Home | My Account | Handy Tools | Contact Us
Are You Nearing Retirement?
When to Retire

Normal retirement age |  Early retirement | Late retirement

“Can’t wait to get to the party?”

Are you one of those guests who’s ringing the doorbell while your host is still in the shower? (I know. Time’s a-wasting when there’s partying to be done.) Trouble is, hit retirement early and it can cost you. Yes, time will be your own … to do all those things you only dreamed about. But, there are financial implications that must be weighed. Depending on how early you want to hit the “party,” you may have to come up with more money out of your own pocket to support yourself until some or all of your benefits kick in. For example, the earliest you can draw Social Security is age 62, however if you start benefits earlier than full (normal retirement age) your benefits are reduced a fraction of a percent for each month before your full retirement. In most cases the soonest you can draw employer-sponsored plan funds without penalty is age 59 1/2. Here are some points to consider:




  • You may be eligible for an enhanced retirement package from your employer if you agree to retire early.
  • If your job is eliminated and you accept an early retirement benefit from your employer, you may be able to access your employer-sponsored plan funds as early as age 55 1/2.
  • You may be able to start a second career in retirement to supplement your income.
  • Your spouse may continue to work to supplement your household income.
  • Depending on your age, you may not qualify for Social Security. Or, if you do, you may need to take a reduced benefit.
  • You may have to pay more of your household expenses out of your personal savings until you can qualify for Social Security, a pension, or until you can access employer-sponsored plan savings without penalty.
  • If you start spending down savings early, you may not have enough to last you through retirement.

© 2008 ING North America Insurance Corporation. All rights reserved.
Advisory services provided through ING Financial Advisers, LLC (member SIPC).
This information is not intended to be tax or legal advice. ING does not offer tax or legal advice. Consult your own legal or tax advisor regarding your specific situation.
ING's Privacy Promise | Terms of Use/Online Privacy

C08.0213.001