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- 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 - Planning for Retirement While You’re in the Military
Whether or not you, or your spouse, are considering a full career in the military, it is important to think about, prepare and plan for your retirement years. While it can seem like it is very far off and your everyday needs and wants are more important, starting to save for retirement now – even in - Generation X (Born between 1968-1983)
The generation that has grown up in the shadow of the Baby Boomers is accustomed to relying on themselves. However the economic recession has sent a strong message to Generation X workers: “you may have had unrealistic expectations about the kind of financial returns you can expect on your investments.. - 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 - 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 - Planning for Retirement
You can jointly plan for retirement even if you are an unmarried couple. However there are a few differences between what you and your married peers are able to do. For example, by law neither of you will be able. You can jointly plan for retirement even if you ar - 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 - I don't really need to worry about saving and investing enough now for my retirement. If it isn't enough, I'll just have to keep working no matter how old I am.
Regardless of whether you have saved enough money to retire, it is very likely that at some point in your life you simply either will not be able to work or there will be no work opportunities. Yes, people are working at jobs later into life, delaying retirement or gradually working their way into f - 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 - When to Begin Taking Benefits and How Benefits are Calculated
You have three options when to begin receiving your Social Security benefits: you can elect to take your benefits early, you can wait until your “normal retirement age, or you can wait until later. If you need to begin receiving benefits early you will earn less; if you can wait to take benefits, th - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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.. - New Tax Law Allows Seniors to Keep More of Retirement Plan Funds Invested in 2009
Initially designed as a way to help retirees who have seen the value of their retirement investments drop in the economic downturn, Congress passed a new law that allows IRA and 401(k) plan holders age 70 ½ and older to not have to take a minimum required distribution (MRD) in 2009. The MRD is based - 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 - 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 - Getting Married
Scenario: Jennifer and Kevin are a newly engaged couple, living in Colorado, beginning to plan their wedding. Jennifer is a 25-year-old teacher earning 28,000 a year.. Scenario: Jennifer and Kevin are a newly engaged couple, living in Colorado, beginning to plan their wedding. Jennifer is a 2 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - How Returning to Work May Affect Your Benefits
Often retirees will choose to return to work – for a variety of reasons. It’s important to know that leaving full-time retirement to begin working again - even on a part-time or seasonal basis – MAY affect your Social Security benefits.. Often retirees will choose to return to work – for - 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 - Ready to Buy a Home
Scenario: Malcolm and Gayle are a young couple living in Iowa. Both have full-time jobs earning a combined annual salary of 80,000.. Scenario: Malcolm and Gayle are a young couple living in Iowa. Both have full-time jobs earning a combined annual salary of 80,000. Their main monthl - 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 - 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 - Social Security 101
Once thought to provide enough income for a retirement lifestyle, today most people recognize that Social Security is just one part – but an important part – of an overall retirement savings package. It’s important to know how Social Security works, when you can begin receiving benefits, and factors - 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 - 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 - Saving for Retirement When You're Not Working
When 32-year-old Eveline found out she was pregnant she began counting the months until her baby's arrival… and she could leave her full-time job as a sales representative for a pharmaceutical firm.. When 32-year-old Eveline found out she was pregnant she began counting the months until her baby's a - 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 - When to Begin Taking Social Security Benefits
The amount of your Social Security benefits is determined by your age when you begin taking benefits compared to the Social Security Administration’s “full retirement age. Your full retirement age is based on your birth date.. The amount of your Social Security benefits is det - 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 - Estate-Planning
Estate-planning is the process of making legally-binding decisions and creating legal documents to ensure those wishes are honored both while you are alive and after you have passed away. It is part of a planning process that relates to your finances and will help your family and loved ones by provi - The Retirees
Scenario: Roy and Helen are both 67, retired, and live in West Virginia in the same house they raised their kids. Their kids and 4 grandchildren just live down the road from them.. Scenario: Roy and Helen are both 67, retired, and live in West Virginia in the same house they raise - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - Before re-entering the work force
Research your potential future employers. Look for an employer offering a defined contribution (401(k) or defined benefit retirement plan (pension). Research your potential future employers. Look for an employer offering a defined contribution (401(k) or defined benefit retirement plan (pension) Cl - 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 - Retirement
Do you have a plan for your retirement? Whether you are a few years or a few decades away from leaving the workforce it’s never too late begin making choices to ensure that you have the resources you’ll need to enjoy your retirement years. Although retirement planning can seem complicated there are - Create or Update Your Wills
While no one particularly likes to think about their eventual death, it is incredibly important that both you and your spouse have wills drawn up to specify what you want to happen when you pass away. It is estimated that nearly 70% of all adults die without a will.. While no one particularly - Borrowing Against Your Retirement Savings
While experts don’t recommend tapping into your retirement savings for any reason- because you are putting savings and potential interest and growth opportunities at risk- you may be considering this as one of your only options. Before you do anything, let’s look at what’s involved in borrowing agai - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - How It Works
While you work you are building your future Social Security retirement benefits. You pay into Social Security through a payroll tax which is deducted from your paychecks, or you pay as part of your quarterly estimated or year-end tax bill.. While you work you are building your future Social - Where do I start?
You'll need to file two separate tax forms - federal and state income taxes. You can get tax forms online at . You'll need to file two separate tax forms - federal and state income taxes. You can get tax forms online at www.irs.gov/formspubs , through the IRS p - FDIC Bank Deposit Insurance – What It Is and What You Should Know
With the recent news of a handful of banks failing people are increasingly concerned about the safety of their bank deposits. How can you know if your money is safe when you deposit it into a bank and if your bank does fail, how much of your money does the FDIC insure? The FDIC (Federal Deposit Insu - Who Can Help Me with My Taxes?
