Introduction
(Edition 7)
Dear Friends,
Every challenge you’ve pushed through, every bill you’ve balanced, every decision you’ve made to keep moving forward, it all adds up. And I’m proud of the way you keep showing up for yourself.
Let’s talk about the big, scary retirement number everyone whispers about. You know—the one people think requires a Wall Street suit and a calculator that comes with its own instruction manual.
Start With the 4% Rule
If you withdraw 4% of your savings each year, your money has a strong chance of lasting 25–30 years.
Multiply your yearly spending by 25.
If you need $40,000 a year → your “retirement number” is $1,000,000.
BUT—before you throw your coffee at the screen—late starters play by different rules.
Starting Late?
You don’t need a million to retire.
You just need enough to supplement Social Security.
$50,000 saved $2,000/yr ($166/mo)
$150,000 saved $6,000/yr ($500/mo)
$300,000 saved → $12,000/yr ($1,000/mo)
One-Minute Worksheet
What monthly income would make you comfortable?
Subtract your expected Social Security.
Multiply the remainder by 12.
Multiply that number by 25.
There it is, your personalized target. Not scary. Not impossible. Just simple math… the way we do it here at theo55report.
And remember: you’re not behind—you're just getting started with me now.
With gratitude and a whole lot of hope,
Mike Bridges
Founder, The O55 Report
The heart of The O55 Report is all about helping people — providing ideas, tips, and hacks on how to be financially smarter.
Practical money-saving hacks
Smart catch-up strategies after 55
Creative income and career reinventions
Motivation, health, and lifestyle tips
Plus one new tip each week that saves you money, guaranteed
Featured Articles
Debt can feel heavy at this stage of life — especially when income is fixed, and dollars have a job. With the right plan, you can take control of your debt at any age. This week, we’re breaking down simple steps that protect your budget, reduce stress, and help you regain the confidence that debt may have taken from you.
Many adults 55+ quietly worry about whether their money will stretch far enough. It’s a question most of us keep in the back of our mind… but it deserves an honest, calming answer.
We’ll walk you through practical ways to make your savings last longer — without giving up the comfort and small joys that make life feel good.
One of the greatest gifts we pass on isn’t cash — it’s wisdom. The small lessons we share today become the habits our grandkids carry into adulthood.
We’re highlighting the money habits that matter most: meaningful, simple teachings that help children grow confident, responsible, and financially ready for the future. Download our interactive PDF file for your grandkids inside.
If you’ve been wanting a simple way to keep track of your money each month without complicated apps or confusing charts, this one’s for you. The Budget Buddy is an easy, step-by-step tracker designed to help you see exactly where your money goes, what you can adjust, and how to stay in control of your spending.
Many of us grew up using pen and paper, and this tool brings that same clarity… just organized in a friendlier format.
CRAZY EIGHTS OF THE WEEK
Eight fascinating nuggets, insider tips, hidden gems, and strong workable strategies strengthen your money.
We want this newsletter to feel like it’s ours — not just ours to write, but ours to build together. What would you like us to talk about next?
