The 5 Years Before You Retire: Retirement Planning When You Need It the Most Paperback – January 1, 2014

This is a GREAT book that everyone nearing retirement should read (10 years before would be even better but it is helpful for everyone). It is VERY well written to be concise and thorough while still being easy to understand and relatable! The author covers almost every topic that will affect you in this change of life with links to follow for more detail/ongoing use so I feel MUCH more prepared having read it and plan to keep the book to refer back to it regularly. I am nearing retirement and have read quite a few books and this one has been the most valuable so far in how thoroughly it covers such a large number of important topics. Thank you, Emily Guy Birken, for putting this book together to help people!!

This has a lot of good information and the worksheets are very helpful to build a plan. The only downside is that it was written based on 2021 info, and of course tax/financial guidance changes every year so be sure to do your research to update with current info.

I’m approaching my sixties and want - almost desperately- to retire. I was looking for a book that would clearly and simply tell me everything I needed to know and all the important things I didn’t know I needed to know. This book is outstanding- it is well organized, lots of worksheets and resources, and it covers everything imaginable without being overwhelming. It literally explained some things I have been unable to wrap my head around ever, so that I could turn around and explain it to my partner. The education I got was profound - I plan to purchase in paperback so I can read it a second time and make lots of notes. But best of all? I have a plan and it’s a good one. There is a light at the end of the tunnel and no, it’s not a train.

I hope to retire in 5-6 years and thought this book was a great start to my research. I had read about some of the topics before but really appreciated the extra detail about the various parts of Medicare and other healthcare options and average expenses…gave me a lot to think about!

This would be a good book if you were in your 30's, 40' or even 50's. I am 62 and I was getting into the book until after I was just about to finish the first chapter it states that if you are in your 60's go to the back of the book. This was a big disappointment. I am 62 and already knew if I haven't saved enough yet I already know what I need to do.

I found this to be a clear overview of the basics of retirement planning. I've recommended it often to friends, especially because of the section on Medicare options.

This book is concise and informative. It was exactly what I needed. I’ll add that it is important to talk with a professional, as recommended in the book, to assess your specific situation. You may not be able to or need to do all the recommends actions. A trusted professional can help to customize a plan. Nevertheless, this book is a great starting place for those who are nearing retirement.

The most comprehensive, practical near-retirement planning book I've ever read. Clear, easy to understand explanations with links to various related websites, and quotes from other authors with website and book recommendations. This book has won the enthusiastic designation of my go-to retirement bible from now all through the years leading up to retirement and beyond. VERY helpful, you really must get it, read it, share it, and refer to it often even if you are more than 5 years from planned retirement. Much of the financial information is timeless. Highly recommend!