Follow the Retirement Timeline

Use our step-by-step guide to find out what you need to do -- and when to do it -- to secure your financial future.

It's never too early to start saving for retirement. But your strategy at 25 won't be the same as when you're 65.

In fact, as you get older, there are some key ages you want to keep in mind. For example, once you hit age 50 you can boost how much you contribute to your 401(k) and IRA because you'll qualify for "catch up" contributions. By the time you turn age 59 1/2, you can access money in IRAs and other retirement accounts without having to worry about incurring early-withdrawal penalties, which disappear at this age.

To learn more about the significant age milestones on the path to retirement, take a look at our slide show. The timeline lays out what you need to do, and when you need to do it, to make the most of your savings.

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View slide show:

Retirement Timeline