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Retirement checklist

If you're getting close to retirement, look over this list to make sure you have all the bases covered.

1. Assess your retirement finances and establish a budget.
   
   Consider any compensation you may receive in retirement. Also factor in pensions, Social Security benefits, 401(k)s, IRAs, and other retirement plans and nonpension savings, as well as any inheritance.
   
   
2. Adjust your investment plan so that your money has the opportunity to keep growing.
   
   While you may scale back the amount you're investing in stock funds in favor of more conservative investments, you still need the opportunity to outpace inflation.
   
   
3. Estimate health care costs.
   
   Take into consideration family health history. Research insurance programs that will meet your needs after your company’s health plan is out of the picture. Investigate Medicare and what it will cover. Do you think you should have insurance for long-term care?
   
   
4. Determine whether you'll be transferring any of your assets to family or other beneficiaries.
   
   If so, will it be during your lifetime or after?
   
   
5. Draw up a will.
   
   
6. Consider setting up trusts for children, grandchildren, charities or others, if appropriate.
   
   
7. Determine life insurance needs.
   
   Do you have enough and should you create life insurance trusts?
   
   
8. Put your important legal paperwork in order.
   
   This includes wills, a living will, trusts, power of attorney and medical power of attorney. Also assemble information on key contacts in your life: your attorney, accountant, financial professional, doctors and dentist. Compile a list of account numbers you hold. Tell a trusted family member or friend where to find this information.
   
   Taking these steps can give you peace of mind as you embark upon retirement.

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Investors should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses of the American Funds. This and other important information is contained in each fund’s prospectus and/or summary prospectus, which can be obtained from your plan’s financial professional or downloaded and should be read carefully before investing.