It is not too late to save for retirement. Consider depositing your earnings (up to $5,000 in 2006) into a tax-deferred Individual Retirement Account (IRA) up to age 70-1/2. As part of a “catch-up” plan, you generally can set aside more if you are 50 or older. (IRC § 219(b)(1)(A) and 219(b)(5)(A)).

Check out a non-traditional Roth IRA. If your annual adjusted gross income is less than $110,000 ($160,000 for a married couple), you may qualify for such an account. The taxes are not deferred, but the distributions will be tax-free. (RT § 17507.6)

Find out if your employer offers a tax-deferred investment savings plan, such as a 401(k). In general, employees can set aside a portion of their earnings (up to $15,000 in 2006). And, as part of a “catch-up” plan, you can generally put away $5,000 more if you are 50 or older.

Ask about your company’s pension plan. Most pension plans include a survivor’s pension. Contact your pension plan administrator. For general information, contact the Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration on-line or call (866)444-3272. You can also visit the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation on-line for help.