How much cash do doctors need on hand to retire?

You've spent decades building your retirement savings. But when the paychecks stop, one question matters more than most: How much cash can you actually get to when you need it?

Many retirees have the bulk of their wealth tied up in investment accounts, real estate or retirement plans. Those assets may look strong on paper, but tapping them at the wrong time can mean selling in a down market, triggering unexpected taxes or paying penalties.

That's why keeping a reserve of readily available cash is so important. A cash cushion can cover living expenses during market downturns, handle surprise costs like home repairs or medical bills, and give you peace of mind that you won't be forced into a bad financial decision.

So how much should you keep on hand, and where should it live? In this video, Bryan Jepson, M.D., CFP, walks through how to size your cash reserve and strategies to keep it working for you.