It’s 2017 and one year closer to retirement. Whether you’re at your very first job or wrapping up a successful career, there are always new things to learn when it comes to saving for the future. So why not make retirement planning part of your New Year’s resolution?
Putting money in a high-yield savings account (if you can find one) is always smart, but you can do even more. The U.S. Department of the Treasury now offers a retirement savings option called “myRA.” There’s no minimum to open the account, you can contribute what you can afford and you can withdraw funds with ease. To learn more about myRA, visit www.myra.gov.
Hopefully, your employer chips in a little. An employer-sponsored retirement plan or 401(k) can be a useful way to set aside funds for retirement, especially if your employer offers to match what you invest. If you don’t work for an employer who offers this type of plan, there are many other plans designed to help you save for retirement.
From solo 401(k)s to traditional and Roth IRAs, there are programs designed to fit a multitude of budgets.
Social Security is funded by taxes you pay while you work. To get estimates of future benefits and check your earnings record for accuracy, you can create a “my Social Security” account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.
Along with giving up bad habits in this New Year, start a good one that can make a lasting, positive difference.
For questions, online applications or to make an appointment
to visit a SSA office, call from 7am–7pm, Mon–Fri:
1-800-772-1213 (toll free) | 1-800-325-0778 (TTY)
www.socialsecurity.gov
