Retirement Bucket

By Nate Becker, Research & Client Care Specialist on Monday, August 11th 2025

 

We had to film the video for this blog outside today because things got a little messy. Retirement’s kind of like that too… if it’s not planned right, it can get messy.


My kids helped me over the weekend to empty a gallon ice cream pail. We’re using it today to talk about your retirement bucket.


Most people think that once the bucket is full, you’re good to go. But here’s the problem—every bucket has its holes. Let’s say each hole is a 3% drain on your retirement. Some people lose more, some less. But let’s just say, these all add up -

Inflation. Most people guess future inflation will be 3% each year. That means that your money will buy less…and that drain? It’s constant.
Tech Change. Still got a landline? Still using VHS tapes? Of course not. We all want the newest technology—even if it hasn’t been invented yet. That's another 3% .

Planned Obsolescence. Also known as: your stuff breaking. Washers, dryers, water heaters, the roof, the car—Eventually… it all goes kaput. That’s another 3%

Future Taxes. Will property taxes go down, stay the same, or go up in the future? Our clients overwhelmingly say, “They’re going to go up!” Just take a look at your property taxes from 10 years ago vs today... That’s another 3%.

Rising Standard of Living. Retirement isn’t just about “getting by”—you’ll want to enjoy it! But here’s the kicker: services go up in price faster than stuff. Think: medical costs, lawn care, snow shoveling—Things you might not want (or be able) to do later in life.


Add that up—3% here, 3% there—that’s a potential 15% leak each year. That’s not just a drip. That’s a downpour.

 

Remember that old childhood song…
?“There’s a hole in my bucket, dear Liza, dear Liza” ?  

 

Maybe it’s time to look at your retirement to make sure there are no holes in your bucket. At Financialoscopy®, we help patch those holes—before it’s too late. Let’s build a plan together. Schedule your Financialoscopy® Today.

 


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