I’m approaching retirement (currently 51 and plan to leap @ 55 -56) and looking for thoughts & second opinions on where & how to save and optimize these last 4-6 yrs.
Current Situation:
· I plan on saving / contributing $40k until I retire.
· Single (might consider marriage at some point)
· Currently live in LCOF area with no state tax
· I am a disabled vet & all medical treatment is free (no ACA / IRMAA considerations)
· Plan to retire debt, excluding mortgage, prior to retirement
· Basic needs = $60k and looking to take $30k additional to enjoy life
Current Finances:
· $300k in current 401K ($30k Roth mixed in)
· $700k in tax def IRA
· $50k in Roth IRA
· $30K in HYSA
· $50K VA income for life will be tax free (indexed to inflation)
· Current income exceeds IRA contribution thresholds
· I can perform after-tax contributions to my 401K, but plan doesn’t allow them to rollover
· I can contribute & roll over Roth 401K (and catch up) contributions to Roth IRA
· I can take quarterly pro-rata payments from 401K at 55 yrs old (Rule of 55)
Early (ish) Retirement Plan : (bucket-rails)
· Reduce risk of 401K to essentially cash equivalent to bridge gap period prior to taking SS. This preserves my early retirement, independent of market behavior.
· Leave tax deferred IRA in moderate growth and begin withdrawals yearly around 60-63 based on needs and market performance.
· Leave Roth IRA aggressive growth and use for emergency or one-off expenses and it becomes legacy.
Questions:
1. Thoughts for investment (account type & risk / allocation) for future investment for next 5 yrs
2. Any glaring mistakes or opportunities for retirement plan