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• Diversification
  In addition to knowing and investing according to your time horizon, diversification is an important way to reduce the potential investment risk. If you think about how risk would work if you invested all your money into one single stock and lost all of it, you understand that you could try to reduc
• What do titles like CPA, PFA and others mean?
  There’s a veritable alphabet soup in the financial services industry. Here’s a list of common abbreviated financial credentials: CFA - chartered financial analyst CFP - certified financial planner CFS – certified fund specialist ChFC – chartered financial consultant CIC – chartered investment counse
• Mutual Funds
  Mutual funds represent a pool of money from many investors whom choose to buy a type of investment, such as stocks or bonds or a mix of both. With mutual funds, you, as the investor do not manage the money yourself, rather your money is invested by a professional money manager..
• All investments are scams.
  FALSE. Some investments are scams.. FALSE. Some investments are scams. Most are not. Investment scams make promises that are impossible to keep. If someone tries to sell you an investment using these words or phrases, beware: No money down Guaranteed Low risk,
• Brokerage Accounts
  With the sale of Bear Stearns and Merrill Lynch and the bankruptcy of Lehman Brothers, many investors are concerned about the safety of the money they invested in brokerage accounts. How can you know if the money in your investment brokerage accounts is safe? First, if you had a brokerage account at
• Money Market Funds
  Investors have been hearing about concerns for the safety of money market funds. The first thing to know is that money market funds and money market accounts are different.. Investors have been hearing about concerns for the safety of money market funds. The first thing to know is that money market
• Why Invest in Bonds?
  There are numerous benefits to investing in bonds including: Financial Security - There's a reason that a bond is called a “fixed-income” security – not only are you highly likely to get back your principal but you can also count on receiving interest on your investment. Portfolio Balance & Dive
• Setting Goals
  List your goals and then decide how long a period you have before you want to achieve the financial ability to meet this goal. For example, if you want to buy a home and you want to invest your savings to create a significant down payment amount, when would you want to become a homeowner?  If you wan
• Brokerage Accounts
  How can you know if the money in your investment brokerage accounts is safe? When one firm acquires another (as Bank of America acquired Merrill Lynch) brokerage accounts are simply transferred from one company to the otherOver time you might see a change in your financial advisor or broker or in co
• Money Market Funds
  Investors have been hearing about concerns for the safety of money market funds. The first thing to know is that money market funds and money market accounts are different.. Investors have been hearing about concerns for the safety of money market funds. The first thing to know is that money market
• Other Factors Influencing or Affecting Your Investments
  As with most things in life, becoming an informed investor takes a little time, learning and self-education. In addition to knowing what type of investment options there are – in other words, where you can invest your money to hopefully make a return – it’s important to know how money works in an in
• What is an annuity?
  Annuities are investments that you can use to turn savings into a dependable income stream for retirement or to provide financial support for your loved ones after your death. An annuity is a contract between you and a life insurance company.. Annuities are investments
• Power of Compounding
  Everyone knows that “a penny saved is a penny earned. But through the magic known as “compounding, even a penny can become a substantial sum of cash.. Everyone knows that “a penny saved is a penny earned. But through the magic known as “compounding, even a penny can become a substantial sum of cash.
• I could never understand investing.
  FALSE. Investing has its own jargon, but once you learn the vocabulary, but there’s no magic or mystery to it.. FALSE. Investing has its own jargon, but once you learn the vocabulary, but there’s no magic or mystery to it. Basic investing boils down to a few bas
• How Do I Start Investing?
  Many beginning investors do not have a lot of money. The important first step is to create an investment plan that identifies the asset classes and types of funds that you might want to invest in long-term.. Many beginning investors do not have a lot of money. The important first st
• Time Horizon
  In order to balance your risks it is critical to understand the role of time in investing and your personal investment “time horizon.  This is the amount of time before you anticipate meeting your goal and/or need your money.. In order to balance your risks it is critical to u
• 10 Tips to Protect Yourself from Investment Scams
  Everyone wants to “get rich quick” but no one will, at least not legally. Unfortunately the investment world does include a few fraudsters and con artists who try to enrich themselves by taking advantage of other people’s weaknesses, needs and desires.. Everyone wants to “get ri
• 401(k)
  What is a 401(k) and Why Should I Have One? Enron. Six months ago most Americans wouldn't have recognized the name.. What is a 401(k) and Why Should I Have One? Enron. Six months ago most Americans wouldn't have recognized the name. Now we're painfully familiar with
• Financial Advisor-Related Questions
  Once you have a grasp on your basic financial picture, you may decide to look for some outside help in managing your finances or making decisions involving your finances. To find the right financial professional, it's important to first ask what type of help you're looking for..
• How Do I Open a Brokerage Account?
  You can open a brokerage account in person or online. You will be asked to sign a new account agreement.. You can open a brokerage account in person or online. You will be asked to sign a new account agreement. Review all information in the agreement, ask questions and do not sign
• Risk
  It is important to understand that as an investor there is a chance – a risk - that you may not get back the amount of money that you invested. No investment is risk-free, although some investments have more risk than others.. It is important to understand that as an investor
• Comparing Plans
  Once you have made the decision to begin saving for a college education, you understand that 529 plans offer a way for your savings to go farther, and you have thought about both your risk tolerance and your child’s age relative to their college entrance date, the next step is to compare possible pl
• It takes a lot of money to be an investor
  FALSE. You have probably heard that it takes money to make money, and that’s true to a degree, but it does not take a lot.. FALSE. You have probably heard that it takes money to make money, and that’s true to a degree, but it does not take a lot. If your employer offers a r
• Investing
  One of the most common questions single women have as they begin taking control of their finances is “how do I become an investor? Too often women are under the wrong impression that there is some sort of “one size fits all” way to invest. There isn’t.. estions single women have as they begin taking con
• Asset Allocator for Retirees
  Just because you're retired doesn't mean you can relax when it comes to your investments. It’s important that in addition to making sure your investment decisions line up with your personal goals, risk tolerance and investment time horizon you have a healthy mix of types of investments..
• Your Potential Investment Chart
  Just by answering a few basic questions you've already taken an important first step in getting a grip on your financial needs and how that relates to your possible investment choices. The chart you see at right is a picture of the types of investments that you should consider based on your resp
• Combined Debt and Equity Investments
  Some investments enable you to invest your money both in debt and equity instruments at the same time such as: Retirement Plans There are special types of investment plans to help you create retirement savings by allowing you to deposit money from your paycheck before taxes are taken out. Among thes
• Avoiding Debt and Generating Income
  Determining how much money to safely withdraw is only part of the equation. In addition you’ll need a plan to continue creating savings/ wealth.. Determining how much money to safely withdraw is only part of the equation. In addition you’ll need a plan to continue creating savings/ wealth. The fi
• Socially-Responsible Investing
  As people become more interested and personally committed to changing their impact on the environment, they want to know that the companies they invest in share their values. Socially responsible investing (SRI) is an investment strategy that incorporates your social or environmental beliefs into ho
• How do I become an investor?
