@@BuzzRetirementGarage You've inspired me to try to follow my income a little better. I don't start SS until February. Right now we're living on about $3300 per month. I think we will have nearly $5000 once SS kicks in. But it's good for me to learn a bit better how to keep track. :-)
Hey, it’s time to make a road trip to Waterford, PA to pick blueberries. Mine are coming on strong. Your First two quarts are free because you have to travel so far ;-)
@@jimhoge3252 I could stop in Erie and visit the places I lived on Peach Street and Rankin Ave then drive 20 minutes over to you. Hmmmm. Could be a plan.
Thanks for this Buzz. I live in Canada and didn't know all the in and outs of where your money goes. No matter how much you bring in, it always finds a way of vanishing!
I retired 12 years ago at 61, took SS at 64. I've rented since 2014 now in a new 2 bedroom duplex, have a new truck, have not had any mortgage or car payments for 20 years. Just have normal utility payments, credit card paid off each month. I have a small $285/mo pension. I live very comfortably on that pension and my SS and still increase my savings each month.
Cable and Internet = $235./month? Mine was about the same then decided to cut the cable service and just went with internet. Only paying $85/month. I'm loving having no cable. Just enjoying free streaming like Pluto, TUBI, and so on. I got tired of David Muer or Lester Holt's Daily Breaking News! So as for News I go online for that. Life is actually better without cable.
$59 per month for broadband. Our TV is a large-screen "smart" TV and we also use UA-cam and Pluto for everything. Pay TV has the same damned commercials that free TV has. Don't see the advantage.
@@shirtlesslager I agree. I tried UA-cam TV for a month but decided to save my $78/month. RokuTv, Pluto, Tubi, & UA-cam can keep me entertained just fine. The thing about having 300 channels (when I had deluxe cable) I found myself spending too much wasted time trying to find out what else is on the other channels.
You’re killing it Buzz! Good for you! You really don’t need a million dollars to retire like many say. Being debt free makes it possible to retire with a lot less.
I'd still like to have a million dollars......lol....Some need a lot more and some live on less. I'm trying to make it work for us. Hopefully we can stay green!
Get the HD indoor antenna. They are cheap. It's flat and you can stick it to the wall or window. In Cleveland you should be able to pull in lots of clear channels. You can use this in conjunction with cable or app and switch back and forth by way of using the input on remote control. Easy-peasy.
Covid taught me to stay out of stores and that was a game changer! I dislike shopping online as I prefer to see the items and worry about the return process. Living expenses are a lot more here (Ontario Canada) but my husband and I each have indexed work pensions plus the government pensions we paid into.
We went onto You Tube TV and love it. Your groceries are very high. We spend around $450-$500 a month here in Michigan for two of us. We stopped feeding birds when we discovered the skunks were eating the seed off the ground and multiplying in numbers.
We're getting better on the food and we'll keep monitoring, looking for sales, etc. Love my birds. I average 10 different species on any given day. Skunks don't bother us now that we don't have a dog. Lol. Buzz
Love this! Everything is so much more in California! But not only is this of interest now, you are also creating an historical record. I predict you’ll make some extra money of this channel too.
You are doing well. Thanks for the details. I appreciate your content. It has really encouraged me to track my expenses since January. It does make me more accountable! Keep it up, Buzz!
Reduce debt, lower monthly costs and still try to save a little money. Isn't that what they all try to teach us? Too late for me but you'll be in great shape!
Great update! My wife and I will be debt free in three years, retiring in seven years. Our SS combined will be slightly less at 3093 a month, but we plan on pulling from 401k, to bring us up to 5000 a month, we love to travel with our RV. We will both need to be on ACA from 60 - 65. Our only worry is medical cost in this plan.
Wow your cable bill . I personally have not had cable for over a decade I’m pretty sure you can live without out it . Just wow it’s over 5% of your outflows for cable! And you don’t need to pay for UA-cam tv the debate is free on UA-cam
I'm hoping to cancel cable this weekend. I have UA-cam TV and today received the Internet device from T-Mobile. $62.62 plus $40 for the next 3 months. Hope it works out! Buzz
I cut the cord on satellite TV over 10 years ago and I don't miss it. Got a rooftop antenna that pulls in mega channels and I don't even watch half of them! Saving over $1,000 a year!
Great video again. Thanks for all of the effort you put into them. You have inspired me to start scrutinizing our spending habits beginning in July to see how we would fare if I retire early !! Thanks again!!!
I’m retired and my husband lost his job. We were 2 years away from his retirement. He will be 65 in August and so far has not been able to find a job😔! Your Chanel is helping me in case we have to retire now! 🤞🏼
Nice to see Buzz. It’s all about the expenses. The house and car paid off are key items to be free and clear . Your retirement can be smooth and stress free.
Yes you did better this month. Good to see. Yeah, I live on Social Security and my husband’s pension and I still pay rent a two bedroom two bathroom and rents not cheap.❤
If you have a two bedroom and two bathroom then consider temporarily adding another roomate. Split the rent 3 ways vs 2. Accumulate savings and let the interest grow. Best wishes.
Very interesting and helpful however I just have internet and I saw the debate in its entirety. There are many free movie channels and so much to watch I would never pay for cable or UA-cam premium. I can deal with a few commercials . Vicki
Great information and well presented Buzz, really enjoying the channel! I’m going to be 61 in December so having a real world view of transitioning to retirement is very helpful.
Awesome. Thank you for your breakdowns....it helps to show that it is possible to live on less. Seeing what others are doing helps a lot. The last year an a half I have been tracking and trimming our expenses and being very intentional with our spending. We recently got a good deal on some solar panels which will further help with the budget...break even in about 2 years.
Hi Buzz, do you and your wife find yourself throwing away food that got spoiled and how much of the food do you guys actually consume? Unfortunately, I buy too much food to avoid having to go to store every week but some of it gets thrown away due to being spoiled. It's my new year's resolution to never waste food and perhaps freeze the leftovers. I hate wasting food.
