When getting started with your retirement planning, you should take it step by step. A good first step would be signing up for your employer's 401(k) plan if they offer one. Most employers match your contributions essentially giving you free money! Opening a Roth IRA would be a good next step. A Roth IRA, allows you put in after-tax money, but then once you take it out in retirement, you don't pay taxes on it. A good rule of thumb, is to put away 15% of your income into your retirement investments. You should also choose a trustworthy company such as Charles Schwab, Fidelity, or T. Rowe Price to manage your retirement investments. They offer different options to suit your needs. These simple steps, will put you on your way to a more secure retirement.