If you’re like millions of Americans, you may be overwhelmed at the prospect of preparing your tax return. Maybe you’re considering getting some professional help at tax time so you know what papers to collect and what forms to complete.. If you’re like millions of Americans, you may be o - When Income Exceeds Expenses
Congratulations! You have savings potential. Are you currently saving money or are you spending your excess? If you aren’t currently saving money, the good news is that you have the most important thing to become a saver - -money! Instead of thinking about your excess income as money to play with (a.. - 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 - 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 - Searching for a Service or “Blue Collar” Job
According to the U.S.. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics nearly 15 percent of all Americans work in what are considered “blue collar” or service jobs. Who are “blue collar” workers? They are the people who provide valuable service work for us everyday – they are electricians, plumbe - Grandparent with Grandchild
Scenario: Olivia is 72 year old retired widow living in Nevada on her Social Security benefit and her husband’s pension. She has always lived modestly and was sure she would be okay in retirement.. Scenario: Olivia is 72 year old retired widow living in Nevada on her Social Security benefit and he - Financial “Things to Do” Before the Year’s End
With the holiday season officially underway it can be easy to spend most of your “financial thinking” on all of the holiday gift-giving, traveling and entertaining you will, or would like to be able to, do. But there are five simple things that you may want to consider doing to tie up some financial - Money Deposited in Bank Accounts and Credit Union Accounts
Up to 250,000 of money you deposit in an FDIC-insured individual bank account, up to 500,000 for joint accounts and up to 250,000 for individual retirement accounts (IRAs) are guaranteed safe by the federal government. If you have more than that amount in a particular bank, it is not guaranteed t - Caring for Dad
Scenario: Bill is 54, married with 2 kids and living in Michigan. His father, John, a widower, suffered a stroke 6 months ago and had to be moved to a nursing home.. Scenario: Bill is 54, married with 2 kids and living in Michigan. His father, John, a widower, suffered a stroke 6 months ago - 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 - Strategies to Drawing Down Your Retirement Savings and Investments
From the time you begin working you read and hear about the importance of saving and investing for your eventual retirement. But how do you create a plan for spending it once you reach retirement? With a current average life expectancy of 77 and an average retirement age of 62 most retirees will hav - 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 - 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 - Benefits
Self-employed people have to provide their own benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans that may once have been provided by employers. If you have other employees, you may need to offer benefit plans to them as well.. Self-employed people have to provide their own ben - 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 - After you've left your job there are a few important steps to take
Open an IRA. Even if you don't have any accumulated retirement savings through your previous job, open an IRA to begin banking some savings through small or moderate lifestyle changes. . Open an IRA. Even if you don't have any accumulated retirement savings thro - 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 - 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 - 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 - Work and Child Care
Perhaps the biggest question facing soon-to-be parents is what they will do regarding their current employment and caring for their newborn. If both you and your spouse are working to earn an income, you’ll need to figure out how you will care for your child until s/he is school-age.. - 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 - Considering the Tax Implications
If you have already begun tapping into retirement benefits (i.e.. If you have already begun tapping into retirement benefits (i.e. pension, 401(k) IRA, Social Security, etc. your new job could affect how much you pay in overall taxes. For example: Traditional IRAs and 401(k) retirement savi - 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 - Money Deposited in Credit Union Accounts
All federally chartered and most state-chartered credit unions are insured by the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF) which is a federal fund that is backed - like the FDIC - by the full faith and credit of the U.S.. All federally chartered and most state-chartered c - Benefits
Self-employed people have to provide their own benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans that may once have been provided by employers. If you have other employees, you may need to offer benefit plans to them as well.. Self-employed people have to provide their own ben - 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 - Why Do You Want to Work
Knowing why you need or want to go back to work can help you make more informed employment decisions. For example if… you want to find less expensive health insurance then you may want to be more flexible on the type of position you’re looking for, which industry you work in, and focus only on full- - Can You Afford Not To?
You may find that starting your business is more of a necessity than a choice. If your employer closes or moves and you don’t have many other job opportunities in your area, working for yourself may be your only option.. You may find that starting your business is more of a necessity than a choi - Taking Control and Financial Tools
Personal financial planning can seem like an intimidating topic to tackle. However it’s important to feel like you have a basic grasp on how to manage money so that you can reach important life goals.. Personal financial planning can seem like an intimidating topic to tackle. - 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 - How will I know who is right for me?
The bottom line is that you want to work with a financial professional that is competent; is in compliance with all laws regulating their industry; is someone that you "click" with; and is someone you can afford. First, professional competence.. The bottom line is that y - Starting Out in Your 20s
When you’re just entering the workforce it’s a great time to develop some financial disciplines that will become financially-rewarding habits for your future such as: Establishing some short- medium- and long-term financial and life goals Creating, and sticking to, a realistic budget Keeping a tight - Durable Power of Attorney, Living Wills, and Durable Health Care Power of Attorney or Health Care Proxy
A “durable power of attorney” is a legal document that enables you to give someone the legal authority to handle and make decisions regarding your finances, property or personal matters in the event that you become mentally or physically unable to do so on your own. It is a simple, effective way of - Our family is drowning in debt and bills due to a medical situation. Any type of future financial planning is pointless.