Hi Buzz. I am in Buffalo NY so my costs are very similar! My plan is to retire Dec 2025. I really love your content. You are so down to earth. I think we would be great friends if you lived even closer. My husband is retired since last summer and he LOVES it!! He is having fun and also accomplishing so many projects that had been on hold ! Life is good😊
Oh what fun to find your post today. Definitely subscribing as i am approaching retirement (65) and my husband took his at 64. You e given such a great template for me to use and track. Won’t have the house paid off alas but otherwise should be fine. Cheers from So California 😊
We watch youtube without subscribing. Watched the debate. Husband watches many movies there. Love how you have tracked all your expenses. We will be doing this. Trying to pay for everything in cash. Keeping the debit card at home. Saves money when you have to pay with real green dollars.
Great information. I’m still working ,64 in August, but it looks like I will be done first of year. Company closing my location and the transfer location I’m not sure about. It’s a little more of a drive and fitting in at 64, not feeling it. So I’ve been following you , although I’m not quite as detailed as you I’m doing a similar list.
Maybe you should try it because if you don't, you'll always wonder....but if not, that's ok too! I'm detailed because it helps me understand where every dollar is going. It helps me. Thanks for watching and commenting! Buzz
Glad to see you went with Traditional Medicare vs Medicare Advantage. We did the same thing. I don't want some insurance company between me and my doctor's treatment recommendations.
Hi Buzz, Great video, Crunching those numbers. I am getting close. but renting a house and have a car payment for 60 months. After the car is paid I plan to retire at 69. I am very worried about my rent at $3,500 a month here south of Boston. It's going to be real tough!!!
I like your monthly bill calculator My wife said what’s that ,I told her what you do every month which I like,I really want to start doing that to,I like your videos,Thanks Buzz!!
These bedroom suburban communities have no industry to offset the taxes. My community always tries to attract business but never succeeds. But homebuilders are having a great time! Sadly.
@@BuzzRetirementGarage We will have a revaluation soon but very small town in Maine. We just have to live within a budget just like you both do. If it gets a little stressful, I’ll pick up a PT job. Thx Buzz
It's hard to not spend money: food, bills,blah blah blah. Wife and I went to get some groceries and a small,not prime cut roast was almost $18.00. Not even 2 years ago that would have been less than $10.00. We'll get 4 meals out of it. Got 4 regular peaches: $5.79. That was insane. I grew a lot of tomaotes,squash,onions,okra,radishes,etc this year. Was expensive but that garden is feeding me, my wife, and several of her friends. I really like doing that: free for them and kinda expensive to do but it makes me happy.My problem is I like my stuff to be right: just spent over $1600.00 fixing my backhoe fuel system. Rarely use it but I keep it right....
We find ourselves eating more and more chicken and cutting down on meat and fish. I have Lake Erie right next to me so I have to get there and catch some walleye and perch. My tomatoes are doing well so far and I just planted a lot of Swiss Chard for her. Your garden is looking good this year! Buzz
Good stuff! I'm approaching retirement age in the coming decade and would you believe I may leave the traditional retirement state of Florida and move to Ohio? It's getting expensive here!
Yes, I could believe that you'd move to Ohio. If I knew then what I know now Tennessee or the Carolinas would be great places to be. Not complaining because I truly love the distinct four seasons in Ohio. Being close to Lake Erie is a plus too. Thanks for watching! Buzz
My mind set now is zero spending ( only what i need) and use and enjoy what i have and i have alot of good srtuff,,,its 6 months now and my spending is spot on,keep,very low over head!!is rule number one, it takes time to break that old spending habit. Do it gradually,,peace to all
Thanks for bringing us along! Good info. As a fellow retiree "hang in there, we're in this together" as Red Green would say. If you bring in a special guest we recommend Harold :)
Retired and 72. I live on SS and a small pension. House is paid off and I mostly shop at Wal-Mart. Free home delivery and huge selection with great prices. Farmers was going to jack up my rates again two years in a row. Neighbor said check out State Farm. So and I did and saving $1900 a year vs Farmers. Same house, 3 vehicles, Umbrella cost me $306 a month. Saving $1900 a year is like a huge raise when your retired. i actually spend a lot less retired than I did working.
Still have 3 days left! 😂 We are trying not to spend anymore this month but I’m sure we will. Our investments still have 1 more day in the market and then we will wrap our month end up and drop a video! Nice drop on the groceries this month!😊
We won't shop again until next Thursday or Friday. Looking forward to seeing how you're looking. Speaking of gambling, took some dividend money and bought CONY today. Lol.
Dude. Seventh month? And $630 plus $147 is $777? Buy a frickin lotto ticket! Meanwhile, your Cleveland neighbor here retires in four weeks. I still can Not believe it. Thanks for your vids. (Oh, and you got me thinking of doing UA-cam TV)
We live on ss only too. The key is as you said, no mortgage and no car paymemt. We havent paid to watch tv in years. We use what back in the day was called rabbit ears. We get 12 channels. We are in a rual area. I would guess someone closer to a city would pick up even more channels. Nothing like watching tv knowing you havent paid a cent for it 😊
Great job. Being able to live on SS ain't easy but you've managed great and should be proud. Congratulations and I hope the trend upwards continues for you. Steve
Longevity runs long in both my wife's and my family. Loved my job and co-workers. Decided to run it to the max for SS payments and retired at 70 to get a 24% late retirement boost in my SS payments. This move allowed me to also keep plowing funds into both of our roth ira's. Between our combined SS, my pension, the high yield etf's (15%+) dividends in the roth ended up generating more income for us than when I was working!
Nice video Buzz! I ditched my cable around the first of the year, saving about 150.00 a month. Now I use Roku (no regrets). Do you know anything about that groceries for seniors card they advertise? Is It legit?
But you're not really retiring on SSI only, if you have a house or mega savings. (Asking as a native Midwesterner out here in expensive LA and may need to return.) Status never impressed, but character does.
