Optimizing Income and Retirement | Thai Relish | Eagles' Eats

Jade Eagles
Sep 20
2 min read

Retirement and Thai relish might seem like an odd combo, but stick with me. In this week’s episode of Eagles’ Eats, I whipped up a tangy Thai-inspired appetiser—and dished out some tips for making the most of your after-tax retirement income. Turns out, planning your retirement strategy is a lot like getting the flavour right in a good recipe. It’s all about balance.

Let’s talk about Social Security. If you’re able to delay taking your benefit until closer to age 70, you’ll get an 8% bump each year past your full retirement age. That’s a guaranteed return, and in today’s market, that’s pretty great. Plus, depending on your overall income, some or even none of your Social Security might be taxed. For couples with a provisional income under $32,000, the federal tax bill on those benefits could be zero. Not bad, right?

Then there’s the question of where your money lives. It’s not just about what you invest in, but which account holds what. Your super, brokerage account, Roth IRA—they’re all taxed differently. Think of it like choosing the right bowl for your curry. Pulling money from a Roth means no tax, while your traditional 401(k) withdrawals are taxed like regular income. Mixing withdrawals the right way can help you manage your tax bill year to year without sacrificing lifestyle.

At the end of the day, it’s about finding that sweet spot financially and emotionally. If you’re not sure where to start, chatting with a financial adviser can help you build a plan that works for you and your taste buds. Want to hear more? This week’s full episode is streaming now.

— Jade Eagles