Not a lot of people think that much about retirement. They may procrastinate or think things will just fall into place. This can mean a harsh wake up call once they reach 65, so read on to learn some helpful tips on retirement.

Determine the costs you will face after you retire. Studies have shown that most people need around 75% of the income they were receiving before retirement. If you are in a lower income range, this figure could rise to 90 percent.

TIP! Consider how much your retirement costs and needs are going to be. Studies have shown that most Americans need about 75 percent of what they make in income to help them when they retire.

Save early and watch your retirement savings grow. Even if you can only save a little, it’s important to do it now. As your income increases, your savings should also increase. This allows your savings to pay into itself.

People who have worked long and hard eagerly anticipate a happy retirement. They think retirement is a great time to do everything they couldn’t when they worked. This is partially true, but it requires thorough planning to live that kind of life.

Your 401(k) is a great way to put away funds, especially if your company adds to it when you do. When you put money in a 401K, then that money is taken out before taxes, which means less money will be taken from your paycheck in taxes. If you have a plan that has your employer matching the contributions you make, it is basically free money.

TIP! Cut back on your expenditures each week, particularly with respect to little things like fast food or coffee. Make a list of your expenses to see what you can eliminate.

Once you retire, what excuse is there not to stay in shape? You will really need to care for your body in retirement, because it’s important as you age. So include regular workouts or activities as part of your retirement plan.

Is retirement planning overwhelming you? It’s never too late. Look at your finances and come up with an amount that you can put away each month. Don’t freak out if it’s not as much as you’d like. Something will be better than doing nothing, and the quicker you begin you’re going to get better investments made.

Consider your retirement savings plan from your employer. Most companies offer a 401(k) plan that you can enroll in. Learn everything about your plan, when you will be vested in the plan, and how much you should contribute.

TIP! Start saving as early as you can, and keep saving until you’re old enough to retire. Even when you are starting small, just start.

You should save as much as you can for your retirement, but you should also learn how to invest that money wisely to maximize returns. Keep a diverse portfolio and spread your risk around. That will make things less risky.

Try to wait a couple more years before you get income from Social Security, if you’re able to. Putting off retirement by even a few years means that you will receive more money and be able to live more comfortably. This will be simpler to do if you can continue to work or use other retirement funds while you are waiting.

Many people think they will have plenty of time to do everything they ever wanted to after they retire. As life progresses, the years shoot by faster and faster. It can help to plan your daily activities in advance to be sure you make the most of your time.

TIP! When you have worked for many years, retirement is probably quite appealing. Mistakenly, they believe that they will be able to do whatever they wish during this time.

Think about getting a long-term health care plan. Health generally declines as people get older. Extra healthcare might be necessary, and this can get costly. If you have a health plan that is long term, you won’t have to worry as much.

Set goals which are both short- and long-term. Goals are important in attaining many things in life, and they are quite helpful when you want to save money. Once you know the dollar amount you will require, you know the amount of money that you must save. A small bit of math, and you’ll be ready to reach your savings goals.

Retirement might be the best time in your life. Many people are successful at turning a favorite hobby into a business that operates out of their home. This part-time business is low stress because the owner does not need to depend on the income for their livelihood.

TIP! Think about waiting several years to use SS income, if you are able. The longer you wait to apply for your Social Security benefits, the higher your monthly benefit will be, and that is likely to make it easier for you to live comfortably.

If you are 50 or older you can contribute “catch up” money to the IRA account you have. Generally speaking, the IRA limit is $5,500. Once you reach age 50, the limit is increased. You can start late yet still have lots saved.

When calculating the amount of money you need to retire, consider how you currently live. Estimate that you will need about 80% of your current income each year you are retired. Make certain that you do not dive into your savings too quickly once you retire.

Downsizing is a great way to stretch your income after retiring. Even without a mortgage, there are expenses for keeping a large home like landscaping, electricity, etc. You may prefer a different living situation after you retire. You will save a lot of money this way.

Proper planning is essential to having a comfortable retirement. Have you planned so that you can retire comfortably? Use the tips from this article to plan for your retirement.