Yes, the minimal savings, paid off house and small UA-cam income is a plus but technically not needed if Social Security can cover operating expenses. That's the goal. Not touching savings is the result of meeting that goal. Buzz
Yes. Medicine through Part D. The Wellcare plan had a zero monthly cost. That will probably change in 2025. See Medicare 365 Brian's latest video about Advantage plans. Also, Dr. Weir has some videos. I'm not saying Advantage plans are bad. 50% of people have them. For us though, Plan N fits our budget and our confidence is high. Buzz
I just discovered your channel and subscribed. I enjoy your content. In your expenses in this video, you did not mention income tax (federal and state). Is that an expense for you?
Technically I don't know. What an answer right? This is my first year on Social Security and feds only look at half of our $45,000 so I fall below the standard deduction. Taking profits from stocks and interest on bank accounts and UA-cam income will be the unknown. I'm going to see a CPA soon mostly because now I'm self employed and I need to understand the deductions I can take. Buzz
She had a point when she said the Cleveland Guardians games are on Ballys sports and guess which app has Ballys? None of them. So, UA-cam TV and Ballys? Nope.
In the months and years before retirement we replaced appliances, put on a new roof etc. Any issues that come up would be paid for with savings. Since I haven't touched it in 7 months, and the market is high, my interest, gains and dividends can pay for a portion of any emergency. Thanks for the question! Buzz
Might be an idea to include a still shot of your spreadsheet. Then we can enlarge it and listen to your breakdown. Low budget folks like me make do with a cell phone for internet.
This may sound strange but I used spreadsheets at work and when I retired I said "no more spreadsheets". Reminds me of work too much. I could put the breakdown in the video description field. Would that help? Buzz
New sub. This was extremely interesting. It's neat to see what others spend. Groceries are a huge expense for us, but you are what you eat, so we eat the best we can afford. It's paid off for us--we're both in excellent health and only have an annual doctor visit to make sure all is well.
Correct. We spent the last 5 years focusing on upgrading everything, New roof, new washer/dryer etc. Appliances will need to be replaced, and savings will be used. Thank you for commenting. Buzz
New subscriber here. Can you speak to Sam's Club or Costco memberships if they are really necessary? Didn't see that in your expense list. We buy most our groceries through Walmart. Back when we were Sam's Club members we seemed to consume much faster; less frugal. Good luck with your channel.
I get a Costco delivery approximately once a month. I will not renewed my membership until I need new glasses, and use the Optical. You can get a delivery without the membership, just pay a surcharge of about $5-7 depending on how much you order. Costco delivery is perfect if you don’t live near a Costco or don’t have a car.
Memberships are necessary to walk in the door, I get enough cash back to pay for both memberships. I use a Costco credit card that I pay off monthly and for gas I get 4% savings, restaurants are 3% savings and 2% off for purchases from Costco. 1% for all other purchases. Buzz
It won't last forever but if I don't touch savings it will continue to grow. One mutual fund is up 15% this year. Just have to figure out when to pull it and put in a 5.25% CD. Market correction will be coming. Buzz
We have little industry to offset taxes and it seems they're building new schools every other year. At our age, we don't want to move to a less expensive community so, we're going to try to stick it out.
Okay now Mr. Buzz . . . I hope you don't get tired of my back to back comments, but I'm binge watching your videos now that I've found your channel. As someone who THRIVES on planning early, I am LOVING the content!!!! I love knowing what others are doing/living IN their retirement. I LOVE looking ahead, learning from what others have done/are doing, so I can be well prepared in all areas for my retirement. I am EATING this content UP!!! Thanks sooooooo much to you and other commenters! (well, at least the positive commenters) ;-p Unfortunately I do not own a home, so I will continue to have rent throughout my life, and therefore will likely supplement my SS income with a part-time job, Lord willing I have the strength, energy, and mental sharpness. I've kept a similar detailed budget for years now that lasts through full retirement age AND I have a separate spreadsheet for when I am IN retirement (estimated SS payment, medicare, etc.) We MUST be mindful of this income/expenses ~ for peace of mind!
Thank you for watching and commenting! I never get tired of my subscribers! We have a nice community of people who share their thoughts, and their constructive criticism. Wouldn't want it any other way! Buzz
Love a cheerful presentation about budgeting - and the obvious enjoyment you get when you shave off a bit of money on a bill. Nothing better than being smart about spending, while still getting to maintain a lifestyle that pleases you.
Great video! You need to add car maintenance to your list....$50 a month to save up. I just spent $750 on tires and about $1300 on vehicle maintenance and my car is about the same age as yours...just thinking😊
Buzz good/informative video.....on the haircut expense....invest in a decent set of clippers and do your own, you will be a pro in no time. I've been doing my own for close to 5 years now and I love doing it and probably save $200/yearly.
I have been cutting my husband’s hair each month for the last 35 years. I remember when he was paying $20 a cut in Anchorage in the late 1980’s - do the math! We have saved a small fortune!
Ah, I clicked because I thought it was living on ONE SS payment, not two combined. Two would be a game-changer. Just one SS payment is very different...in that area, I would say impossible to have a decent life on just one. Barely possible here.
Your cable internet is HIGH!! I pay $30 a month for Quantum Fiber and use a Roku with free streaming apps and a couple of paid services for $15. Also use an antenna for free tv. Ditch the cable and use modern technology
Looks like you are doing okay in Ohio. Indeed, cut the cable. In CA things tend to be much more expensive. Personally, have military pension/benefits and SS, wife still working full time. Am on Medicare and Tricare for Life, wife still on Tricare. Vision and dental plans purchased through the military, too.
I was relieved to hear you have savings and are saving you tube income. I agree with you that your grocery budget could use a trim. Ours is $600 a month and includes everything we buy at Sam and Costco which may or may not be groceries as well as Blue Apron orders 1 or 2 times a month. (I am not as precise as you in tracking individual expenses.). If you haven’t yet, you and your wife should watch fellow you tubers “Under the Median”.
Hey, glad that you are doing well. There is nothing better than letting the government support you after all that you had to pay them all of your life. Stay blessed bud.
My son & DIL want me to move to OH to be near them. I'm planning to move (selling my house in VA). The property taxes sound high compared to VA. Do you think OH is a good State to retire in as far as property taxes are concerned?
