Financial hacks for millennials: redefining retirement planning
You may not have guessed it, but Millennials are cracking the code on how to become world-class savers. They’re setting aside a higher percentage of their income than previous generations and their goals are wide-ranging.1
For starters, young adults are contributing to 401(k) retirement savings plans in greater numbers than either Gen Xers or Baby Boomers.2 They’re also the first generation to save consistently for lifestyle goals — to gain the financial freedom to enjoy their “best lives” at any age. Many see themselves working longer than their parents, but with the flexibility to pursue their passions along the way.3
For many Millennials, the idea of a retirement “nest egg” that hatches at age 65 is obsolete. Instead, they’re focused on continuous saving (and spending) to create a lifetime of enjoyable experiences. Their philosophy is supported by a growing range of “set it and forget it” digital financial tools, like robo-saving apps and automated deposits. But it shouldn’t stop there. So, what other strategies can help Millennials achieve their goal of work-life harmony and optimize their financial confidence along the way?
In terms of flexibility, whole life insurance is worth considering. You might know about the financial protection it offers through a death benefit to the people you leave behind. That’s only half the story. A whole life policy also provides access to cash throughout your lifetime, with guaranteed cash value growth4. 5.
The guaranteed cash value accumulates over time and isn’t impacted by fluctuations in the market, so you can count on it to help support your priorities: Furthering your education, buying a house, opening a business. Or you can use it to supplement your income later in life, during retirement, or otherwise. Plus, there’s the potential to receive dividends — money that’s yours to spend, save or invest.6 The younger you are, the less a policy costs — making it a more affordable financial strategy for Millennials.
A whole life policy can be a source of guaranteed income. So are annuities7. Both can be good complements and counterbalances to savings invested in IRAs and 401k plans, which are exposed to inflation and market fluctuations.
Developing a financial strategy and an investment and protection portfolio that includes a steady source of monthly guaranteed income can help Millennials from running out of money later in life. By prioritizing a healthy work-life balance and putting together a financial strategy, Millennials are well on their way to achieving and maintaining financial and emotional confidence throughout their lives.
Brought to you by The Guardian Network © 2018, 2022. The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America®, New York, NY
2022-140595 Exp. 07/24