Planning for retirement isn’t just about hitting a magic number—it’s about knowing what to do with it. For couples with a $2 million portfolio, like David and Patti, the key to a successful retirement isn’t just in the size of their nest egg, but in having a strategy that ties together income, taxes, and spending. In this post, we’ll walk through how a coordinated retirement plan transformed their uncertainty into confidence—and how you can do the same.

Resources:

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  • 9 Reasons NOT to Convert to a Roth in Retirement
    

    Most People Don’t Have a Real Plan

    Many people approach retirement with spreadsheets full of projections—but that’s not a financial strategy. David and Patti had done all the right things: they lived within their means, built a solid nest egg, and stayed disciplined. But even with a $2.7 million investment portfolio, they were unsure about one critical question: Are we actually ready to retire next year?

    They needed more than numbers—they needed a real retirement plan for a $2M portfolio that could guide their next chapter.

    Meet David and Patti

    David, 63, and Patti, 62, live in Ohio. Both plan to retire next year. David earns $124,000, and Patti brings in $93,000 annually. They’ve consistently maxed out their 401(k) plans, including catch-up contributions of $34,750 each.

    With their mortgage recently paid off, their home—valued at around $600,000—is now debt-free, freeing up even more savings potential. Their total investments sit just below $2.7 million. But like many near-retirees, they were missing a coordinated strategy that connects their income, taxes, and lifestyle goals. A retirement plan for a $2M portfolio helped give them the clarity they needed.

    Turning Assets Into a Real Strategy

    We began by designing a comprehensive retirement plan for their $2M portfolio—one focused on sustainability and peace of mind.

    First, we helped them determine exactly how much they could spend each year without putting their long-term financial security at risk. Then we tackled taxes. Without a plan, their future RMDs (Required Minimum Distributions) and Social Security income would likely push them into higher tax brackets.

    Through tax-efficient withdrawal sequencing and strategic Roth conversions, we reduced their lifetime tax burden and gave them more control over their income in retirement.

    The Benefits of Real Planning

    The success of David and Patti’s retirement plan for a $2M portfolio didn’t hinge solely on their investment balance. The real advantage came from aligning their assets with a clear strategy that accounted for volatility, taxes, and timing.

    With their customized plan, they now have:

    • A spending strategy based on real goals and market conditions

    • A multi-year tax strategy to reduce unnecessary liabilities

    • Confidence to retire in uncertain markets

    Is Your Retirement Plan Really a Plan?

    David and Patti’s story highlights a common problem: having over $2 million saved doesn’t guarantee peace of mind. Even a sizable portfolio needs structure and foresight.

    If you’ve built your nest egg but still feel uncertain, ask yourself: do you have a true retirement plan for a $2M portfolio, or just a collection of accounts?

    A strong retirement plan offers clarity, not just numbers.

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This does not constitute an investment recommendation. Investing involves risk. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Consult your financial advisor for what is appropriate for you. Disclosures: https://onedegreeadvisors.com/solutions/#disclosures