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Guide to Retirement

Plan now for Retirement

If you’re like most of us, you probably believe that retirement planning is something that you start thinking about when the end of your career is in sight. Nothing could be further from the truth. The secret to a successful retirement is getting started early: it’s never too early to start planning and saving for your retirement. 

Get started by selecting a topic below

1. The Road to Service Retirement

D. At the Start of Your Career

Set yourself up for a successful retirement on the first day you join the department. It only takes a few small steps to ensure you’re planning for your future and protecting your loved ones.

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  • Review the latest SFFHCT Benefits Enrollment Guide to learn about and select your healthcare benefits.
  • Create your WA State Department of Retirement Systems (DRS) online account. With an online account, you can review all of your retirement accounts administered by DRS. You can use the DRS online benefit estimator to estimate your future monthly benefit. You can also use your online account to verify the accuracy of your service credit.
  • Learn about the City of Seattle Voluntary Deferred Compensation Program (DCP) at one program’s upcoming live (or recorded) webinars and set up your DCP account. The program is a highly effective way to save for retirement. We strongly encourage you to contribute the maximum amount allowed.
  • Look for and attend one of the financial wellness seminars hosted by the union, and reach out to the union leadership team if you have questions.
  • Sign up for online access to your Social Security account.
  • Review and update the beneficiary information for your insurance policies.
  • Work with a qualified financial advisor to develop your retirement plan. Even if you’re just starting your career, a qualified advisor can help lay the foundation for your eventual retirement.
  • Create a will (using the services of a qualified attorney or an online tool from a reputable vendor).
Start of your career roadmap