Get the facts
The Social Security Administration sends out annual future benefits statements to all U.S. workers ages 25 and above. (Know your full Social Security retirement age, too. Click here to learn yours.)

If you have a traditional pension plan, ask your plan administrator for an individual benefit statement and plan description showing your total accrued and vested benefits, how the plan operates, how benefits are calculated, when your benefits become vested, and when and how you'll receive payments.

Estimate your expenses
Retirement expenses traditionally average 70%-80% of pre-retirement expenses. Even though your kids will be out of the house and your mortgage will be paid off, other expenses -- such as inflation, property taxes, medical care, and major home repairs -- can arise to offset these savings.

Plan to save
Calculate how much you'll need to save to make up the difference between your projected retirement income and expenses. A financial adviser, planning software, or online calculator can help.

Save smart
Make every effort to contribute the maximum amounts to your employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k), if you have one. Your employer may make matching contributions, and you won't have to pay income tax on any of the funds until you withdraw them after retirement.
Other retirement plans and accounts, such as IRAs, offer a variety of tax and earnings advantages.

Invest regularly
Want to do more for your retirement? Our Asset Management Group offers financial planning and investment advice to help you meet your long-term financial goals -- with a diversified, custom plan that's right for you. You'll get personal attention and clear choices that simplify your life -- and maximize your potential for the future.

It's your life
Enjoy it -- today and for years to come!