The Endgame of Retirement

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Introduction: The Endgame of Retirement

Retirement is no longer just about stashing away every penny until the end of life. For a growing number of retirees, it’s about maximizing experiences, not inheritance. Inspired by the "Die With Zero" philosophy, this modern retirement plan flips the script: instead of hoarding assets to pass on, you spend strategically—to enjoy life while you can. This blog explores a financial roadmap that begins with security and ends with total fulfillment, using a strategy designed to deplete your savings responsibly by your mid-to-late 80s.

Through four dynamic phases—from Social Security activation to Roth IRA drawdowns, then switching to a 401(k) with a "raise," and finally, an elegant glide path to zero—we’ll unpack how to live a rich life without leaving anything on the table.

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Phase 1: Laying the Groundwork – Social Security and Compounding

The journey begins in your late 50s, where preparation is key. Let’s assume you’re 57 and your spouse is already drawing Social Security. You, however, are still building.

During this 2.5-year window, you’re not drawing from retirement savings just yet. Instead, your Roth IRA and 401(k) are compounding. With average market returns of 8% annually, your money is quietly working harder than you are.

Meanwhile, your spouse’s Social Security adds steady, dependable income to your household. This phase is about patience and planning. The Roth IRA sits untouched, enjoying tax-free growth, while the 401(k) continues to swell in value. You’re setting the stage for financial choreography.

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Phase 2: Spending the Roth IRA with Intention

From age 59.5 to 65, it’s showtime for the Roth IRA. During these 5.5 years, you draw down the entire balance—not recklessly, but with purpose.

You calculate monthly withdrawals that will bring your Roth to zero just as you turn 65. Why? Because Roth money is tax-free, making it the most efficient source to tap while keeping your tax bracket low. At the same time, your spouse’s Social Security remains a consistent income stream.

This phase feels liberating. You’re drawing around $7,500 per month, enabling you to travel, upgrade your lifestyle, and check off bucket list items—all while preserving your 401(k) for the next act.

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Phase 3: Giving Yourself a Raise with the 401(k)

At age 65, you pivot. The Roth is gone, but your 401(k) is now your primary fuel. Instead of taking the typical 4% draw, you boost your withdrawals to include an extra $3,000 per month.

Why? Because this is your peak time for adventure and autonomy. You’re healthy, curious, and mobile. So you raise your retirement salary—not just to survive, but to thrive.

For two years, your monthly income climbs to $13,000, funded by 401(k) withdrawals and your spouse’s ongoing Social Security. The result? A luxury phase without guilt. You're spending money at the right time: when you can enjoy it most.

Your 401(k) continues to grow despite withdrawals, thanks to market returns. But the big picture remains: you're orchestrating a strategic spend-down.

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Phase 4: Living Fully with Nothing Left Behind

By age 67, you claim your own Social Security, and reduce 401(k) withdrawals to match your "die with zero" glide path. With 21 years ahead until age 88, you calculate a sustainable draw that brings your balance precisely to zero.

Your total monthly income in this final phase sits around $12,500. You’re still traveling. Still seeing grandkids. Still saying "yes" to life.