Reclaiming Time for Clients After a Health Setback: The Power of Guaranteed Income

As financial advisors, we know numbers tell a story. But behind every account balance, projection, or illustration is a person — often with fears, dreams, and life events that change everything.

One client case reminds us just how critical it is to look beyond the portfolio and focus on what clients truly value: time, security, and peace of mind.

The Challenge: A Life-Altering Health Event

At 58, James had a successful career and a retirement plan built around his 401(k). Then, a stroke changed everything.

Although he relearned how to walk and returned to work, the experience shifted his perspective. Suddenly, the idea of waiting until age 67 to retire — and relying on market-based projections — didn’t feel realistic.

• 401(k) balance: ~$669,000

• Recent quarterly loss: -4.54%

• Projected income at 67 (single-life annuity option): $4,354/month

The numbers weren’t bad. But they weren’t guaranteed. And they required him to give up nine more years of his life to work.

The Discovery: A Guaranteed Annuity Alternative

Through an in-service rollover option, James had the ability to move funds while still employed and under 59½. This opened the door to a guaranteed annuity strategy that changed everything.

Instead of waiting until 67, he could start guaranteed lifetime income at 62:

• Annuity income at 62: $5,347/month

• That’s $993 more per month than his 401(k) projection — and five years sooner

  _Reclaiming Time After a Health…

The Result: Retiring Earlier, Living More Fully

By shifting from uncertain market projections to guaranteed income, James:

• Reclaimed five years of retirement

• Locked in higher monthly income

• Helped eliminate the stress of market volatility

• Gained confidence to focus on health, family, and purpose instead of work deadlines

Why This Matters for Advisors

Not every client will experience a health scare, but many share James’ concerns:

• “What if the market takes a dive right before I retire?”

• “How do I make sure my income lasts if I stop working earlier than planned?”

• “Can I buy back more time with my family?”

As an advisor, you’re in a position to reframe retirement planning conversations. It’s not just about growing assets — it’s about helping clients exchange uncertainty for security and time for freedom.

Coaching Takeaway

When reviewing retirement plans:

• Don’t stop at account balances and growth projections.

• Look for opportunities to convert volatile assets into guaranteed income streams.

• Use client life events — like a health setback or a volatile market quarter — as touchpoints to reevaluate their plan.

Final Thought

Advisors who introduce guaranteed income strategies aren’t just securing a client’s retirement — they’re giving clients back years they thought they had to sacrifice for financial security.

And at the end of the day, isn’t that what great advising is all about?

 Next Step for Advisors: Review your client list for those nearing retirement age, especially anyone expressing concern about health, volatility, or “running out of time.” These are the ideal candidates for guaranteed income conversations.