The past decade has unquestionably altered the way in which we must view and approach retirement.  Rocked by the events of 9/11 and then the recession, the stock market showed little net gain during the past 10 years, and many people saving for retirement have suffered lossed in both investments and home values.  Couple that with the fact the government has been running a $1.3 trillion deficit, putting in question how we will continue to fund social security and medicare benefits.  This creates much uneasiness regarding what tax burdens may look like during the distribution phase of retirement funds!

At the same time, the baby boomer generation, the largest in our country's history, is now moving into their retirement years, with many projected to live well into their 90's.  More uncertainty arises from the fear that a retirement portfolio that would have been adequate or even comfortable 10 years ago will be unable to sustain a long retirement in today's economic and tax environment.

However, many Americans are proving to be adaptable and resourceful.  They are willing to not only become more disciplined with their finances, but are looking hard at potential course-corrections that can get them back on the right track.  They are understanding that now, more than ever, they need to seek professional guidance to create a path toward a successful, secure retirement!  Don't try to navigate the waters by yourself.  There are excellent options available if you look to the right sources!  Be proactive in planning your retirement and don't assume that your company 401k is the best or only option!