  Congratulations! It takes personal discipline and planning to save money. The fact that you've already saved some money indicates that you're taking responsibility for your financial future.. Congratulations! It takes personal discipline and planning to save money. The fact that you've alrea
• Investing is just another word for saving.
  FALSE. Both saving and investing are about putting money aside rather than spending it, but with two different goals.. FALSE. Both saving and investing are about putting money aside rather than spending it, but with two different goals. The goal of saving is to be sure
• Debt Investments - Bonds
  A bond is a loan you make to an institution. Governments, municipalities and corporations raise money by issuing bonds.. A bond is a loan you make to an institution. Governments, municipalities and corporations raise money by issuing bonds. A bond is like an IOU – you, as an investor, loan an or
• Mutual funds
  Mutual funds are investment companies that pool the money invested by many people and create a professionally managed portfolio or group of securities with a stated investment objective. Each mutual fund share represents an equal piece of the entire portfolio. A fund’s “ net asset value , which dete
• What Should I Do Once I Begin Investing?
  You should periodically evaluate how your investments are performing-at least once a year or when you experience a significant life change (i.e.. You should periodically evaluate how your investments are performing-at least once a year or when you experience a significant life change (i.e. get m
• Other Investments
  Some other types of investments that you might hear or read about are: real estate – buying property (residential or commercial) and then making money from renting it, leasing it, or selling it at a higher price to another buyer real estate investment trusts (REITs) – a way to purchase an interest i
• Permanent Life Insurance
  Permanent life insurance is known by many names such as whole life, universal life, cash-value insurance, and variable universal life insurance. It is considered “permanent” because unlike term life insurance, there is no time limit to the policy.. Permanent life insurance is known by many names su
• Debt: The Anti-Investment
  Diminishing Your Debt Diminish (di min'ish) – v. to reduce in size.. Diminishing Your Debt Diminish (di min'ish) – v. to reduce in size. Reducing the size of your debt sounds nice, doesn't it? Sure, but what does that have to do with investing? Everything. Take a look at your next credit card
• I'm fearful of looking for outside help...
  You're wise to be wary. When looking for outside help in planning your finances, you'll want to do your homework.. hen looking for outside help in planning your finances, you'll want to do your homework. Many resources are free – online services, the staff at your local bank or credit union, and nonprofit counseli
• Before Selecting a Plan
  As with any potential investment you first start by examining your own financial objectives. For a 529 plan you should consider the following two factors: Your child’s age. . As with any potential investment you first start b
• Compound Interest Calculator
  If you want to know how much an investment will grow over a set period of time, use our compound interest calculator. Compounding is when the interest you earn on the money you invest begins to earn interest.. If you want to know how much an investment will grow over a set period of t
• Step 2: Your Chart
  Just by answering a few basic questions you've already taken an important first step in getting a grip on your financial needs. The chart you see at right is a picture of the types of investments that you should consider based on your responses.. Just by answering a few basic questions you've alr
• Bonds are boring and too hard to understand.
  FALSE. You can learn more about bonds.. FALSE. You can learn more about bonds. Bonds pay interest at the coupon interest rate and, because their values usually do not change all that much, they add stability to your overall investment portfolio. High quality, inves
• Important Considerations for Saving and Investing for Retirement at Every Lifestage
  Retirement is one of the single most important financial goals you’ll ever have. It’s also one of the most expensive.. Retirement is one of the single most important financial goals you’ll ever have. It’s also one of the most expensive. Retirement – the period in life when you no longer work a
• The Importance of Opening and Acting On Your Retirement and Investment Account Statements When the Financial Markets are Volatile
  With the wild fluctuations in the financial markets Americans are, understandably, nervous to see how their own investments have fared. What do you do when your retirement or brokerage account statements come in the mail?  While it can be tempting to file them away or even toss them out, it’s actuall
• Investing
  Many of us do not think of ourselves as investors. We may have created a budget and watch our spending; we may have savings accounts—or even a checking account that earns interest – but we may not have begun investing our savings because we haven’t mentally crossed the line from being a saver to bei
• Will I get the same interest rate everywhere I go?
  No. Banks and financial institutions set their own interest rates.. No. Banks and financial institutions set their own interest rates. Car dealerships, check cashing stores, department stores, credit unions…the interest rates they offer for purchases vary. It's important that you compare inte
• Questions to ask when considering buying an annuity
  Does buying an annuity fit in well with my overall retirement savings plan that includes IRAs and employer-sponsored 401(k) plans first? Am I maximizing my contributions to other tax-free retirement investment options first? Unless you have a special need that only an annuity can fill, such as a dea
• What is interest?
  Interest is a fee. It's the amount of money you either earn on an investment or the money you owe on a loan.. Interest is a fee. It's the amount of money you either earn on an investment or the money you owe on a loan. When banks or other financial institutions give you credit, such a
• 10 Great Things to Do with Your Tax Refund
  According to the IRS nearly 75% of all Americans will get a tax refund this year, averaging nearly 2,500. Do you anticipate receiving a refund? If so, don’t just rush ahead and spend it.. According to the IRS nearly 75% of all Americans will get a tax refund this year, averaging nearly
• What kind of help can my bank provide?
  Banks provide many services. They provide accounts, such as checking, savings, and money market accounts.. Banks provide many services. They provide accounts, such as checking, savings, and money market accounts. Most banks also have investment representatives who can explain diffe
• What Can I Invest In?
  There are two basic kinds of investments you can make—equity and debt. Both types of investments have important roles in providing the money you will need at each stage of life and to help you reach your personal life goals.. There are two basic kinds of investments you can m
• Compounding
  Compounding: the effect achieved by reinvesting investment income or capital gains , rather than spending the money. Your investment returns are added to your original investment, the new larger amount starts earning money, and the dollars start to snowball.Summary
• Short-term
  Short-term: In the investment world, short term is usually between 0 and 3 years. Short-term can refer to the maturity of a bond: short-term bonds usually offer lower interest rates than long-term bonds and are considered lower risk because there is a shorter period of uncertainty before you get you
• Liquidity
  Liquidity: how quickly you can turn an investment into cash by selling it. In order for one investor to sell an investment, there must be another investor willing to buy it.. Liquidity: how quickly you can turn an investment into cash by selling it. 
• Managed account
  Managed account is a professionally managed investment portfolio for an individual. Although there are various types of managed accounts, in many types of managed account you will own the securities in the account directly, which is different from a mutual fund where you hold shares in a fund that o
• How do I know if I’m getting the best service from an advisor that I’m already working with?
