12 Retirement Planning Tips for Millennials

Retirement planning is at the bottom of most Millennials to-do lists, according to Milliman. More than half of those under age 30 are unemployed, including 14 percent of those who graduated from college between 2006 and 2010, who are unable to find full-time work.

In 12 practical tips for Millennials, author Jinnie Regli offers advice for individuals who are struggling to make ends meet but still need to think about their financial security.

Regli suggests that even if Millennials can't save everything they need to right now for retirement, getting started is a good first step. She recommends:

1. If your employer offers a plan, get to know it.
2. No one else is going to fund your retirement…contribute, contribute, contribute.
3. Consider a Roth IRA. Contributions go into the account after taxes have been taken out. That means you can withdraw your earnings tax free when you reach retirement age.
4. Increase your deferral percentage every time you get a raise.
5. Establish an IRA.
6. Take advantage of an employer match to your 401(k). It is free money.
7. Consider your own risk tolerance and take into account the amount of time you have until retirement.
8. Know when you will be 100 percent vested in your account. That's how long you should stay with your current employer.
9. Don't treat your 401(k) like a glorified savings account.
10. Even if your plan allows them, don't take loans against your 401(k) account.
11. Move your accounts with you when you change jobs.
12. Budget and live within your means.