When it comes to individual money management, the first item on your list should be your retirement, and exchange traded funds (ETFs) are just one option to help get you started.

Managing your money and saving for your golden years is now mostly an individual responsibility, and it’s getting difficult to do. Pension plans are disappearing. Energy, health insurance and food are all becoming more expensive. And what’s more, we’re sticking around longer, too.

A recent study found that baby boomers aren’t as well-prepared for retirement as they may believe.

In his list of five financial basics, Ron Lieber for the New York Times says investing is simple. ETFs have made it easier than ever, too.

Fees are low, you know what you own because of their transparency and doing asset allocation is relatively easy. If you feel it’s necessary, talk to a financial planner to help get your retirement plan on track and figure out what your goals are.

The ETF industry is also pushing to break into the 401(k) retirement field. Some companies have been stepping forward and making the push. When this happens, saving for those happy years will become even easier.

Tags: 401(k), GUR, Retirement