  If you've already begun working with a broker or financial advisor, it's a good idea to periodically evaluate what type of advice and service you're getting and if it's helping you achieve your financial goals. Here are a few questions to ask: Has he/she helped you determine how much risk you feel c
• Bank Services
  In addition to accounts, banks can offer a wide variety of services such as: Check-cashing. Banks will typically cash checks for their customers for free.. In addition to accounts, banks can offer a wide variety of services such as: Check-cashing. Banks wi
• Investing in Your 20s
  Starting out in the workforce you have a huge advantage working for your retirement planning: time is on your side. By creating the habit of saving and investing for retirement now, time will enable you to reap the benefit of both compounding interest and long-term gains.. Starting out in the workf
• Ways to Invest and Grow Your Savings for College Tuition
  It’s not enough to want to help your child afford college you need to have a plan to make it actually happen. However, putting money into a savings account at your bank or credit union won't earn enough interest to foot the bill.. It’s not enough to want to help your child afford
• Equity vs. Debt
  In business-speak, there are two forms of financing: equity and debt. Equity investors buy a piece of ownership in your business.. In business-speak, there are two forms of financing: equity and debt. Equity investors buy a piece of ownership in your business. Technically, they ta
• Investing as an Unmarried Couple
  Investing can be where the rubber hits the road for unmarried couples. That’s because it requires both partners to agree on numerous decisions such as the amount of money to invest how long you want to leave your money invested. Investing can be where the rubber hits the road fo
• Sharing Financial Accounts or Keeping Them Separate?
  In addition to deciding how you will handle household expenses, you will also need to, or should, talk about your financial accounts. Financial accounts include checking accounts, savings accounts, money market accounts, credit cards, non retirement related investment accounts (i.e..
• I don't know where to turn for help.
  Once you're comfortable knowing your own financial situation, and have begun making some small, but very important steps, toward saving and investing you may want to get additional help. There's a wealth of good, easy-to-understand, free help available by going online or doing some simple research a
• I have a pretty good budget, but....
  Ultimately, you'll need to decide for yourself what financial goals are most critical for you to reach. Everyone's financial planning methods are different…personal.. o decide for yourself what financial goals are most critical for you to reach. Everyone's financial planning methods are different…personal. Following
• I could never be an investor.
  FALSE.   You already are an investor even if you do not yet own a single . FALSE. You already are an investor even if you do not yet own a single stock , bond or mutual fund . If you’ve ever spent time on raising kids, learning to cook, or improving
• Step 3: Take Action
  Now that you've got the "big picture" of what types of investments may be best for you, take a few minutes to answer a few more questions about your saving and spending habits . Once you complete this short questionnaire and click on the "continue" button you'll get a simple, personalized list of re
• Which IRA Is Best?
  IRAs offer you a way to create tax-advantaged retirement savings. But with three flavors to choose from - Roth, deductible or nondeductible - figuring out which IRA is the most appropriate for your retirement savings and investment plan can be confusing.. IRAs offer you a way to c
• Asset Allocator
  ASSET ALLOCATION is a crucial first step in creating a well-diversified portfolio. The worksheet below will help you tailor your asset mix to your own particular needs.. ASSET ALLOCATION is a crucial first step in creating a well-diversified portfolio. The worksheet bel
• What should I do before I meet a professional?
  The most important thing to do is know why you're going. Do you need help organizing your finances? Do you want to draw up a new will or modify an existing one? Do you want to invest some money? Do you want to get more control over your spending and begin building toward your financial dreams? Knowi
• No financial advisor would want to talk to me.
  FALSE. Most financial advisors got into the business because they love investing and wanted to help others make money from it.. FALSE. Most financial advisors got into the business because they love investing and wanted to help others make money from it. These days many of them
• Monitoring Your Investment
  As with any investment it’s important that you open and review the correspondence you receive from the plan or your financial adviser. Check to make sure that: all money you have deposited (or you know was deposited by others) since the last statement has been credited to the account you understand
• In Your 50s
  What should you do now to ensure that your quickly-approaching retirement is an event you look forward to with confidence rather than anticipate with fear? In addition to building on the steps outlined for your 20s, 30s, and 40s there are specific actions you can take now to build a more secure fina
• Figuring Out the “What Ifs”
  Although this is a very exciting, hopeful time for you as a couple it’s important to talk about, and make contingency plans for, things that none of us particularly want to consider but need to be discussed. These include… Thinking about a prenuptial agreement. While it can seem extremely unromantic
• Investment Scams and Frauds
• Behaviours that Influence Investment Decisions
• Managing Investment Risk
• About Changing an Investment Mix
• Managing Your Investment Portfolio over Time
• Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
• Other investment alternatives
• Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs)
• Investment Planning Basics
• What are brokers and do I need one?
  A broker is someone who is licensed to buy and sell investments for individuals. Brokers are required to pass an exam and register with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in order to practice.. A broker is someone who is licensed to buy and sell investments for individuals. Brokers are require
• Investing is too risky for me.
  FALSE. Not investing is even riskier.. FALSE. Not investing is even riskier. That’s because inflation , even at today’s low rate, causes a dollar to be worth less tomorrow than it is today because the cost of living continues to creep upward. If the interest rate
• Risk
  Risk in investment terms is the risk of losing money because the price or market value of investment is lower when you sell it than when you bought it. On the flip side, the higher the risk, the higher the potential reward.. Risk in investment terms
• Rebalancing
  Rebalancing is a periodic adjustment to your investment portfolio to make sure it stays aligned with your asset allocation. For example, if the stock market rises, your equity allocation will increase in value and may represent a higher percentage of your total portfolio than your asset allocation r
• Money Market Funds
  Money market funds are essentially a large pool of money overseen by an investment company that invests only in very safe and liquid securities (such as CDs and IOUs/bonds from the federal government and large, reputable corporations) Most do require a minimum initial investment (usually 5,000) Mos
• Differences between Saving and Investing
  Saving is the process of putting money aside now—rather than spending it—so you have it when you need it later. When you deposit money in savings accounts, checking accounts, and Certificates of Deposit (CDs) in a bank or credit union, your deposits are likely to be insured by the Federal Deposit In
• A Divorcee
  Scenario: Jill is a 30 year old public relations assistant living in Massachusetts. She is in the process of getting a divorce from her husband of 4 years.. Scenario: Jill is a 30 year old public relations assistant living in Massachusetts. She is in the process of getting a divorc
• Key Considerations for Withdrawing Money from Retirement Savings and Investments
  Gone are the days when experts encouraged retirees that they could safely withdraw 10% of their personal savings and investments each year to bankroll their post-work lifestyle. Most financial planners now suggest withdrawing no more than between 3-5% of your total retirement portfolio each year and
• Bill-Paying Tips
  You have a lot to juggle and make time for – kids, work, maintaining a home, etc. Consider processes that can reduce the time it takes to pay your bills and make it easier to create savings automatically for your future.. You have a lot to juggle and make time for – kids, work, maintaining a home
• Equity vs. Debt
  In business-speak, there are two forms of financing: equity and debt. Equity investors buy a piece of ownership in your business.. In business-speak, there are two forms of financing: equity and debt. Equity investors buy a piece of ownership in your business. Technically, they ta
• Seeking Professional Advice
  An important aspect of succeeding in your own business is knowing your limitations and when to ask for help. Just about every business owner will eventually need the services of a bookkeeper, an accountant for help with taxes, and an attorney for assistance on business structure and contracts..
