Navigating Financial Milestones Across the Decades

April 2024 Blog - Dan L

Whether you’re just starting out in your 20’s and 30’s or basking in the retirement glow of your 60’s and 70’s, Anchor Wealth Management is here to provide insight and advice on how to achieve financial success at every stage of your life.

Your 20s: Build the Foundation

In your 20s, you’re likely finishing college and embarking on your first job after graduation. This is the time to start laying the groundwork for your financial future. Key goals include:
• Initiate a 401K plan and maximizing company contributions
• Establish a savings goal, whether it’s for a house, car, wedding, or dream vacation
• Tackle credit card and student loan debt responsibly
• Avoid big spending and focusing on building a solid financial base for the future

Your 30s: Grow and Set Priorities

As you enter your 30s, life may become more complex with marriage, home ownership, and possibly children. Here’s what to focus on:
• Set aside at least 15% of your income into your 401K
• Continue to pay off student loans and any remaining credit card debt
• Build an emergency fund for unexpected expenses
• Start to save for your children’s college education, if applicable
• Be aggressive with your investments to maximize growth potential

Your 40s: Strengthen Your Financial Position

In your 40s, it’s time to ramp up your savings and focus on professional growth. Here are some milestones to aim for:
• Strive to have three times your salary saved by this decade
• Invest in professional development and aim for salary increases or promotions
• Start envisioning your dream retirement and create a bucket list with your spouse
• Consider investing in properties such as vacation homes or real estate for additional income streams

Your 50s: Prepare for Retirement

As retirement looms closer, your focus should be on shoring up your finances and eliminating debt. Key goals include:
• Aim to have saved six times your salary by your 50s
• Take advantage of catch-up contributions to your 401K or IRA
• Pay off your mortgage before retirement to reduce financial burdens
• Maximize contributions to your retirement accounts and pay off remaining debt diligently

Your 60s: Embrace Retirement

Finally, in your 60s, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of your labor while safeguarding your assets for the future. Here’s what to prioritize:
• Focus on protecting your assets and ensuring they last through retirement
• Aim to have saved twelve times your salary by this stage
• Set aside funds for potential long-term care or emergency healthcare expenses
• Spend quality time with loved ones and enjoy the freedom that retirement brings

At Anchor Wealth Management, we understand that navigating financial milestones can be daunting. That’s why we’re here to offer personalized guidance and support tailored to your unique journey. Whether you’re just starting out or preparing for retirement, our financial advisors are dedicated to helping you achieve your financial goals and secure a brighter future.

Dan Leonard,CFA, Lead Planning and Trading Associate