It’s understandable that dealing with the financial fallout from an emergency and/or significant medical condition can be stressful and make “financial planning” seem beyond your reach. However, financial planning simply means to be intentionally aware of how you are making actively choices about yo - 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 - Wedding Insurance
Dresses, tuxedos, photographers, flowers, cakes and limousines…weddings are exciting, and expensive, events. But after all the planning, deposits and down payments, what happens if a weather emergency cancels your plans? Or what if the bride or groom becomes injured or ill? What if one of your key v - Creating a Will
A will is a legal document that expresses your wishes regarding how you would like to distribute your property and assets after your death and, if you have children under the age of 18 at the time of your death, who you wish to serve as guardian for your children. Without a will, you are leaving it - Conclusion
Retirement is an important time in life to stay on top of and engaged with your own personal financial planning. While there is no one, fixed strategy to plan out your retirement savings drawdown, by planning carefully, making informed choices and remaining flexible you can stretch your savings and - Starting Your Marriage Off on the Right Financial Foot
Planning to get married is an exciting time. But it also involves making a lot of decisions – where to get married and when, who to choose for the wedding parties, which cake and invitations…the list of choices and things to discuss with your significant other can seem endless.. - 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 - Saving
Saving money is not something that we, as Americans, are very good at. In fact the U.. hing that we, as Americans, are very good at. In fact the U.S. Department of Commerce reported that America’s personal savings rate is the lowest in the industrialized world. .Saving money is a critical habit to develop a - Alternatives to Using a Check-Cashing Store
There are alternatives. While it can seem more convenient and even comfortable to use a check-cashing store, the truth is that there are much better, less expensive options that will perform the same services and leave you with more money in your pocket or to send home.. There are alternatives. W - 10 Simple Steps to Start Saving Money Now
Develop a simple, easy to implement plan with Tomorrow's Money “Personal Savings Schedule” Click here to link directly to the site’s . Develop a simple, easy to implement plan with Tomorrow's Money “Personal Savings Schedule” Click her - 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 - Planning Your Exit
Setting clear goals for your business involves having some end in sight, even if that’s your own retirement. You may want to build a business that can someday be sold to a competitor or even taken public in a stock offering (in which case it has to be quite big and quite stable). - 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 - Financial Planning for Unmarried Couples
Emily and Roberto had both weathered difficult first marriages but after dating for a year they were confident enough about the relationship to move in together. They’re both quick to fend off questions from well meaning friends about when they. h weathered difficult first marriages but after da - Estate-Planning
While married couples have the benefit of estate related laws that ensure, for example, that a surviving partner can remain in the home you share after you pass away, unmarried couples don’t. Without adequate legal protection, the courts will use. While married couples have the benefit of estate-r - Planning to Manage Wedding Day Costs
According to a Conde Nast Bridal Group survey, the average cost of a wedding is approximately 27,800. Nearly one-third of all American couples pay for their own wedding and laying out that much money (or accumulating that much credit card debt) early on in the marriage can have a significant im - 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 - 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 - Planning for a Baby
Colleen and Ted had talked about having children before they got engaged, and had envisioned waiting perhaps only a year or two after getting married to start a family. However as they began creating long-term financial goals and considering how having children would change their life, they realized - 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 - Planning for Next Year
Don’t despair. What can you learn from your overspending this year? Here are some questions to ask yourself so you don’t find yourself repeating the same mistake come next December: 1) What did I spend money on? Look back over your charges and categorize where you overspent. In other words, WHAT did - Managing Your Self-Employment Retirement
- Managing your Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs)
- Managing Retirement-oriented Investments
- Planning Your Portfolio
- Individual Retirement Accounts
- Employer retirement plans
- Investment Planning Basics
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) can be a very attractive housing alternative because they offer the security of knowing that your long-term housing, services and nursing care will all be provided in one development as you age. CCRCs are age-segregated, meaning that it is a housing com - Your Home as a Source of Retirement Funds
If you own your home you may have another option for creating a stream of income during retirement: a reverse mortgage. A reverse mortgage is a financial tool that allows you to tap into the equity you have built up in your home to help with one-time or everyday living expenses once you reach the ag - Estate Planning
Many single women mistakenly think that since they may not have a spouse, partner or biological dependents that it’s not actually that important to have a will. But wouldn’t you like to know that the money you work so hard to earn will continue to benefit the people you love and the causes you belie - Planning for Health Costs
Part of improving, or maintaining, your physical and financial wellness is preparing for future needs and making plans to meet those needs. Physically that involves keeping an eye on the food you’re eating, the calories you’re taking in, making time to exercise and getting regular checkups.. - Health Insurance Options During Retirement
Health care is one of the biggest spending categories for seniors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the average American age 65 or older spends more than 4,100 out of pocket on health care costs annually.. Health care is one of the biggest spending categories for seniors. Accordin - Planning a vacation
You work hard and you look forward to taking some time to get away over the summer. But it can be easy to overspend on vacation and regret it later.. You work hard and you look forward to taking some time to get away over the summer. But it can be easy to overspend on vacation and regret it later. H - Estate Planning
One of the results of divorcing and then remarrying when you have children is that both you and your new spouse will need to make some important decisions about how your assets and possessions will be handled and managed after your death(s) You will need to decide upon and “name” beneficiaries (mean - Financial planning, saving and investing isn’t really my thing. I believe it's better to simply live for today. You don’t know what will happen tomorrow anyway.
