Saving Can Continue After Retirement

You've been waiting for this day forever; you're retiring. While it’s common to be worried about your finances, you can take comfort in knowing your nest egg still can grow.

Here are a few ways you can continue to move forward financially in retirement:

• Create a financial plan and determine where your money will come from - investments, Social Security, or savings. Experts recommend keeping your money in tax-deferred savings as long as possible. Establish a budget and review your finances annually.

• If you're looking at moving or purchasing an RV (recreational vehicle), consider renting your dream before buying. If you find out the new lifestyle isn't for you, you will have plenty left to explore new dreams.

• Consider working part time. Any money you earn will mean less money coming out of your savings, and more for later. Experts caution, however, to watch your income. If you're making too much money, you could lose part of your Social Security benefits.

• Take advantage of being a "senior." Look for discounts at businesses you patronize and take advantage of an AARP membership.

• Re-evaluate your life insurance. Now that you're not earning an income, do you need as much? Life insurance typically is for replacing income your family would have to do without if you die.

• Consider long-term care insurance. Review the options. Will family take you in and take care of you if anything happens? Discuss it with them before saying yes.

Copyright 2008 Credit Union National Association Inc. Information subject to change without notice. For use with members of a single credit union. All other rights reserved.