Retirement Planning

Secure your financial future with comprehensive retirement planning. Learn about 401k strategies, IRA optimization, and how to build a retirement income that lasts.

Retirement Account Types

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401(k) / 403(b)

Employer-sponsored retirement plans with potential matching contributions. High contribution limits and tax advantages.

2025 Limit: $23,500 ($31,000 if 50+)
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Traditional IRA

Tax-deductible contributions with tax-deferred growth. Required minimum distributions at age 73.

2025 Limit: $7,000 ($8,000 if 50+)
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Roth IRA

After-tax contributions with tax-free growth and withdrawals. No required distributions during your lifetime.

2025 Limit: $7,000 ($8,000 if 50+)
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HSA

Triple tax advantage: deductible contributions, tax-free growth, tax-free withdrawals for medical expenses.

2025 Limit: $4,300 individual / $8,550 family
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SEP-IRA

For self-employed individuals and small business owners. Higher contribution limits based on income.

2025 Limit: 25% of income up to $70,000
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Taxable Accounts

No contribution limits or withdrawal restrictions. Flexibility for early retirement or large expenses.

Advantage: Complete flexibility

The Optimal Retirement Strategy

📊 Priority Order

1

Emergency Fund

3-6 months expenses in high-yield savings

2

Employer Match

Get full 401(k) match - it's free money!

3

High-Interest Debt

Pay off credit cards (>6% interest)

4

IRA Contributions

Maximize Roth or Traditional IRA

5

Max 401(k)

Contribute up to annual limit

6

Taxable Investing

After maxing tax-advantaged accounts

🎯 Age-Based Guidelines

20s & 30s

  • • Focus on Roth contributions (low tax bracket)
  • • Aggressive growth investments (80-90% stocks)
  • • Build investing habits and increase contributions

40s & 50s

  • • Maximize all retirement accounts
  • • Consider traditional 401(k) if high income
  • • Gradually reduce stock allocation (70-80%)

60s & Beyond

  • • Catch-up contributions if 50+
  • • Conservative allocation (40-60% stocks)
  • • Plan withdrawal strategies

Planning Your Retirement Income

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The 4% Rule

Withdraw 4% of your portfolio annually for a 30-year retirement. Need $50k/year? Save $1.25 million.

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Income Replacement

Aim to replace 70-80% of pre-retirement income. Account for lower taxes and eliminated work expenses.

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Social Security

Delay claiming until age 70 for maximum benefits. Factor into your overall retirement income plan.

Retirement Income Sources

Traditional Sources

  • • 401(k) and IRA withdrawals
  • • Social Security benefits
  • • Pension payments (if available)
  • • Taxable investment income

Alternative Sources

  • • Rental property income
  • • Part-time work or consulting
  • • Business income or royalties
  • • Dividend-focused investments

Latest Retirement Planning Articles

Common Retirement Planning Mistakes

❌ Starting Too Late

Waiting until your 40s to start saving means missing years of compound growth. Start now, even with small amounts.

❌ Not Getting Employer Match

Not contributing enough to get your full employer match is leaving free money on the table.

❌ Too Conservative Too Young

Being too conservative in your 20s and 30s means missing out on growth potential.

❌ Cashing Out Early

Withdrawing from retirement accounts early results in penalties and lost compound growth.

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Financial Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as financial advice. We are not licensed financial advisors, and the content should not replace professional financial guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Always do your own research and consult with qualified professionals before making financial decisions.