Boost Your Savings

If you’re approaching your 50th birthday or have passed this milestone, now is the time to supercharge your retirement savings efforts. Here are some things you can do today to potentially plump up your retirement income.

Max Out Your 401(k)

If you have a company-sponsored 401(k), contribute up to $18,500 or up to plan limits, if lower. If your employer matches a portion of your contributions, make sure to contribute at least the amount your company will match. If you find you don’t have enough dollars to contribute the maximum allowed, look for debt to cut, starting with credit cards sporting the highest interest rates. Reducing debt should be a twin goal with saving more, because both actions will help to increase your retirement income.

Explore IRAs

Another way to potentially increase your retirement income is by contributing to a traditional or Roth IRA. If you qualify by income, contributions to a traditional IRA are tax-deferred along with potential growth.

While anyone can open a traditional IRA, eligibility to contribute to a Roth IRA depends on your income. The income phase-out range for single taxpayers and heads of households making contributions to a Roth is $120,000 to $135,000, while the income phase-out range is $189,000 to $199,000 for those who are married and file their taxes jointly. Contributions to all IRAs you own are limited to $5,500 annually.

To Your Health

If your company offers a Health Savings Account (HSA), contribute as much as allowed. Contributions, potential growth and qualified distributions are all tax-free. At age 65, you may take distributions without penalty for any reason, paying ordinary income tax on the amount of unqualified distributions.

Age Pays

You can contribute even more to these retirement vehicles if you’re at least age 50. Contribute an extra $6,000 to a 401(k), $1,000 to an IRA and, if you’re over 55, $1,000 to an HSA.

Nearing the final lap of your retirement savings efforts? Talk to a financial professional to learn how you can make the most of your final contribution push.