Early Retirement Roadmap

How I Retired at 55: Do These 5 Things

I retired early at 55. In this episode I show exactly how to retire early with 5 proven keys to early retirement: the mindset that powers compounding, how to raise your savings rate, the income multiplier, simple investing with low-cost index funds, and retirement planning that avoids sequence-of-returns risk.
If you want to retire early—or just build a larger retirement nest egg—this step-by-step guide covers the Rule of 72, defense vs. offense budgeting, lifestyle-creep control, rental real estate and REITs, cash reserves, and the 4% rule vs. updated safe withdrawal rates and more! These early retirement strategies, investing basics, and financial independence tactics will help you retire early, invest smarter, and create reliable retirement income.
What you’ll learn:• Key #1: Mindset and the power of compounding (Rule of 72)• Key #2: Defense + offense budgeting to boost your savings rate• Key #3: The income multiplier—raises, promotions, and skill stacking• Key #4: How to invest for retirement (index funds, value funds, real estate, REITs. etc)• Key #5: Know your number (4% rule, Bengen update, guardrails, cash buffer)
🔗Click here for my free checklist 12 Must – Do Steps to Retire Sooner and Smarter. 
🔗 Click here for the free MAGI Calculator Template (Microsoft Excel download). Use it to estimate your MAGI for ACA plans.
 
❤️ Depending on the platform you're listening on, please Like, Subscribe, Follow & Share, and leave a positive review if you found this episode helpful!
💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.
👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to go on the paid plan after a free 2-week trial, or you can remain on the free plan, but I highly recommend the paid plan to use all its robust features! I personally use it for my retirement planning and love it! This link doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps to support the content I create. Thank you!
📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: [Buy me a coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com)
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.
 

ACA MAGI: How to Calculate & Manage It for Big Savings!

ACA MAGI explained: how to calculate and manage Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) for Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies—step-by-step, with a free MAGI calculator to lower premiums and maximize premium tax credits/subsidies.
In this episode, we calculate ACA MAGI step-by-step using a real early-retiree scenario and show you how to keep ACA premiums low by hitting your MAGI “sweet spot.”
You’ll learn:• What counts in MAGI vs. what doesn’t.• How to add back non-taxable Social Security benefits, tax-exempt interest, and excluded foreign income.• How Roth conversions, IRA withdrawals, dividends, interest, and capital gains flow into AGI and then ACA MAGI.• Form 8962 (reconciling with 1095-A) essentials.• How to plan for the 2026 subsidy cliff as the 400% FPL cap returns.
🔗 Click here for the free MAGI Calculator Template (Microsoft Excel download). Use it to estimate your MAGI for ACA plans.
📊 Resources mentioned in this episode:
 More information on Traditional IRA contribution limits and the ability to deduct them: Traditional IRA Contribution Limits for 2025 - NerdWallet
IRS Publication 501: 2024 Publication 501
2025 FPL Levels based on household size: detailed-guidelines-2025.pdf
Click here for the ACA Cost Estimator
🎧 Podcast episodes mentioned: 
This podcast episode where I talk about about using the ACA cost estimator and saw amazing results, including cost sharing reductions by controlling MAGI, titled: How Early Retirees Can Pay WAY Less for Health Insurance!
This podcast episode on how a taxable brokerage account can be a superhero in reducing MAGI for ACA, titled: The $12,900 Health Insurance Loophole for Early Retirees!
This podcast episode that goes into detail about the enhanced ACA subsidies likely expiring at the end of 2025, and the 400%FPL cliff returning in 2026, titled: Will ACA Subsidies Disappear After 2025? What You NEED to Know!
❤️ Depending on the platform you're listening on, please Like, Subscribe, Follow & Share, and leave a positive review if you found this episode helpful!
💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.
👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to go on the paid plan after a free 2-week trial, or you can remain on the free plan, but I highly recommend the paid plan to use all its robust features! I personally use it for my retirement planning and love it! This link doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps to support the content I create. Thank you!
📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: [Buy me a coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com)
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.
 