I wish I could convince my retired-for-four-years hubby to give away some of his work clothes. Has a closet full and holds on to them with an iron fist.
It took me a couple of years. 6 garbage bags later and donated many still nice clothes, done. Now flip flops, tennis shoes, jeans, t shirts, golf shirts. He’ll either get there or he won’t. No regrets here.
Fabulous job keep on going buzz. Thanks for the awesome information .👍🏻👏 I’ll be 68 in November and haven’t tapped into my retirement yet because I plan on working until I finally kick the bucket . Beginning to spend some of my dividend money won’t collect Social Security until I’m 70….28 months roughly.
It's great that we can make the choices that make sense to us as individuals. Work, don't work, work part time, or do a UA-cam channel! Lol. Good luck to you my friend! Buzz
I appreciate how analytical you are with these monthly reports. It helps me to figure out how to track my own money. :-)
It's something I needed to do to see if I had any chance of staying retired. So far, so good.
@@BuzzRetirementGarage You've inspired me to try to follow my income a little better. I don't start SS until February. Right now we're living on about $3300 per month. I think we will have nearly $5000 once SS kicks in. But it's good for me to learn a bit better how to keep track. :-)
Hey, it’s time to make a road trip to Waterford, PA to pick blueberries. Mine are coming on strong. Your First two quarts are free because you have to travel so far ;-)
@@jimhoge3252 I could stop in Erie and visit the places I lived on Peach Street and Rankin Ave then drive 20 minutes over to you. Hmmmm. Could be a plan.
@@MarvinMcKenziePreacher It would be good to follow the money as they say
Having no mortgage payment is absolutely key to a retirement plan on minimal income!! Great detailed budget.
A lot of people rent, would like to see renting vs owning in the US
Thanks for this Buzz. I live in Canada and didn't know all the in and outs of where your money goes. No matter how much you bring in, it always finds a way of vanishing!
Seems like a magic act. Always disappearing!
I retired 12 years ago at 61, took SS at 64. I've rented since 2014 now in a new 2 bedroom duplex, have a new truck, have not had any mortgage or car payments for 20 years. Just have normal utility payments, credit card paid off each month. I have a small $285/mo pension. I live very comfortably on that pension and my SS and still increase my savings each month.
Excellent! Thank you. Buzz
Cable and Internet = $235./month? Mine was about the same then decided to cut the cable service and just went with internet. Only paying $85/month. I'm loving having no cable. Just enjoying free streaming like Pluto, TUBI, and so on. I got tired of David Muer or Lester Holt's Daily Breaking News! So as for News I go online for that. Life is actually better without cable.
You have to tell my wife that. She STRONGLY disagrees. If I can pull off the YTTV and $40 internet it would be a David vs. Goliath win. Lol
@@BuzzRetirementGarage Does your wife read these comments? Have you started to design your garage re-model yet. 😇
@@scottc3029 Luckily she doesn't read them but after 40 years of marriage she can read me like a book. Lol
$59 per month for broadband. Our TV is a large-screen "smart" TV and we also use UA-cam and Pluto for everything. Pay TV has the same damned commercials that free TV has. Don't see the advantage.
@@shirtlesslager I agree. I tried UA-cam TV for a month but decided to save my $78/month. RokuTv, Pluto, Tubi, & UA-cam can keep me entertained just fine. The thing about having 300 channels (when I had deluxe cable) I found myself spending too much wasted time trying to find out what else is on the other channels.
You’re killing it Buzz!
Good for you! You really don’t need a million dollars to retire like many say.
Being debt free makes it possible to retire with a lot less.
I'd still like to have a million dollars......lol....Some need a lot more and some live on less. I'm trying to make it work for us. Hopefully we can stay green!
Get the HD indoor antenna. They are cheap. It's flat and you can stick it to the wall or window. In Cleveland you should be able to pull in lots of clear channels. You can use this in conjunction with cable or app and switch back and forth by way of using the input on remote control. Easy-peasy.
What ever the Fed says about cost of living is not realistic, You should be the Fed chairman. GOD BLESS You and everyone.
I was only in 3 stores this month. Want to save money? Stay out of stores.
That's a good point.
Bob, where do you buy your supplies? Do you create them out of thin air?
@@shirtlesslager Oh, that was admittedly quite misleading on my part. Have a wife, so that's how. Sorry.
Covid taught me to stay out of stores and that was a game changer! I dislike shopping online as I prefer to see the items and worry about the return process. Living expenses are a lot more here (Ontario Canada) but my husband and I each have indexed work pensions plus the government pensions we paid into.
@@bob_frazier and automatic dishwasher
Congrats Buzz, you are making your dreams come true and us entertained!
Thank you!
We went onto You Tube TV and love it. Your groceries are very high. We spend around $450-$500 a month here in Michigan for two of us. We stopped
feeding birds when we discovered the skunks were eating the seed off the ground and multiplying in numbers.
We're getting better on the food and we'll keep monitoring, looking for sales, etc. Love my birds. I average 10 different species on any given day. Skunks don't bother us now that we don't have a dog. Lol. Buzz
Aldi?
@@stevesilver7437 Very soon!
Love this! Everything is so much more in California! But not only is this of interest now, you are also creating an historical record. I predict you’ll make some extra money of this channel too.
Thank you for watching! Buzz
Thanks Buzz. I appreciate your details and the effort you make to present it. Keep up the great work!!
Thank you for peeking in! Buzz
You are doing well. Thanks for the details. I appreciate your content. It has really encouraged me to track my expenses since January. It does make me more accountable! Keep it up, Buzz!
Reduce debt, lower monthly costs and still try to save a little money. Isn't that what they all try to teach us? Too late for me but you'll be in great shape!
Great update! My wife and I will be debt free in three years, retiring in seven years. Our SS combined will be slightly less at 3093 a month, but we plan on pulling from 401k, to bring us up to 5000 a month, we love to travel with our RV. We will both need to be on ACA from 60 - 65. Our only worry is medical cost in this plan.
