Whether you’re 55 or 25, it’s always the right time to start planning your retirement. In fact, the earlier you create a plan, the easier it is to make it into reality.

But most people don’t have a clue as to where to get started when learning how to plan for retirement. Others faithfully contribute to their IRA’s and employer retirement plans but don’t know what to do beyond that.

And if you’re self-employed, planning for retirement gets even trickier. Whether you’re planning to retire next year or 30 years from now, the time is now to plan for retirement.

We want to help you make smart decisions with your money. Keep reading to learn our favorite retirement planning guide tips.

Knowing How to Plan for Retirement Begins With Determining How Much to Save

Life often gets in the way of even the best-laid plans. But if you never make a plan, to begin with, you may not be able to afford to retire when you’re ready, if at all.

Start planning for retirement by determining how much money you’ll need to save in order to retire at the age you want while still maintaining the lifestyle you want. It’s all about reverse engineering.

Figure out how much your retirement expenses will be. Keep in mind your health may not be as great then as it is now.

Then take a look at what your income will be. Do some research to find out how much Social Security benefits you’ll receive. If you have a pension, find out what that number will be as well.

In fact, anything that may produce income during your retirement years needs to be factored into your plan for retirement.

If, after running the numbers, you discover you won’t be able to save what you need, you may want to consider slowly increasing your retirement savings over a period of time. You can also consider adjusting your retirement goals.

Make as Many Contributions to Your Retirement Plan as Possible

There are a few options when it comes to making contributions to your retirement fund. Let’s take a look at them now.

401(k)

If you work for an employer, chances are that one of your benefits is a 401(k), 403 (b), or 457 retirement savings plan. Many employers offer a match. Try to at least put enough in to get the maximum employer match. Of course, more is always better. Employer plans allow you to put much more in each year than a traditional or Roth IRA allows.

Right now there’s a limit of $18,500 for employees under age 50 and a maximum limit of $24,500 for those over 50. But 401(k)s don’t offer as many investment options as other types of retirement funds.

IRAs

IRAs come in two varieties, Roth and traditional. A traditional IRA means your money goes in tax-free but when you withdraw them after retirement, you’ll be taxed then.

On the other hand, a Roth IRA means you’re taxed now but when you retire, you can take distributions that are completely tax-free. However, there are income limits to contributing to your Roth IRA.

You can also take money out of an IRA early for educational purposes without being penalized. And you can take out up to $10,000 for the purchase of your first home.

Self-Employment Retirement Savings Options

Those who are self-employed are left to fend for themselves for retirement planning. However, you do have options besides just a Roth or traditional IRA.

You can open Simple IRA, A SEP, or even a Solo 401(k).

SIMPLE IRA

A SIMPLE IRA allows you to contribute up to $12,500 in 2018 if you’re under age 50 and $15,500 if you’re over 50. However, if you do open a SIMPLE IRA you’ll also have to contribute to your employee’s retirement funds.

SEP IRA

A SEP IRA allows you to contribute up to 25% of your earnings. The maximum amount is $55,000.

However, the 25% is applied to net earnings from your business. It’s determined by taking your gross income and subtracting your SEP IRA contribution and half of your self-employment tax.

And if you own a business with employees, you do need to make the same contribution percentage-wise to their accounts as you are with your own.

Other Options

No retirement guide would be complete without sharing with you the other ways to invest your money. If you are employed by a company, see if there is a 457(b) plan that you have access to. There’s no early withdrawal penalty with this type of account.

If you find you’ve already maxed out how much you can save with your pre-tax or Roth contributions, look into making after-tax contributions. Then convert them to a Roth to let them grow tax-free.

You can also look into other options such as cash value life insurance or even just a regular taxable account to place your savings in.

How to Invest When Planning for Retirement

It’s important to learn how to invest wisely when planning to retire. You don’t want the market to fall as it did back in 2008 and leave you completely penniless just as you’re entering your twilight years.

In fact, you may choose to invest in all of your retirement plans differently. However, each retirement plan should be properly diversified according to your time frame, risk tolerance, and with the lowest possible costs to you.

Don’t look for funds that promise quick money now. Your goal is to play a long-term game.

Determining What Type of Insurance You’ll Need When Planning for Retirement

You’ll need to plan which types of insurance are necessary when it’s time to retire. That includes health insurance. While you’ll be eligible for Medicare by age 65, you’ll need supplemental coverage.

And don’t forget that Medicare does not pay for long-term health care. Should something go wrong and you need extra help, you’ll want to know you can easily afford it.

Also, consider looking into an income annuity. This will help ensure that you don’t run out of money during your retirement.

Consider Your Tax Situation

Many people want to move from their home after they retire. It’s usually too big or they want to retire somewhere warmer.

Some retirees move because the tax situation in certain states are much lower than they are in their current state. Check to see which states offer the best living conditions for retirees, including low taxes.

Get Help Planning

When it comes to learning how to plan for retirement, there are a lot of questions you need answers to. It’s often a confusing process that can feel overwhelming to some people.

Which is why people ask for our help. We offer a free retirement planning consultation. All you need to do is click here to schedule your appointment.