Guide section
Mistakes people make early
Using unrealistic returns, underestimating spending, and skipping cash buffers can all create a plan that looks stronger than it is.
Another common mistake is failing to revisit the assumptions after major life changes.
Guide section
Mistakes people make near retirement
Many households focus only on the portfolio number and not enough on income sequencing, taxes, or flexibility.
Those details often matter most right before withdrawals begin.
Bottom line
Where this guide should leave you
Retirement planning improves less from perfect forecasting than from reducing fragile assumptions and building in margin.
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