Building a comfortable retirement nest egg is easier than you think. Here are four steps to help you build a comfortable retirement:
Start early! If you started saving $100 a month beginning at age 18, you would have over $500,000 by age 65. The power of compounding is great, and the earlier you start saving, the greater the benefit.
Have a plan. The best way to ensure that you will have a comfortable retirement is to plan how much you will need to retire. You can’t reach your destination if you don’t know where you’re going.
Participate in company sponsored retirement plans. Many companies offer matching contributions to your 401K or other retirement plan contributions. This is free money – take it!
Invest in a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds that fits your goals and risk tolerance. Studies show that your investment return is determined primarily by the allocation of your assets, not the individual investment selections you make. Keep your costs down. Invest in no-load, low cost mutual funds (or other investments).
Following the steps above should send you well on your way to a comfortable retirement.