Ending a marriage can be emotional and full of challenges at any age, even if both parties agree it’s the right decision. When couples over age divorce, they often face the additional task of supporting two separate retirement plans using the assets intended for their combined nest egg. If you find yourself in this position, the following steps can help you boost your retirement savings:
Take advantage of catch-up contribution rules. If you are employed and age or older, current tax laws allow you to save additional money in your workplace retirement plan or IRA. Check IRS.gov or contact your financial advisor to learn the annual contribution limits for each account you own.
Work an extra year or two. Every additional year you spend in the workforce means you have one more year to save for the retirement you want to have. Many Americans are spending to even years in retirement, so the extra money you save can make a big difference on the amount you have to live on.
Delay claiming Social Security. Claiming Social Security benefits after divorce can be tricky. Bottom line: it’s worth exploring your options and choosing the best claiming strategy based on your full financial situation. If your former spouse earned a higher income, you may be eligible to receive benefits based on his or her employment record starting at age . In most cases, you may qualify if you were married for at least years and you are still single. If you remarried, check the Social Security website to see if you are eligible SocialSecurity.gov. If you decide to claim benefits on your ex-spouse’s record, keep the following in mind:
You may claim benefits even if your former spouse is still working. To do so, you must be divorced for at least two years;
The benefits you receive will not impact the amount your former spouse and current spouse if he or she remarried will receive;
If your ex-spouse passed away following your divorce, you may still be eligible for widow’s benefits. Check the Social Security website for eligibility requirements.
Save your alimony dollars. Spousal support is more likely to be awarded when long-term marriages end. If you are awarded alimony as part of your divorce, consider using it to boost your retirement fund. Alimony is often granted with conditions, including the possibility that the payments will stop if you remarry. So keep those in mind as you plan for your future.
Keep your retirement dollars invested. Amid a complex situation, it may be tempting to use your retirement savings to meet immediate financial needs. However, doing so could jeopardize retiring when and how you want to. Premature withdrawals from retirement accounts are an expensive short-term solution that triggers tax penalties and fees while reducing future retirement income.
Seek advice. Assemble a team of professionals who can provide guidance on how to best divide assets and plan for your future. If you have friends or family who have gone through a divorce, consider asking for a referral. Enlist an attorney or mediator who can help you navigate the legal system, advocate for your interests and update your estate plan. Also, consult a financial advisor and tax advisor for advice on crafting your retirement strategy.
