5 steps to planning a secure retirement

Many folks dream of having a financially secure retirement so that they can relax and enjoy themselves without worrying about how they are going to pay the bills.

In today's special retirement report, USA TODAY reporters look at some steps people can take to try to feel more financially secure during their later years.

1. How debt can help and hinder you in retirement

Retirement columnist Rodney Brooks talks to financial experts about the pros and cons of having different types of debt in retirement.

FULL STORY: Many retirees face the stress of debt

2. Some people have very little saved for retirement

Almost a third of workers in the U.S. have less than $1,000 saved for retirement, and almost two-thirds have less than $25,000, according to a new survey from the Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) and Greenwald and Associates.

FULL STORY: Many retirees say they left their jobs earlier than they planned

3. The keys to finding a new career direction

To stay in the workforce in their later years, many folks have to switch careers. But how can you find the right job for your? USA TODAY retirement reporter Nanci Hellmich talks to experts about how to find a new career direction.

FULL STORY:Don't just look at your resume, look at your life story

4. Is $1 million even enough to live a comfortable life in retirement?

Retirement columnist Rodney Brooks has a new book that features some of his best columns. The stories offer insights on a wide range of topics from how to avoid losing your retirement nest egg in scams to how to make the most of your new life.

FULL STORY:Excerpts from one of Brooks' columns

5. Calculate how much you need to save

One of the keys to having enough money in retirement is figuring how much you need to be saving. Use this calculator to help you create your retirement plan.

FULL STORY:Retirement calculator