Most financial advisors tend to focus on how much you need to save. But it’s equally important to cut your debt load as retirement approaches–especially your credit cards and mortgage.

Unfortunately, pre-retirees today are carrying unprecedented levels of debt, which could become a big problem for them when they’re ready to stop working. So, anyone aiming to retire in the next decade or so should consider taking a crash course in slashing your debt. This week at MoneWatch.com, I report on the key steps to slashing debt ahead of retirement.

Tags | debt