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Home / Blog / Preparing for Retirement
March 5, 2020
Plan. Save. Repeat … Retire!
While balancing work, family, and friends, it can be easy to let certain financial subjects lie dormant in the “let’s think about that later” section of the brain. Saving for retirement can be one of those subjects, but it’s important to resist that tendency. Regardless of one’s financial situation, it’s always a good idea to evaluate retirement savings options. It’s never too late to start, or modify, a plan. Here are 5 ways to prepare for retirement right now:
Everyone views retirement differently. Some people want to use their retirement years to travel, explore the world, and do all the things they had never had time to do when they were working and raising families. Some people have more leisurely aspirations at home, and look forward to spending quality time with family, friends and neighbors. Others may be motivated to continue working, perhaps on a part-time basis, or start a business. Envision the type of lifestyle that retirement will bring, and build a budget that includes the expenses that will accompany that lifestyle. Assess this plan frequently, and modify as needed. As life changes, so should financial plans.
With a desired lifestyle in mind, and drafted budget in hand, it’s time to evaluate savings.
Are enough funds being reserved to support the desired future lifestyle? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, only 40% of Americans have calculated how much they need to save for retirement. To help answer this question, consider using a reputable online retirement calculator, such as the one offered by AARP. For tips on how to use online retirement calculators, check out 2 of the Best Retirement Calculators by Investopedia.
For those whose employers offer a retirement savings plan, such as a 401(k) plan, be sure to sign up and contribute as much as possible. According to the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor, the benefits of doing this may include lower taxes, and an increase in the contribution from the employer. Compound interest and tax deferrals could have a significant impact on the amount of funds that ultimately accumulate. It’s worth exploring because a little research now could make a big difference in the future.
In addition to employer retirement savings plans, other options to consider include:
Many people discover that their Social Security benefits and/or pension are not adequate to meet their retirement goals, so they supplement with personal savings. For an estimate on future Social Security benefits, the Social Security Administrator provides an online Retirement Estimator. Keep in mind, this is just an estimate. The actual benefits could increase or decrease in the future.
When it comes to retirement planning, there’s no shortage of options for savings plans. Having choices is wonderful, but in this case, too many options can be confusing. To find the best plan, take a 2-pronged approach. First, start by researching retirement plans. Here are a few online resources to explore:
Next, reach out to a trusted financial consultant, accountant, or Banker to help navigate through the financial jargon, clarify the plan, and create a plan for success in the future.
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Fidelity Bank has built a strong history as trusted advisors to customers served, and is proud to be an active member of the community of Northeastern Pennsylvania. With branches located throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania and the Lehigh Valley, Fidelity Bank offers full-service Trust & Investment Departments, a mortgage center, and an array of personal and business banking products and services. The Bank provides 24 hour, 7 day a week service to customers through a variety of digital banking tools, branch offices, online at www.bankatfidelity.com, and through the Customer Care Center at 1-800-388-4380.
