How do I model and fixed and variable portfolio spending?

[Lisa99]

Hi everyone. I use several calculators to verify that our retirement portfolio spending is on track but I have a question about modeling.

Because of the ACA cliff, we're choosing to keep spending artificially low. We're finding that our lower spending lifestyle is still very enjoyable so it's actually a win-win because our portfolio is increasing even before we start SS.

My question - I would like to model spending at a fixed amount prior to SS then variable based on the estate we want to leave after we start SS starts at age 65.

I use i-orp and Firecalc but haven't figured out how to model fixed for a period of time and variable for the balance of our plan.

Any suggestions are appreciated!

 

[Lisa99]

I think I figured it out.

I used i-orp to give me the portfolio estimate at age 65 with "ACA limits" turned on.

I then went to Firecalc and put in the new portfolio amount with an abbreviated retirement timeline to reflect our age when we are no longer subject to the cliff.