 

Roth Conversions or ACA Subsidies? The Early Retirement Dilemma No One Talks About

Roth conversions vs. ACA subsidies is the early retirement dilemma no one talks about. If you’re planning for early retirement, you need to know how Roth IRA conversions can raise your MAGI and cost you ACA health insurance subsidies before Medicare. In this episode, I’ll break down the trade-off, show you real examples, and share strategies to balance Roth conversions and Affordable Care Act subsidies.
Retiring before 65 means health insurance is one of your biggest expenses. Should you save thousands on ACA subsidies today, or avoid massive RMD taxes later with Roth conversions? I’ll cover how subsidies work, how Roth accounts impact your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI), and what happens if enhanced subsidies expire after 2025.
What you’ll learn:• Why Roth conversions are so popular in retirement planning• How ACA subsidies are calculated and why MAGI matters• Real-world examples of couples facing this Roth vs. ACA trade-off• Strategies like partial Roth conversions to protect subsidies• What changes when enhanced ACA subsidies end in 2026
This is one of the most important — and overlooked — retirement planning dilemmas. Listen to see if protecting ACA subsidies or prioritizing Roth conversions is smarter for your retirement strategy.
🎧 Listen to the following episodes mentioned in this podcast for more info that you'll find as show episodes: 
- Health Insurance Options for Early Retirement: What You NEED to Know
- How Early Retirees Can Pay WAY Less for Health Insurance!
🎧 And listen to these other episodes about health insurance in early retirement that are full of great information you can't miss!:
 - The $12,900 Health Insurance Loophole for Early Retirees!
-  Will ACA Subsidies Disappear After 2025? What You NEED to Know!
 
📊 Here is the link to the ACA cost estimator tool mentioned : https://www.healthcare.gov/see-plans/#/
📊2025 Federal Poverty Level Guidelines: https://aspe.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/documents/dd73d4f00d8a819d10b2fdb70d254f7b/detailed-guidelines-2025.pdf
❤️ Depending on the platform you're listening on, please Like, Subscribe, Follow & Share, and leave a positive review if you found this episode helpful!
💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.
👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to go on the paid plan after a free 2-week trial, or you can remain on the free plan, but I highly recommend the paid plan to use all its robust features! I personally use it for my retirement planning and love it! This link doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps to support the content I create. Thank you!
📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: [Buy me a coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com)
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.
#RothIRA #ACASubsidies #EarlyRetirement
 
 

5 Things I Wish I Knew BEFORE Retiring Early at 55

Early retirement at 55 comes with financial and lifestyle challenges most people don’t expect. In this video, I share 5 things I wish I knew before retiring early, including lessons on retirement planning, healthcare costs, spending habits, and mindset shifts that can make or break your retirement years.
Retiring early isn’t just about saving enough money — it’s about knowing how to spend wisely, manage healthcare, and protect your peace of mind. If you’re planning for early retirement (or thinking about retiring at 55 like I did), these insights will help you avoid regrets and set realistic expectations for the journey ahead.
What you’ll learn in this video:• Why retiring early feels different than expected• The financial and emotional lessons I wish I knew before retiring• How healthcare, spending habits, and mindset can shape your retirement• Tips for avoiding common regrets in early retirement
❤️ Depending on the platform you're listening on, please Like, Subscribe, Follow & Share, and leave a positive review if you found this episode helpful!
💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.
👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to go on the paid plan after a free 2-week trial, or you can remain on the free plan, but I highly recommend the paid plan to use all its robust features! I personally use it for my retirement planning and love it! This link doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps to support the content I create. Thank you!
📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: [Buy me a coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com)
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.
#retiringearly #earlyretirement #retirementplanning

The Biggest Retirement Mistake? Working Past 60

Working past 60 might seem smart, but it could be the biggest retirement mistake you make. In this video, we reveal the hidden costs of working past 60 — from lost health years to missed financial opportunities — and how to find your perfect retirement timing.
You’ll learn why the payoff for working longer can shrink after age 60, how taxes and Medicare premiums eat into those extra earnings, and why your healthiest years may be slipping away. Plus, I’ll share real-life examples, surprising data, and a practical framework for deciding when it’s truly time to retire.
❤️ Depending on the platform you're listening on, please Like, Subscribe, Follow & Share, and leave a positive review if you found this episode helpful!
Resources Mentioned:
📊 New York Life Study: https://time.com/3821757/this-is-the-retirement-regret-nobody-talks-about/
💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.
👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to go on the paid plan after a free 2-week trial, or you can remain on the free plan, but I highly recommend the paid plan to use all its robust features! I personally use it for my retirement planning and love it! This link doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps to support the content I create. Thank you!
📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: [Buy me a coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com)
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.
#WorkingPast60 #RetirementPlanning #EarlyRetirement

