Retirees are more confident in their ability to fund their golden years, according to the 2016 Retirement Confidence survey from the Employee Benefit Research Institute. Retiree confidence is up to 39 percent this year which is pretty high compared to 18 percent in 2013.
Still, a full 61 percent of survey respondents (workers and retirees) are somewhat or not at all confident that they will be able to retire comfortably. If you count yourself among this crowd, the money pros at Money Talks News share 7 tips to help you stop blocking your retirement blessings:
- Stop trying to KUWTJ. Pretending to be rich when you're not is a bad idea. Stop buying a new car every three years, upgrading every time there is a new iPhone is released and doing pricey remodels on a kitchen just because your neighbors did. Learn the difference between needs and wants and learn how to live with a budget.
- Save more. We all know traditional pensions have mostly disappeared. Social security paid an average $1,341 in January 2016. You will need money for retirement. You should be getting it by investing 10 to 15 percent of monthly income into a retirement account.
- Get your priorities straight. It's natural for parents to want to help their children, but they shouldn't do it at their own expense. College funding can wait until you are investing that 10 to 15 percent in your retirement account.
- Choose the right savings account. Bank savings? MMAs? Negative. You must have a company matched 401K (free money! ) or your own IRA -- both offer tax benefits, (but also penalties if you try to touch it before you retire.)
- Stop financing your life. Debt-free living is the way to go. Try to save for the things you need and minimize your debt. Your paycheck will stretch if you're not paying for debt.
- Keep your credit high. Pay your bills on time. Only apply for credit you need. Your credit worthiness will stay high, so when you do need a loan, you'll get the best rates and terms.
- Don't be scared. No one gets rich without taking risks. You can take calculated risks with your investments by learning how to best allocate your retirement funds for the highest returns.
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