Many people fear dealing with financial issues, feel overwhelmed at the thought of managing their money, are convinced that they don’t have the skills needed to create their own financial security, or don’t think it will matter anyway. The truth is that not only do you have the basic abilities neede - What's New
This section will list new articles, features and tools to the Tomorrowsmoney.org suite of sites as they are posted. Refer back to this section regularly to see what new information we have to share to help your audiences gain control over their personal financial planning to create a more financial - Tax Changes that Could Affect Your 2008 Tax Bill
There are a few new changes to the tax law that could affect your 2008 federal income tax bill. These changes are important to know about especially if you’re preparing your own taxes.. es to the tax law that could affect your 2008 federal income tax bill. These changes are important to know about especially i - 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.. - 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 - Recalculating Your Financial Future
Whatever your reasons for wanting to back to work – or to delay retirement – it’s important to get an accurate picture of your financial situation. If you don’t already have a working budget. wanting to back to work – or to delay retirement – it’s important to get an accurate picture of you - 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 - SmartMoney 401(k) Planner
The goal of participating in your employer’s 401(k) retirement savings program is that it will grow over time so that when you’re ready to retire you’ll have the money you need to do so. Our 401(k) calculator can help you see how your retirement savings will grow — and how long you can expect that m - How Long Will My Money Last?
IT SEEMS these days that everybody wants to retire by the age of 45. Is it just wishful thinking? Our calculator will help you figure how long your investments will last.. IT SEEMS these days that everybody wants to retire by the age of 45. Is it just wishful thinking? Ou - Start Out Smart! 7 Money Moves to Make Now
Congratulations – you have a job! Your first full or part-time job can be exciting, overwhelming and scary…all at the same time. The biggest benefit is of course having a real paycheck! Before you run out and spend that entire first paycheck, there are a few wise financial “first moves” you should c - 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 - 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 - What Type of Bond Do I Want to Buy?
Most bonds are issued by one of three groups: the U.S.. Most bonds are issued by one of three groups: the U.S. government or federal agencies; state and local governments, and corporations. Here's a breakdown of the types of bonds - 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 - 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 - Assisted Living Facilities
Assisted living facilities may be an ideal alternative if you would prefer some assistance with daily activities and the companionship of other residents. Assisted living facilities are not intended for people with significant medical needs or disabilities - conditions that would be better cared for - 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 - 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 - Tax Changes that Could Affect Your 2008 Federal Income Tax Bill
There are a few new changes to the tax law that could affect your 2008 federal income tax bill. These changes are important to know about especially if you’re preparing your own taxes.. There are a few new changes to the tax law that could affect your 2008 federal income tax bill. Thes - 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 - Steps to Take in Your 50s and 60s
You are now at a transitional point of life where you need to realistically assess what you have and what you need going forward: Re-evaluate your retirement needs with our retirement calculator Evaluate how your assets are allocated and work with a financial professional to ensure that your investm - Earning
You may have one sole source of income or you may have many different “streams” of income – such as part-time jobs, seasonal work, alimony, settlement income, etc. In large part your financial security will depend on your ability to obtain jobs that will provide you with adequate income and benefits - Medical Debts and Bankruptcy
Our family’s medical debts are pushing us to the brink of bankruptcy. Is that where you are right now? The statistics are sobering.. Our family’s medical debts are pushing us to the brink of bankruptcy. Is that where you are right now? The statistics are sobering. Half of all U.S. b - Similarities between Health and Money
Let’s consider some of the similarities between your health and your money, and then address small ways that you can begin making positive steps in both areas. Barbara O’Neill and Karen Ensle at Rutgers University have identified some interesting, practical similarities between money and health and - Your Current Debt and Ways to Save for a Mortgage Down Payment
The amount of debt you currently have and your credit score (which tells lenders how reliable you are about repaying your debt and loans) will also affect how much interest you will be charged on your loan. You should consider getting a free copy of your credit report now, early on in the home-buyin - The Single Male
Scenario: Steve is a 32-year old single male, working as an accountant for an oil drilling firm in Texas. He has been with the company for 2 years and currently earns 48,000 about 39,000 after taxes.. Scenario: Steve is a 32-year old single male, working as an accountant for - Finances
The personal finance statistics for military families are sobering. A 2006 national survey found that: 22% of all servicemembers reported occasionally or usually having trouble paying bills 26% of all servicemembers have not invested for their future financial needs and goals within the past two yea - Your Blended Families’ Financial Reality
Eight out of 10 people who divorce remarry, and, according to U.S.. Eight out of 10 people who divorce remarry, and, according to U.S. Census Bureau statistics they usually do so within three years. But in addition to having some marriage “experience, divorced men and women with children who - Repaying Your Student Loans
Every year thousands of college graduates leave their campuses, usually with a degree, but almost always with debt. In fact, a recent study by the National Center for Education Statistics shows that nearly 50% of college graduates have student loans averaging 10,000.. Every year thousands of c - Travel Tips
There’s no time like the holidays to visit friends and family. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, about 5.. There’s no time like the holidays to visit friends and family. According to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics, about 5.8 million Americans make - My family never had money when I was growing up, but my parents did okay.
