The New Savage Number: How Much Money Do You Really Need to Retire?

Introduction: Can You Retire?

In spite of—or perhaps as a result of—stock market reversals, declining home values, and job insecurity, you've decided to give some serious thought to the possibilities of retirement. You may be approaching the traditional retirement age and seeing your dreams recede. Or you may be just starting your career, and wondering about whether you should invest your hard-earned money in a seemingly capricious stock market.

If you believe in your future—and the future of America—then you must plan, save, and invest for that future. That's true no matter what your age or stage in life. Over the long run, that has always been a winning formula.

You've seen the scary headlines about the impact of the financial markets' collapse upon boomer retirement plans. Dreams of early retirement have given way to the nagging worry that you'll never be able to retire. Savings and retirement assets have melted away, before your eyes.

Now you can respond in one of two ways: (1) you can refuse to think about it, or (2) you can take time to figure out your options and get help. Plans may have to be revised, but that can't happen until you take an honest look at your situation—and get some disciplined, professional help. Believe me, getting good help with retirement planning is easier and less expensive than you think. The whole point of this book is to show you the way.

When it comes to retirement planning, you need both a goal and a plan to reach that goal. You want a simple answer ...