The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 50

Here’s why when you turn age 50 you become eligible to contribute more money to 401(k) and IRA accounts, which qualifies you for a bigger tax deduction.

By Emily Brandon
|
Sept. 1, 2017
By Emily Brandon
|
Sept. 1, 2017, at 12:01 a.m.
U.S. News & World Report

The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 50

The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 59 ½
The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 65
The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 66
The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 70 ½

Tags: retirement, money

Compare Offers

Compare Offers

Ad disclosure

The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning

Investing for Retirement: How to Design A Plan that Anticipates the Unexpected
The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 50
The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 59 ½
The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 65
The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 66
The Most Important Ages for Retirement Planning: Age 70 ½

Comparative assessments and other editorial opinions are those of U.S. News and have not been previously reviewed, approved or endorsed by any other entities, such as banks, credit card issuers or travel companies. The content on this page is accurate as of the posting date; however, some of our partner offers may have expired.

Subscribe to our daily newsletter to get investing advice, rankings and stock market news.

See a newsletter example.

You May Also Like

Most Enjoyable Jobs for Older Workers

For flexibility and a sense of purpose, consider these jobs for people over 50.

Maryalene LaPonsieJune 24, 2021

8 Retirement Distribution Strategies

Want long-term financial security? Don't tap into your retirement savings without a plan.

Maryalene LaPonsieMay 27, 2021

Withdrawing Money From a Traditional IRA

Taking money from your IRA may seem like a simple matter, but it's a decision that must be timed right.

Maryalene LaPonsieOct. 19, 2020

Retiring on a Part-Time Job

A part-time career could mean a stressful future if you don't use some of these tips to prepare for retirement.

Maryalene LaPonsieSept. 14, 2020

The Case Against Retiring Early

Take a hard look at your savings and upcoming plans before starting an early retirement.

Rachel HartmanJune 3, 2020

Tips for Retiring on a Small Budget

Look for ways to trim costs and keep items in solid condition to stretch retirement dollars.

Rachel HartmanMay 27, 2020

How Living Longer Impacts Retirement

Americans are living longer than ever, and that creates some challenges for retirees.

Maryalene LaPonsieApril 22, 2020

Insurance After Retirement

Senior insurance needs are different. Time to drop the disability coverage and review your other plans.

Maryalene LaPonsieFeb. 27, 2020

Should Spouses Retire Together?

Sometimes it makes more sense for one member of a married couple to keep working.

Rodney BrooksFeb. 21, 2020

7 Housing Options for Seniors

Take a look at all the living arrangements available to retirees.

Maryalene LaPonsieFeb. 13, 2020

How Tax Reform Changes Retirement

Here's a look at the most recent IRA and 401(k) tax reform laws.

Maryalene LaPonsieJan. 31, 2020

8 Tips to Successfully Semi-Retire

Consider your health care plans, income sources and tax bracket before making the transition.

Geoff WilliamsJuly 23, 2019

13 Frequently Asked Retirement Questions

From when to retire to how much to save, here are expert-backed answers to crucial retirement questions.

Maryalene LaPonsieMay 24, 2019

7 Retirement Hobbies That Make You Money

Stretch your retirement savings by trying one of these hobbies that make money.

Maryalene LaPonsieMay 17, 2019

How to Use an HSA to Save for Retirement

A health savings account is a beneficial tool for retirement planning.

Maryalene LaPonsieMarch 29, 2019

How to Set Up Guaranteed Lifetime Income

Annuities provide steady income in retirement, but some financial planners prefer alternatives.

Rodney BrooksFeb. 1, 2019

Some Retirees Go Back to School at 65

Taking classes keeps your mind sharp, helps you network and may even be free.

Rodney BrooksDec. 21, 2018

Roth IRA vs. Traditional IRA

Both accounts offer ways to save for retirement, but is a Roth or traditional IRA better?

Maryalene LaPonsieNov. 16, 2018

A Guide to Getting a Pension

Here’s how to find a job that will provide for you in retirement.

Emily BrandonNov. 13, 2018

The Differences Between Happy and Unhappy Retirees

Learn why some people are happily retired and others are miserable.

Rodney BrooksNov. 9, 2018