ARE YOU ON TRACK FOR RETIREMENT?
For some, retirement is far away, but it’s right around the corner for others. No matter where you are in your retirement journey, it's crucial to ask yourself: Am I financially prepared? Let’s dive in!
STEP 1: ASSESS WHAT YOU HAVE
Add up the value of all your retirement account balances, including your 401(k), IRA, pension funds, and personal investments.
STEP 2: DEFINE YOUR NEEDS
Envision your ideal retirement lifestyle—will you travel the world, golf daily, or volunteer for a cause? Each lifestyle has different costs. Research the average expenses for your desired retirement location, activities, healthcare, potential long-term care, and unforeseen costs. The total cost of your ideal retirement lifestyle is how much your investments need to produce to support you during retirement.
STEP 3: DETERMINE YOUR INVESTMENT GOAL
The best method to assess your retirement needs is to meet with a retirement planning professional; however, you can use the 5% rule as a general estimate of what you may need.
The 5% rule assumes that your investments will produce at least 5% annually. To estimate your investment goal using this method, divide your annual retirement costs by 5%—you should get a larger number representing your investment goal using this method. If you don’t think your investments will produce 5% annually during retirement, you can reduce the percentage to a number you feel more comfortable with.
STEP 4: TAKE ACTION
By this point, I hope you’re smiling because you’re on track to retire well. If this is the case, keep saving and monitoring your progress. Consider seeking professional financial advice for personalized guidance.
If you are behind, don’t worry—you still have options!
(1) Increase Contributions. Even small bumps can make a big difference over time.
(2) Explore Catch-up Options. Many plans offer higher contribution limits for those nearing retirement.
(3) Delay Retirement. Working longer allows more savings and Social Security benefits to grow.
(4) Consider Alternative Income Streams. Part-time work, rental properties, or other investments can supplement your nest egg.
Retirement planning is a journey, not a destination. Start early, stay informed, and adjust your course as needed. With consistent effort and smart planning, you can build a beautiful retirement!
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a qualified financial advisor for personalized guidance based on your unique circumstances. If you want additional articles like these, check out my website at or contact me on Linkedin! I’m pretty sure it will be more entertaining than reading IMF economic reports!