Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, but breaking it down into actionable steps makes it manageable. Use this checklist to ensure you are on track.
In Your 20s and 30s
- Start contributing to retirement accounts as early as possible
- Take full advantage of employer 401(k) matching
- Build an emergency fund
- Pay off high-interest debt
- Set up automatic contributions
In Your 40s
- Maximize retirement account contributions
- Review and rebalance portfolio annually
- Increase savings rate with income growth
- Consider catch-up contributions if behind
In Your 50s and 60s
- Take advantage of catch-up contributions (age 50+)
- Begin shifting toward more conservative allocations
- Estimate retirement expenses and income
- Consider Social Security claiming strategy
Start Today
The best time to start retirement planning was yesterday. The second best time is today.
