When Can I Retire? What’s The Perfect Retirement Age? (Calculator)

Are you getting ready to retire? If so, you’re probably wondering when you can start collecting your retirement benefits. The good news is that there are a lot of different factors that go into deciding when you can retire. This guide will discuss everything you need to know to decide when is the right time for you to retire. We’ll cover everything from eligibility requirements to how much money you can expect to receive each month. So whether you’re just starting to think about retirement or are close to making the final decision, this guide has everything you need!

When to Retire and Why Age Matters

At what age can you retire? Retirement is a personal decision that depends on several factors, such as financial stability, health, and personal goals. While age is often considered an essential factor in retirement decisions, it is not the only one.

In general, people become eligible to receive full Social Security retirement benefits at the full retirement age of 67, although they can begin to receive benefits as early as 62. Many employers also have retirement plans that benefit employees with specific age and service requirements.

However, it’s important to note that retirement age does not necessarily mean you must retire. Many people continue to work well into their 60s, 70s, and beyond because they enjoy their work, want to stay active, or need additional income.

What Age Do Most People Retire?

The age at which most people retire varies depending on the country and the individual’s circumstances. In many countries, the target retirement age has been 65 years old, but this is changing in many places due to increased life expectancy, changes in pension laws, and other factors.

In some countries, the retirement age has been raised to 67 or even 70 to address concerns about the financial sustainability of pension systems. In other countries, retirement age may vary depending on the individual’s profession, with some jobs allowing for earlier retirement, such as physically demanding occupations.

Additionally, under certain circumstances, some retire earlier than the average retirement age, while others continue working well into their 70s or beyond.

How Can I Retire Early?

Retiring early is a goal that many people aspire to achieve. Here are some steps you can take to help make early retirement a reality:

• Start saving early: The earlier you start saving, the more time your money has to grow. Maximize your contributions to your retirement accounts, such as a 401(k) or IRA.
• Live below your means: If you want to retire early, you need to be able to save a significant portion of your income. This means living below your means and avoiding unnecessary expenses.
• Invest wisely: Investing your money can help it grow faster than saving it. Consider investing in a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds that align with your risk tolerance and retirement goals.
• Reduce debt: Pay off any high-interest debt, such as credit card debt, as soon as possible. This will free up more money to save for retirement.
• Consider alternative income streams: Explore opportunities for passive income, such as real estate investing or starting a side business, to supplement your retirement savings.
• Have a plan: Create a retirement plan that outlines your goals, estimated expenses, and sources of income. This will help you stay on track and make informed decisions about your retirement.

Retirement Age Calculator

The average retirement age varies dramatically because everyone has different retirement goals. For example, everyone knows as the Social Security retirement age increases, the higher the monthly benefits you’ll receive. Still, most people don’t know when to start spending their hard-earned savings and how to spend them wisely.

Because annuities are the only retirement plan in the United States that guarantees an income for life, you can estimate how much income you can receive in addition to Social Security retirement benefits. Use our retirement age calculator below, then request a free quote.

Note: You can purchase an annuity (with no tax penalties) with your 401(k), IRAs, retirement accounts, investments, and cash.

What Is The Minimum Retirement Age?

The minimum retirement age varies from country to country and depends on the laws and regulations in each specific location. For example, the minimum retirement age in the United States is at least age 62, although people can choose to retire earlier or later depending on their circumstances and financial situation. In other countries, the retirement age may differ, and other factors may affect when people choose to retire. Therefore, it’s essential to check your country’s retirement laws and regulations to understand the minimum retirement age and other requirements related to retirement.

How To Avoid outliving your money

Planning and managing your finances carefully is essential to avoid outliving your money. Here are some steps you can take:

• Determine your retirement goals and create a budget: Identify them and estimate how much money you’ll need to achieve them. Then, create a budget for your expected expenses, such as housing, healthcare, and leisure activities.
• Save as much as you can: The more you save, the better off you’ll be in retirement. Take advantage of retirement accounts such as 401(k)s and IRAs and contribute as much as you can afford.
• Consider delaying Social Security: The longer you wait to start receiving Social Security benefits, the higher your monthly payment will be. So it may be worthwhile if you can wait to receive the retirement benefit.
• Manage your investments: Invest your savings in a diversified portfolio of stocks, bonds, and other assets. This can help you reduce risk and maximize returns.
• Minimize debt: Try to pay off any debt before you retire. This can help reduce your monthly expenses and give you more financial flexibility.
• Consider part-time work: If you’re running out of money in retirement, consider taking on part-time work to supplement your income.
• Stay healthy: Medical expenses can significantly drain your retirement savings. Stay healthy by exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, and getting regular check-ups.

