US Department of Labor launches online retirement toolkit in cooperation with Social Security Administration, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Labor today announced the launch of an online toolkit to help workers identify key issues related to retirement planning. The department's Employee Benefits Security Administration developed the toolkit in cooperation with the Social Security Administration and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to help workers understand important decisions related to employment-based plans, Social Security and Medicare.

"This toolkit will provide workers with essential tools and information," said Assistant Secretary of Labor for Employee Benefits Security Phyllis C. Borzi. "By working together, our three agencies were able to create a comprehensive source for a diverse collection of resources that will help America's workers make informed decisions that are vital to their financial security throughout retirement."

The toolkit includes a timeline illustrating key decisions to be made about retirement benefits, Social Security and Medicare; general guidance; and a list of publications and interactive tools to assist with planning.

"Decisions about retirement are highly personal and depend on a number of circumstances," said acting Commissioner of Social Security Carolyn W. Colvin. "The retirement toolkit is a valuable source of information for people of all ages — it is never too early to start planning."

The retirement toolkit is available at www.dol.gov/ebsa/pdf/retirementtoolkit.pdf.