How to Protect Your Retirement Income in a Recession

Brad breaks down how retirees can protect their income during a recession with practical and strategic tips. He starts by highlighting the unique challenges retirees face in economic downturns—like market losses, rising costs, and the inability to simply “go back to work.” Brad explains the concept of sequence of returns risk and why withdrawing too much too early can permanently damage a retirement plan. He then lays out five key strategies to recession-proof retirement: maintaining a cash buffer, diversifying income streams (like Social Security, annuities, and dividends), adjusting withdrawal strategies dynamically, balancing growth and safety in your portfolio, and using smart tax planning to stretch income.