Putting Your Money to Work-Retirement Accounts

No matter what your age, it's never too early to start stashing away money towards your retirement. In fact, the earlier you start, the more comfortable your retirement lifestyle will be. Unfortunately, too many Americans are letting near-term expenses and necessities stand in their way.

According to a recent survey by the Consumer Federation of America (CFA), 50% of American households have less than $1,000 in net financial assets. If you think that's scary, consider these statistics published by the U.S. Senate Subcommittee report on Aging in America:

Among Americans 65 years or older:

• 22% must continue working.
• 28% rely solely on Welfare and Social Security.
• 45% are dependent on their relatives.
• 4% can meet their own expenses.
• 1% has resources that exceed their living expenses.