How age at retirement affects retirement savings income

The age at which you retire can significantly impact your retirement savings income. Here are a few ways that age can affect your retirement savings income:

• Time Horizon: The length of your retirement can vary depending on when you retire. If you retire earlier, your retirement may be longer, so you need more savings to support yourself. On the other hand, if you retire later, your retirement may be shorter, and you may need fewer savings.
• Social Security Benefits: As mentioned before, your Social Security retirement benefits are based on when you start collecting them. If you start collecting benefits at age 62, your monthly benefit amount will be lower than if you wait until your full retirement age or later. Therefore, if you retire earlier, your Social Security benefits may be lower, reducing your retirement income.
• Investment Earnings: The longer you remain invested in retirement accounts, the more time your investments have to grow. Therefore, if you retire later, you may have more time to grow your retirement savings, resulting in higher investment earnings.
• Withdrawal Rates: The age at which you retire can also affect the amount you can withdraw from your accounts each year. The general rule of thumb is to withdraw no more than 4% of your retirement savings annually. If you retire earlier, you may need to withdraw a higher percentage to support your retirement, which can reduce your savings and retirement income over time.

How Can I Retire With No Money?

Many people dream of retiring early but don’t know how they would manage financially. The key is minimizing your lifestyle and working as long as possible.

• For example, you might downsize to a smaller home or remove your car.
• You can also look for ways to boost your income, such as starting a side hustle or working overtime.

One way to make retirement more affordable is to wait until your Social Security check is enough to cover your basic expenses. This way, you won’t have to worry about meeting your monthly financial obligations.

With some careful planning, you can retire with no money worries.

Here’s how to figure out when you’re ready to take the retirement leap

Retirement is a significant milestone in one’s life, and deciding when to leap can be challenging. However, here are some signs that you may be ready to retire early:

• Financial Security: You have enough savings and investments to support your retirement lifestyle without relying on income from work. You have calculated your retirement income and expenses and are confident that you can live comfortably.
• Career Goals: You have achieved and feel fulfilled with your professional accomplishments. You no longer have the desire to work or pursue a higher position.
• Health and Well-being: You are in good health and have a positive outlook on life. You have an excellent work-life balance and are ready to focus on your interests and hobbies.
• Family and Relationships: You have a robust family and friends support system ready to spend time with you and share experiences. You are ready to focus on your relationships and enjoy quality time with loved ones.
• Time Management: You know how you will spend your time in retirement and have hobbies or interests you are excited to pursue. You have made plans to stay active and engaged and continue learning.

How much should I take from retirement funds and other savings?

The amount you should take from your retirement funds and other savings will depend on several factors, such as the cost of your retirement lifestyle, expenses, and other sources of income. However, here are a few guidelines to consider:

• Determine your retirement expenses: Before you can decide how much to take from your retirement funds and other savings, you need to know how much you’ll need to cover your expenses in retirement. This includes basic living expenses, such as housing, food, healthcare, and any discretionary expenses, such as travel or hobbies.
• Estimate your retirement income: In addition to your retirement savings, you may have other sources of income in retirement, such as Social Security, a pension, or rental income. Estimate how much you’ll receive from these sources, so you know how much you’ll need to withdraw from your savings.
• Consider your withdrawal rate: Experts generally recommend withdrawing no more than 4% of your retirement savings per year to avoid running out of money in retirement. So, for example, if you have $500,000 in retirement savings, you could withdraw $20,000 annually to start.
• Review your investments: Your retirement accounts may generate income, such as dividends or interest. Consider your investments’ income when determining how much to withdraw from your retirement funds.
• Monitor your retirement plan regularly: Your retirement expenses and income may change over time, so it’s essential to regularly review your retirement plan and adjust your withdrawals as needed.

How Much Do I Need To Retire If My House Is Paid Off?

Figuring out when to retire can be a tricky balancing act.

On the one hand, you want to enjoy your golden years as soon as possible. But, on the other hand, you want to ensure you have enough money to last throughout your retirement.

One way to help determine the best time to retire is by looking at your current monthly expenses.

• Start by subtracting your mortgage payment from your total monthly expenses.
• Then, a time when your Social Security benefits and your retirement savings (using our calculator) will generate enough money to cover the remaining monthly expenses amount.

Annuities can help determine your perfect retirement age because the monthly income is guaranteed. Because of this contractual guarantee, you can pinpoint exactly when to claim benefits from Social Security.

So if you’re looking for guidance on when to hang up your work hat for good, an annuity may be the answer you’re looking for.