All of us have a “financial past” and for most of us our present-day views on money were, to a smaller or greater extent, built upon that past. But times change.. All of us have a “financial past” and for most of us our present-day views on money were, to a smaller or greater extent, bui - A Baby on the Way
Scenario: Eddie and Ellen are both in their early 30s, have been married for 3 years and are living in Connecticut. They bought Ellen’s grandmother’s house when she decided to downsize.. Scenario: Eddie and Ellen are both in their early 30s, have been married for 3 years and are living - 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 - Adapting to Long-Term Temporary or Independent Contract Work
Since the recession of 2008 employers have been slow to re-hire people for positions that they cut. If you lost your job, you may have started working with a temporary staffing firm or working as an independent contractor, or freelancer, to help make ends meet.. 08 employers have been slow to re-hire people for - 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 - 16 Warning Signs You Could Be Heading for Financial Trouble
We’ve all done it before – forgotten to pay a bill on time, charged more on our credit cards than we should, etc. But there are some financial “red flags” you should pay attention to realize that without a course correction, you’re headed for financial trouble.. – forgotten to pay a bill on time, charged more on - Bookkeeping
You are also well advised to keep your personal funds separate from your business funds. If you incorporate, your bank will require your business to have a separate business checking account.. You are also well advised to keep your personal funds separate from your business funds. If you inco - Making a Plan
Before you make a plan for your business, you need a plan for yourself. First, you should make a budget of your personal expenses to see how much you need to survive each month.. Before you make a plan for your business, you need a plan for yourself. First, you should make a bud - Annuities
Annuities are widely promoted by financial institutions as a retirement planning tool. They are not always as simple as they sound, however, and they are not always the best choice for every investor.. Annuities are widely promoted by financial institutions as a retirement planning tool. They are not - 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 - Creating a Location-Independent Job with Your Current Employer
If you’re interested in having a location-independent job you may think that you have to strike out on your own, however that’s not necessarily true. Before you hand in your two weeks’ notice to find a job that doesn’t require you a commute to punch a clock you should think twice.. aving a location-independ - Welcome to Tomorrow's Money
Wouldn't it be nice to look forward to the future confident about your finances? The truth is that most women aren’t. In fact, three-quarters of all American women are worried about their financial future but not sure about what to do about it.. ok forward to the future confident about your fina - Two Options When Your Credit Limit is Cut
If your credit limit has been cut (or you receive notification that your creditor is planning to reduce your limit) you have two options Contact the creditor to ask for your current limit to be maintained or reinstated. Collect copies. If your credit limit has been cut (or you receive - Co-Owning Property
As an unmarried couple you will need to decide if and how you want to co own documented property (i.e. real estate, cars, boats, stocks, bank accounts, financial investments) All of these forms of property have documented evidence of ownership. As an unmarried couple you will need to decide if - 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 - I don't know where to begin.
The most important part about beginning to save and invest is just that…beginning. In fact, changing your attitude toward saving and investing may be the biggest hurdle you have to overcome.. bout beginning to save and invest is just that…beginning. In fact, changing your attitude toward saving and investing may be - About Our Partners
Our Donors SIFMA Foundation Supporters can be found here: . Our Donors SIFMA Foundation Supporters can be found here: http:www.sifma.org/ education/ pdf/ SIFMA-Fdn-Supporters-SF.pdf Our Pr - 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 - 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 - About Our Partners
Our Donors SIFMA Foundation Supporters can be found here: . Our Donors SIFMA Foundation Supporters can be found here: http:www.sifma.org/ education/ pdf/ SIFMA-Fdn - Time to Branch Out On Your Own?
- 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 - Seasonal Stories
Fall Home Buying 101 Want to become a homeowner? Wonder what it will take to get there? Click here to check out our new series on "Home Buying 101" - a step-by-step monthly guide to turning the dream of homeownership into a reality . Open Enrollment It's fall - the "open enrollment" season for thous - Calculators
Our calculators are designed to help boost your confidence to make informed financial decisions by giving you a stress-free way of comparing different scenarios and outcomes. We have an array of calculators related to managing your personal finances such as planning for retirement, managing debt, pa - Important Steps at Each Stage of Your Life
Each stage of life presents different opportunities and challenges. For example, single adults just starting out in the workforce have the gift of time to begin planning for their future, but need to begin developing wise financial habits at the start to reach them.. Each stage of life presen - Tips to Making a Good Move and Establishing a Healthy New Lifestyle
Transitions of any sort can be physically, mentally and emotionally difficult. Often people focus primarily on what it will mean to leave a home but not give as much thought or planning towards making their new location and community a positive experience.. Transitions of any sort c - Medicare
Medicare is a federal health insurance program which will pay all or a portion of medical care costs for qualified patients under very specific conditions. There are two parts to Medicare coverage - Part A which covers hospital insurance and Part B which covers medical insurance.. - 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.. - 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 - Who sells annuities?
