William Bengen

BIOGRAPHY: WILLIAM P. BENGEN

William P. Bengen received a B.S. from M.I.T. in Aeronautics & Astronautics and a M.S. from the College for Financial Planning. He has had four careers: trained as an aerospace engineer, CEO of his family’s soft drink bottling business (NY), fee-only financial planning practitioner (CA), and currently a financial researcher and aspiring novelist (AZ). He is a former CFP® licensee. In the early 1990’s, in response to client questions, Mr. Bengen began research on the sustainability of withdrawals from stock and bond portfolios, which gave rise to the so-called “4% Rule.” He is frequently quoted in major financial publications, and appears regularly on financial industry podcasts. In 2014 he received NAPFA’s Robert J. Underwood Distinguished Service Award and in 2017 the InvestmentNews Innovators Award. In 2023 he was awarded the Inside Information Iconoclast Award. He currently lives in SaddleBrooke, AZ, where he continues his research into the “4% Rule.’

Money Matters 334- The Man Behind the 4% Rule W/ Bill Bengen

334

Sept. 4, 2025

Money Matters 334- The Man Behind the 4% Rule W/ Bill Bengen

Money Matters 334- The Man Behind the 4% Rule W/ Bill Bengen 🎙️ Episode #334 – The Man Behind the 4% Rule: Bill Bengen on Inflation, Flexibility, and a Richer Retirement What if the greatest risk to your retirement portfolio isn't a market crash—but inflation? In this episode of Money Matters, Christopher Hensley, RICP®, sits down with Bill Bengen, the creator of the legendary 4% Rule for safe withdrawal rates. Now, 30 years later, Bengen reflects on what still holds up, what’s changed, and how retirees and advisors can adapt withdrawal strategies in a world of sticky inflation, volatile markets, and longer life expectancies. Whether you're planning your own retirement or advising clients on income strategies, this conversation delivers clarity, context, and practical insights from one of the most influential figures in modern financial planning. 💡 Topics Covered: Why inflation is the true enemy of retirement How Bengen’s thinking on the 4% Rule has evolved in 2025…

Guest: William Bengen

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