Financial planning time horizon and end-of-life mortality expectations

Previous studies demonstrate that individuals’ financial planning time horizons significantly impact spending, saving, charitable giving, and bequest decisions. Using longitudinal and cross-sec- tional Health and Retirement Study data, the analyses in this paper reveal that older American adults’ financial planning horizons are strongly determined by their self-perceived life expectancy. Over time, the changes in self-perceived life expectancy, marital and retirement status, health condi- tions, and wealth level will cause individuals to shift their financial planning horizons. The insight gained in this study helps financial planners to better understand the factors driving changes in client financial planning horizons and consequent financial decision-making.