I wonder what the SS and ACA landscape will look like in 7 years? Keep reducing debt, lowering monthly costs and stack that money! Buzz
Wow your cable bill . I personally have not had cable for over a decade I’m pretty sure you can live without out it . Just wow it’s over 5% of your outflows for cable!
And you don’t need to pay for UA-cam tv the debate is free on UA-cam
I'm hoping to cancel cable this weekend. I have UA-cam TV and today received the Internet device from T-Mobile. $62.62 plus $40 for the next 3 months. Hope it works out! Buzz
@@BuzzRetirementGarage you can do it buzz ! It only hurts the first couple of weeks. 😂 Netflix/amazon and free UA-cam !
It’s my retired Fathers biggest bill. He’s 94 and no internet 🛜 but has a home phone.
Get a cheap digital antenna that goes in the window.
@@chrisschultz9929 My wife won, as usual, and I'm at $242/month. Hopefully the T-Mobile Internet and $40 will be good and save me $50/month.
Great job Buzz
Thank you!
I love hearing the wife's opinions thrown in here and there. 😂
Oh, the debate we're having about cable is very interesting. That's why I may need to insulate and heat the garage. Lol.
@@BuzzRetirementGaragelol
Nice work, Buz! Not many people are willing to put the time into figuring out these numbers. Congrats.
Just plug them into the Every Dollar free version app and track. Nothing to it. Buzz
I cut the cord on satellite TV over 10 years ago and I don't miss it. Got a rooftop antenna that pulls in mega channels and I don't even watch half of them! Saving over $1,000 a year!
Good deal! My wife has to watch shows that you can't get over the air. Oh well. Buzz
I did the same. Huge savings.
Awesome job! This is my favorite topic as well. I am practicing now; I have 3 years to go! you are such inspiration. Keep up the good work. Thank you.
Thank you for watching and keep reducing debt, lower costs and stack money. You'll slide into retirement like a champ! Buzz
Great video again. Thanks for all of the effort you put into them. You have inspired me to start scrutinizing our spending habits beginning in July to see how we would fare if I retire early !! Thanks again!!!
Easy to do but be tenacious and stick with it! Thank you for watching. Buzz
Congratulations Buzz! Really like your videos, great tips, and a lot of helpful ideas budgeting.
Thank you for peeking in. I appreciate you. Buzz
I’m retired and my husband lost his job. We were 2 years away from his retirement. He will be 65 in August and so far has not been able to find a job😔! Your Chanel is helping me in case we have to retire now! 🤞🏼
Thank you and good luck to both of you! Buzz
Does he LOOK 65??
May 2024, $0 for gasoline, and $260 for restaurants. TOTALLY CRAZY.
$587 in three months, for PETs…..is NUTS!!!
Nice to see Buzz. It’s all about the expenses. The house and car paid off are key items to be free and clear . Your retirement can be smooth and stress free.
Hoping things continue to go go well but you know, life gets in the way.
Yes, great job Buzz!
Thank you for watching!
Yes you did better this month. Good to see. Yeah, I live on Social Security and my husband’s pension and I still pay rent a two bedroom two bathroom and rents not cheap.❤
Nope. Rent is not cheap. I shake my head when I see some of the rent prices around here. Buzz
If you have a two bedroom and two bathroom then consider temporarily adding another roomate. Split the rent 3 ways vs 2.
Accumulate savings and let the interest grow.
Best wishes.
Very interesting and helpful however I just have internet and I saw the debate in its entirety. There are many free movie channels and so much to watch I would never pay for cable or UA-cam premium. I can deal with a few commercials . Vicki
Great information and well presented Buzz, really enjoying the channel! I’m going to be 61 in December so having a real world view of transitioning to retirement is very helpful.
The lesson: reduce debt, reduce costs and stack money.
Awesome. Thank you for your breakdowns....it helps to show that it is possible to live on less. Seeing what others are doing helps a lot. The last year an a half I have been tracking and trimming our expenses and being very intentional with our spending. We recently got a good deal on some solar panels which will further help with the budget...break even in about 2 years.
Every little bit helps. We can't control everything but we all do the best we can with what we have. That said, always room to keep improving. Buzz
Hi Buzz, do you and your wife find yourself throwing away food that got spoiled and how much of the food do you guys actually consume? Unfortunately, I buy too much food to avoid having to go to store every week but some of it gets thrown away due to being spoiled. It's my new year's resolution to never waste food and perhaps freeze the leftovers. I hate wasting food.
yes the USDA estimates that 40% of the food grown gets wasted every year ....
Appreciate you sharing your monthly budgets. Thank you!
Thanks for stopping by and watching!
Cool channel, Buzz. Liked and subbed. Had to.
Luckily, my non-glamourous hometown in Central IL is much cheaper, just may need to make it happen.
Thank you for watching! I appreciate you!
Hi Buzz. I am in Buffalo NY so my costs are very similar! My plan is to retire Dec 2025. I really love your content. You are so down to earth. I think we would be great friends if you lived even closer. My husband is retired since last summer and he LOVES it!! He is having fun and also accomplishing so many projects that had been on hold ! Life is good😊
Thank you for watching! You're going to love it too when you retire! I appreciate you being here. Buzz
Great video and great work, Buzz!!!
Thanks for the visit
Oh what fun to find your post today. Definitely subscribing as i am approaching retirement (65) and my husband took his at 64. You e given such a great template for me to use and track. Won’t have the house paid off alas but otherwise should be fine. Cheers from So California 😊
Thank you for stopping by! I hope this helps out. Buzz
We watch youtube without subscribing. Watched the debate. Husband watches many movies there. Love how you have tracked all your expenses. We will be doing this. Trying to pay for everything in cash. Keeping the debit card at home. Saves money when you have to pay with real green dollars.
Thank you for watching! I think I should be using the credit card more to take advantage of perks that they offer. Buzz
New to your channel .hubby and I looking to retire in a couple of years so I really like to our channel
Thank you for stopping by! We do this video subject every month so subscribe and catch them all! Buzz
Great information. I’m still working ,64 in August, but it looks like I will be done first of year. Company closing my location and the transfer location I’m not sure about. It’s a little more of a drive and fitting in at 64, not feeling it. So I’ve been following you , although I’m not quite as detailed as you I’m doing a similar list.
