The Truth About Retirement Plans and IRAs

Ric Edelman — ranked by Barron's as America's top independent financial advisor three times — brings genuine expertise to a subject most people avoid until it is too late. This guide walks readers through every major retirement vehicle, from 401(k)s and traditional IRAs to Roth accounts, in plain language with clear examples. It covers how to contribute even on a tight budget, how to choose wisely among plan options, and how to convert savings into income you can actually live on. The full lifecycle coverage is the real strength — from first dollar in to last dollar out. Some examples tilt toward Edelman's preferred approaches, and tax law details date over time, but for working adults at any stage of retirement planning this is one of the clearest guides available.