Where Should I Put My Money If I Want To Retire Early?    

When it comes to retirement planning, there are a lot of different retirement plans to choose from. For example, if you want to retire early, you must decide how to invest your money.

• Do you want to take the gamble and invest in the stock market?
• Or do you want to guarantee your retirement income with an annuity?

With the stock market, there’s no telling how much money you’ll make or lose. You could retire early if the market does well, but you could also work longer than you wanted if the market takes a dip. An annuity with a lifetime income rider takes the guesswork out of retirement planning. You can know precisely when and how much money you’ll need at an early retirement age.

Of course, there’s no guarantee of how much interest you’ll earn with an annuity. But an annuity is worth considering if you’re looking for a way to guarantee your retirement income.

What is the earliest age you can retire from work?

The earliest age you can retire from work depends on the country and the retirement system in place. In some countries, you may be able to retire as early as your 50s or even earlier if you have met specific requirements, such as having worked for a certain number of years or having a certain amount of savings.

However, in other countries, the minimum retirement age may be higher, typically in the 60s or later. It’s important to note that retiring early may also impact the number of retirement benefits you receive. Some systems may offer reduced benefits for those who retire before a certain age.

Is There A Penalty For Taking A Pension At 55?

Many people are surprised to learn there can be a penalty for taking pension benefits at 55. The IRS imposes an early withdrawal penalty of 10% of the amount withdrawn. However, there are some exceptions to this rule.

For example, if you take a 72(t) distribution, you will not be subject to the early withdrawal penalty.

If you’re still unsure whether you will be penalized for taking your pension early, it’s best to consult with a financial advisor or tax specialist.

How Long Will My 401k Last After Retirement?

Many people worry about whether their 401k will last through retirement. However, a few simple rules of thumb can help ensure your savings will last as long as needed.

• First, most financial advisers recommend using a 4% withdrawal rate. So, for example, if you have a 401k balance of $100,000, you will withdraw $4,000 per year. However, this rule has been debunked in recent history.
• Second, you may consider using annuities to generate income in retirement. Annuities are insurance products that provide guaranteed income for life. These tools can help ensure you never run out of money in retirement.
• Finally, remember to keep an emergency fund if unexpected expenses arise.

By following these simple tips, you can help to ensure that your 401k will last throughout your retirement years.

Pension Plans and IRAs

Pension plans and Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are two popular retirement savings options. Here’s a brief overview of each:

Pension Plans

Pension plans are retirement plans sponsored by an employer. They are designed to provide employees with a reliable source of retirement income. With a pension plan, the employer typically funds the plan and manages the investments. Employees receive a set monthly income based on a formula that considers their salary and years of service. Pension plans are often considered a valuable benefit, as they provide a guaranteed monthly income stream in retirement.

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)

Individuals can set up IRAs as personal retirement savings accounts with a financial institution, such as a bank or brokerage firm. There are two main types of IRAs: traditional and Roth. With a traditional IRA, contributions are tax-deductible, and earnings grow tax-deferred. Taxes are paid when funds are withdrawn in retirement. With a Roth IRA, contributions are made with after-tax dollars, but earnings grow tax-free. Withdrawals in retirement are tax-free as well. IRAs offer more flexibility than pension plans, as individuals can choose their investments and manage their accounts.

When can you start collecting Social Security, and how much will you get?

When can you start collecting Social Security for retirement? You can start collecting Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62, but your benefit amount will be reduced if you start collecting before your full retirement age (FRA). Your FRA is determined by your birth year and ranges from 66 to 67 years old. If you delay collecting benefits past your FRA, your benefit amount will increase to age 70.

How much will you get? Your Social Security retirement benefit is calculated based on your average earnings during your highest 35 years of work. The amount you receive will also depend on when you start collecting benefits, your FRA, and your work history. You can estimate your retirement benefit amount by creating your Social Security account on the Social Security Administration website or contacting the SSA directly.

Is It Better To Take Social Security At 62 Or 67?

There’s no easy answer when deciding when to take Social Security. The age at which you start receiving retirement benefits will affect the total money you receive over your lifetime.

The total retirement benefits you will receive over your lifetime are essentially the same, regardless of when you start receiving them. However, the monthly retirement benefit is higher if you wait until later because you have less life expectancy. So if you can afford to wait, getting a higher monthly retirement benefit may be worth it.

• Taking retirement benefits early (minimum age 62) will mean smaller monthly payments, but you’ll receive them for longer.
• Waiting until full retirement age (67 for people born after 1960) will result in larger monthly benefit payments, but you’ll receive them for a shorter period.

