Money Fix: Bolstering retirement accounts

Yes, an improving stock market may be leading to healthier retirement accounts. But it looks like many who had been on the brink of retiring are still looking at several more years in the workforce. That's according to new research from the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants.

Concerns include uncertainty over the economy and lower home values, says Clark M. Blackman II, chairman of the group's personal financial planning executive committee.

Those in retirement limbo should consider:

Income streams: You may not be able to fully retire, but perhaps you can cut back on hours if you find supplemental sources of income, such as renting out a room. Also, be sure you're aware of all the Social Security benefits you're entitled to, says Ray Mignone, a certified financial planner in Little Neck. Check the "near retirement" section of SSA.gov.

Part-time work: While it won't fill in the gap for everyone with financial worries, scaling back to part-time work can be a "very powerful" benefit for some, says Michael E. Goodman, president of Wealthstream Advisors Inc., with offices in Syosset and Manhattan. Bringing in just $1,000 a month means $1,000 you don't need to withdraw from a retirement fund, and it's money that goes on earning interest, he says. Mignone noted that people often find part-time work in areas of special interest, pointing to a retired firefighter who works part-time at a golf course, where he gets to play for free.

Spending: Another plus to part-time work -- you have less time to spend money. People think they'll spend less in retirement, but they actually can go through more cash due to activities, shopping and eating out, says Mignone.