For some, retirement may seem very far off, but here are some very good reasons to start now:
- Fewer employers are providing pensions and with the uncertainties of social security, the burden is greater on you to save on your own.
- Time is on your side to grow your retirement savings/investments.
- You can start small and increase throughout the years. Even setting aside a small portion of your paycheck each month will pay off in big dollars later through the power of compounding.
- You can afford to invest more aggressively, which can have higher returns.
Tips on How to Save Smart for Retirement:
- Start now. Don’t wait. Time is of the essence.
- Start small if your budget is tight, but even small amounts can make a big difference through time.
- Consider the right kind of investments and tax-favored vehicles such as company 401(k)s, IRAs, and SEPs for business owners.
- Use automatic deductions from your payroll or your checking account to invest in mutual funds, IRAs, or other investment vehicles.
- Make saving for retirement a habit and a high priority.
- Stock markets fluctuate and may get nerve racking, but stick with the plan (consult with a professional or contact me) for the long haul.
- If you change jobs, keep your retirement account money in your former employer's plan or roll it over into your new employer's plan or an IRA.
- Don’t dip into retirement savings...don't rob your future...period.
Tips on How To Prepare When There’s Little Time:
- Save everything you can into your retirement plans and personal savings.
- Reduce your expenses immediately and take those savings and invest into your retirement plans.
- Take a second job, work extra hours, pick up a side hustle, e.g., Uber, Lyft.
- Consult with a professional, assess your risk tolerance and balance your risk and reward to squeeze out better returns from your investments.
- Defer your retirement. Working part-time when you retire may be not enough.
- Reassess and refine your goals.
- Delay taking Social Security as it will be higher the longer you wait.
- Look for other ways to supplement your income, such as renting out a room in your house or move to a less expensive house to access your home equity (consult with a financial professional).