Only people who hold a license to sell insurance and mutual funds can legally sell annuities. These people may work for different financial institutions—banks, brokerage firms, financial planning companies—or they may be independent licensed financial advisors.. Only people who hold a li - Being Approved or Denied Credit
Once you have applied for credit it may take your lender hours, days or even weeks to approve your request. You should keep the contact information for the person with whom you filed your application so you can call or email to check on the status of your request.. Once you have applied for - Selling a Home
If you are a homeowner and you're considering a move you will need to decide whether or not you want to sell your home, retain your home or keep your home and rent it to generate some income. If you choose to keep your home but not rent it out you will still need to maintain the property and possibl - 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 - Tax Issues
While none of us particularly enjoys having to file and pay taxes it is an important part of our financial planning. Our Tomorrowsmoney.. While none of us particularly enjoys having to file and pay taxes it is an important part of our financial planning. Our Tomorrowsmoney.org website pr - 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 - 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.. - Budgeting for Healthcare Costs
Budgeting for future healthcare costs is important so that you’re not caught off guard by unexpected bills, forcing you to put them on a credit card or dip into savings. When thinking about and planning for future healthcare costs think through potential future needs including: Co-payments for docto - 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 - Changing Your Thinking about Credit for Everyday Expenses
If you are bridging financial gaps by using credit as a supplemental source of income it's important to remember that unlike income, credit is not simply an always-available source of free cash but rather a loan. Every time you use credit you are, in essence, taking on a loan and you will be require - Green Transportation
Motor vehicles are responsible for almost a quarter of annual emissions of carbon dioxide, the primary global-warming gas, in the U.S.. Motor vehicles are responsible for almost a quarter of annual emissions of carbon dioxide, the primary global-warming gas, in the U.S. You can minimiz - 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 - Trip Insurance
Imagine that for you have been saving and planning for a special family reunion at a wonderful location but at the last minute your spouse or child becomes so ill your family cannot go. Or an approaching hurricane or forest fire forces the event to be cancelled.. Imagine that for you have - Mobile or Manufactured Home Development
Increasingly people who want to, and are able to, maintain their independent lifestyle but would like to reduce their housing costs are looking into mobile and manufactured home developments. Mobile home living offers people the opportunity to travel when and where they would like.. - Work and Taxes
Over your lifetime you’ll spend a majority of your time at work. How do you make choices about your work that will help you create financial security for yourself and your family? And as you collect earnings how do you make choices to minimize the taxes you’ll need to pay on that money? This section - Financial Steps to Take Together
Whether you are considering remarriage or if you have already entered into your second marriage and are working on blending your family structure, there are some critical financial-planning steps you need to consider.. ng remarriage or if you have already entered into your second marriage and are working on blending y - 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 - Financial “Red Flags”
As you talk about financial matters you may begin to realize that you and your partner aren’t exactly on the same page. Perhaps you’re feeling increasingly uncomfortable about some of your conversations and you can’t quite put a finger on what it is that’s bothering you.. As you talk about financi - Protecting Your Assets as a Single Woman
As a single woman you have to create your own “fall-back” plan in the event that something unexpected occurs. You do not have a husband’s or partner’s income, resources and assets to rely upon if something goes wrong.. As a single woman you have to create your own “fall-back” plan in the event - Critical Habits Single Women Need to Develop for Financial Independence
What most of us secretly want is someone to say “this is the big picture and here’s how to get there. While there is no “magic formula” (and steer clear of anyone who promises you that there is! there are some guiding principles that you can adopt to increase your financial confidence and security. - Handling the Hangover of Holiday Overspending
Are you reluctant to open your mailbox lately? Nervous to see just how much you actually spent over the holidays? If you’re starting off the New Year already in debt from holiday spending, don’t panic… start planning.. Are you reluctant to open your mailbox lately? Nervous to see just how much - Single Women Managing Money
For the first time in American history more women are single than married. Single women are earning more money than ever before, are making more financially-related decisions than ever before and yet most single women still do not feel adequate or empowered to successfully navigate their own financi - Questions to Ask When Considering Joining a Credit Union
If you find a credit union and determine that you are eligible for membership, consider asking some of the following questions when considering signing up to join and open an account: Does the credit union have automated teller machines (ATMs) If you use ATMs frequently you might want to find out wh - Gift Giving
According to Beverly Howell, family economics specialist at Mississippi State University, families spend an average of 750 on gifts at holiday time. Think back to last year – do you remember how much you spent on gifts? Did you feel comfortable spending that amount or did you have to charge items t - What It Means to Have a Student Loan
When you got your student loan maybe your parents – and you – breathed a sigh of relief that you had a way to finance your education. It took some of the burden off your parents to take on extra jobs or find other sources of income to pay for your schooling.. When you got your student - What if I need help?
Once you've collected all the necessary paperwork, you might find that you need a little help walking through the process. You have several options: Income tax softwareYou can buy software that will help you prepare and file your taxes.. - Bookkeeping
You are also well advised to keep your personal funds separate from your business funds. If you incorporate, your bank will require your business to have a separate business checking account.. You are also well advised to keep your personal funds separate from your business funds. If you inco - Expand Your Education
All education is important. If you haven’t finished your college education consider doing so now.. All education is important. If you haven’t finished your college education consider doing so now. Or, if perhaps you have not completed your high school education you will significantly benefit by get - 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 - More about Debt Financing
Although banks and financial institutions may advertise how much they enjoy lending to small businesses, do not expect to qualify for a loan without a solid business plan and some track record of success. Small business loans from banks usually have at least a 50,000 minimum because the banks canno - Getting off to a Good Start as an Investor: Making a Plan for Your Finances
We weren’t born knowing how to make financial plans and many of us did not learn much about personal finance and investing in school. However, that does not mean you can’t take steps now that will help you make plans for your finances and investing.. ow to make financial plans and many of us did not - 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 - Tips to Maintain Financial Stability
Life changes. And you, with a fluctuating income, probably know that better than most. There are some things to keep in mind that can help you stay on track with your plan to create more personal financial stability.. Life changes. And you, with a fluctuating income, probably know that better - 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 - Silent Generation (Born between 1926-1945)
Most members of the silent generation are already in some form of retirement (i.e. fully retired or working part-time, occasionally or seasonally to bring in some additional income) So what happens if you realize that you need to go back to work after you have already left the workplace? . t generation are already - Open Enrollment
Tara and Erik are a two-income family. Tara works as a paralegal and Erik works as a family counselor at a nonprofit for troubled youth.. Tara and Erik are a two-income family. Tara works as a paralegal and Erik works as a family counselor at a nonprofit for troubled youth. They have a t - 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 - It's too late for me to start.