• Catching Up on Retirement Savings If You Start Late
  Bob’s budget was tight when he first began working but he put a little bit aside each paycheck into his employer’s 401(k) He figured it was a good way to save some money on taxes if nothing else.. en he first began working but he put a little bit aside each paycheck into his employer’s 401(k) He
• Ending the Year on the Right Foot
  Only a couple more weeks before we ring in the New Year. But there's still time to make a few decisions that will minimize your taxes for this year and help you start out on the right foot financially next year.. Only a couple more weeks before we ring in the New Year. But there's still
• How to decide if you really want to own a home
  It seems obvious but the first place to start is to decide whether or not you really want to own a home. No doubt, there are definite benefits to homeownership, including: Tax benefits.. It seems obvious but the first place to start is t
• What kinds of annuities can I invest in?
  There are many different kinds of annuities designed for investors: of different ages with different life goals, with different investment needs and in different tax brackets. Most annuities available today have some combination of these features: Single Premium or Flexible Premium With a single pre
• Asset Allocation
  Asset allocation is the foundation of most investment plans. It tells you how much of your money you want to have invested in different kinds of investments or assets (sometimes called “asset classes”stocks, bonds, cash [click through to definitions in step two] are the main ones—based on how much t
• Equity Investments – Stocks
  Equity is ownership – buying something and hoping that whatever you own increases in value. When you hear the word “equity” relating to your investment choices that most commonly refers to purchasing stock.. Equity is ownership – buying something and hoping that whatever you own inc
• Places to Turn When Money is Tight
  No matter how much you work and plan and take wise financial first steps, like those outlined in the “11 Things Single Moms Must Do, there are times when financial issues can become overwhelming and money seems impossibly tight. Take heart.. No matter how much you work and plan and take wise
• Making Home Improvements
  Whether you have purchased a real “fixer-upper” or you are considering modest “cosmetic” changes, making home improvements can be a way to make your home better fit your family, lifestyle and/or financial goals when re-selling. Deciding on Improvements and Setting Your Budget Making home improvement
• Rethinking How You Plan, Save and Invest for Retirement
  You commit yourself to saving for retirement. You take steps to understand how long your financial resources must last in retirement years so you don’t outlive your savings; you test guideline amounts needed to retire using an online calculator; you start contributing to 401(k) or IRA or SEP or othe
• Selecting and Working with an Attorney
  Estate-planning involves making numerous legally-related decisions so even though you can use do-it-yourself estate-planning kits sold online or through local business supply stores to get started, it’s wise to finish your work with an established, credible and experienced attorney. Ask friends, fam
• Anticipating the Emotional Transition of Moving
  Moving can be a very emotional life change for anyone. But moving for age- or health-related reasons can be especially difficult because it may feel like it's signaling a change in your ability to control your personal environment and your future.. Moving can be a very emotional life change for any
• More about Equity Financing
  When small companies get bigger and have a more proven potential to succeed, they can attract equity investors by offering shares of stock or ownership privately or through the public stock markets. To access the stock market, a business has to “go public” or undertake an initial public offering (IP
• Good Financial Behaviors You Can Model for Your Children
  In addition to finding ways to teach your children about money there are things you can do on a regular basis to model good financial habits.. In addition to finding ways to teach your children about money there are things you can do on a regular basis to model good financial habits such as:
• Important Considerations for Saving and Investing: In Your 30s
  While retirement may still feel like a lifetime away this decade is critical for saving and investing. You still have plenty of time to save and invest and reap the benefits of compounding interest and long-term gains.. l feel like a lifetime away this decade is critical for saving and investin
• Resetting Your Retirement Clock
  With market volatility, economic downturn and financial uncertainty people are increasingly unsure of what they can expect from their employers and if their savings plans for retirement will produce what they need. Many workers are also rethinking how long they will need to work.. conomic downturn and fina
• Finding a Bank that Works for You
  Before you even begin to think about finding and using a bank or credit union, think about what you really need in a bank. Do you want: a . Before you even begin to think about finding and using a bank or credit union, think about what you
• First Steps
  Once you have made the choice to take back control of your financial life there are some immediate first steps you can take to feel empowered and make a significant, positive difference Get rid of the guilt. Feeling guilty or. Once you have made the choice to take back control of your financial life t
• Baby Boomers (Born between 1946-1967)
  Baby boomers that already were planning and ready to celebrate retirement were perhaps the hardest hit by the recent recession, and now are the most disillusioned about when they will be able to exit the workforce. The MetLife Mature Market Survey found that of the 11% of boomers born in 1946 who pl
• Financing the Purchase of a Foreclosed Property
  Unless you are able to pay cash for your purchase you will need to find financing – which means getting a loan to pay the required costs and agreeing to repay the money lent (plus interest) over a specified period. y cash for your purchase you will need to find financing – which means getting a loan to pay the req
• Going it Alone or Together
  Even though you and your loved one have chosen to live together, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to choose to combine your finances. Instead of “falling” into the topic by default (i.e. a utility bill arrives in the. Even though you and your loved one have chosen to
• I don't have enough money to invest.
  There is no magic amount of money that you'll need to begin investing your savings. It all depends on how you want to invest it.. of money that you'll need to begin investing your savings. It all depends on how you want to invest it. Some CDs require only 100. You can invest in a bond or stock mutual fu
• I'm afraid I'll lose my money if I invest it.
  Most of us don't have a lot of extra cash lying around that we can afford to be carefree with. And it's wise to recognize that investing your money – instead of stashing it in a shoebox – does come with some risks.. ot of extra cash lying around that we can afford to be carefree with. And it's wise to recognize tha
• Retirement Planning Worksheet
  OBVIOUSLY, DECIDING how much money you need for retirement is a highly personal calculation. It depends on any number of factors, from your current lifestyle to your general state of health to whether you plan to retire early.. OBVIOUSLY, DECIDING how m
• Managing Your Income During Retirement
  In retirement, perhaps more than any other time in life, you will need to take control of your personal finances.  If you are fully retired (meaning that you are not doing any type of paying work) you will not have a consistent income stream from work or employer-based benefits.. re than any other time in
• New Initiatives Aimed at Helping You Save More for Retirement
  The federal government is making changes to help you save and invest for your post-work future. The new rules are designed to help Americans save for retirement by making it more “automatic” – by having workers automatically enrolled in 401(k) or SIMPLE IRA retirement savings plans, having tax refun
• Factors to Weigh When Making Your Decision to Begin Receiving Benefits
  There are two schools of thought when it comes to taking Social Security benefits – the earlier you take your benefits the longer you’ll be drawing a monthly check; however the longer you wait the more money you’ll receive in the long run. While it makes the most financial sense to wait as long as p
• Credit Card Companies Face Significant Changes Under New Law; Consumers to Benefit
  The new credit card legislation signed into law by President Obama contains numerous provisions that will have a real impact for Americans who use credit cards as a personal financial tool. More than 700 million credit cards are used by Americans (Nielson Report, 2008) and the total amount of debt A
• Teenagers
  Your teenage children will need to take increasing responsibility for spending and saving and learn from the natural consequences of personal financial choices. Talk with your teen about the values you and your spouse hold regarding money, how those values have shaped your financial choices as a fam
• Banking and Saving
  Banking and savings are two basic building blocks of personal financial planning. Saving money is fundamental to creating the resources necessary to invest for your financial future.. Banking and savings are two basic building blocks of personal financial planning. Saving money is fu
• Should You Borrow from Your 401(k) or 403(b)?
