While one should start regular retirement planning (accumulation phase) as soon as they start drawing a paycheck, it probably makes sense to start working with a RICP® in your early 50’s or within 15 years of retirement.  This will allow an individual to have a clearer picture of when they want to retire, and how much it will cost.  This is a critical stage in the retirement planning process because you still have enough time to make significant changes with the amount you are saving, and how and what your money is invested in.  Even though you have not retired yet, you need to have a detailed retirement income plan (distribution phase) that outlines how much you will be able to safely withdrawal on a monthly basis, which accounts to draw from first, when to start drawing Social Security, and how to accomplish this in the most tax-efficient manner.  The plan should be reviewed frequently and remain fluid, due to stock market fluctuations, changes to tax policy, and your goals and circumstances.