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Hard road to retirement for junior boomers

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You are where?

Retirement plans don't come with a GPS, so it's up to you to find your own bearings. After all, you can't figure out how to get somewhere until you first determine where you are.

Start by checking your balances in all your retirement accounts. If you're married, you and your spouse should do a complete financial inventory together. Figure out things like when some benefits kick in, and what you'll get if you delay taking them. With Social Security and many pensions, it can make a big difference -- and a big difference in how you plan.

Don't be surprised if you find out there's a tough road ahead. Unfortunately, most boomers have less than $150,000 in their 401(k) plans, according to the Employee Benefits Research Institute. That isn't nearly enough to get through a 20- to 30-year retirement.

But no matter how good the GPS, actually getting to your desired destination is your responsibility. Here's what you'll need to do next.


 

 

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