***5 Rules to Saving For Retirement

The Automatic Rule
Start saving money today. Even if it’s only a buck or two each pay period, savings is a habit you must start and stick with for the rest of your life. To improve your chance of savings success, automate the process. Have money withdrawn automatically from your paycheck or directly from your checking account each month. If you don’t want to think about saving, automation can take care of it for you.

The 1% Rule
At a minimum save 1% of your earnings each payroll period. When you get a salary increase, add an extra percent to your savings and spend the rest. For example, when you get a 3% increase at work, save 1% and spend the other 2%. This way you’ll continually increase your savings rate while enjoying a higher standard of living.

The Time Rule
When I meet with people in their 50’s and 60’s, the one regret they have is that they had wished they’d starting earlier in life. It’s never too early or too late to start saving for retirement. Time is your friend. It can work for you or against you. It’s your choice. Choose wisely.

The Spending Rule
The less money you take out, the lower inflation is, and the higher return you earn on your money, the longer it will last. Conversely, the more money you take out, the higher inflation is, and the lower your return is, the shorter your nest egg will last.

The Most Important Rule
The government and your company will not take care of you. Read, listen and learn about personal finance, investments and strategies. In the end, your financial well-being is your personal responsibility. Control what you can control.