A Richer Retirement: Supercharging the 4% Rule to Spend More and Enjoy More by William P. Bengen offers retirees and those nearing retirement a clear, practical framework for getting the most out of their savings without the looming fear of running out of money. Bengen, an entrepreneur, researcher, and financial planner best known for originating the famous “4% rule,” expands on his earlier work by providing a comprehensive, modernized roadmap for retirement withdrawals that balances enjoyment with long-term security. His message is direct: you can spend confidently in retirement if you approach withdrawals with the right plan, discipline, and awareness of economic shifts. The book lays out the eight key elements that form the backbone of a sound withdrawal strategy. These elements take into account not just market performance but also inflation, lifestyle needs, and the unique circumstances of each retiree. Bengen carefully explains how to calculate a low-risk maximum withdrawal rate, one that allows for a comfortable lifestyle without prematurely depleting savings. Importantly, he emphasizes that retirement isn’t static. Conditions change—markets rise and fall, personal needs shift—and withdrawal plans must adapt alongside them. To that end, Bengen provides practical techniques for adjusting withdrawals as retirement unfolds, ensuring a balance between enjoying money now and preserving it for the future. Beyond theory, Bengen equips readers with actionable tools. A detailed template for a personalized withdrawal plan helps retirees assess whether they’re overspending or underspending, and more importantly, guides them on how to correct course. By following these steps, retirees can not only protect their financial future but also maximize the enjoyment of the present, spending confidently on what truly matters without fear of scarcity. Comprehensive yet approachable, A Richer Retirement is written for informed laypeople—those who want a strong grasp of their retirement finances without being overwhelmed by jargon. At the same time, it serves as a valuable resource for financial professionals guiding clients through these decisions. With a blend of research-backed insights and practical strategies, Bengen empowers readers to move past anxiety and toward a retirement that is both sustainable and deeply fulfilling.
