One in seven workers put off retirement planning until six months before finishing work

Retirement Planning Council of Ireland chief said planning should not be put on the back burner

Laura Farrell, CEO of the Retirement Planning Council of Ireland.

One in seven Irish workers put off retirement planning until just six months before finishing work, a new survey published on Thursday reports.

The survey by the Retirement Planning Council of Ireland found 14% of respondents only started planning or thinking about retirement within six months of it happening. One in three (32%) began planning in the year or two before retirement while 20% started planning in their 50s. A savvy 5% - began planning in their 30s. 

Retirement Planning Council of Ireland chief executive Laura Farrell said retirement is not something that should be put on the back burner. “The reality of retirement in Ireland has changed so much in recent years. We are living longer and getting better at looking after our health so most of us can expect to continue an active busy lifestyle once we enter the next phase.

"As with any major event, planning is the key to a successful outcome. The sooner we look at the practicalities of what we’re facing, in terms of income, social life and activity levels, the better our chances of enjoying the reality we want to have”.

Regarding the main concerns about retirement, finances was first on the list, at 56%, followed by a lack of structure at 35%, while a lack of social interaction was the third biggest concern at 33%.

The survey collected 267 responses, with 88% of respondents aged 60 and 69, in January 2026.

When asked what they were looking forward to in retirement, 78% of respondents said they are looking forward to having more free time, with 76% citing travelling more. Some 63% looked forward to spending time with family while 50% mentioned spending time with friends.

The Retirement Planning Council of Ireland provides a range of courses for people approaching retirement age. "The courses give people the tools they need to put plans in place and get ready to enjoy the retirement they’ve earned for themselves," said Ms Farrell.