  These days more than 85% of workers with 401(k)s can borrow money from their retirement plans. And a growing portion of 403(b) plan participants can too.. These days more than 85% of workers with 401(k)s can borrow money from their retirement plans. And a growing portion of 403(b
• College Education Cost Planning
  Being able to pay for – or help pay for – a child’s education is one of most parents’ significant, and costly, financial goals. In fact “Money” magazine found that: 41% of parents plan to pay their child’s full college bill 54% plan to pay some costs 95% plan to pay at least something toward their c
• Ways to Avoid Becoming a Victim of Elder Financial Abuse
  What is elder financial abuse? Simply put, it’s a crime. It is when someone – an individual, company or organization – wrongfully takes a senior citizen’s money, property or other financial resources.. What is elder financial abuse?  Simply put, it’s a crime. It is when someone
• The Single Woman
  Scenario: Rosa is a 40-year old single woman living in Rhode Island. She is a manager of media development for a large Fortune 500 company.. Scenario: Rosa is a 40-year old single woman living in Rhode Island. She is a manager of media development for a large Fortune 500 company. She earns
• What Happens if I’m In Over My Head?
  Okay, so maybe you’re reading this and you’re thinking “It’s too late for me! I’ve already maxed out my cards! Don’t panic – there are some steps you can take to get control over you credit card spending and on the path to financial stability: Write it down. Gather your credit card statements and fi
• Benefits of 529 Plans
  There are numerous benefits to investing in either a 529 prepaid tuition or savings plan: Federal tax advantages. Although you can’t deduct your 529 plan contributions from your federal income taxes (the way you can deduct the interest you pay on your mortgage, for example) the money you invest in e
• The Basics of 529 Plans to Save and Invest for College
  If you have children and you would like for them to attend college you need to start saving – and investing that savings so that it can grow in value - now. While most Americans cite “paying for a child’s education” as a top family financial priority, according to a December 2009 FINRA Foundation su
• In Your 60s
  What once seemed like a dream is now quickly approaching as a reality. However there are still important steps to take to ensuring that you have the resources you need in retirement.. What once seemed like a dream is now quickly approaching as a reality. However there are still impor
• In Your 40s
  As retirement becomes closer your investing time horizon is shortening; saving and investing for retirement must become a high financial priority if you want to be able to reach your retirement lifestyle goals. Here’s how: Define your strategy..
• How can I make interest rates work for me?
  Again, the key is to make sure that you're earning the most interest possible on money you're saving and investing and that you're paying the least interest possible on money you're borrowing. Before you deposit your savings in a savings account or before you invest your savings, you'll want to call
• Things to Consider When Evaluating Policy Options
  Purchasing homeowners or renters insurance is a financial investment. So just like anything else that you pay money for, you’ll want to take your time to do a little research, ask the right people the right questions and feel confident in the answers before making a commitment..
• Your Family’s Military Pay
  If you have worked both as a civilian and as a member of the military you know that there are some very significant differences between military and civilian income, including paychecks. Let’s look at some of the unique factors of a military income.. If you have worked both a
• Distressed Homeowners May Get Foreclosure Postponement Help from Project Lifeline
  Homeowners at risk for losing their homes may be eligible to receive help through a “Project Lifeline” program. Through the program six major lenders – . Homeowners at risk for losing their homes may be eligible to receive help through a “Project Lifelin
• Questions to Ask About a Policy
  When you are ready to begin comparing policies there are some basic questions you will want to ask, including: What do you require for me to qualify for your policy (i.e.. When you are ready to begin comparing policies the
• Avoiding Additional Debt
  It’s important to encourage the person you are trying to help to avoid taking on debt or increasing existing debt if at all possible during this time. While it may not be possible to avoid borrowing some money during this crunch urge them to: try to only use cash when shopping keep a record of charg
• Insurance Policies and Individual Annuities with AIG
  AIG insurance policyholders know that the federal government is stepping in to make sure AIG’s parent company would not go bankrupt. The government made an 85 billion bridge loan (charging 11.. AIG insurance policyholders know that the federal government is stepping in to make sure AIG’s paren
• Evaluating a Potential Agent
  When looking for an insurance agent or broker, ask friends, relatives and financial professionals you work with (such as your banker, lawyer, etc. for recommendations.. When looking for an insurance agent or broker, ask friends, relatives and financial professionals you work with (such as your
• Insurance Policies and Individual Annuities with AIG
  AIG insurance policyholders know that the federal government made an 85 billion bridge loan (charging 11.5% interest) to provide the liquidity that the company needs to keep functioning.. AIG insurance policyholders know that the federal government made an 85 billion bridge loan (chargi
• Financial Tools
  In addition to insurance benefits your employer will likely offer various financial tools that you can use to reduce your taxable income and save for your short-term needs and long-term goals. Health Spending Accounts Healthcare spending accounts provide you with a way to pay for health care expense
• Steps to Take in Your 30s and 40s
  At this stage of your life you have probably settled into a career and have a few thoughts about where you would like to be personally, professionally and financially in your future. This is also a stage where you may begin making some significant choices and investments such as returning to school
• Identifying Learning Opportunities
  When someone is going through a difficult financial situation it’s often difficult to recognize the potential opportunities that the situation provides. It is not just a matter of encouraging them to “think positive.. When someone is going through a difficult financial situation it’s often di
• Before leaving your job
  Roll over any 401(k) savings you have accumulated into an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) An IRA is an investment account you can open through a local bank branch, financial services company or mutual fund.. Roll over any 401(k) savings you have accumulated into an Individual Retire
• What are the costs and risks involved in annuities?
  The costs of owning an annuity can include: annual fees for the insurance company’s guarantees and administrative services annual or periodic management fee charged by the mutual funds or other underlying investments and the sales commission paid to the salesperson. These fees will usually be quoted
• Who are annuities good for?
  Any investment choice depends on many factors including your personal circumstances, your age, the amount of risk you feel comfortable taking, the amount of time you have before you need the money, and your other assets, investments and financial realities. When you are young, it’s typically better
• Getting Started
  The first step is to get a firm grasp on how much money you have available to tap into. There are three main sources of income for most retirees: Employer retirement benefits - pension plan funds, 401(k) or other defined contribution retirement plan payouts Social Security benefits Savings and Inves
• Concerns About Fraudulent Activity
  If you have concerns or complaints about your broker or financial advisor – specifically if you suspect that he/she is involved in fraudulent activity affecting your investment funds - there are agencies and organizations that can investigate your case and provide potential assistance: You can conta
• Stocks are just one big gamble.