Maybe you should try it because if you don't, you'll always wonder....but if not, that's ok too! I'm detailed because it helps me understand where every dollar is going. It helps me. Thanks for watching and commenting! Buzz
@@BuzzRetirementGarage I’ll be back.
Glad to see you went with Traditional Medicare vs Medicare Advantage. We did the same thing. I don't want some insurance company between me and my doctor's treatment recommendations.
Safest route I think. As long as we can afford it. $90/month for N isn't too bad and with my cancer history it's the best move for me. Buzz
Hi Buzz,
Great video, Crunching those numbers. I am getting close. but renting
a house and have a car payment for 60 months. After the car is paid I plan to retire at 69. I am very worried about my rent at $3,500 a month here south of Boston. It's going to be real tough!!!
$3,500/month is a tough one but you'll figure it out.
Great job Buzz, we always enjoy your monthly reports. 👍
Thanks for stopping by.
My favorite topic of your channel. Howdy, Buzz.
Glad you're watching!
Great job, Buzz!
Thank you for watching and supporting the channel!
I like your monthly bill calculator My wife said what’s that ,I told her what you do every month which I like,I really want to start doing that to,I like your videos,Thanks Buzz!!
Thank you for watching. I use the free version of Every Dollar app. Everytime I purchase something I add it to the app. Buzz
Thanks Buzz,I was going to ask what you use,thanks
That was very helpful and informative! You are really doing great with your budgeting, it is good to see how it can be done on SS alone, thanks!
Thank you for watching and commenting! I appreciate you. Buzz
Great video! I retire in 5-7 years and this is helpful.😊
Keep reducing debt, cutting costs and saving as much as you can and you'll breeze into retirement. Thanks for watching! Buzz
Our budgets are almost the same, just allocated different. Property taxes are higher than they should be but that’s everywhere. Take care Buzz.
These bedroom suburban communities have no industry to offset the taxes. My community always tries to attract business but never succeeds. But homebuilders are having a great time! Sadly.
@@BuzzRetirementGarage We will have a revaluation soon but very small town in Maine. We just have to live within a budget just like you both do. If it gets a little stressful, I’ll pick up a PT job. Thx Buzz
It's hard to not spend money: food, bills,blah blah blah. Wife and I went to get some groceries and a small,not prime cut roast was almost $18.00. Not even 2 years ago that would have been less than $10.00. We'll get 4 meals out of it. Got 4 regular peaches: $5.79. That was insane. I grew a lot of tomaotes,squash,onions,okra,radishes,etc this year. Was expensive but that garden is feeding me, my wife, and several of her friends. I really like doing that: free for them and kinda expensive to do but it makes me happy.My problem is I like my stuff to be right: just spent over $1600.00 fixing my backhoe fuel system. Rarely use it but I keep it right....
We find ourselves eating more and more chicken and cutting down on meat and fish. I have Lake Erie right next to me so I have to get there and catch some walleye and perch. My tomatoes are doing well so far and I just planted a lot of Swiss Chard for her. Your garden is looking good this year! Buzz
UA-cam TV basically has an unlimited DVR. I have had it for 4 years. Love it. Plus over the air TV is free after you buy an antenna.
Correct on both accounts! Best way to go.
Good stuff! I'm approaching retirement age in the coming decade and would you believe I may leave the traditional retirement state of Florida and move to Ohio? It's getting expensive here!
Yes, I could believe that you'd move to Ohio. If I knew then what I know now Tennessee or the Carolinas would be great places to be. Not complaining because I truly love the distinct four seasons in Ohio. Being close to Lake Erie is a plus too. Thanks for watching! Buzz
My mind set now is zero spending ( only what i need) and use and enjoy what i have and i have alot of good srtuff,,,its 6 months now and my spending is spot on,keep,very low over head!!is rule number one, it takes time to break that old spending habit. Do it gradually,,peace to all
That's takes determination! Good job! Buzz
Thanks for bringing us along! Good info. As a fellow retiree "hang in there, we're in this together" as Red Green would say. If you bring in a special guest we recommend Harold :)
Thanks Buzz!
Thank you for watching! Buzz
Retired and 72. I live on SS and a small pension. House is paid off and I mostly shop at Wal-Mart. Free home delivery and huge selection with great prices. Farmers was going to jack up my rates again two years in a row. Neighbor said check out State Farm. So and I did and saving $1900 a year vs Farmers. Same house, 3 vehicles, Umbrella cost me $306 a month. Saving $1900 a year is like a huge raise when your retired. i actually spend a lot less retired than I did working.
Good for you. I have been shopping all of my policies every year for 35 years. It is amazing how low they will go to get a new customer.
@@tonysteinke7234 I should have been shopping insurance, instead I was with Farmers for over 30 years.
Thanks for sharing that. There are deals around. Can't hurt to inquire! Buzz
At 7.5% of my monthly budget, the pets would be gone.
No grandkids to spend money on so animals it is!
Thanks for sharing ! Awesome month👍🏼
Plugging away!
Still have 3 days left! 😂 We are trying not to spend anymore this month but I’m sure we will. Our investments still have 1 more day in the market and then we will wrap our month end up and drop a video! Nice drop on the groceries this month!😊
We won't shop again until next Thursday or Friday. Looking forward to seeing how you're looking. Speaking of gambling, took some dividend money and bought CONY today. Lol.
@@BuzzRetirementGarage That’s what dividends are for in retirement! Have some fun with it. Hope you and Mrs Buzz have a great weekend.
Dude. Seventh month? And $630 plus $147 is $777? Buy a frickin lotto ticket!
Meanwhile, your Cleveland neighbor here retires in four weeks. I still can Not believe it.
Thanks for your vids. (Oh, and you got me thinking of doing UA-cam TV)
I'll play 777 tomorrow. Lol
My thoughts exactly! 😂
Entertaining and valuable. Thanks Buzz. Question, at the outset you said this was “gross” SS-meaning before taxes or just before Medicare deductions?
