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Retirement Planning
Will I ever be able to retire?
If you're wondering whether you'll ever be able to hang up your spurs, you're not alone. The financial markets' recent dismal performance has left most people's retirement accounts a shadow of their former selves.
But there are ways to get back on track.
Try socking away more of your current income.
If you're 50 or older, take full advantage of "catch-up" contributions for your 401(k) plan and IRA.
Make sure not to leave any employer matching contributions on the table. It's the closest thing you'll find to free money!
And think about postponing retirement a bit. Even a few extra years on the job can make a huge difference.
The links below offer strategies for rescuing your retirement, as well as resources to put those new plans into motion.
Editor's Pick
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How Much Retirement Income Do You Need?
MoneyWatch's Jill Schlesinger does the math for you -- and explains how you can protect against unpleasant surprises.
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The Ultimate Retirement Fix
Don't bank on Washington or a major market rebound. This fix is up to you.
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Variable Annuities: Bad Idea?
Variable annuities are tax-deferred retirement savings products offered by insurance companies -- but they often come with high fees. MoneyWatch's Jill Schlesinger helps you assess your options.
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The Best Retirement Plans
Whether you're working for a company or self-employed, these tax-favored savings plans can help you get your retirement account growing again.
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Retirement Rescue
Even if your investments have been hammered by the downturn, here are five strategies to repair the cracks in your portfolio.
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Breathe Deeply, Keep Saving
Overcome your fear about the economy and adopt these 13 strategies to remaining calm about your money.
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Catch Up to Retirement
It's not too late to catch up. Boost contributions to workplace saving plans or IRAs using pre-tax dollars.
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Stay on the Job
Find out what older workers can do to stay on the job longer and rebuild battered retirement savings.
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Retirement Toolbox
Plug numbers into this tool to determine how well your savings program is preparing you for retirement.
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