One Big Beautiful Bill: 2025 Retirement Tax Shake-Up for Retirees & Future Retirees

Wondering how the 2025 tax law changes affect your retirement strategy? This video breaks down the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a landmark tax bill signed into law by President Trump — and its HUGE implications for retirees, early retirees, and anyone planning for financial independence.
📌 Here’s what you’ll learn:
🏦 2025 retirement tax changes that lock in the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) permanently
💰 Extended income tax brackets, standard deduction increases, and the brand-new senior tax deduction
🧾 Detailed breakdown of Child Tax Credit enhancements, AMT exemption, SALT cap increase, and capital gains tax stability
🚗 New 2025-2028 deductions for auto loan interest, tip income, and overtime pay
🏥 What the bill didn’t do: the ACA subsidy cliff and how it could affect early retirees in 2026
💼 How to optimize Roth conversions, HSA contributions, and long-term retirement planning
This is the 2025 retirement tax update you can’t afford to miss — I did all the research so you don’t have to! If you’re nearing retirement or in early retirement, these tax changes for retirees in 2025 could seriously impact your strategy. Make smarter money moves with clarity and confidence. ✅
❤️ Depending on the platform you're listening on, please Like, Subscribe, Follow & Share, and leave a positive review if you found this episode helpful!
💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.
👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to go on the paid plan after a free 2-week trial, or you can remain on the free plan, but I highly recommend the paid plan to use all its robust features! I personally use it for my retirement planning and love it! This link doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps to support the content I create. Thank you!
📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: [Buy me a coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com)
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.
#RetirementTaxChanges #2025TaxUpdate  #EarlyRetirementPlanning, #SeniorTaxDeduction #OneBigBeautifulBill

How to Tap Your IRA or 401(k) Early —NO IRS PENALTY! | Rule 72(t) Explained

Want early access to your 401(k) or IRA before age 59½ without getting slammed by the IRS 10% penalty?
In this episode, I’ll walk you through the IRS Rule 72(t)—a little-known but completely legal loophole that allows penalty-free early withdrawals through SEPP (Substantially Equal Periodic Payments). This strategy could unlock your early retirement plans—but beware, the rules are strict and the risks are serious.
✅ We’ll cover:
How IRS Rule 72(t) works with IRAs and 401(k)s
Eligibility requirements and account types
How long you must commit to fixed withdrawals
Major risks including sequence-of-returns and tax traps
When Rule 72(t) makes sense—and when it absolutely doesn’t
If you're aiming for early retirement and don’t qualify for the Rule of 55 or have limited brokerage/Roth options, Rule 72(t) could be your lifeline. But it can also backfire if you’re not careful.
⚠️ Don’t attempt this without consulting a tax pro or retirement planner—this is one of the most complex strategies out there.
🎁 Download my free guide: 12 Must-Do Steps to Retire Sooner and Smarter. Whether you're just getting started or refining your plan, this free guide will help you take the next step! It's a practical, easy-to-follow guide that walks you through everything from calculating your FIRE number to building a tax-efficient withdrawal strategy.👉 Get your free checklist here: https://payhip.com/b/IBj3q 
I created this to help others like you pursue financial independence and retire on your own terms and as a thank you to my viewers. Whether you are years away or almost ready, this checklist will help you retire smarter and sooner and is the perfect companion to everything I share on this podcast.
❤️ Depending on the platform you're listening on, please Like, Subscribe, Follow & Share, and leave a positive review if you found this episode helpful!
💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.
👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to go on the paid plan after a free 2-week trial, or you can remain on the free plan, but I highly recommend the paid plan to use all its robust features! I personally use it for my retirement planning and love it! This link doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps to support the content I create. Thank you!
📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: [Buy me a coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com)
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.
 
