Reviewed by Tyler Brown, CFP®. Published September 11, 2026. Last reviewed September 11, 2026.

If You're in Your 50s or 60s, These Next Few Years Are the Most Important of Your Financial Life.

The decade before retirement, what we call the retirement transition years, is when the biggest mistakes happen, and when the biggest opportunities exist. The right moves now can mean the difference between a retirement you enjoy and one you worry about.

This complimentary guide cuts through the noise and gives you 10 clear, actionable steps to take right now. Each one is grounded in the same comprehensive planning process we use with our clients every day.

1. 01
   Test Your Retirement Spending PlanEstimate what your spending plan may require.
2. 02
   Maximize Your Catch-Up ContributionsExtra IRS allowances for 50+ savers you shouldn't miss.
3. 03
   Build a Tax-Efficient Withdrawal StrategyWhich accounts to draw from, and in what order.
4. 04
   Evaluate Your Social Security StrategyA decision that can meaningfully affect lifetime income.
5. 05
   Plan for Healthcare Before MedicareBridge the gap if you retire before age 65.
6. 06
   Stress-Test Against Sequence of Returns RiskPlan for how early downturns could affect withdrawals.
7. 07
   Review Your Estate PlanConfirm documents and beneficiaries reflect your current wishes.
8. 08
   Evaluate Roth ConversionsPotentially save taxes over your lifetime with strategic conversions. Note: Roth conversions are taxable events and may increase your current-year tax liability.
9. 09
   Establish Your Income FloorCover your essentials with guaranteed income first.
10. 10
    Work With a Retirement PlannerHow coordinated planning connects income, taxes, and investments.