Author: Maurie Backman, The Motley Fool

Many workers don’t save for retirement (or don’t save a lot) because they’re planning to fall back on Social Security, and that’s not a good thing.

Your golden years are apt to cost money, and if you want to live comfortably, you’ll need the income to support your desired lifestyle.

Many people dream of winning the lottery and taking home millions. But in reality, it takes a lot less money than that to change your life.

You’re enjoying your side gig more than your regular job – but are you ready to give your employer notice and venture out on your own?

Medical care is a huge burden for folks of all ages, but for older Americans with limited income, it’s often a source of financial upheaval.

The average American spends an estimated $697 a month on non-essential expenses and millennials are the worst offenders.

Social Security is a key income source, and if you want to make the most of it in retirement, you’ll need to be strategic about when you file.

29 percent of Americans currently have a higher level of outstanding credit card debt than they do emergency savings.

Many retirees are caught off guard by rising expenses and inadequate savings, so much so that it puts a real damper on their golden years.

Though 65 is when Medicare kicks in, it’s not full retirement age for Social Security purposes. And not knowing that difference could hurt you in the long run.