Before any deductions.
Doing good Buzz!!🙂👍
Hanging in there month by month. You have any upcoming vacations planned?
We live on ss only too. The key is as you said, no mortgage and no car paymemt. We havent paid to watch tv in years. We use what back in the day was called rabbit ears. We get 12 channels. We are in a rual area. I would guess someone closer to a city would pick up even more channels. Nothing like watching tv knowing you havent paid a cent for it 😊
Thank you for commenting. What's your dog's name?
Great job. Being able to live on SS ain't easy but you've managed great and should be proud. Congratulations and I hope the trend upwards continues for you. Steve
Thanks Steve. I'm worried about September when she does her Amazon Christmas shopping. Could blow the budget for the entire year!
Longevity runs long in both my wife's and my family. Loved my job and co-workers. Decided to run it to the max for SS payments and retired at 70 to get a 24% late retirement boost in my SS payments. This move allowed me to also keep plowing funds into both of our roth ira's. Between our combined SS, my pension, the high yield etf's (15%+) dividends in the roth ended up generating more income for us than when I was working!
Nice video Buzz! I ditched my cable around the first of the year, saving about 150.00 a month. Now I use Roku (no regrets). Do you know anything about that groceries for seniors card they advertise? Is It legit?
Thank you. No, never heard of groceries for seniors but there may be. If you have a community senior center give them a call. They may know. Buzz
Thanks for responding!
@anitamccalla6840 I've googled those ads, there likely a scam. Do some investigation before calling and never give out your information.
But you're not really retiring on SSI only, if you have a house or mega savings. (Asking as a native Midwesterner out here in expensive LA and may need to return.)
Status never impressed, but character does.
Yes, the minimal savings, paid off house and small UA-cam income is a plus but technically not needed if Social Security can cover operating expenses. That's the goal. Not touching savings is the result of meeting that goal. Buzz
Enjoy your channel Buzz, Do you and Mrs Buzz go on vacation?
No. No vacations for us.
Is the medicine through Medicare Part D? Was a Medicare Advantage Plan considered, and why did you decide against it?
Yes. Medicine through Part D. The Wellcare plan had a zero monthly cost. That will probably change in 2025. See Medicare 365 Brian's latest video about Advantage plans. Also, Dr. Weir has some videos. I'm not saying Advantage plans are bad. 50% of people have them. For us though, Plan N fits our budget and our confidence is high. Buzz
I just discovered your channel and subscribed. I enjoy your content. In your expenses in this video, you did not mention income tax (federal and state). Is that an expense for you?
Technically I don't know. What an answer right? This is my first year on Social Security and feds only look at half of our $45,000 so I fall below the standard deduction. Taking profits from stocks and interest on bank accounts and UA-cam income will be the unknown. I'm going to see a CPA soon mostly because now I'm self employed and I need to understand the deductions I can take. Buzz
Summertime electric bill is a killer here in Illinois. It is way too hot now, can't wait for fall to get here and cool down.
My first summer of retirement and nothing bothers me. Not even the heat. To blessed to stress! Buzz
I'm in Illinois---and have MidAmerican. Who do you have?
Great job on managing your fixed income monies.
Thank you. Buzz
Don't take the old ladies cable TV she deserves that streaming can be very frustrating and complicated for the elderly
She had a point when she said the Cleveland Guardians games are on Ballys sports and guess which app has Ballys? None of them. So, UA-cam TV and Ballys? Nope.
How do you track depreciative assets that need replacing ie house shingles, Maintenance of home, furnace, hot water heater, ac, furnace etc?
In the months and years before retirement we replaced appliances, put on a new roof etc. Any issues that come up would be paid for with savings. Since I haven't touched it in 7 months, and the market is high, my interest, gains and dividends can pay for a portion of any emergency. Thanks for the question! Buzz
how the heck do people get so much ss? you list yourself at 2500. mine shows 1800, and thats if i wait til 67. youre under 65.
Last 35 years of earnings.
Might be an idea to include a still shot of your spreadsheet. Then we can enlarge it and listen to your breakdown. Low budget folks like me make do with a cell phone for internet.
This may sound strange but I used spreadsheets at work and when I retired I said "no more spreadsheets". Reminds me of work too much. I could put the breakdown in the video description field. Would that help? Buzz
New sub. This was extremely interesting. It's neat to see what others spend. Groceries are a huge expense for us, but you are what you eat, so we eat the best we can afford. It's paid off for us--we're both in excellent health and only have an annual doctor visit to make sure all is well.
Thank you for joining us! Hope you enjoy. Buzz
A major home repair like a new roof will put a huge dent in a budget.
Correct. We spent the last 5 years focusing on upgrading everything, New roof, new washer/dryer etc. Appliances will need to be replaced, and savings will be used. Thank you for commenting. Buzz
New subscriber here. Can you speak to Sam's Club or Costco memberships if they are really necessary? Didn't see that in your expense list. We buy most our groceries through Walmart. Back when we were Sam's Club members we seemed to consume much faster; less frugal. Good luck with your channel.
I get a Costco delivery approximately once a month. I will not renewed my membership until I need new glasses, and use the Optical.
You can get a delivery without the membership, just pay a surcharge of about $5-7 depending on how much you order. Costco delivery is perfect if you don’t live near a Costco or don’t have a car.
Memberships are necessary to walk in the door, I get enough cash back to pay for both memberships. I use a Costco credit card that I pay off monthly and for gas I get 4% savings, restaurants are 3% savings and 2% off for purchases from Costco. 1% for all other purchases. Buzz
Sounds pretty good Buzz.
Thank you for watching!
Hope your car lasts forever, as you mentioned that you could not retire with a car payment.
It won't last forever but if I don't touch savings it will continue to grow. One mutual fund is up 15% this year. Just have to figure out when to pull it and put in a 5.25% CD. Market correction will be coming. Buzz
I cut the cord a few months ago and use Friendly tv for most of my tv at 10 bucks a month its a great deal.
Excellent!
