Retirement PlanningComprehensive Retirement Planning for High-Income Professionals
SWE90 provides personalized retirement planning designed for high-income professionals who want to maintain their lifestyle in retirement. Our comprehensive approach addresses income replacement, tax optimization, healthcare costs, and legacy planning.
Last Updated: March 2026 | Written by Brett R. Henderson, CIMA®, CPFA®, CRPS®, CEPA®, AIF®, CLU®, BFA™
What is retirement planning?
Retirement planning is the process of identifying retirement income goals and developing strategies to help work toward them. It typically includes analyzing current finances, projecting future needs, and helping implement savings and investment plans that consider tax efficiency and growth potential. Outcomes depend on individual circumstances and market conditions.
"The biggest retirement planning mistake I see is underestimating healthcare costs. The average couple retiring at 65 will spend over $315,000 on healthcare in retirement, and that doesn't include long-term care. We build these real numbers into every plan."
Brett R. Henderson, CIMA, CPFA, CRPS
Fiduciary Financial Advisor, SWE90, On retirement planning blind spots
Retirement Planning by the Numbers
$315K+
Avg. healthcare costs for retired couple
Fidelity 2024
77%
More monthly income by delaying SS to 70
SSA
25x
Annual expenses, common retirement target
The 4% Rule
45%
Americans behind on retirement savings
Fed Survey 2024
What You Get
- Customized retirement income projections
- Social Security optimization strategies
- Tax-efficient withdrawal planning
- Healthcare cost planning and Medicare guidance
- Estate planning coordination
- Regular plan reviews and adjustments
Our Process
How Much Do You Need to Retire?
Use The 90 Rule Calculator to see if you're on track to maintain 90% of your income in retirement.
Retirement Planning: Key Takeaways
- 1.Start retirement planning at least 15 years before your target date for maximum flexibility.
- 2.Optimizing Social Security claiming timing can meaningfully change lifetime benefits; the exact amount depends on individual longevity, earnings history, and household claiming order. (See ssa.gov benefit calculators for personalized estimates.)
- 3.Healthcare is typically among the largest categories of retirement spending alongside housing.
- 4.A qualified fiduciary advisor may add value through tax optimization and behavioral coaching; estimates vary by study and individual circumstances (see Vanguard "Advisor's Alpha" 2024 white paper at vanguard.com for one published estimate).
Retirement Withdrawal Strategies Compared
| Strategy | Annual Withdrawal | Best For | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4% Rule (Fixed) | 4% of initial balance, adjusted for inflation | Simple planning, predictable income | Moderate |
| Dynamic Withdrawal | 3-5% adjusted to market conditions | Flexible retirees, larger portfolios | Lower |
| Bucket Strategy | From short-term bucket (1-2 yrs cash) | Risk-averse retirees, market volatility | Lower |
| Guardrails (Guyton-Klinger) | 4-6% with ceiling/floor rules | Retirees comfortable with variable income | Moderate |
Source: Journal of Financial Planning, Bengen Study, Guyton-Klinger Research. Data as of 2024.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do I need to retire comfortably?
The answer depends on your desired lifestyle, location, healthcare needs, and longevity expectations. A common starting point is 25 times your annual expenses. For high-income professionals accustomed to a $200,000+ lifestyle, the number can be $5 million or more. SWE90 uses advanced modeling to calculate your specific number.
Should I take Social Security at 62, 67, or 70?
This decision can mean hundreds of thousands of dollars over your lifetime. Taking at 62 gives you smaller payments for longer; waiting until 70 maximizes monthly benefits (about 77% more than at 62). The optimal choice depends on your health, other income sources, and spouse's benefits.
What is the 4% rule and does it still work?
The 4% rule suggests withdrawing 4% of your portfolio in year one of retirement, then adjusting for inflation annually. However, with longer life expectancies and lower expected returns, many advisors now recommend 3.5% or dynamic withdrawal strategies. We use Monte Carlo simulations to determine your optimal rate.
What is a retirement income bucket strategy?
The bucket strategy segments your retirement savings into three buckets: short-term (1-2 years cash), medium-term (3-7 years bonds), and long-term (8+ years stocks). This helps retirees avoid selling stocks during downturns and provides psychological comfort during market volatility.
How do I catch up on retirement savings in my 50s?
Your 50s are often peak earning years with catch-up contribution opportunities. Maximize 401(k) contributions ($30,500 for 50+), fund IRAs ($8,000 limit), consider backdoor Roth conversions, and explore defined benefit plans if self-employed.
Sources & References
Data from the following authoritative sources is referenced on this page. According to these research organizations and government agencies:
- 1.Source: Fidelity Retiree Health Care Cost Estimate (2024); Average couple healthcare costs in retirement: $315,000+
- 2.Source: Social Security Administration (SSA) (2024); Benefit increase of 77% by delaying from age 62 to 70
- 3.Source: Federal Reserve Survey of Consumer Finances (2024); 45% of Americans behind on retirement savings
- 4.Source: Bengen Study (The 4% Rule) (1994, updated 2024); 25x annual expenses as retirement savings target
Ready to Get Started with Retirement Planning?
Schedule a consultation to discuss how we can help you achieve your goals.
Schedule ConsultationImportant Disclosure: All investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. The information provided is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as personalized investment advice. Not FDIC Insured. No Bank Guarantee. May Lose Value. Please consult with a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.