Fifth of consumers trying to spend ‘every penny’ of retirement savings

New research by Canada Life has found that almost a fifth of consumers (17%) who have received financial advice are prioritising making sure they can spend every penny of it in retirement without fear of running out.

More than one in ten (13%) will also consider how much of their children’s inheritance they can spend in retirement. However, almost a quarter of respondents (23%) are prioritising building their savings in retirement, a sign that many could be worried about the current suitability of their retirement income.

The most common priority amongst more than half of those who had received advice was making sure their money lasts throughout their retirement (54%). This was followed by ensuring they have a sustainable income (51%) and managing the amount of risk they take with their income (26%).

Sepaaret research found that 46% of retirees don’t have enough emergency savings. Whilst 37% of people often worry about their lack of savings. This falls to 17% among those aged 65 and over.

Sean Christian, MD and Executive Director, Wealth Management Division at Canada Life said “This research shows we as consumers have multiple priorities for our retirement funds and one size clearly doesn’t suit all. The desire to ensure our savings last as long as we do naturally becomes important. But planning your finances and balancing the need to enjoy what you have without fear of running out of retirement funds is always going to be a tricky balancing act.”

“Establishing a close relationship with a financial adviser will help those approaching and in retirement to feel confident about how their income will last. This certainty, combined with the flexibility to adapt your plans in confidence as life and financial needs change during your retirement journey is crucial. Having the right product solutions available which are flexible enough to adapt to any change in circumstances, is also key.  Blended pension products that combine guaranteed annuity income with the ability to draw down are great solutions in achieving this level of flexibility.”

Sarah Coles, Personal Finance Analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown said “Retirees are far more vulnerable than they think. Almost half don’t have enough savings set aside for emergencies, and more than one in five think they’re pretty resilient, and that they have plenty of savings, when in fact their safety net is nowhere near big enough.”

It’s easy to see why they’re more confident about their resilience than their working age counterparts. They’re more likely to have money set aside for emergencies, and they’re less likely to worry about a lack of savings. Many have also fared better financially during the crisis, especially those on a guaranteed income.”