in tax strategy for some Social Security recipients.