Part of good fiduciary risk management is understanding how to protect your own finances. For those considered baby boomers, retirement has now become reality with 10,000 people retiring daily. Unfortunately, research shows that 54 percent of older Americans do not have enough savings to fund their retirement.
If you’re on the pre-retirement end of this age group, it’s never too late to start setting money aside. Here are eight facts about 401(k)s that could help you prepare for your golden years.
Retirement Is Expensive: Although it can vary from one person to the next, the current total cost of retirement is estimated at $738,400.
Social Security Won’t Be Enough: It depends on your income, but even someone earning $100,000 annually will only get $2,670.37 per month. This calculator can help you determine your projected earnings.
The Money Stays with You: The best thing about a 401(k) is that the money travels with you from one job to the next.
It’s Never Too Late: Even those who are over 50 can begin to set money aside in a 401(k). In addition to saving money, you should also look for ways to boost your income during your final working years.
You Can Catch Up: The new tax plan may change this, but those over 50 can make catch-up contributions to make up for lost time.
The Money Won’t Wait Forever: Halfway through your 70th year, you’ll be required to begin withdrawing money from your 401(k).
There Are Penalties for Early Withdrawal: Before retirement age, the money will need to stay in place unless you can roll it over to another type of account.
You Have Investment Options: You may not realize that you can choose where your money goes within your 401(k).
Good fiduciary risk management is about preparing for the future and simultaneously protecting your current finances. If you haven’t begun saving for retirement through a 401(k), it isn’t too late. Check with your employer on available options, talk to an advisor, and take advantage of any opportunities you can find to save.
Tracking Number: 1-690989
Perhaps you’ve lost a job, faced an illness or have been delt a family crisis that emptied out your emergency fund. What are your next steps?
You’re eyeing center-hall colonials in your neighborhood and dreaming about the garden you want to plant in the backyard and all the holiday celebrations you’ll host. You’ve saved toward this goal and think you’re ready to pull the trigger. But the real question is: How much house can I afford?
Or is it?
Social Security’s financial cliff is coming closer into view. Experts project that the fund that pays for government retirement benefits through FICA taxes will be depleted within the next 15 years.
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