never touch the principal?

I would say that the principal is not dedicated to your maintenance income should be fair game. Is this not why you saved all those years?

extras? what do you want - another car?

Set, actually I am thinking that it is not a bad idea to look at reducing the principal over time (which reduces maintaince income) and using that for the extras in life that "I always wanted to do" full well knowing that by doing so the combined principal/income will also be reduced, but then Why Not?

You'd know best what your needs are in the way of maintenance income. I've always been a conservative investor--when i fill out questionnaires, such as the one which came with my Roth IRA application, i always mark the "other" box, and put down "preservation of capital." When i get to the next set of questions, i mark the "other" box, and write in "preservation of capital," then, in the next section, i mark the "other" box and . . .


I plan to leave whatever i have to my Sweetiepie, although the Roth IRA may just get used for whatever when the time comes.

i wouldn't touch the principal... unless she was hot.

there goes the dys! just gotta keep up with the neighbors don't ya?
new boots?
new hat?
buy a ring with a diamond?

I have an idea. If you are just going to leave the money to charity, why not send some my way. I could find good uses for it!

I agree. The name of the game is to balance assets and left expectancy, NOT to die with a bundle.

You should enjoy your money while you can. Happy memories are worth more than an over-comfortable bank account.

Never touch the principle is a good adage if you are still young and saving for retirement. Once retired and your funds are more than adequate it is time to forget about just the necessities and satisfy desires. That is what we do and the feeling is exhilarating. Remember there are no drawers in a coffin, you can't take it with you

If you were 75-80, I might agree with you. Potentially, you could have 25 or more years to go. I usually take a middle course when it comes to finances. Spend a little, save a lot. One never knows what the future might bring. I would never want to be in a position where I got rid of all my money, and had to rely on the government in my old age.

On the other hand, it is nice to take the old rubber band off the wallet once in awhile. It is really a matter of balance.

Phoenix32890
I am not suggesting that one spend themselves into poverty. However, many people who reach retirement with funds far in excess needed to live a long and comfortabnle life are still reluctant to let go of the all mighty buck and live a little.

He's gonna spring for a haircut!

(I never touch the principal on my debts. Does that count?)