Inflation sometimes seems like one of those afflictions of an era long since passed into the history books. While it’s true that double-digit inflation has been absent for the last 30 years, you may remember the high inflation years of the 1970s.¹
Will the levels of U.S. public debt and loose monetary policy revive the inflation rates of yesteryear? No one really knows. However one thing is certain—even low inflation rates over an extended period of time can impact your finances in retirement.
A simple example will illustrate. An income of $50,000 today at an inflation rate of 3% would have a purchasing power of just over $32,000 in year 15—a 35% erosion. Said differently, to maintain the desired lifestyle that a $50,000 income would provide requires $77,900 of income after 15 years of 3% inflation.²
Here’s something else to consider. Retirees may be subject to a higher rate of inflation than “the headline” Consumer Price Index. Why might this be the case?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the retiree’s share of expenditures on medical care is roughly double that of the general population. Moreover, health care inflation has annually outstripped, on average, non-medical inflation rate by 2.3 percentage points during the period 1983-2011.³
Inflation is a thief; it steals the purchasing power of your retirement savings. But like your other possessions, there are strategies that may help you from being robbed of your purchasing power.
We like to educate our clients on the effects of inflation, especially compounded over time and the devastating effects it can have on your retirement if not planned for. As mentioned, rising healthcare costs have, in recent years, far outpaced the CPI inflation rates. If this isn't addressed in your current retirement planning, Contact Us today for a complimentary second opinion.
