These Are the 7 Accounts You Need in Retirement

I’ve spent 13 years as a financial advisor, and I’ve seen how proper planning is the foundation of a solid retirement plan. I believe there are 7 accounts you need for a successful retirement. Here’s what most people don’t know about them👇


𝗖𝗵𝗲𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻t
This is your income hub. It’s where Social Security, pension, or RMDs land, and where your bills get paid. Simple, but essential.

𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵-𝗬𝗶𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀
Every retiree needs a buffer. This is your emergency fund—earning real interest. A safe place for 6–12 months of expenses.

𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝗮𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻t (HSA)
If you qualify, this is the most tax-advantaged account available. Contributions are tax-deductible, growth is tax-free, and so are withdrawals if used for medical expenses. Fidelity estimates retirees have $250k of qualifying expenses in retirement!

𝟰𝟬𝟭(𝗸)
This is your employer-sponsored workhorse. High contribution limits, potential company match, and tax-deferred growth. A must-have during your peak earning years.

𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗜𝗥𝗔
Great for tax-deductible contributions (if eligible). Ideal for rollover assets or building tax-deferred growth outside your 401(k).

𝗥𝗼𝘁𝗵 𝗜𝗥𝗔
One of the best places for tax planning in retirement. Pay taxes now, grow money tax-free, and enjoy tax-free withdrawals later. No RMDs, either.

𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗸𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁
The most flexibility. No income limits, no contribution caps, no withdrawal rules. Perfect for bridging early retirement or funding lifestyle goals.

Here is my opinion, having these accounts isn’t enough. The real value comes when you know how to use them together. That’s when the magic happens:

• Time your withdrawals strategically
• Convert Traditional to Roth in low-income years
• Use tax-loss harvesting in taxable accounts
• Place assets in the most tax-efficient accounts

That is how you build a retirement plan that actually works. When all the gears are working together smoothly to require less effort (and less stress).

Which of these is your favorite account?