Most people realize that the quality of life they want for their future depends on their contributions in the present. Most would probably agree that they want to retire with personal and financial peace of mind-without stress for either themselves or their families. The question you have to ask yourself, however, is will you have enough money to fund your desired lifestyle in retirement? And this is where it gets tricky, because there are so many variables to consider. And this is where The Complete Idiot's Guide to Retirementcomes to the rescue. It helps your to answer the required questions so that you set up a sound plan for retirement.

Annotation. The second edition of this popular title is completely updated for 2001 tax laws, including the President's Tax Bill.-- Currently, 76 million Baby Boomers are looking ahead to their retirement; when you add in all the people who are eligible to join a 401(k) program, the audience is huge!-- It's important to do your own research on 401(k)s and not just trust the company you work for to get the best deal for you - 55% of the typical 401(k) portfolio is invested in company shares; co-workers investing the same amount of money over the same period of time can have a 100% differential (Money Magazine).-- Likewise, most of the information workers are given by their employers is provided by a particular fund or investment group - information that may be slanted in its own favor.New, improved text referencing stock market volatility and need for diversification -- and how to do it. Expanded text, analysis, and examples on Roth IRAs and conversions Congressional/presidential action -- fromPresident Bush's proposed tax cut to proposed changes to 401(k), 402(g), 415, and pension portability. How to use 401(k), Roth, and Sec. 529 plans -- and which one is right for you -- to save for your children's education. ETFs and other new investment products and self-directed brokerage accounts. Pension plans, pension equity plans, Cash balance plan conversions -- what's the difference?

A worry-free guide to retirement planning offers absolute beginners advice on investments, wills, retirement communities, insurance, and other key issues, including personal concerns, legal matters, and financial problems. Original.

No need to panic. Written by financial experts, this essential guide tells investors how to keep their investments safe in this difficult economy. Readers will discover how economic upswings and downturns affect investment plans, and what can be done to anticipate these trends; changes in investment rules and guidelines and their impact on 401(k)s and IRAs; and how to identify the proper investment decisions for their needs. - On NPR's March 7, 2008, broadcast of All Things Considered, discussion centered on new weaknesses in the economy, and quite a bit of time was devoted to a story on how to protect your 401(k) - In 2000, 40 million 401(k) participants had an average account balance of about $50,000 and total assets of $2 trillion

Offers advice on planning an early retirement, including tips on paying off debts, investing money, and calculating net worth.

Advice and guidance on planning for retirement Retirement Planning For Dummies is a one-stop resource to get up to speed on the critical steps needed to ensure you spend your golden years living in the lap of luxury—or at least in the comfort of your own home. When attempting to plan for retirement, web searching alone can cause you more headaches than answers, leaving many to feel overwhelmed and defeated. This book takes the guesswork out of the subject and guides readers while they plan the largest financial obligation of their life. Take stock of your finances Proactively plan for your financial future Seek the help of professionals or go it alone Use online tools to make retirement planning easier Whether you're just starting out with a 401(k) or you’re a seasoned vet with retirement in your near future, this book helps younger and older generations alike how to plan their retirement.

Get it while you can ... Complex, ever-changing, and controversial, the future of our current system of Social Security and Medicare is uncertain. This indispensable guide explains the proposed changes and current status of these important social programs. Completely revised to incorporate changes to compensation scales and survivor benefits, and with an expanded section on Medicare and the new drug programs, this book is the most up-to-date overview of Social Security and Medicare currently available. * Revised and updated with the latest 2006 statistics on income scales and cost of living; such Social Security Benefits as survivor benefits and disability payments; tax codes; and more * Completely new chapters on Medicare, the Medicare Drug Programs, and the current political climate and proposed changes * Completely revised section on resources