There are a variety of options available to generate income in retirement, including annuities, pensions, and rental income. Each option has its own set of considerations, so it’s important to understand what each one entails before making a decision.
Annuities can be an option for some retirees because they provide a guaranteed stream of income. However, annuities also have some downsides, including (but not limited to) lower interest rates for payouts, higher fees, and they are typically
not inflation-adjusted.
Government pension plans are another source of income for retirees. Here in Canada, we have a few options:
- Canada Pension Plan
- Old Age Security (OAS).
You can start applying for the CPP as early as 60 years old, and OAS at 65 years old, but will have different payment structures for both. To estimate how much income you can get from the CPP and OAS, please take a look
at this calculator.
You also have the option of deferring your pension until you are 70 years old, which can significantly increase your monthly pension. This is because of how your pensions are calculated, which is based on your age and income. Here are two main things
to consider:
- The older you are when you receive your pension, the higher your payment will be.
- If you continue to work in your 60s, your total contribution to your pension and average earnings throughout your working life will also increase, growing your monthly pension.
Note: both income from the CPP and OAS are considered taxable income. Ensure you consult with your accountant or another financial professional if you’re going to start planning for your retirement.
If you have a property, a rental income is another stream of income that can provide monthly cash flow and equity. Typically, you want to ensure that you have enough revenue from rent that can cover monthly expenses (including utilities,
mortgage payments, maintenance repairs, etc.) and give you a positive cash flow as a rental income.
Another way to have extra cash flow in retirement is to downsize your lifestyle - if you can’t increase your income, you can decrease your expenses. This might mean living in a smaller home or apartment, planting your own vegetables,
driving a modest and energy-efficient car, and generally spending less money. While this may sound like a compromise for some, it can actually be a great way to free up extra money and live comfortably in retirement.
Finally, you can tap into investment income opportunities. Read on to learn more and determine your options!