  FALSE. It’s true stocks are risky.. FALSE. It’s true stocks are risky. The stock market sometimes has big drops, but if you look back at its performance since 1926 you will see that the overall trend is upward. The longer you can keep your money invested in sto
• Myths About Investing
  You work hard for your money, and your money can work harder for you too when you save and invest it well. The world of investing may seem like a scary place, but knowledge and skill building can help reduce your fear.. You work hard for your money, and your money can work harder for you too wh
• Cash and Cash Equivalents
  Cash This starts off easy enough…cash is, well, cash.. Cash This starts off easy enough…cash is, well, cash. Right? Yes. And no. In the world of investing
• Total return
  Total return the combination of growth and . Tota
• Money market funds
  Money market funds are managed by investment companies and sold through banks and brokerage firms. These funds pool your money with other people’s and invest it in . Money market funds are ma
• Long-term
  Long-term in the investment world is generally 8-10 years or longer, although different people have different definitions. It can refer to the maturity of a bond: long-term bonds usually offer higher interest rates and involve higher risk because they require investors to commit money for longer per
• Diversification
  Diversification means spreading your investments around to different types of investments so you won’t lose everything if one of them performs poorly. Think of “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket; if you drop that basket, you lose all your eggs..
• Asset class
  Asset class a category of investment. The basic asset classes are stocks, bonds and cash equivalents.. Asset class : a category of investment. The basic asset classes are stocks, bonds and cash equivalents. See also asset allocation .
• Asset allocation
  Asset allocation is the foundation of most investment plans. It tells you how much of your money you want to have invested in different kinds of investments or assets (sometimes called “.
• Return
  Return : the profit or money you make on an investment; often called “reward.. Return : the profit or money you make on an investment; often called “reward.. Return : the profit or money you make on an investment; often called “reward. .
• Capital
  Capital:   money that is invested or available for investment.. Capital: money that is invested or available for investment.. Summary Capital:   money that is invested or available for investment. .
• Capital loss
  Capital loss is the difference between the price you pay for an investment and the price you get when you sell it, when the selling price is lower. Some capital losses are tax deductible.. Capital loss is the difference between the price you pay for an investment
• Capital gain
  Capital gain is the difference between the price you pay for an investment and the price you get when you sell it, when the selling price is higher. Capital gains are currently taxed at a lower rate than ordinary income because the government wants people to buy stock..
• CDs
  No, “CD” doesn't refer to the small round disc…it stands for “certificate of deposit. Here's what you need to know about CDs: It's a deposit you make with a bank for a certain amount of time,between 1 month and 5 years.. No, “CD” doesn't refer to
• Savings and Checking Accounts
  Although it seems almost too elementary to mention savings and checking accounts as investment vehicles, they are the foundation of most people's savings plans. When opening a checking account, shop around.. Although it seems almost too elementary to mention savings and checking acc
• Making Work Pay Tax Credit Boosts Take-Home Pay for Workers, Provides $250 Benefit for Retirees
  The Obama Administration’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act stimulus package includes a temporary two-year “Making Work Pay” tax credit. The credit will provide working individuals with a little more money in their paychecks in 2009 and 2010.. The Obama Administration’s American Recovery and R
• More about Equity Financing
  When small companies get bigger and have a more proven potential to succeed, they can attract equity investors by offering shares of stock or ownership privately or through the public stock markets. To access the stock market, a business has to “go public” or undertake an initial public offering (IP
• If a Servicemember Dies
  It’s a difficult reality to face but it is important to discuss and plan for what would happen if your, or your spouse, die during military service. The military provides assistance and benefits for survivors.. It’s a difficult reality to face but it is important to discuss and plan fo
• Insurance
  Insurance is an important part of your overall financial planning. It will ensure that you can maintain your income, your assets and keep you on track with your financial plan.. Insurance is an important part of your overall financial planning. It will ensure that you can maint
• Help for Subprime Mortgage Holders
  If you obtained a subprime mortgage between January 1, 2005 and January 31, 2007 and you are either having difficulty paying the mortgage now, or think you will have difficulty paying it when the interest rate "resets" you may be able to qualify for help. The federal government has worked with mortg
• Making it a Home
  You have finished the hunt for a new home, signed the papers and moved in. Now what?  How can you begin to really make this new place a welcome home for you and your family?  Home Safety Owning your own home means that you are now financially and legally responsible for what happens to people while th
• The Emotional Transition to Homeownership
  The process of looking for, negotiating and finally buying a new home can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Being so invested in something can really change your views on some things – like how you think about making financial decisions or how you choose to spend time to care for your home..
• Concerns about Fraudulent Activity
  If you have concerns or complaints about your broker or financial advisor – specifically if you suspect that he/she is involved in fraudulent activity affecting your investment funds - there are agencies and organizations that can investigate your case and provide potential assistance: You can conta
• What difference does the interest rate make
  Even a small difference in interest rates can make a big difference in how much you'll owe or you'll earn. The key is when it comes to debt you want a low interest rate and when it comes to saving and investing you want a high interest rate.. Even a small difference in interest rates can make
• Ways to Think about Financing Your Children’s College Education
  It can be intimidating to look at the total cost of four years of college. But the mental “thinking trap” that you might be getting into is looking at the number and thinking of it as a one-time lump sum payment.. It can be intimidating to look at the total cost of four years of college. 
• Considering Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
  Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the most common form of personal bankruptcy for people to file. It’s the most “popular” form because it’s fairly straightforward, inexpensive to file, requires little time, is finalized quickly and at the end, your consumer debt is erased.. Chapter 7 bankruptcy is t
• When You Need to Delay Retirement or Go Back to Work
  According to the Rand Corporation and the National Institute on Aging, the number of older workers choosing to stay in the workforce has consistently grown since the early 1990s. The trend is accelerating.. According to the Rand Corporation and the National Institute on Aging, the
• Avoiding Costly Surprises
  Before you begin selling stocks or other investments as part of your strategy to draw down on your retirement portfolio be sure you understand the tax implications. The last thing you want is to find out is that by selling off investments to access cash you’ve created a big tax bill..
