When it comes to money, planning for life after your working years is one of the biggest steps you can take. Some people put it off because it feels too far away, while others worry that they’re already behind. The good news is that it is never too early or too late to start, and even small steps today can make a big difference tomorrow.

For Christians, planning for the future is about more than just building a nest egg. It is part of stewardship, taking care of what God has entrusted to us and using it with wisdom and purpose. A good plan not only helps provide for your needs, it also creates space to live generously and serve others.

In Your 20s: Build Early Habits

According to the Federal Reserve, fewer than 40% of people in their twenties have started saving for retirement. Yet this decade is the most powerful time to begin because compounding growth works most in your favor.

Even small amounts can add up significantly over time. For example, saving just $100 a month starting at age 25 could grow to more than $200,000 by age 65, assuming modest investment returns. Waiting even ten years to start means you would need to save nearly double each month to reach the same goal.

In your twenties, focus on:

  • Contributing regularly to a 401(k) or IRA, even with small amounts
  • Paying down student loans and high-interest debt
  • Building a budget that balances saving, giving, and living within your means

This season is about setting a foundation that will serve you for decades to come.

In Your 30s: Grow Consistency

By your thirties, financial responsibilities often increase with marriage, home ownership, or children. It is also a time when income may rise, giving you more room to contribute.

A Fidelity report found that by age 30, the average worker should aim to have saved the equivalent of their annual salary for retirement. While that may feel like a stretch, the goal is to consistently grow contributions as your income grows.

In your thirties, focus on:

  • Increasing your retirement contributions as raises or bonuses come
  • Protecting your family with insurance and an emergency fund
  • Balancing short-term goals like buying a home with long-term retirement needs

The key is consistency. Every step you take builds momentum toward financial freedom later.

In Your 40s: Reassess and Refocus

By midlife, the demands of mortgages, tuition, and family expenses can make retirement planning feel overwhelming. Yet this decade is critical. A 2023 Vanguard report shows that many Americans in their forties have less than $100,000 saved for retirement, which may not be enough.

In your forties, focus on:

  • Reassessing your retirement plan and increasing contributions if possible
  • Paying down debt to free up future income
  • Reviewing your investments to ensure they align with your time horizon and goals

This is also the right time to clarify your vision for retirement. What will your later years look like? For Christians, this often means not just rest but also service, generosity, and mentoring the next generation.

In Your 50s: Catch Up and Strengthen

The fifties are often your highest earning years, which creates an opportunity to catch up if you have fallen behind. The IRS allows “catch-up” contributions to retirement accounts starting at age 50, giving you the chance to put away thousands more each year.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median retirement savings for people in their fifties is about $160,000. While that may sound significant, financial experts often recommend having at least six times your annual salary saved by age 50.

In your fifties, focus on:

  • Maximizing retirement contributions, including catch-up allowances
  • Paying off remaining debt before retirement
  • Considering healthcare and long-term care needs in your planning

Strengthening your plan now can set you up for a smoother transition into retirement.

In Your 60s and Beyond: Transition with Purpose

As retirement nears, your focus shifts from saving to income planning. Deciding when to start Social Security, creating a withdrawal strategy, and managing healthcare costs become key.

A study from the Employee Benefit Research Institute found that nearly half of retirees leave the workforce earlier than planned, often due to health issues or job changes. Planning ahead allows you to navigate unexpected circumstances with greater peace of mind.

In your sixties and beyond, focus on:

  • Evaluating the best time to claim Social Security benefits
  • Creating a withdrawal plan so your resources last
  • Preparing for rising medical expenses
  • Thinking about how to spend your time in meaningful ways

Retirement is not the end of fruitfulness. Psalm 92:14 says of the righteous, “They will still bear fruit in old age, they will stay fresh and green.” This stage can be one of continued service, generosity, and blessing others.

Seek More Advice from AdelFi’s Financial Stewardship Center

At every stage of life, retirement planning is an act of stewardship. Providing for your household is a biblical responsibility, but wise planning also frees you to live generously and respond to God’s calling.

AdelFi’s Financial Stewardship Center is designed to support you on this journey. Whether you are learning how to save in your twenties, catching up in your fifties, or preparing to transition in your sixties, you will find tools, resources, and guidance that make retirement planning practical and faith-driven.