#EarlyRetirement #401kWithdrawal #IRSRule72t #RetirementPlanning #FinancialFreedom

Countdown to Retirement: Are You Really Ready to Take the Leap?

Are you really ready for retirement? As your retirement countdown begins, I reveal the critical steps you must take to ensure you're fully prepared to retire confidently and securely. From defining your retirement vision to setting a realistic retirement age, I cover everything you need to know for effective retirement planning.
In this retirement planning video, you’ll discover:
How to pick the ideal retirement age (55, 59½, or 62) to maximize your retirement savings and avoid penalties.
Essential budgeting strategies for retirement, including accurately planning for healthcare expenses before Medicare.
Proven methods to calculate your FIRE number, going beyond the standard 4% rule for early retirement success.
Powerful risk-management techniques to protect your nest egg from sequence of returns risk and market volatility.
Crucial insights about when to claim Social Security, and how avoiding a common trap could save you thousands.
Get started with my free checklist, "12 Must-Do Steps to Retire Sooner and Smarter," to ensure you don't miss a thing as you prepare to retire:👉 https://payhip.com/b/IBj3q
Stress-test your retirement plan using the highly recommended retirement planning software (Boldin) mentioned in the video: Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's a simple way to support this podcast and the content I create. Thank you!
📺 When you're not on the go, watch the Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information. 
#CountdownToRetirement #RetirementPlanning #EarlyRetirement #RetirementChecklist #SocialSecurityTips

6 Reasons to Retire AS SOON AS YOU CAN!

Thinking about early retirement? Here are 6 powerful reasons to retire early—covering retirement planning, financial freedom, health, and why waiting longer could cost more than money.
Whether you're close to retiring or just exploring the idea, these insights might change how you think about work, money, and time. Inspired by the popular topic “5 reasons to retire early,” this episode takes it further—showing why waiting even one more year could cost you more than just money.
We’ll explore the opportunity cost of continued work, how your health and freedom are affected, and why arbitrary retirement goals may be holding you back from the financial independence you’ve already earned. I retired early at 55, and in this episode, I’ll share the reasons that finally made me take the leap—and how it’s changed my life, and that you should consider too.
👉 If you’re ready to rethink your retirement timeline, this video is for you.
 ❤️ Depending on the platform you're listening on, please Like, Subscribe, Follow & Share, and leave a positive review if you found this episode helpful!
💼 My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool, and that I mentioned in this episode! If you’re serious about planning for retirement, you’ve got to check out Boldin. It’s a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future—whether you’re a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.
👉 Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I earn a small commission if you decide to go on the paid plan after a free 2-week trial, or you can remain on the free plan, but I highly recommend the paid plan to use all its robust features! I personally use it for my retirement planning and love it! This link doesn’t cost you anything extra and helps to support the content I create. Thank you!
✅ FREE Early Retirement Planning ChecklistWhether you're just getting started or refining your plan, this free guide will help you take the next step! Download my free 12-step early retirement planning checklist—a practical, easy-to-follow guide that walks you through everything from calculating your FIRE number to building a tax-efficient withdrawal strategy.
👉 Get your free checklist here: https://payhip.com/b/IBj3q
I created this to help others like you pursue financial independence and retire on your own terms and as a thank you to my viewers. Whether you are years away or almost ready, this checklist will help you retire smarter and sooner and is the perfect companion to everything I share on this podcast.
📺 When you're not on the go, check out my Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: [Buy me a coffee](https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com)
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information.
#earlyretirement #retireearly #financialfreedom #retirementplanning #retirement

The Top 10 Retirement Myths That Could Cost YOU Thousands!

Think you need $1 million to retire? That Medicare covers everything? Or that your expenses will drop after you stop working?
In this episode of the Early Retirement Roadmap Podcast, I bust the top 10 retirement myths—with real data and practical advice. These are the beliefs that could seriously derail your plans and cost you thousands if you fall for them.
We’ll cover myths about:
Retirement savings goals
Taxes in retirement
Social Security and Medicare
Downsizing and expenses
Longevity and lifestyle in retirement...and much more.
I retired at 55 and have seen firsthand how common these myths are—and how dangerous they can be. Listen now to plan smarter and retire with confidence.
 
