When you're in your 50s, you may be starting to look forward to what retirement might hold. Make the most of these years to map out your future.
Increase your savings
To help you make the most of the time you have before you retire, here are some tips to consider.
- Check your savings status. If your savings is not where you'd like it to be, you still have time to get closer to the retirement you want. Use our Retirement Quick View Calculator to see if you are on track.
- Take advantage of "catch-up" contributions. If you're already saving up to the regular IRS maximum, consider making "catch-up" contributions to both your retirement plan and IRAs.
- Avoid taking early distributions. Be aware that withdrawing cash from your retirement accounts before age 55 or 59 ½ (depending on the plan) can carry high taxes and early withdrawal penalties.
- Contribute additional money. Setting aside additional money you may receive during the year, such as bonuses, raises, and tax refunds, can help accelerate your saving.
- Maintain your emergency fund. Most experts agree that you should set aside 3 to 6 months of your living expenses in an easy-to-access account such as a checking or savings account. If you haven't already, consider an emergency fund in case something unexpected arises.
Review and update your investment strategy
Are you on track to reach your retirement goals? Consider reviewing and updating your retirement plan and assure your asset allocation is still in line with your risk tolerance.
- Review your asset allocation. Ensure your investment and asset allocation strategy is aligned with your goals.
- Consolidate. Consider consolidating your accounts from previous employers’ retirement plans into your current employer's retirement plan or an IRA to help you better manage your finances. Review your distribution options.
Protect yourself from the unexpected
Insurance can become a valuable income and estate planning tool as you approach retirement, and it will likely cost less to buy in your 50s than in your 60s.
- Review your insurance policies. Consider additional life insurance protection to help provide for loved ones.
- Consider additional insurance. Learn about long-term care insurance, which can help cover expenses that could deplete your estate in the case of extended illness.
- Protect your home. You may want to make sure your home is sufficiently covered by homeowner’s insurance.
- Protect yourself and your loved ones. Consider checking that your will and other documents are up to date and that your beneficiaries are listed where applicable.
Develop your income plan
In your 50s, you may be able to be more realistic about when you want to retire, how much income you’ll need, and what your current retirement savings are estimated to be once you reach retirement age.
- Identify income sources. If you are 5 to 10 years from retirement, consider creating a plan to help you generate a reliable income stream from your accumulated savings and other sources.
- Assess monthly expenses. Think about what your monthly expenses (PDF) may be in retirement.
- Understand risks. Do you know how longevity can impact your plan? Consider how health care or inflation may impact your portfolio.
- Consider annuities. Understand the role that guaranteed income with annuities could play in helping you meet essential expenses in retirement.
To help you start your income planning, explore an informative and interactive tool, Your Income Story. It can assist you in creating a profile of your retirement needs and goals. Also consider speaking with a financial advisor to develop an income plan that will help meet your specific needs.
