American Consequences - December 2017

Ah, the holidays. A magical time for family gatherings and holiday parties, where we join with friends and loved ones to celebrate. And how do we show our appreciation to those we hold dearest? With gifts, of course! So we spend. And spend. And... spend. However, soon the arrival of holiday bills replaces holiday cards and family newsletters. Along with the joy that this time of year brings, household spending jumps, too. And much of it lands on interest-accruing credit cards. With all the moneywe’re spending this season at Wal-Mart, Target, Best Buy, and Amazon, you’d think we’d be equally generous to ourselves – in terms of retirement savings. Ask yourself: How much have you spent on the holidays... And how much do you have invested in a retirement account? Do you, um – gulp – have a plan for retirement? If you’re starting to sweat despite the nip in the December air, you’re not alone. Here are a few other people trying to navigate retirement... THE GHOST OF RETIREMENT FUTURE

WHEN YOU RETIRE, WILL A LUMP OF COAL BE IN YOUR 401(K)?

32 | December 2017

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