Couples without children have the potential to retire earlier by investing more during their working years. However, another option is to retire at a traditional age and take advantage of higher discretionary income in other ways.
Career choices. Without the financial need to support children, one or both spouses may pursue a career they find personally fulfilling over one that’s more lucrative. If a spouse experiences job burnout, they may have the option to take a break from working. Perhaps a spouse has dreamed of starting a business and wants to give their vision a chance. Someone may have an elderly parent who requires personal support, and the couple is financially able to allow the spouse to leave their job and care for their parent.
Lifestyle options. Rather than retiring earlier, a couple may choose to spend on experiences and luxuries to enjoy life to the fullest while they’re younger. That may mean travelling more, taking annual ski trips, purchasing a vacation property or whatever they wish. Just recognize it’s still essential to live within your means to keep retirement plans on track.
This article is excerpted from the Well‑Advised Spring 2026 Newsletter and published on behalf of your financial advisor for clients residing in jurisdictions where they are registered. This material is provided solely for informational and educational purposes and is not to be construed as an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any securities or as providing individual investment, tax or legal advice. Consult your professional advisor(s) prior to acting on the basis of this material. Insurance products are available through advisors registered with applicable insurance regulators. In considering any particular investment, please remember that past performance is no guarantee of future performance. Although this material has been compiled from sources believed to be reliable, we cannot guarantee its accuracy or completeness. All opinions expressed and data provided herein are subject to change without notice. Neither CI Assante Wealth Management Ltd. their affiliates or their respective officers, directors, employees or advisors are responsible in any way for any damages or losses of any kind whatsoever in respect of the use of this material. CI Assante Wealth Management is a registered business name of Assante Wealth Management (Canada) Ltd. CI Assante Wealth Management Ltd is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization.
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