Happy Sunday! Here’s what we’re covering in today’s Clark Smart Investing newsletter:
How long would $1 million last YOU in retirement?
Two ways to store your un-invested cash with Vanguard
The free account everyone needs to set up before retirement
Q&A with Wes Moss: With high-interest savings accounts and money markets at investment brokers paying around 3.5% interest, why bother with bonds?
💵 How Long Would $1 Millon Last YOU in Retirement?
One million dollars has long been considered the magic number for retirement. But whether it is enough depends less on the balance itself and more on how much you withdraw each year.
Most retirees do not rely on savings alone. Social Security, pensions or part-time income often cover part of the bills. The real question is how long your nest egg can fill the gap.
A million bucks isn't a one-size-fits-all guarantee. Whether it lasts 20 years or literally forever doesn't depend on the balance itself — it depends on two crucial numbers you control. From the famous "4% rule" to the invisible drain of inflation, here is exactly how long a $1M nest egg will actually last based on different withdrawal rates and investment returns. Find your retirement runway in the full article.
📚 Recommended Reading
Vanguard offers two different ways to park your cash: Cash Plus and Cash Deposit. They might sound identical, but they actually serve completely different purposes—and putting your money in the wrong one could mean missing out on higher interest. Do you know the difference? Check out our breakdown before you move your money. Read more.
Most people won’t think about this until age 50. But you should set up this account if you’re at least 30 years old. Here’s what it is, how to sign up and how it can help you financially. Read more.
Sponsor
With home prices still elevated, many parents are wondering whether they should tap retirement savings to help their children buy a home. But before pulling money from an IRA or 401(k), it’s important to understand the potential tax consequences and long-term trade-offs.
💬 Ask an Advisor
✅ Poll: What’s Your Take?
Every week, we'll ask a new question to get your take on the latest financial trends and topics.
Last Week’s Poll Results
We asked: “Do you consider yourself middle class?” Here’s how you answered:
Yes - (83%)
No - (17%)
💸 Money Tip of the Week
Check your “MySocialSecurity” account: Social Security benefits are based on your highest-earning 35 years, and you need to make sure the SSA is recording your earnings correctly. Make sure you report any mistakes to the SSA as soon as possible. It will impact your benefit!
☎ Need Money Help?
The Team Clark Consumer Action Center is a free helpline that can help you navigate your money questions. Call 636-492-5275. Visit clark.com/cac for more information.
This information is provided to you as a resource for informational purposes only and is not to be viewed as investment advice or recommendations. Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal. There is no guarantee offered that investment return, yield, or performance will be achieved. This information is being presented without consideration of the investment objectives, risk tolerance, or financial circumstances of any specific investor and might not be suitable for all investors. Any company names shown are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. The views and opinions expressed are for educational purposes only as of the date of production/writing and may change without notice at any time based on numerous factors, such as market or other conditions. Always consult your own legal, tax, or investment advisor before making any investment/tax/estate/financial planning considerations or decisions.