There are several factors to consider when to begin receiving benefits, including your health, life expectancy if you pay Social Security taxes and financial situation.

The best retirement age to collect benefits depends on your circumstances.

Can You Live Off Social Security?

Many seniors rely on Social Security as their primary source of income in retirement. But with the cost of living rising, some wonder if they can live off Social Security alone.

The answer is that it depends.

Social Security was never intended to be a retiree’s sole source of income. Instead, it was meant to supplement other sources of income, such as pensions and savings.

That said, it is possible to live off Social Security, but it will likely require a significant reduction in lifestyle.

How Much Savings Should I Have At 40?

In your early 40s, you’re probably starting to think about retirement. And one of the first questions you might ask is, “How much should I have saved by now?” 

The answer depended on several factors, including your target retirement age and desired retirement income amount.

For example, if you want to retire at 65 and think you’ll need $100,000 per year to live comfortably, you’ll need to save $750,000 by the time you reach age 40 if you’re using an annuity.

Another way to communicate this is, if you are 40 and invest $750,000 into an annuity with a lifetime income rider today, at age 65 (when you retire), you are guaranteed to receive roughly $100,000 a year for the rest of your lifetime.

This is a fraction of what other publications tell you what you need to retire with.

How Much Money Do I Need To Retire?

The amount of money you need to retire depends on various factors, such as your current expenses, the lifestyle you want to maintain in retirement, your life expectancy, and your retirement goals.

To determine your retirement savings goal, estimate your annual retirement expenses, including housing, food, healthcare, and leisure activities. Considering potential inflation and unexpected expenses, such as medical emergencies, would be best.

Once you have an estimate of your annual retirement expenses, multiply this figure by the number of years you expect to be retired. This will give you a rough estimate of the money you need to save for retirement.

Will My 401k Still Grow If I Stop Contributing?

Even if you’re no longer actively contributing to your 401k, the account can continue to grow.

401ks typically contain a mix of investments, including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. And as these investments increase in value over time, so will your account balance.

Of course, the growth rate will depend on the overall market performance. But as long as you keep your account invested, there’s a good chance it will continue to grow, even if you’re not making regular contributions.

So if you’re wondering whether it’s worth keeping your 401k, even if you’re no longer actively contributing, the answer is yes!

Can I Contribute 100% Of My Salary To My 401k?

Most 401k plans have a maximum contribution limit, which for 2023 is $22,500. However, if you’re over 50, you may be able to make catch-up contributions of up to an additional $7,500. So if you’re over 50 and your employer allows it, you could technically contribute up to $30,000 to your 401k in a given year.

Unlike a 401(k) plan, a deferred annuity has no contribution limits. This means you can save as much as you want for retirement, which can be a real advantage if you’re trying to catch up on your savings.

In addition, deferred non-qualified annuities offer the same tax-deferred growth retirement benefit as 401(k)s and help you reduce your taxes in retirement because only the interest is taxable versus the entire amount withdrawn from a 401(k).

A fixed index annuity protects your investment from losing money to market volatility.

And if you choose a deferred annuity with a guaranteed income rider, you can create a retirement income that will last for the rest of your life.

So a deferred annuity may be suitable to maximize your retirement savings and income potential.

Is A 401k Worth It Anymore?

A 401k is still one of the best options for retirement planning. Although the stock market can be volatile, it has consistently outperformed other investments, such as bonds and real estate, over the long term. Furthermore, 401ks offer several advantages that other investment vehicles do not, such as employer-matching contributions and tax-deferred growth. For these reasons, 401ks remains an attractive option for anyone looking to secure their financial future.

However, fixed index annuities with premium bonuses mimic the employer match. Non-qualified annuities reduce the tax bill to a fraction compared to a 401(k). Annuities with a lifetime income rider can guarantee how to reach your future retirement income goals starting today, taking all the guesswork out of retirement planning. Fixed index annuities protect your retirement savings from losing money due to stock market volatility.

Is A Pension Better Than A 401k?

When it comes to retirement planning, there are many different options. Two of the most popular options are pensions and 401ks. However, both have distinct advantages and disadvantages, so it’s essential to understand their differences before deciding.

• Pensions are typically offered by employers and are based on years of service. They often offer guaranteed income for life, which can be a significant security blanket in retirement. However, pensions can be inflexible and may not keep up with inflation.
• 401ks, on the other hand, are portable and offer more flexibility regarding how much you can contribute and when you can access the funds. They also tend to have higher contribution limits than pensions. However, 401ks don’t offer the same guaranteed income in retirement, so it’s essential to consider all your options before making a decision.
• A fixed index annuity (FIA) with a lifetime income rider is the best of both worlds regarding retirement planning. It offers a pension guarantee with the added flexibility and portability of a 401(k). Plus, it keeps up with inflation and has zero contribution limits. And, if you need access to your funds, they are always available through annual penalty-free withdrawals. 

