There are lots of ways to make sure income flows direct to your mailbox on a regular basis. So, at the same time you’re picking up your Social Security check (if you’re eligible), you can supplement with these resources, too.

Annuities - Purchase an immediate annuity (for example, with proceeds from sale of stocks) and start getting income right away. It's up to you how often you receive a check... either monthly, quarterly, semiannually, or yearly. you also get to choose how long payments last and who they go to... you, you and your spouse, or you and beneficiaries.

CD Ladders - Some people use retirement savings to purchase a series of blank certificates of deposit or bonds. Let's say you have $50,000 to invest and want to receive income every three months. you can divide money, spending $12,500 to purchase CDs with three-, six-, nine- and 12-month maturity dates. As each CD comes due, you'll have access to funds once per quarter. If you don't need some or all of the funds, simple reinvest in more CDs with later maturity dates.

Systematic Withdrawal Plans - People generally consult with a financial professional or investment firm to set up one of these plans. The first step is to determine what percent of assets can safely be withdrawn each year (so that principal is not too quickly depleted). Next, you decide how often you want to receive income. Your investment firm then automatically liquidates at the time and in the amount you specified.

Reverse Mortgage - Some retirees exchange the equity in their homes for the regular income payments. You remain the owner of your home, and you are still responsible for taxes, property insurance and upkeep. Reverse mortgages are due when the last surviving borrower dies, sells the house or moves out. Reverse mortgage products vary, lots of rules apply, and they're not for everyone. Still, they're an option to supplement your monthly retirement income.