Planning and saving for retirement doesn’t just happen on it’s own… It takes a lot of planning, commitment, and most importantly it takes money.  It’s a proven fact that less than half of Americans have any idea how much they need in order to retire.  Some businesses do not offer 401K plans, which can affect your plans for saving.  Whether or not your company offers a 401k plan, you must set goals, start saving, and keep saving.  If you’re not currently saving, start small and work your way up.  Make saving for retirement your number one goal, and remember it’s never too early or too late to start saving.  You will more than likely need at least 90% of your preretirement income to maintain your standard of living when you retire.  Once all of your debt is paid off and your employer offers a 401k plan or you go elsewhere to invest, make sure you contribute all that you can.  Over time, compound interest and tax deferrals make a big difference in the amount you will accumulate.  Find out how much you will need in order to get the full contribution from your employer.  Once you build your retirement savings, never touch it.  Life happens and can become difficult at times, but never fall back on your retirement no matter what you do.  You will lose principal and interest, and might end up paying withdrawal penalties.  If a change in jobs happens in your future, make certain that you keep your savings and roll them over into your new employers retirement plan or an IRA.  When you open an IRA you have two options, Traditional or Roth.  IRS’s can be an easy way to save in addition to your 401k plan.  No matter what ways you choose to start planning and saving for your retirement, you must remember that it takes goals, commitment, and money.