Wow! Our house taxes are $368. Twice a year Spring & Fall. Cleveland must be a more expensive area to live than Southern Indiana
We have little industry to offset taxes and it seems they're building new schools every other year. At our age, we don't want to move to a less expensive community so, we're going to try to stick it out.
Okay now Mr. Buzz . . . I hope you don't get tired of my back to back comments, but I'm binge watching your videos now that I've found your channel. As someone who THRIVES on planning early, I am LOVING the content!!!! I love knowing what others are doing/living IN their retirement. I LOVE looking ahead, learning from what others have done/are doing, so I can be well prepared in all areas for my retirement. I am EATING this content UP!!! Thanks sooooooo much to you and other commenters! (well, at least the positive commenters) ;-p Unfortunately I do not own a home, so I will continue to have rent throughout my life, and therefore will likely supplement my SS income with a part-time job, Lord willing I have the strength, energy, and mental sharpness. I've kept a similar detailed budget for years now that lasts through full retirement age AND I have a separate spreadsheet for when I am IN retirement (estimated SS payment, medicare, etc.) We MUST be mindful of this income/expenses ~ for peace of mind!
Thank you for watching and commenting! I never get tired of my subscribers! We have a nice community of people who share their thoughts, and their constructive criticism. Wouldn't want it any other way! Buzz
Love a cheerful presentation about budgeting - and the obvious enjoyment you get when you shave off a bit of money on a bill. Nothing better than being smart about spending, while still getting to maintain a lifestyle that pleases you.
It needs to be in the forefront of your mind but not obsess over it. That's what I try to do. Buzz
Great video! You need to add car maintenance to your list....$50 a month to save up. I just spent $750 on tires and about $1300 on vehicle maintenance and my car is about the same age as yours...just thinking😊
I'll take that out of the bank if necessary. Tires are relatively new but yes, things go wrong.
Insurance payments are painful as increases have greatly outpaced social security increases.
Buzz good/informative video.....on the haircut expense....invest in a decent set of clippers and do your own, you will be a pro in no time. I've been doing my own for close to 5 years now and I love doing it and probably save $200/yearly.
I have been cutting my husband’s hair each month for the last 35 years. I remember when he was paying $20 a cut in Anchorage in the late 1980’s - do the math! We have saved a small fortune!
Nope. I hear you but I'll leave it to the professionals!
Ah, I clicked because I thought it was living on ONE SS payment, not two combined. Two would be a game-changer. Just one SS payment is very different...in that area, I would say impossible to have a decent life on just one. Barely possible here.
Could I do it on $2,520? Maybe. But more than likely I'd be working full time until 67. Even after that I may hold a part time job. Buzz
Your cable internet is HIGH!! I pay $30 a month for Quantum Fiber and use a Roku with free streaming apps and a couple of paid services for $15. Also use an antenna for free tv. Ditch the cable and use modern technology
I have .00001 of a vote so I think I'm going to lose to her. Maybe in my next life.
@@BuzzRetirementGarage I certainly can understand that
Looks like you are doing okay in Ohio. Indeed, cut the cable. In CA things tend to be much more expensive. Personally, have military pension/benefits and SS, wife still working full time. Am on Medicare and Tricare for Life, wife still on Tricare. Vision and dental plans purchased through the military, too.
I have a lot of respect for you as a You Tuber you take the time to answer the questions you receive.THANKS
I will always do that no matter what. YOU and the other commenters make this channel what it is and I'll always respect that. Buzz
@@BuzzRetirementGarage You Da Man 👍💪👋
I was relieved to hear you have savings and are saving you tube income. I agree with you that your grocery budget could use a trim. Ours is $600 a month and includes everything we buy at Sam and Costco which may or may not be groceries as well as Blue Apron orders 1 or 2 times a month. (I am not as precise as you in tracking individual expenses.). If you haven’t yet, you and your wife should watch fellow you tubers “Under the Median”.
Thank you. I'll check that channel out. Buzz
Great video.
Thank you for watching!
Thank you again Buzz. You are an inspiration And ray of sunshine with your smile. 😃
Ah, you're so kind. People like you make this channel good! Thank you! Buzz
How did she get Medicare at 62?
Social Security only at 62 then Medicare at 65
Hey, glad that you are doing well. There is nothing better than letting the government support you after all that you had to pay them all of your life. Stay blessed bud.
All that I put in is finally coming back to me.
My son & DIL want me to move to OH to be near them. I'm planning to move (selling my house in VA). The property taxes sound high compared to VA. Do you think OH is a good State to retire in as far as property taxes are concerned?
A recent report I saw showed VA at 24th highest and Ohio is 43rd highest so yes, definitely higher but depends on county.
@@BuzzRetirementGarage Thank you. Moving North wasn't in my original plan and I am revisiting my budget. Your info is very helpful.
I wish I could convince my retired-for-four-years hubby to give away some of his work clothes. Has a closet full and holds on to them with an iron fist.
Ha! Like I said, a couple cargo shorts and a few jeans plus a few shirts and I'm good! I'm going to free up a lot of closet space. Buzz
It took me a couple of years. 6 garbage bags later and donated many still nice clothes, done. Now flip flops, tennis shoes, jeans, t shirts, golf shirts. He’ll either get there or he won’t. No regrets here.
@@JDG1958 Wearing my comfortable clothes everyday feels like freedom doesn't it?
@@BuzzRetirementGarage amen to that!
Is it easier to do this in an excel sheet on a laptop or computer?
I use the Every Dollar app then just add it to the board. I'm retired. No more spreadsheets for me! Lol Buzz
Fabulous job keep on going buzz.
Thanks for the awesome information .👍🏻👏
I’ll be 68 in November and haven’t tapped into my retirement yet because I plan on working until I finally kick the bucket .
Beginning to spend some of my dividend money won’t collect Social Security until I’m 70….28 months roughly.
It's great that we can make the choices that make sense to us as individuals. Work, don't work, work part time, or do a UA-cam channel! Lol. Good luck to you my friend! Buzz
Yes, indeed like that one comment …very detailed in your monthly expenditures and living the dream and don’t need $1 million dollars👍🏻👏👏