08/18/2026
We spend a lot of our working years thinking about how much money we make. But at some point, the more important question becomes: How much money will I need when I stop working?
The average Social Security retirement benefit in 2026 is only around $2,071 per month, or $24,852 per year.
Of course, Social Security may not be your only income. You may have a 401(k), IRA, pension, investments, savings, or other retirement income. But not every American reaches retirement with enough additional savings to maintain the lifestyle they had while working.
Now think about what happens if you reach retirement and you’re still carrying the same expenses you have today.
🏠 A mortgage or rent
🚗 A $500-$700 car payment
💳 Credit card balances and minimum payments
⚡ Utilities
🥗 Groceries
🏥 Healthcare expenses
🚘 Insurance
📱 Your regular monthly bills
Suddenly, $2,071 doesn’t sound like very much.
And this is where credit and debt become part of the retirement conversation.
Good credit isn’t just about qualifying for another credit card or buying a nicer car. Credit affects the cost of borrowing money. Higher interest rates can mean hundreds or even thousands of additional dollars going toward interest instead of savings, investments, or paying down debt.
The decisions you make in your 30s, 40s and 50s can determine how many financial obligations you’re still carrying into your 60s.
So while you’re working on building your credit, also work toward using that credit strategically, reducing high-interest debt, paying down major obligations, and building assets for retirement.
Because the goal isn’t simply to retire.
The goal is to reach retirement and actually be able to afford it.