Nonsense. You know the tired bumper sticker “It's never too late to have a happy childhood” Well, it's true that it's never too late to start saving and investing.. red bumper sticker “It's never too late to have a happy childhood” Well, it's true that it's never too late to start saving and investing. Sure, your - Will They Need Help?
IT'S ANYTHING BUT a sure bet. But before you help a parent or other elderly relative, sort through the long-term-care strategies.. IT'S ANYTHING BUT a sure bet. But before you help a parent or other elderly relative, sort through the long-term-care strategies. It's a good idea to - Welcome to Tomorrow's Money for Young Adults
What do you want out of life? Almost any goals you have—start a job, rent an apartment or buy a home, buy a car, get married, have a family, be more financially independent and secure…The common denominator of nearly all life goals is that they require money. Every day you interact with money. You s - Why Should I Care About Saving?
Saving means to put some money aside for later use. When your kids are little, you encourage them to put some of their birthday money in their piggy bank.. Saving means to put some money aside for later use. When your kids are little, you encourage them to put some of their birthd - When Debt is Overwhelming You
As a single mother Dana is used to making her income stretch. But with the rising cost of basic necessities like gas, food and utilities, and her growing son's needs, her paycheck isn't stretching far enough.. As a single mother Dana is used to making her income stretch. But with the - Once You Die
Your Social Security retirement benefits do not necessarily end upon your death. If you have enough credits from your years of working, your surviving spouse and/or dependents will receive a one-time payment of 255.. Your Social Security retirement benefits do not necessarily end upon your d - Spousal Benefits if You are Divorced
If you and your spouse have divorced you may still be eligible for spousal benefits. To qualify: both you and your spouse are at least 62 years old (or 50 if you are disabled or, if you are caring for a child eligible for benefits the age requirement is waived) you must have been married for at leas - Transferring Military Homeowners to Get Expanded Assistance
Military service members, their families, and federal Department of Defense (DoD) civilian employees who stand to lose a lot of money on the sale of their home as a result of a transfer order may be able to get some much- needed financial assistance. The U.. - When Work Changes or Jobs Go Away
You may live in a region that is experiencing a high rate of job loss without having replacements for all those jobs. Or you may be working in a sector of the economy that has been hard hit by the loss of well-paying jobs, such as the automobile or manufacturing sectors.. You may live in a region - 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 - Age
The longer you have to save and invest, the less you have to cut back your exposure to equities (stocks) Historically, over time spans of 20 years or more, the ups and downs of global stock markets have always favored the ups.. The longer you have to save and invest, the less you have to cut back your - Disability Insurance
If you suffer an accident or illness and become disabled (either temporarily or permanently) and have a disability insurance policy you can use your benefits to pay for the medical care and supportive services you require. . - What Credit Unions Offer
Credit unions offer their members a wide variety of financial products and services. At a minimum, credit unions accept deposits for savings accounts.. Credit unions offer their members a wide variety of financial products and services. At a minimum, credit unions accept d - Seeking Potential Income
If the person you are helping has learned that he/she is going to lose a job, or has recently lost a job, the first step is to look into getting any earned benefits from his or her employer such as: severance pay money for paid time off (i.e. vacations) that was not taken compensation for unused sic - Topics to Discuss
As the old saying goes, the best way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time. You’re not going to discuss every financial topic and reach an agreement on all of your priorities in one discussion.. As the old saying goes, the best way to eat an elephant is one bite at a time. You’re not going to d - 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.. - 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 - Reviewing their Financial Priorities
When people are in a financially stressful situation they often immediately focus on their financial shortfall. And while it’s important for them to know their financial needs, after identifying the initial root cause of their current situation, it is often more helpful to help them begin by clearly - Identifying the Factors Creating the Current Financial Crunch
Sometimes the reason for a financial crisis is obvious – a wage-earner in a family was laid-off, or a family member got sick and there was no health insurance to cover mounting medical bills, etc. But often even just one obvious issue (i.. Sometimes the reason for a financial crisis is obv - 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 - Dealing with a Dependence on Credit when Life Changes
While using a credit card can be more convenient than writing a check or taking time to stop at an ATM to get cash, using credit as a supplemental source of cash can become an expensive habit which can create an even tighter squeeze on an individual or family budget if life circumstances-or larger e - 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. - Money Deposited in Bank Accounts
Up to 100,000 of money you deposit in an FDIC-insured individual bank account, up to 200,000 for joint accounts and up to 250,000 for individual retirement accounts (IRAs) are guaranteed safe by the federal government. If you have more than that amount in a particular bank, it is not guaranteed t - Your Savings and Investments in Turbulent Financial Times
Tomorrowsmoney.org visitors are asking “what might recent events mean for my savings and investments? This article addresses concerns about some of the most common areas of concern for people who have saved and/or invested money, including: Money Deposited in Bank Accounts Money Deposited in Credit - 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 - 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 - Can I get help if I don't speak English well?
If you don't speak English well or if you prefer to have services provided in another language, or if English is not your first language, there is help out there for you. Sometimes companies such as banks, savings and loans, credit unions, and mortgage companies have services in different languages, - 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 - Benefits You May Be Entitled to as a Public Employee
As a public employee you will most likely be able to take advantage of significant benefits. After accepting a job with a government agency or organization, you should receive a package of benefits that outlines your salary, your work requirements (i.. As a public employee you - I can't do anything different financially for the future because I need every penny I make now for my kids.
