Mar 27 2025 17:09

When Should I Start Planning for Retirement?

If retirement seems like a distant milestone, you’re not alone—but when it comes to planning for it, starting sooner can make a major difference. Whether you're just beginning your career or only a few years away from retirement, having a plan in place is one of the smartest moves you can make.

 

Why It’s Never Too Early (or Too Late):

  • In Your 20s–30s: Time is your greatest asset. Compounding interest can turn small investments into significant savings.

  • In Your 40s–50s: Now is the time to catch up and optimize. You may have more earning power and can benefit from higher contribution limits.

  • In Your 60s+: It’s not too late. Even small adjustments—like minimizing taxes or delaying Social Security—can improve retirement outcomes.

Key First Steps at Any Age:

  1. Understand your retirement income goals.

  2. Contribute regularly to tax-advantaged accounts (like a 401(k) or IRA).

  3. Review your budget and calculate what you’ll need.

  4. Talk with a financial advisor about personalized strategies.