So whether you’re looking for guarantees, flexibility, or the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a plan, a fixed index annuity with a lifetime income rider is the way to go.

What Is The Safest Way To Save For Retirement?

Fixed index annuities are one of the safest ways to save for retirement. With a fixed index annuity, your principal is guaranteed, and you’re credited with a fixed rate of interest or the growth of an index, such as the S&P 500. That means your retirement savings are protected from stock market losses while still having the potential to grow.

Additionally, fixed index annuities can help bridge the gap by guaranteeing a fixed income for life. With a fixed index annuity, you know exactly how much money you will have monthly and can plan your budget accordingly. Other retirement savings plans, such as 401(k)s and IRAs, do not offer this same income guarantee level.

Fixed index annuities can give you the peace of mind that your retirement income will be secure, no matter what happens in the stock market or the economy.

How Much Money Should You Have In Savings At Retirement?

At a minimum, you should aim to have enough money to cover 75% of your monthly expenses. This will help ensure you can maintain your current lifestyle even after you stop working.

Use our annuity calculator to estimate how much your retirement savings will generate in retirement income. Then combine your Social Security Benefits with the annuity’s lifetime income, and determine whether the monthly amount equates to 75% or more of your current monthly income.

If the combined monthly income (SSI+Annuity Income) is lower than 75% of your current monthly income, consider buying the annuity now, letting it accumulate, and retiring at an older age.

How Can I Save For Retirement If I Don’t Have A 401k?

Many think 401ks is the only way to save for retirement, but that’s not true. There are several other options out there, including fixed index annuities.

With a fixed index annuity, you benefit from the market’s upside potential without worrying about the downside risk. That means you can grow your retirement savings without worrying about losing them if the market is downturned.

And best of all, fixed index annuities come with better tax advantages that can help you keep more of your hard-earned money.

So if you don’t have a 401k, don’t despair. There are still plenty of ways to save for retirement.

Things To Consider On When To Retire

• Taxes: Most experts agree that taxes will only increase in the future, so taking steps to minimize your future tax liability is essential. There are several ways to do this, but some of the most effective include investing in tax-advantaged accounts, such as Roth IRAs and non-qualified annuities. In addition, age 73 is the mandatory retirement age for 401(k) and traditional IRA plan owners because the IRS request required minimum distributions (RMD) to be withdrawn.
• Inflation: As the cost of living rises, ensuring that your retirement savings will keep pace is vital. An annuity with an increased lifetime income rider can help you maintain your purchasing power, no matter how high inflation is. This type of annuity provides a stream of payments that increases over time, keeping up with the rising cost of living. That means you won’t have to worry about your retirement income losing its value.
• Required Minimum Distributions: For qualified accounts, like 401(k)s and IRAs, required minimum distribution requirements (RMDs) begin at age 73. This means you’ll need to start taking withdrawals from these accounts, even if you’re not ready to retire. However, other accounts, like non-qualified annuities and Roth IRAs, do not have RMD requirements. This means you can leave your money invested for as long as you want, giving you more flexibility in retirement planning.
• Long-Term Care Costs: There is a 70% chance you will need LTC services or facilities. LTC costs are only increasing, and they’re costly, and Medicare benefits don’t pay for them. Annuities can reduce this cost to a third compared to paying out of pocket. 
• Protecting Your Beneficiaries: A life insurance policy is one of the best ways to protect loved ones after you’re gone financially. Then, if something happens to you, your loved ones will have a financial safety net to fall back on. Furthermore, any inheritance you leave behind will go through probate and be subject to estate taxes. However, if set up correctly, life insurance and annuities avoid probate and estate taxes. So not only will your loved ones be taken care of financially, but they’ll also save money.

Next Steps

Now that you know some things to consider when planning your retirement, it’s time to start thinking about what you want your retirement to look like. If you’re not sure where to start, our team can help. We offer a free retirement planning calculator that can estimate how much income your retirement savings will generate and when your retirement age will start. We also have a team of annuity specialists to help you find the right annuity for your needs. So contact us today for a quote, and let us help you make the most of your retirement years!

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Related Reading

• What Is A Good Monthly Retirement Income?
• How Much Do I Need To Retire?
• How To Eliminate Guessing How Much You Should Save And Empower Your Retirement.
• How Long Will My Money Last In Retirement?
• Simple Retirement Calculator
• 401k Calculator For Saving

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