Solo Senior Cash Flow Planning: Making One Income Stretch

Living alone means one income and one safety net. A clear cash-flow plan helps you cover needs, protect savings, and sleep better at night.

Step 1 – List every income source

• Social Security
• Pension
• 401(k) / IRA withdrawals
• Annuity
• Part-time or gig work
• Help from family

Step 2 – Split needs from wants

Needs (housing, food, care, meds, insurance) come first. Wants (travel, gifts, dining) come from what is left.

Step 3 – Close any gap

• Cut one big fixed cost (insurance, phone, cable) before small daily ones.
• Use the Retirement Budget Calculator to model the numbers.
• Build a buffer with the Emergency Cash Reserve guide.

Step 4 – Review quarterly

A short check every three months catches small leaks before they become crises.