Four key parts of a financially secure retirement.

Who doesn’t want to be financially secure in retirement? Reaching that goal can be easier by examining the four sources of income you will have during retirement and identifying steps you can take now to increase each of those sources.
 

1) Social Security retirement benefits

The Social Security system has played a major part in Americans' retirement planning for decades. The current examination and debate over the future of the system will probably produce some changes for future retirees. Here are the facts:
 
  • Full Retirement Age - the age you can start receiving "full" benefits is gradually moving from 65 to 67.
  • Early Retirement Age - at 62 you can start receiving a reduced retirement benefit..
    Average Monthly Retirement benefit for retired couples for 2020 - about $2,531.
  • Maximum Monthly Retirement benefit for retired workers at full retirement age for 2018 - about $3,011.
Determining exactly when to draw your Social Security benefits can be crucial to the success of your retirement plan.
 

2) Employer retirement plans

 
Tax law changes have significantly increased the amounts that can be accumulated in corporate retirement plans, especially 401(k) or 403 (b)plans. These plans offer a powerful way to accumulate funds. The amount you defer into this type of plan reduces your current taxable income and probably offers an employer matching provision. Funds within the plan can grow on a tax deferred basis and the limits for contributions are large.
 
  • Employee deferral limit - $19,500*.
  • Additional contribution limit for those ages 50 and over - $6,500*.
  • Maximum total contribution limit (employee and employer) - $57,000 for those under age 50 and $63,500 for those 50 and over.*
Contribute as much as you can to your 401(k) plan and especially try to contribute enough to get the full employer match. It is always nice to have your employer help you accumulate more funds
 
*These are 2020 figures and may change in the future.
 

3) Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)

Anyone with earned income can contribute to an IRA to supplement other retirement planning savings. Both traditional IRAs and Roth IRAs provide for the tax deferred accumulation of funds within the accounts. Contributions to a traditional IRA may be deductible if you do not participate in an employer sponsored retirement plan or if your income falls below certain levels. Roth IRA contributions can be made by individuals with incomes below certain levels.
 
Contributions to Roth IRAs are not tax deductible, but Roth IRAs provide an additional benefit of their distributions not being subject to income tax and there is more distribution flexibility. In addition, individuals ages 50 and over can make additional annual contributions. For 2020, the IRA and Roth IRA contribution limits are $6,000, with a "catch-up" provision for those age 50 and over which allows for an additional $1,000 contribution. Consult a tax advisor to better understand how the tax laws would apply to your situation.
 

4) Other savings

Accumulations in savings accounts and investment accounts, while not enjoying the tax preferences of 401(k) plans and IRAs, are still a major component of most individuals' retirement income. Saving more and earning more on these funds can add greatly to your retirement lifestyle.
 
Consider taking advantage of automatic savings plans with monthly transfers to a savings account or investment account. Also, be sure that your investment strategy is sound with you’ve given consideration to your goals, your time horizons and your risk tolerance.
 

We can help

Visit one of our branches or call us at 1-800-288-3425 for help with strategies that can help you maximize your retirement savings.