• Types of Life Insurance Policies
  As with any investment, you will want to carefully consider and understand your options before you invest in life insurance. All types of life insurance policies can be categorized into one of two categories - “term” or “permanent”. As with any investment, you will want to carefully
• Homeowners’ and Renter’s Insurance
  Your home and your belongings are probably your largest financial asset.  So how do you protect them? If you own a home and have a mortgage (loan that you are paying off to own the home outright) then your lender will require that you carry home insurance.. Your home and your belong
• Buying a car
  Buying a car is a major investment. To get the most for your money, consider the following car-buying tips: September is the new model year for cars, so summer is a good time to buy a new car.. Buying a car is a major investment. To get the most for your money, conside
• What Happens if a Creditor Takes You to Court
  Until a collection agency sues you and wins they can’t legally take anything you own to pay off your debts. However, once the agency sues you and wins, they obtain a “judgment” against you they can take your “nonexempt” property to collect against your debt.. Until a collection agency
• Questions to Ask When Considering a Windstorm Insurance Policy
  When considering a windstorm insurance policy – whether you are thinking about purchasing a policy from a private insurance company or from a state insurance pool – you should gather as much information as you can before making any formal, written commitment. Following is a list of questions you may
• Before You Switch Policies
  If you already have a life insurance policy, at some point you may consider whether or not you should consider getting a new policy. For example, perhaps you have term life insurance and the term is about to expire.. If you already have a life insurance policy, at some point you may consider
• Financial Issues and Concerns
  One of the top reasons that most families give for merging households is economic pressure and an inability to afford more than one household. This situation is compounded if families are suddenly faced with an additional setback such as a divorce or a family member getting ill, losing a job or beco
• Paperwork to Get Together
  As you begin talking and making decisions about your finances you should begin to get some of your financial paperwork together including: copies of your most recent income taxes your checkbook bank account statements most recent credit card statements insurance policies copy of your will (if you ha
• Review Your Income
  Once you have an idea of your regular expenses and what your income scenario is, evaluate if you have any regular, predictable income that you can dedicate to meeting your expenses. For example, do you receive alimony or child support that you can use for fixed expenses such as housing (rent or mort
• The Young Couple
  Scenario: Marcus and Julie, both 27, live in Tennessee and have been married for a year. Julie is in nursing school and also works part-time as a nursing assistant at a local hospital.. Scenario: Marcus and Julie, both 27, live in Tennessee and have been married for a year. Julie is in
• The Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) – What it is and How to Know if You Qualify For it
  Did you know that there is a tax credit for low-income workers that can lower or even eliminate your federal income tax burden? It's called the earned income tax credit (EITC) and it has been helping millions of low-income working families and individuals for nearly 30 years. If you do qualify for a
• Can I charge my tax bill?
  Yes. The IRS accepts American Express® Discover® MasterCard® and Visa®. Yes. The IRS accepts American Express® Discover® MasterCard® and Visa® However, think twice before pulling out the plastic. Financing a steep tax bill at a high interest rate charged by your credit ca
• Narrow Your Search
  You will have a much better chance of landing a job for which you are suited if you focus on what you have the desire and skills to do and then narrow your search. This is where knowing yourself and thinking through some important decisions before you begin job-searching will really help you feel in
• When Your Parents’ Retirement Plans Change
  What do you do when you parents’ retirement plans change? When their finances, benefits and insurance no longer enable them to maintain the lifestyle they envisioned in their older years or to meet their current financial and personal needs? . arents’ retirement plans change? When their finances, benefits and insuranc
• Eleven Steps Single Moms Need to Take
  Single moms have mastered the art of multi-tasking. Working, making phone calls, vacuuming, paying bills, feeding kids and taking them places, responding to emails …. Single moms have mastered the art of multi-tasking. Working, making phone calls, vacuuming, paying bills, feeding kids and ta
• Financial Topics in Difficult Times
  When Debt Is Overwhelming You: Difficult Financial Decisions for Difficult Times Today a rapidly increasing number of people find themselves having to stretch their incomes and take on larger amounts of debt to afford everyday expenses and fixed expenses like affordable housing and health insurance.
• I am not sure how to help someone who is in financial trouble and is looking to me for assistance.
  Every day people find themselves facing sudden, unexpected or unwanted life changes that affect their ability to earn money, pay bills, and make choices to keep life working for themselves and their families. Young people, college graduates, seniors, single parents, middle-aged workers – none of us
• Working with Financial Professionals and Counselors
  It isn’t always obvious from the outside exactly what someone in financial difficulty needs to do. If you do not know what steps someone should take, don’t try to become a professional financial advisor.. It isn’t always obvious from the outside exactly what someone in financial
• Types of 529 Plans
  529 plans got their names from the section of the IRS tax code (section 529) which helped create this way of investing savings for college costs. There are two types of 529 plans: Prepaid Tuition Plans and Savings Plans.. 529 plans got their names from the section of the IRS tax code (section 529
• 10 Smart Ways to Make a Little Extra Savings Go a Long Way
  Regardless of your age, how much or how little you already have saved, or how little you feel like you can save, it's never too late to start saving for your future Every little bit - at every stage - can add up to a significant amount.. Regardless of your age, h
• Improve Your Finances with a Little Math
  Math. Whether you were good at math in school or not, you can make math work for you…and not necessarily the way you think when it comes to money.. Math. Whether you were good at math in school or not, you can make math work for you…and not necessarily the way you think when it comes to money. The
• How Much Coverage Do I Need?
  As with other forms of insurance a key question you probably have is “How much life insurance coverage do I need?  The answer is…it depends. While life insurance professionals advise that a good rule of thumb is to purchase at least 5-8 times your current income in life insurance coverage, the answer
• Setting up Direct Deposit
  Direct deposit is when you choose to have payments due to you directly deposited into your bank account instead of having a paper check, money order or cash mailed to you at your workplace or home. Types of payments that you can have directly deposited into your bank account include: Paychecks Tax r
• Millennials (Born 1984-1992)
  If you’re a member of “Generation Y” you’re either just starting out in the workforce or have a few years under your belt. For most millennials retirement seems like, well, a millennium away.. neration Y” you’re either just starting out in the workforce or have a few years under your belt. For most millennials retire
• The Risks of Not Saving & Investing
  There are four major risks of not saving adequately for your future needs and goals: The likelihood of Social Security benefits not providing adequate money for a long-term, post-retirement lifestyle That your life expectancy will outpace your savings The possibility of a major unexpected life or ec
• Where to Buy a Car
  As with most things nowadays you have a lot of options when it comes to where, and from whom, you buy a car. Let’s look at your choices: Traditional car dealership.. As with most things nowadays you have a lot of options when it comes to whe
• The Risks of Not Saving
  There are four major risks of not saving adequately for your future needs and goals: The impact of inflation on your savings The likelihood of Social Security benefits not providing adequate money for a long-term, post-retirement lifestyle That your life expectancy will outpace your savings The poss
• Common Financial Myths Single Women May Believe
  Most women heard or sensed certain negative messages about money growing up such as: men should or will earn more money than women; men are better in math and therefore in understanding how to work with money than women; a woman’s income will most likely as be a “second income” within a family’s fin
• How Work May Affect Your Benefits
