GUILT-FREE WAYS TO ENJOY YOUR RETIREMENT SAVINGS
The recent Kiplinger article, Afraid to Dip Into Your Savings? 8 Guilt-Free Ways to Finally Enjoy Your Retirement, notes that if you've built a solid financial strategy for retirement, you've earned the right to enjoy it.
Go on Bucket List Trips
The article cites AARP research showing many older people have a bucket list trip they'd like to take. A notable share of those who don't travel cite health issues as the reason, which is a case for not waiting too long.
Bond With Family on Vacation
Multigenerational family trips can be a guilt-free way to spend, the article explains, since money spent on experiences and adventure tends to come with less regret than money spent on things, because memories don't have a shelf life.
Get in Shape to Save
Spending to maintain your health can pay for itself, because the article cites a 2026 Fidelity estimate that a 65-year-old on Medicare could spend $185,500 out of pocket on healthcare over a lifetime, up from $172,500 the year before. The healthier you are, the fewer out-of-pocket expenses you'll be on the hook for.
Chase Your Dreams
Having a hobby gives retirees a sense of purpose and investing in gear, classes or new skills is worth the expense if it brings genuine joy, since experiences tend to outlast material things.
Enrich Your Loved Ones
The article points to 529 college savings accounts as a way to help family members save for education, noting that earnings may grow tax-advantaged when used for qualified education expenses. It also notes that individuals may contribute up to $19,000 per beneficiary in 2026, or $38,000 per beneficiary for married couples electing to split gifts, without triggering federal gift tax reporting requirements.
Invest in Your Home
Zillow data cited in the article shows that homeowners can recoup a high percentage of what they spend on kitchen and bathroom remodels, all while getting to enjoy the upgraded space.
Give Back
Donor-advised funds (DAFs) are charitable giving accounts that allow individuals to contribute cash or other eligible assets, which may be invested, and later recommend grants to eligible charitable organizations.
The article also notes that contributions to a DAF may be eligible for a tax deduction, subject to applicable tax rules and individual circumstances.
Buy Back Your Time
Paying for help with chores like landscaping or deep cleaning isn't wasteful. Instead, it's a strategic investment, since time becomes your most limited and precious resource in retirement.
