Saving for retirement is actually quite simple. But there are many products out there that make it seem more complicated than it actually is. Others simply cost more than they're worth.
As you approach retirement age, you may hear about all kinds of ways to ensure that you have enough money to continue to live comfortably. But steering clear of the following products may ultimately help you keep more money in your pocket.
1. Variable Annuities
A variable annuity might make sense for those approaching retirement, but generally doesn't for those who are already retired. That's because the idea behind a variable annuity is that you invest a sum of money and get a stream of income at a future date. Try to access your money early, and you might pay a penalty. Current retirees are better off with an immediate payout annuity, which requires you to pay an up-front lump sum, and then provides regular payments immediately. It's worth noting that variable annuities can have fees of as much as 3.5%, according to Kiplinger.
2. Reverse Mortgages
We've all seen the ads on television, and the concept seems simple enough: You use the equity in your home to help fund your retirement via a guaranteed income stream. Reverse mortgages are a legitimate retirement product, but there are downsides, including high closing costs and fees. Plus, the equity in your house won't last forever, and by tapping it, you leave less for your heirs when they inherit the home. (See also: 5 Downsides of a Reverse Mortgage)
3. Long-Term Care Insurance
It's daunting to think about the costs of your care as you age. Assisted living and nursing home care can cost anywhere from $40,000 to $90,000 a year. A long stay in a nursing home might mean you'll outlast your savings and leave very little to your family.
An insurance policy for long-term care might seem like a good investment, but it's important to know that the premiums can run upwards of $2,000 annually for a healthy couple at age 60. If your golden years are healthy and more independent than you expected, you may pay more in premiums than what your care would cost. Retirees are likely better off investing well and trying to save as much as possible for their retirement — unless they have good reason to believe they'll make use of long-term care facilities or services.
4. Whole Life Insurance
On the surface, whole life insurance seems like a swell product: You get life insurance along with some tax-free growth. But whole life insurance is generally more expensive than term life insurance, and the investment returns are usually less than what you might find elsewhere.
5. Junk Bonds
It certainly makes sense for retirees to have bonds in their portfolios, but they should steer clear of these types of high-yield bonds, which don't perform particularly well unless the economy is doing great. And if the economy is doing poorly, they could be crushed. If you're close to retirement and still looking for yield, take a look at stable dividend stocks instead. If you want safety, go with lower-risk bonds or cash.
6. Non-Traded REITs
Real estate investment trusts (REITS) can be great investments for retirees, because they offer high dividend income with low volatility. However, there are some REITs that are public, but not traded on any public exchange. The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority has issued a warning about these products, because upfront fees are high, and they are often difficult to sell. If you want real estate in your portfolio, look to some of the larger REITs like Simon Property Group or Boston Properties, or find a good REIT mutual fund or ETF.
Where are you keeping your retirement funds?