Retirees generally need their savings to last 30 years or more, which is concerning since the average balance for retirement accounts is only $100,000. Acquiring these good retirement savings habits may make it more likely that your portfolio will grow enough to support your individual retirement goals:
- Consistently save in tax-advantaged accounts like 401(k)s and Roth IRAs
- Strive to earn more.
- Remain loyal to your employer. Defined contribution plan participants who stayed with the same employer for ten years or more had an average account balance of $188,744
- Think long term. Smart retirement savers have an eye on the future and are less inclined to splurge on luxury items
- Ignore market fluctuations. Don’t put your retirement money at risk! Trying to time the market is often a losing strategy, especially for the majority of workers with limited investing experience
- Avoid excessive fees from managed mutual funds and high-cost index funds. When choosing an IRA for your retirement savings, make sure you have access to a wide variety of funds, including various index funds and ETFs.