Mercer Advisors
Sharing Knowledge

Question

Should I diversify my retirement income beyond Social Security?

Answer

Building savings across tax-deferred accounts, Roth accounts, and taxable accounts can give you flexibility in retirement. Different account types are taxed differently, so having options lets you manage your tax picture. Adding a health savings account (HSA) and considering income options such as qualified longevity annuity contracts (QLACs) can further diversify your retirement income.

Related FAQs

How could early retirement affect my retirement benefits (401(k), pension, Social Security)?

What happens to Social Security if the trust fund runs out?

Where can I check my Social Security benefit estimate?
Retirement Retirement Planning Living in Retirement Budgeting Early Retirement Financial Independence FAQs
Last Updated Nov. 12, 2026
Previous Next

Further Learning

Listen
Market Commentary Podcast

Episode 42: How to Think About Bonds

CIO Don Calcagni explains the three roles bonds play in a portfolio and why rising interest rates have strengthened the investment case for owning bonds today.

Investment Management Article

When Nvidia Drops: Three Reasons to Pause Before You Act

Nvidia’s stock decline following Jensen Huang’s resignation is a reminder of why diversification matters. Three reasons to pause before making big portfolio decisions.

Man working on laptop
Professions Article

QSBS After OBBBA: New $15M Exclusion and $75M Cap

The OBBBA expanded QSBS benefits with a $15 million exclusion cap, $75 million gross-asset threshold, and tiered holding periods. Learn what founders need to know.

Group having a meeting
Market Commentary Article

The Roles of Bonds in a Portfolio and Why Returns Are Slightly Negative — Insights From Our CIO

Bonds have dropped in value as interest rates have risen. CIO Don Calcagni explains why they still have an important role in our portfolios.

Back to Sharing Knowledge

About Mercer Advisors

We exist so you don’t have to worry about money. For more than 40 years, we’ve taken the sophisticated, time-tested approach that many ultra-high net worth individuals use to help manage their financial lives and made it accessible to more families.

Explore Our Solutions

Financial Planning
Estate Planning
Tax Planning & Preparation
Insurance Solutions
Investment Management
Trustee Services

Want to learn more about Mercer Advisors?

Let’s Talk