Resources Mentioned: 
📊 Myth #10: Federal Reserve Study reports 5% of households have $1 Million Saved and under 2% have 2 million saved, and median savings: https://www.retirementliving.com/do-you-really-need-1-million-to-retire
📊Myth #9 SmartAssett.com – Is Social Security Income Taxable?: https://smartasset.com/retirement/is-social-security-income-taxable
📊Myth #8: Schroder’s Retirement Study: https://www.schroders.com/en-us/us/institutional/media-center/schroders-retirement-study-finds-inflation-taking-toll-on-retirees/
📊Myth #8 Retirement Researcher, Retirement Spending Smile: https://retirementresearcher.com/retirement-spending-smile/
📊Myth #7: National Council on Aging (NCOA), Social Security Only Replaces 37% of earnings, on average, see: https://www.ncoa.org/article/debunking-the-top-6-financial-myths-about-retirement/ 📊Myth #7: Kiplinger, Average Social Security Benefits in 2025, see: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/social-security/how-to-get-the-maximum-social-security-check
📊Myth #7: The Center On Budget and Policy Priorities, average social security income: https://www.cbpp.org/research/social-security/top-ten-facts-about-social-security
📊Myth #6: Kiplinger, regarding social security running out of money: https://www.kiplinger.com/retirement/social-security/when-will-social-security-and-medicare-trust-funds-run-out-of-money
📊 Myth #5: Fidelity, 2023 Estimates of Healthcare Costs Medicare Parts A & B Don’t Cover: https://newsroom.fidelity.com/pressreleases/fidelity--releases-2023-retiree-health-care-cost-estimate--for-the-first-time-in-nearly-a-decade--re/s/b826bf3a-29dc-477c-ad65-3ede88606d1c
📊Myth #4: National Council on Aging – 64 percent of retiree retired sooner than expected, see: https://www.ncoa.org/article/debunking-the-top-6-financial-myths-about-retirement/
📊Myth #3: Merrill Lynch and Age Wave Study – Many retirees don’t downsize as reported by CNBC: https://www.cnbc.com/2021/04/13/op-ed-more-boomers-are-choosing-to-upsize-their-homes-in-retirement.html
📊Myth #2: 1 out of 3 65-year-olds will live until at least age 90 – see: https://www.ncoa.org/article/debunking-the-top-6-financial-myths-about-retirement/
📊Myth #1, People are Happier in Retirement, and not bored, see: https://www.massmutual.com/global/media/shared/doc/2024_massmutual_retirement_happiness_study.pdf
 
❤️ Like, Subscribe, Follow, Share and leave a review if this helped!
💼My Favorite Retirement Planning Tool. If you're serious about planning for early retirement, you've got to check out Boldin.  It's a powerful tool that helps you map out your financial future -- whether you're a DIY planner or just want to stress-test your retirement strategy.  I personally use it and highly recommend!  Try Boldin here: https://go.boldin.com/earlyretirementroadmap
Disclosure: This is an affiliate link, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It's a simple way to support this podcast and the content I create. Thank you!
✅ FREE Early Retirement Planning ChecklistWhether you're just getting started or refining your plan, this free guide will help you take the next step! Download my free 12-step early retirement planning checklist—a practical, easy-to-follow guide that walks you through everything from calculating your FIRE number to building a tax-efficient withdrawal strategy.👉 Get your free checklist here: https://payhip.com/b/IBj3qI created this to help others like you pursue financial independence and retire on your own terms and as a thank you to my viewers. Whether you are years away or almost ready, this checklist will help you retire smarter and sooner and is the perfect companion to everything I share on this podcast.
📺 When you're not on the go, watch the Early Retirement Roadmap YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@EarlyRetirementRoadmap?sub_confirmation=1
🌐 Visit my website for all my media, including my blog or to contact me about sponsorship or other business opportunities: https://mikeupland.com/
☕ Support: Buy me a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/mikeupland.com
 
DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for educational purposes only and reflects my personal experience and research. It is not financial, tax, legal, or investment advice. Always consult with qualified professionals before making major retirement or financial decisions. I am not responsible for any loss or damages resulting from reliance on this information. 
 
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