  If you are already retired and considering re-entering the workforce you’ll want to make sure you understand if, and how, your current retirement benefits could be affected including your Social Security, pension, Medicare and retiree health benefits. Social Security If you have already begun receiv
• Spending
  In order to keep moving forward financially we need to spend less than we earn. That doesn’t mean going without.. In order to keep moving forward financially we need to spend less than we earn. That doesn’t mean going without. It means making spending choices based on a well-defin
• Decisions to Consider Making
  As you become more comfortable talking about financial issues, sharing thoughts, opinions, plans and paperwork you should start working through some important decisions. Areas to talk about include: Goal-Setting.. As you become more comfortable talking about finan
• Questions to ask a financial advisor
  Good for you. You want to be well prepared for meeting with a potential financial advisor.. Good for you. You want to be well prepared for meeting with a potential financial advisor. Even if you feel panicked about your financial situation and as tempting as it may be to walk into someone's
• A Widow
  Scenario: Marilyn is a 51-year old widow, living in Delaware, supporting two teenagers. When her husband died unexpectedly, she had to return to the work force full-time.. Scenario: Marilyn is a 51-year old widow, living in Delaware, supporting two teenagers. When her husband died unexpectedly, s
• Set a Course for Where You Want to Go
  Once you have evaluated where you are financially – what income, savings, expenses and debt you have – you are now able to begin setting a course for where you want to go financially in the future, and take steps in that direction. Following are a few tips for thinking about your financial goals: Ac
• The Financial Side of Homeownership
  Buying a home is the single largest financial commitment that most people ever make. By taking some time to think about and plan how you will maintain your investment and stay current on your mortgage, you can create some good financial habits at the outset of homeownership that will pay off for yea
• Choosing an Account
  When you find a bank that you feel comfortable using, the next step is determining what type of an account, or accounts, you would like to open. The most common types of accounts are: Checking Accounts.. When you find a bank that you feel comfortable usi
• What the Housing Recovery Bill Could Mean for You
  The housing recovery bill that went into effect on October 1, 2008 has the potential to help millions of American homeowners and homebuyers. There are several ways that you or a loved one may be able to qualify for financial assistance through the bill.. The housing recovery bill
• Recovering From Bankruptcy and Re-Establishing Your Credit
  If you have filed for bankruptcy you have been through a very stressful, and probably humiliating, time in your life. It can be traumatizing to realize that you have hit rock bottom financially and you may feel panicked or shaky about what this means for your future.. If you have filed for ban
• Adapting to an Unplanned Retirement
  Most of us have a vague idea of how our work life will progress – we’ll spend a few years deciding what we really want to do, get established in our careers, move companies or organizations a few times, progress up the pay scale and then - at a point of our choosing in our sixties or seventies - we
• To Buy or to Lease?
  SHOULD YOU lease or buy? Conventional wisdom says if you lease you'll have nothing to show for your money when the term is up. But that ignores the opportunity cost inherent in buying: after all, the money you pay up front for the car could be invested instead..
• Staying in Financial Control While You’re in College
  Going to college can be exciting, fun…and expensive. And we’re not just talking about tuition, room and board.. Going to college can be exciting, fun…and expensive. And we’re not just talking about tuition, room and board. There can be a lot of unexpected, small expenses that can add up
• Finding Money to Pay Down Your Debt
  After you have listed all your debts – credit cards, medical bills, department store bills, mortgages, car loans, etc. - you may be tempted to panic and say “But I just don’t have any money to even begin paying my debt off! Realize that you may have options you’re not aware of..
• If a Servicemember Becomes Disabled
  It is a difficult reality, but servicemembers can become disabled during their military service. It can be a physically and emotionally difficult time for the servicemember and his or her family.. It is a difficult reality, but servicemembers can become disabled during their military service. It
• Financial Pressures and Your Health
  Stress is an accumulation of mental and physical tension. Stress can: distract your mental focus drain your energy impair your immune system and increase susceptibility to illness or disease create real physical reactions such as heart palpitations, panic attacks, nausea, headaches and sleepiness ca
• What's New This Month
  July '09 : IOUs Issued by the State of California Strapped for cash, the state of California has started issuing more than 3 billion in IOUs to businesses, individual tax payers and county governments to whom it owes money. California state government officials have indicated that the IOUs – which
• Finding Free or Low-Cost Training to Boost Your Employability
  If you are currently out of work and looking for a job, or if you are currently employed but would like to find a different job that perhaps offers better pay and benefits, you may need to learn new skills to become a more attractive job candidate for a prospective employer. However you may not have
• Short Sales: What They Are and Why a Homeowner Might Pursue One
  Homeowners who are pressed to make their mortgage payments – or are already behind – may consider trying a short sale as an option to letting the bank foreclose. A short sale is when a mortgage lender agrees to accept less money than the amount the homeowner owes on the loan.. d to make their mortgage
• First Steps to Understanding Your Health Insurance Benefits
  If you, or your spouse, have health insurance do you know what your health insurance plan benefits are? According to CIGNA HealthCare, nearly 50 percent of all Americans give themselves only a “C” grade, or lower, when it comes to understanding their health benefits and programs available to them th
• Dealing with Deployment
  Deployment is a stressful time for every member of the family. By taking time to talk together as a family, and separately as a couple, you can better manage both the emotional and logistical aspects of being apart from your servicemember.. Deployment is a stressful time for every member of
• Refinancing
  When you buy a home you obtain a mortgage, also called a purchase loan by mortgage professionals. It’s simply a loan to purchase a home.. When you buy a home you obtain a mortgage, also called a purchase loan by mortgage professionals. It’s simply a loan to purchase a home. The bank or f
• Finding the Right Home
  What words come to mind when you think about finding a new home? Exciting? Scary? Overwhelming? The truth is that finding a new home can be all of those things. The way you feel about finding a new home can depend on why you're moving and how much time you have to find a home.. What words come to mind w
• When You Lose Retiree Benefits
  Karen was enjoying retirement after 32 years of work as a registered nurse. Her Social Security and savings provided a modest, but adequate, income and she was grateful for a generous retiree benefits package from her former employer which included a pension and health insurance.. ment after 32 years of wo
• Reverse Mortgages
  If you are 62 or older and own your home you have access to a special type of financing that can help you turn your greatest asset – your home – into supplemental income, enabling you to meet your other financial obligations and reach important life goals. A reverse mortgage is a financial tool that
• Stretching Your Retirement Spending Dollar
  During retirement you are going to have to make your income and savings stretch further than before to reduce the risk of outliving your financial reserve. To do that you will need to start with a plan for how to strategically draw down your retirement savings and investments , and then mindfully ma
• Story File
  The SIFMA Foundation for Investor Education seeks to provide you with the best information, tools and resources available to help your followers become more financially literate. We have compiled this story file based on year-round evergreen topics.. Investor Education seeks to provide you with the b
• Parents Dealing with their Single Adult Child’s Deployment
  Most often deployment information and support is directed to the servicemember’s spouse. But what about the single servicemember?  What happens when he/she is deployed?  After being out of the family home and living on his or her own, suddenly he or she needs family members to help with the paperwork
• Rising Interest Rates and the Mortgage Crunch and What It May Mean to You
  The initial housing boom began in early 2002 - 2003. Interest rates were falling to all-time lows.. The initial housing boom began in early 2002 - 2003. Interest rates were falling to all-time lows. A surge of homebuyers eager to take advantage of the low interest rates on mortgages began pushing ho