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Planning to Retire Soon? Make a Retirement Planning Checklist

By Sharon O'Brien, About.com

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Retirement Planning: 3 to 5 Years from Retirement, Part 1

Gather Retirement Information

  1. Learn about the retirement process. Fidelity advises that you start to familiarize yourself with the general process of transitioning into retirement.

    Acquaint yourself with the key components of a successful retirement income plan (e.g., budget, asset allocation strategy, withdrawal strategy) and what makes them successful.

    Know what actions need to be taken for a successful retirement, and what resources are available to provide support and guidance.

    If you have an employer, that can be a valuable resource for this information. Also be sure to seek out any income planning guides and retirement planning seminars offered in your area.

  2. Review your retirement benefits. Fidelity recommends that you understand which benefits you will continue to receive in retirement from your employer, and familiarize yourself with how they will work.

    Consult with your employer to get answers to any outstanding questions.

    Be sure to factor in your spouse’s benefits as well, where applicable.

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