You hear or read about it all the time: Start saving, or start saving more for your retirement. For many, the reality is that it is far easier said than done. However, there is also the reality that a significant number of people, upon reaching their retirement, say, “I should have saved more.”
It can be a very tough thing to find where adjustments can be made in order to start contributing or contributing more to your retirement. It may be:
- trying to save on dining out
- buying less at the supermarket, department stores or other retail stores
- greater use of coupons
- fewer trips or cheaper entertainment
- holding onto things a little longer, such as your automobile, electronics, furnishings and other personal items
- putting a higher percentage of your income into savings as you earn more
- or other adjustment(s)
As we come upon
the end of the calendar year, I suggest you look at your voluntary retirement plan. If you are currently participating in a plan, see if you can start putting more money into your retirement plan for the upcoming year. If you are not participating in a voluntary retirement plan, look into what is offered and start participating if you can. If this option is not available, look at an IRA or similar plan through a bank, credit union, security broker or other entity.
By doing so, and if it is a qualified pre-tax plan (as many are), you will not be paying federal income tax on the income deposited into your retirement account until you withdraw it (i.e. you are deferring your federal income tax liability).
Ideally, a withdrawal would not occur until your time of retirement when your tax rate is potentially less than in the time period you were working and saving for your retirement. If this occurs, you end up not only deferring your federal income tax liability on income related to what you contributed to your qualified retirement plan, but you may also end up paying less taxes if you are in a lower tax bracket at the time of withdrawal. As a matter of note, should there be a withdrawal before you reach the age of 59 and a half, there could be a 10 percent “early withdrawal” penalty assessed by the IRS on the withdrawal amount in addition to federal income tax.
It seems as if there is never a good time to start saving or saving more. As you have the opportunity, speak with those involved in financial planning or your retirement plan administrator for tips and advice on starting and building your retirement fund. Sooner (to the extent it is reasonably possible) is better than later – just ask those who have retired or who are coming upon retirement.
For more information on FSRMF’s services and coverage, give us a call at 850-320-6880.
By Wayne S. Matthews, CPA, Chief Financial Officer