Retirement Planning
Most people only think about retirement planning when they're close to retirement age. However, there are many benefits to starting to plan for retirement well in advance. In this article, we will discuss the different aspects of retirement planning, and how you can start preparing for this important life event.

What is Retirement Planning
Retirement planning is the process of creating a plan to ensure that you will have enough money saved up to cover your costs during retirement. This includes factors such as how much money you will need to live on, when you plan to retire, and how you will generate income during retirement.
Why is Retirement Planning Important?
There are a number of reasons why retirement planning is important. First, it can help you ensure that you have enough money saved up to cover your costs during retirement. Retirement can be expensive, and if you don't have a plan in place, you may find yourself short on funds. Second, retirement planning can help you avoid running out of money in retirement. This is especially important if you plan to retire early. Finally, retirement planning can help you make the most of your retirement years. By planning ahead, you can ensure that you have the resources you need to live a comfortable and fulfilling retirement.
How Can You Start Retirement Planning?
There are a number of ways to start retirement planning. First, you should calculate how much money you will need to cover your costs during retirement. This includes factors such as your current expenses, your expected retirement income, and your desired lifestyle. Second, you should create a retirement savings plan. This may involve contributing to a 401(k) or IRA, starting a side hustle, or investing in real estate. Third, you should consider your Social Security benefits. You can estimate your future benefits by using the Social Security Administration's online calculator. Finally, you should consult with a financial advisor. A qualified advisor can help you create a personalized retirement plan that meets your unique needs and goals.

Things to Consider When Planning for Retirement
When you're planning for retirement, there are a number of things to consider. First, you need to think about how much money you will need to cover your costs. This includes your housing, food, transportation, and healthcare costs. Second, you need to think about when you want to retire. Do you want to retire early or later in life? Third, you need to think about how you will generate income during retirement. Will you rely on Social Security benefits, a pension, or investments? Finally, you need to think about your estate planning needs. This includes things like creating a will and choosing beneficiaries for your retirement accounts.
Investing for Retirement
There are a number of ways to invest for retirement. The most common way is to contribute to a 401(k) or IRA. However, there are a number of other options as well:
401(k)
A 401(k) is a retirement savings plan sponsored by an employer. Employees can contribute a portion of their paychecks to their 401(k) accounts. Employers may also match a portion of employee contributions.
IRA
An IRA is an individual retirement account that allows people to save for retirement without employer sponsorship. There are two types of IRAs: traditional and Roth.
Traditional IRA
A traditional IRA allows you to contribute pre-tax dollars to your account. This means that you will not pay taxes on the money you contribute until you withdraw it in retirement.
Roth IRA
A Roth IRA allows you to contribute after-tax dollars to your account. This means that you will pay taxes on the money you contribute now, but you will not have to pay taxes on the money you withdraw in retirement.
SEP IRA
A SEP IRA is a retirement savings plan for self-employed individuals and small business owners. contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but they are not subject to income tax when they are withdrawn in retirement.
Bonds
Bonds are debt securities that can be used to finance projects or activities. When you purchase a bond, you are lending money to the bond issuer. In return, the bond issuer agrees to pay you interest on your investment. bonds can be an important part of a diversified retirement portfolio.
Mutual Funds
Mutual funds are investment vehicles that pool together money from many different investors. Mutual funds are managed by professional money managers who invest the money in a variety of securities, such as stocks, bonds, and other assets.
ETFs
ETFs are similar to mutual funds, but they are traded on stock exchanges. ETFs offer investors a way to diversify their portfolios without having to purchase individual securities.
Stocks
Stocks are shares of ownership in a company. When you buy stocks, you become a part-owner of the company. As the company grows and becomes more profitable, the value of your stocks will increase. Stocks can be an important part of a retirement portfolio.
Real Estate
Real estate can be an important part of a retirement portfolio. There are many different types of real estate investments, such as rental properties, REITs, and investment property.
Rental Properties
Rental properties are an important part of the real estate market. Rental properties can provide a steady stream of income during retirement.
REITs
REITs are real estate investment trusts that allow investors to pool their money and invest in a diversified portfolio of properties. REITs offer investors the ability to invest in a variety of property types, such as office buildings, shopping centers, and apartments.
Investment Property
Investment property is any property that is not your primary residence. Investment property can generate income through rent or appreciation.
Frequently Asked Questions
When Should You Start Retirement Planning?
Ideally, you should start retirement planning as early as possible. However, it's never too late to start. If you're close to retirement age and haven't started planning yet, don't worry - there are still things you can do to get on track.
How much money do I need saved up for retirement?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the amount of money you'll need will vary depending on your individual circumstances. However, a general rule of thumb is to aim to have around 70-80% of your pre-retirement income saved up.
If you're not sure how much you'll need, our experts at Rehoboth Financial can help you create a retirement plan that fits your specific needs.
What age should I start withdrawing money from my retirement fund?
The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including your retirement savings, health and lifestyle. Generally speaking, you should start withdrawing money around age 70 - but speak to an expert to get a more specific plan tailored to your needs.
Is Social Security enough to live on in retirement?
Many retirees rely on Social Security to help pay for their living expenses, but it's not always enough. In fact, the average monthly Social Security payment is only around $1,300. If you're planning to retire and rely solely on Social Security, you may want to rethink your plans. There are a number of things you can do to supplement your retirement income, such as saving money in a 401(k) or IRA. Talk to an expert at Rehoboth Financial about your options.
What is the difference between a 401k and an IRA?
A 401k is an employer-sponsored retirement savings plan, while an IRA is an individual retirement account. With a 401k, you contribute money to the plan through payroll deductions, and your employer may match your contributions. With an IRA, you contribute money yourself. Both 401ks and IRAs offer tax advantages: contributions to a 401k are tax-deductible, and earnings in a 401k are taxed when you withdraw them in retirement. With an IRA, contributions are also tax-deductible, and earnings are taxed when they're withdrawn - but you can choose to have them taxed when they're contributed instead (this is called a Roth IRA).
Start Planning for Retirement Today
Planning for retirement can be a complex process. Our experts at Rehoboth Financial can help you make a plan for your future. We will work with you to create a personalized retirement plan that fits your needs and objectives. Contact us today to learn more about our services.