[Jennifer]

When it comes to saving money, what’s really worked long term? What has everyone done as far as retirement goes? Just wondering

Share your tips, habits, or approaches that have worked best for you over time!

[John]

We made a concerted effort to have everything paid off prior to retirement and that included our home.

During the last few years of working we bought a newer car and new water heater, furnace and thanks to a severe hailstorm, a new roof.

We tried going into retirement with our T’s crossed and our I’s dotted. So far 1-1/2 years in, things are working out!

We still economize and save because no matter how much you plan and accomplish, there’s always going to be rainy days expenses.

[Brenda]

If you employer offers 401k, dive in. If they match make sure you put enough to get the full match. When you get a raise, put most of it in 401k.

[Maria]

Pay yourself first. Always.
Save money first, then pay bills. It’s worked for me over the years.

[Melissa]

We stuck with jobs climbing the income ladder. The 2 of us have 3 pensions. We each have 401s and each has a ROTH. We invested in our home paying it off early.

We knew we would live to retire and planned for it decades ago. I am a saver, even in the leanest times.

I always can find something to put into savings. When I was young it was savings bonds then CDs.

When the ROTH was created I jumped on the bandwagon. I did without some things but made up for it in other ways.

[Barb]

Started in 401k as soon as I could and NEVER stopped or borrowed from it, every raise I increased my amount, I never raised my standard of living.

Retired last year with everything paid off including my house and have a healthy amount of retirement funds.

[Jillian]

Investing early and investing often is the key. I invest as much as I can into my 401k, HSA, IRA and taxable brokerage.

I have no debt, and I’ve remained frugal even when my income has increased.

[Allison]

You absolutely have to contribute to a 401k or whatever retirement plan is available. You will not be able to retire on social security alone

[Brenda]

We have tried to stay fit, social and eat right. I am a geriatric specialist and the most successful rehab candidates are active with a good diet, they usually bounce back fast and get to return home quickly whereas the ones that don’t take care of themselves with lifestyle choices end up debilitated and requiring home modifications, caregivers, or care centers…$$$$$$!!!

[Nola]

one thing that really helped was to set up an automatic draft on my bank account from my checking to savings, in an amount small enough that I basically don’t notice it’s gone.

even if it’s only $20 in a month or so it adds up faster than you think

[Annette]

If one truly understands the difference between want and need saving is easier. Also, one needs to understand how to make their savings money work for them.

[Karen]

Know your pantry… keep it stocked…. Know your bills and when they are due… remember some months have extras… property taxes…house insurance, auto tags and registration.

I look at store ads….

[Shirley]

Stay out of the stores even if you have coupons for 30 to 40% off because you end up buying things you don’t really need just because you have a coupon doesn’t mean you have to spend it

[Margie]

Save, every little bit builds up. Invest in a pension scheme if available. Buy used cars, getting a better one each time.

Mend or repair, rather than tossing and buying new. Eliminate debt.

Pay off your home.

[Helen]

Being debt free is a must with fully up graded home and auto I agree and add a savings to cover a years living expenses and good health coverage.

We also save monthly from our retirement income.

[Author]

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