Want a Rich Retirement? Following These 3 Rules Is Essential by Kara Perez Traditional advice on retirement planning is losing its place in today’s world. Save 15% of your income, contribute to a 401(k), have a pension, and don’t forget about Social Security? That’s just not reality for many workers these days. A recent study from the Government Accountability Office showed that only 20% of working Americans 55 years or older have access to a pension plan.