6 Reasons Why You Should Save For Retirement Earlier

Many people delay retirement planning until their 40s or 50s. However, planning retirement sooner rather than later can ensure a better overall future.
Updated: October 27th, 2024
Jacob Thomas

Contributor

Jacob Thomas

What is your earliest memory of someone discussing the importance of saving for retirement? Many parents encourage their children to save for a rainy day or to set aside funds for future desires. Imagine if we began promoting the idea of retirement savings from an early age—starting as soon as it's financially feasible can make a significant difference.

The average age at which individuals start planning for retirement varies by country. In the United States, people typically begin to seriously consider retirement planning around ages 45 to 50. In Canada, the focus tends to start around age 40, while in the U.K., many begin thinking about it in their late 30s to early 40s. In Australia, individuals often start planning for retirement in their 40s, although awareness of retirement savings generally begins earlier.

Unfortunately, too many people find themselves working well into their later years due to inadequate retirement savings, leading to a diminished quality of life and increased dependence on their children for financial support.

This scenario could change if individuals start contributing to a retirement fund early, even if it's just a small amount. Discussing the idea of early saving with your children may encourage them to set aside money for the future, which will benefit them in the decades ahead.

However, if you, as an adult, have failed to maximize your retirement savings, there is still time. Saving at any age will help you enjoy a better future without giving up on enjoying today.

What Does the Future Hold?

One of the primary reasons we purchase insurance and save for retirement is the uncertainty of the future. Whether you find yourself unexpectedly wealthy or facing financial challenges, preparing for the worst while hoping for the best is essential.

You need a plan to prepare for the future. Money will help you pay for that plan, so saving for retirement is crucial. You can't predict whether you will live to 80 or 100, so you don't want your money to run out no matter how long you live. Plus, you may want to leave assets to your children and grandchildren. Taking proactive steps ensures you're ready for longevity so you can enjoy your lifestyle once you retire.

Tax Benefits When You Plan for Retirement

There are different tax benefits for planning a retirement in every country; however, it highlights the need to start planning for your retirement years sooner rather than later.

United States

In the United States, contributing to retirement accounts such as 401(k)s and IRAs offers significant tax advantages. Contributions to traditional 401(k) plans and IRAs are often made with pre-tax dollars, reducing your taxable income for the year. Using these types of retirement accounts means that the money you save for retirement is not taxed until you withdraw it, typically in retirement when you may be in a lower tax bracket. Additionally, Roth IRAs allow for after-tax contributions, and qualified withdrawals in retirement are tax-free, providing a dual advantage for tax planning.​

Canada

Canada offers similar tax incentives for retirement savings through Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) and Tax-Free Savings Accounts (TFSAs). Contributions to RRSPs are tax-deductible, allowing you to lower your taxable income for the year. The investments grow tax-deferred until withdrawal, at which point they are taxed as regular income. TFSAs, on the other hand, allow contributions from after-tax income, but withdrawals, including gains, are completely tax-free, providing a flexible option for saving.​

United Kingdom

In the U.K., tax benefits for retirement savings are provided through pension schemes, such as workplace pensions and personal pensions. Contributions to these pensions are typically made before tax, meaning they reduce your taxable income. The government also offers tax relief on pension contributions, effectively enhancing your savings. Additionally, the growth of investments within pension plans is tax-free until you begin to draw an income, making pensions a highly efficient way to save for retirement.​

Australia

Australia provides tax incentives for retirement savings through superannuation funds. A superannuation fund or another retirement savings plan allows you to claim tax deductions on your contributions, significantly enhancing your retirement savings.

Contributions to your super fund are typically taxed at a concessional rate of 15%, which is lower than most individuals' marginal tax rates - meaning you can effectively reduce your taxable income while simultaneously boosting your retirement fund. ​

While there are tax benefits during the accumulation phase, it's important to understand that withdrawals in retirement may also be tax-free, especially for individuals over 60, making superannuation a tax-effective way to save for the future​.

However, depending on your age and the type of contributions made, some taxation may apply; however, by working with a retirement planning advisor, you can mitigate the risk of a large portion of your final amount being taxed with smart tax planning.

Other Benefits of Retirement Planning

Considering retirement planning now helps you make wiser financial decisions. Throughout your life, you will face many significant choices, and having a retirement plan allows you to evaluate these decisions based on their impact on your future. For example, you can consider whether to start a business or when to buy a house within the context of your overall retirement strategy​.

Strengthening Your Relationship

You might be surprised to learn that financial issues are a leading cause of divorce. Mismanaging finances and failing to plan for retirement can create immense stress, often leaving couples with significant debt and insecurity about their future. When you and your spouse work together toward saving for retirement, you can alleviate this pressure and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your financial future is secure.​

Facing Forced Retirement

While many aspire to retire early, circumstances like business closures or health issues can lead to unexpected forced retirement. This situation can be daunting without a solid retirement plan in place. However, if you have been saving consistently from an early age, the prospect of early retirement doesn't have to be frightening.​

Independence from Family - Long-Term Care

While seeking help from your children in your later years isn't inherently negative, becoming a financial and physical burden due to inadequate planning is not ideal. Many individuals today find themselves in the "sandwich generation," supporting both their children and aging parents.

A robust retirement savings plan can prevent you from relying on your kids and ensure you have adequate medical coverage and long-term care options when needed​.

For example, Long-Term Care Insurance can be a big part of retirement planning in the U.S. and Canada. The guaranteed tax-free benefits allow you to maintain control over the quality of your care, safeguard your income and assets from the rising costs of extended care, and ease the burdens otherwise placed on those you love.

In the U.S., you can use qualified funds or money from a Health Savings Account to purchase an LTC policy. Seek help from a qualified LTC Insurance specialist to help you find affordable solutions.

Learn more about long-term care solutions with the LTC News "Plan Like a Long-Term Care Insurance Pro” section.

Final Thoughts

While starting retirement planning early in life is ideal, it's important to recognize that it's never too late to take action. Many individuals may find themselves starting their retirement planning later than expected, whether due to life circumstances or simply not prioritizing it earlier.

However, with the increasing life expectancy, planning is crucial to avoid the risk of outliving your savings. According to the Social Security Administration, many people can expect to live well into their 80s and beyond, making it essential to ensure your financial resources can support you through those years.​

As you approach retirement age, it's essential to consider not only your income but also potential future long-term care needs as part of a comprehensive retirement plan. Long-term care can be a significant expense, with costs for services like in-home care, assisted living, and nursing homes often exceeding $100,000 annually. Plus, long-term care services are not only expensive, but those costs go up every year. ​

By factoring in these potential expenses now, you can create a more realistic financial strategy that provides peace of mind as you age. Planning retirement sooner, including for future long-term care, will help ensure a better quality of life when you retire. 

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