Here's How Your Spending Will Change Throughout Retirement (The Retirement Smile)

Feeling like “flat” retirement spending plans don’t match real life? You’re not imagining it. Spending typically follows a retirement smile: higher in the early “go-go” years, lower in the “slow-go” years, then rising again later with healthcare needs. In this episode, Ari Taublieb, CFP®, shows how acknowledging that curve can unlock more life early on—without losing long-term security.

Using illustrative scenarios (not recommendations), see how a $2,000,000 portfolio might support higher spending in active years (e.g., ~$110k), step down mid-retirement (e.g., ~$85k), and adjust later (e.g., ~$95k–$105k). A $1,000,000 portfolio might follow a similar pattern (e.g., ~$50k → ~$35k → ~$45k–$50k). The point isn’t precision, it’s aligning your plan with how people actually live.

You’ll learn how to frame spending guardrails, set review checkpoints, and coordinate income sources so your plan adapts as health, markets, and goals change. Ready to stress-test your numbers against reality and retire with more confidence?

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Advisory services are offered through Root Financial Partners, LLC, an SEC-registered investment adviser. This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered personalized investment, tax, or legal advice. Viewing this content does not create an advisory relationship. We do not provide tax preparation or legal services. Always consult an investment, tax or legal professional regarding your specific situation.

The strategies, case studies, and examples discussed may not be suitable for everyone. They are hypothetical and for illustrative and educational purposes only. They do not reflect actual client results and are not guarantees of future performance. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal.

Comments reflect the views of individual users and do not necessarily represent the views of Root Financial. They are not verified, may not be accurate, and should not be considered testimonials or endorsements

Participation in the Retirement Planning Academy or Early Retirement Academy does not create an advisory relationship with Root Financial. These programs are educational in nature and are not a substitute for personalized financial advice. Advisory services are offered only under a written agreement with Root Financial.

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Ari Taublieb, CFP ®, MBA  is the Chief Growth Officer of Root Financial Partners and a Fiduciary Financial Planner specializing in helping clients retire early with confidence.