More Americans than ever are still working at 80 — not by choice, but out of necessity. This article breaks down why retirement has changed, what these stories reveal, and how to build a plan that actually works so you don’t end up in the same situation.

Passed in December 2022, SECURE 2.0 rolled out many changes over several years. Highlights include raising the RMD age (to 73 now, increasing to 75 in 2033), reducing penalties for missed distributions, boosting catch-ups for ages 60-63 (with $11,250 max in 2025), expanding automatic enrollment for new 401(k)/403(b) plans, enabling Roth matching/nonelective contributions, student loan payment matching, and greater access for long-term part-time workers.

A Traditional IRA lets you deduct contributions today but taxes withdrawals in retirement, with required distributions after age 70½. A Roth IRA flips this: you contribute after-tax dollars, but all qualified withdrawals—including growth—are tax-free, with no required distributions. The right choice depends on whether you prefer tax savings now or tax-free income later.