April 2025 What's the plan to get your mailbox money
In retirement, everything changes—except the need for income.
The paychecks stop, but the expenses don’t. Groceries still need to be bought. Insurance premiums still show up. And let’s not forget about the fun stuff: travel, hobbies, grandkids, and the life you’ve been waiting to enjoy.
So, what’s the plan?
Because here’s the truth—retirement income doesn’t manage itself. And relying on the markets alone can feel like standing on shifting sand.
Enter: Mailbox Money
The goal isn’t just to have enough someday. It’s to know that each month, the income you need will show up—on time, reliably, no matter what’s going on in the news or the markets.
That’s what we mean by mailbox money. Income that feels as steady as the paycheck you once earned.
And no, it doesn’t just happen by hoping your investments perform. It takes planning—real planning.
What to Think About
Start with the basics:
- How much income do you need—really?
Not just to get by, but to live the life you want. - What income sources are guaranteed?
Think Social Security, pensions, annuities. - Where’s the gap?
If you’re short, how will you fill it? Market withdrawals? Rental income? Something else? - How do you make it tax-efficient?
Not all income is taxed the same. Smart withdrawal strategies can stretch your savings further.
Markets Will Fluctuate—Your Plan Shouldn’t
Let’s be honest: you’ve worked too hard to have your retirement derailed by a bad quarter on Wall Street.
The plan shouldn’t depend on perfect timing or high returns. It should give you confidence to live your life regardless of what the market is doing. That’s the power of a well-structured income strategy—it creates space to breathe, to enjoy, and to help bring a sense of calm.
You’re Not Just Managing Assets—You’re Managing Cash Flow
Accumulation was the first chapter. This one’s about distribution.
- What’s coming in?
- What’s going out?
- How do you keep the flow consistent and sustainable for the long haul?
Without a plan, retirement income is a puzzle with too many moving pieces. With a plan, it’s a system that works in the background—so you can focus on your life, not your account balances.
Bottom Line
The market doesn’t know your grocery list, your travel plans, or your birthday. But your income plan should.
If you’re asking, “What’s the plan?”—you’re already on the right track.
Because confidence in retirement doesn’t come from more returns.
It comes from the feeling of knowing that your mailbox money will keep arriving—rain or shine.
Any opinions are those of Vivian Investment Partners and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Raymond James and its advisors do not offer tax or legal advice. You should discuss any tax or legal matters with the appropriate professional. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. Prior to making an investment decision, please consult with your financial advisor about your individual situation.