When Is the Best Time to Start Planning for Your Retirement?

Most people think retirement planning starts at 60.But what if we told you that the best time was… yesterday?

Yes, you read that right.

The earlier you begin planning for retirement, the better. Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or late 40s, there’s a simple truth: your future self will thank you for every dollar, decision, and day you invest today.

But don’t worry—if you haven’t started yet, it’s not too late either.Let’s break down when and how to begin retirement planning—and why now might just be your best shot.

Why Retirement Planning Isn’t Just for “Old” People

We’ve all heard it:

“I’ll start saving when I earn more.”“I’ll figure it out when I’m married.”“Retirement is decades away—no rush.”

But here’s the thing—time is your greatest asset.

Not money.Not luck.Not even investment genius.

With time, your savings have room to grow, compound, and evolve into a solid nest egg. Imagine the difference:

• Save $500/month at age 25 = Over $1 million by 65

• Start the same at age 45? You’ll have just $240,000

Big difference, right?That’s why Retirement Planning in San Diego isn’t just about numbers—it’s about timing.

So, When Exactly Should You Start Planning for Retirement?

Short answer: As soon as you start earning.

But let’s make it clearer by decade:

In Your 20s: The Magic Window

This is your golden opportunity. You may not have much income, but you have what millionaires would pay for: time.

What to focus on:

• Open a Roth IRA or 401(k) (especially if your employer matches)

• Learn basic investing strategies

• Save at least 15% of your income

• Start an emergency fund to avoid dipping into retirement accounts

Why now?

• Every dollar saved grows exponentially due to compound interest

• Your money has 40+ years to work for you

Think you’re too young to worry? Think again. Delaying by just 5 years can cost you hundreds of thousands.

In Your 30s: Building and Adjusting

Marriage, kids, home loans—it all gets real in your 30s.

This decade is about balancing life and long-term planning.

Key moves:

• Increase contributions as your salary grows

• Reassess your investment portfolio (more growth-focused assets)

• Get serious about Retirement Planning Services

• Use tools like fee-only financial planners to avoid hidden commissions

In San Diego, the cost of living isn’t cheap. The earlier you optimize your financial habits, the more flexibility you’ll have later.

In Your 40s: Catch-Up and Course Correction

This is the decade most people panic. But don’t.

You still have 20+ years. You just need a smart, aggressive strategy.

Here’s how:

• Max out all retirement accounts (401(k), Roth IRA, HSA)

• Take advantage of catch-up contributions (available after 50, but plan now)

• Reduce debt as aggressively as possible

• Start envisioning your retirement lifestyle—what do you really want?

At this stage, hiring a Retirement Planning Service becomes a wise move.A professional planner—especially a fee-only advisor—can help you navigate taxes, optimize assets, and build a solid plan.

In Your 50s and Beyond: Execution and Transition

You’re almost there.Now it’s about preserving your capital and preparing for income transition.

What to do:

• Shift towards more conservative investments to reduce risk

• Plan withdrawals and minimize taxes

• Review your estate plan and insurance needs

• Think about when to take Social Security for maximum benefit

If you’re in San Diego and nearing retirement, working with a fiduciary, fee-only advisor is crucial to avoid conflicts of interest.Your plan should be built around you, not around sales commissions.

Why Fee-Only Retirement Planning in San Diego Makes Sense

So many advisors push products you don’t need.Their recommendations? Often shaped by commissions.

That’s where Fee-Only Financial Planners stand apart.

They work only for you, not for a brokerage or insurance company. Their only incentive is your success.

Here’s what they offer:

• Unbiased advice rooted in your goals

• No hidden fees or sales tactics

• Customized investment strategies

• Ongoing plan management and updates

Living in San Diego means high living costs, volatile housing markets, and a dynamic economic environment.You need a retirement planning partner who puts your interests first.

What If You’ve Started Late?

Don’t panic.While starting early is ideal, starting now is powerful too.

Here’s what to do:

• Track your current expenses and income

• Create a realistic retirement budget

• Increase savings rate significantly (aim for 25–30% if possible)

• Reduce unnecessary lifestyle costs (those streaming subscriptions add up!)

• Downsize or relocate if needed

Many people overestimate how much they need—and underestimate how much they can achieve in 10–15 years with a focused strategy.

A Retirement Planning Service can help you gain clarity and momentum.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even the smartest savers can stumble. Here are traps to sidestep:

• Waiting too long to start

• Not having a written retirement plan

• Underestimating healthcare costs

• Overestimating Social Security payouts

• Ignoring inflation

• Putting off estate planning

A good retirement plan isn’t just a savings account. It’s a roadmap—with detours, speed bumps, and checkpoints.Don’t leave it to chance.

Whether you’re just starting or playing catch-up, a smart plan includes:

 Clear financial goalsA diversified investment strategyTax-optimized saving vehiclesHealth care and long-term care considerationsIncome withdrawal strategyEstate planning & legacy building

Does that sound like a lot?That’s why working with a Retirement Planning Service makes such a big difference.They simplify, streamline, and support your journey every step of the way.

What Does a Good Retirement Plan Look Like?

Whether you’re just starting or playing catch-up, a smart plan includes:

 Clear financial goalsA diversified investment strategyTax-optimized saving vehiclesHealth care and long-term care considerationsIncome withdrawal strategyEstate planning & legacy building

Does that sound like a lot?That’s why working with a Retirement Planning Service makes such a big difference.They simplify, streamline, and support your journey every step of the way.

The Bottom Line: Start Today, Not Someday

Let’s face it—there’s no perfect time to start.

But there is a right time.And it’s now.

Whether you’re 25, 35, or 55, the real mistake is waiting for “the right moment.”Because while you wait, opportunity shrinks.

Working with a qualified fee-only advisor gives you more than numbers—it gives you peace of mind, confidence, and clarity.

Need Help with Retirement Planning in San Diego?

At Fee-Only Planner, we specialize in creating personalized retirement strategies that align with your life goals, values, and timeline.

Why choose us?

• 100% Fee-Only (no commissions, no sales pressure)

• Decades of experience serving California-based professionals

• Focused on your financial independence, not products

• Transparent, educational, and deeply human approach

Ready to take the first step?

Book a free consultation today—and take control of your retirement, before it controls you.

Because the best time to start planning your retirement?Was yesterday.The next best time?Right now.