While it’s true that most families feel financially stretched, there are ways to make simple changes in your everyday spending and budget to create savings. It can be very encouraging to realize that small changes can create significant savings.. While it’s true that most families feel financiall - The Dangers of Accumulating a lot of Credit Card Debt
Tania and Juan got married when they were 23. They always intended to be wise with their money but let their credit card spending get out of control quickly.. Tania and Juan got married when they were 23. They always intended to be wise with their money but let their credit card spen - The Benefits of Using a Bank Instead of a Check-Cashing Store
Besides paying less overall for services, you can get a variety of benefits and services from a bank that you can’t get when using a check-cashing store: Your money can earn interest. Unlike when using a check-cashing store for a one-time transaction (i.. - 10 Things Every Public Worker Should Do
Read your benefits package carefully and attend any new employee orientation meetings or review resources through your organization’s internal website. Make sure you know the deadline for selecting or signing-up for benefits and when the next open enrollment period is. Talk with someone in your HR d - 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 - Bridge Housing Options Between Independent Living and Full Service Care
The next stage in housing options that meet your needs as you age comes when you're ready for or require a setting that provides a bridge between fully independent living and full-service skilled care. There has been an enormous increase in the availability of this type of housing over the past seve - Independent Living
Independent living communities (also known as retirement or senior communities) offer seniors a secure environment in which to live independently without having to worry about home or yard maintenance. These communities offer a variety of housing types including condominiums, apartments, or townhome - Retiree Health Benefits
If you are fortunate enough to have health insurance coverage through a former employer as part of your retirement benefits package you are one of the lucky ones. According to a 2008 Kaiser Family Foundation report less than 33% of all companies with 200 or more workers offer retiree health benefits - Keeping Your Job in Tough Economic Times
If you are thinking about delaying retirement because you lost savings and investments that you were counting on to help with your post-work lifestyle, your focus should be on maintaining your current job. As an older worker you are likely earning more money than other, younger employees at your wor - 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.. - Life Insurance
Does anyone depend on your ability to work and make money? What financial resources would they have if you died and suddenly weren't there to support them? Are you married? In the U.S.. Does anyone depend on your ability to work and make money? What financial resources would they have - 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 - What Creditors Can’t Ask or Do
When you apply for credit, a creditor may not: Ask about or consider your sex, race, ethnicity, national origin or religion Ask about your marital status or your spouse, unless you are applying for a joint account or relying on your spouse's income, or you live in a community property state (Arizona,. - Using Life Insurance as an Asset
While the primary benefit of life insurance is to provide your dependents with income after your death, consumers with permanent life insurance policies are increasingly viewing, and using, life insurance as an asset. That means that they are using the money they have built up in the policy for othe - Goal Setting
Think of the last time you felt really proud of yourself. What was it that you achieved that you took pride in? Was it an award that you won at work? Losing a certain amount of weight? Finishing coursework toward a degree? Chances are that whatever it was, you thought about it, planned for it and wo - Saving and Spending
When two families come together spending money – and intentionally saving, or not spending, money - is often an issue. Two previously single parents usually have had no one else involved in their decision-making about spending and/or saving money.. When two families come together spending money – a - Talk About Your Financial Goals
Just as you and your new spouse probably have goals for how you as husband and wife, and your children, will merge into a new family structure, it’s important talk about what type of financial goals you want to set for your blended family. Some common financial goals for couples are: Raise a family - 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 - The Difficult Financial Reality Facing Single Mothers
The reality can be difficult to acknowledge: single mothers have often more than double the workload and yet financially typically have far less than half the income and assets than their married or single father counterparts. Most single working mothers are faced with the sobering reality that they - More about Debt Financing
Although banks and financial institutions may advertise how much they enjoy lending to small businesses, do not expect to qualify for a loan without a solid business plan and some track record of success. Small business loans from banks usually have at least a 50,000 minimum because the banks canno - Is That Balance Transfer Worth It?
LIKE MANY PEOPLE THESE days, 69-year-old Ira Stoller uses cash-rebate credit-cards for all of his purchases, lowering his bills by as much as 5% But these savings are nothing compared with the profit the traveling salesman from Butler, N.. LIKE MANY PEOPLE THESE da - A New Family Budget and New Financial Decisions
In many ways, your newborn’s arrival is just the beginning. In addition to all of your child-rearing duties there are important financial decisions to make and action steps to take as well.. n’s arrival is just the beginning. In addition to all of your child-rearing duties there are important financial decisions to - How Unemployment Benefits are Calculated and What Happens When They Run Out
When you lose a job you may be eligible for temporary unemployment benefits which can help you bridge the uncertain – and often financially worrisome period – between jobs. If you qualify, unemployment benefits will provide you with a percentage of your take-home pay for a specified period of time, - 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 - 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 - 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 - 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 - Rent to Own: Quick Convenience or Overpriced Commitment?
The rent-to-own industry is a multi-billion dollar industry that attracts consumers with the promise of taking quick possession on "big-ticket" items, like furniture, appliances, computers and electronics (TVs, DVD players, stereos, etc. with no down payment, no credit check and often no upfront cas - Living on Less: What to Do When Your Pay is Cut
Every day workers of all types, across all industries, get the bad news from their boss that their pay is going to be cut. Whether it’s because your company is going through a tough financial stretch, or because the economy at large is making it impossible for your employer to make payroll, or becau - 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 - 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 - Insurance Benefits
It can be easy to think that it’s not financially possible for your family to afford insurance. But with some work and help from the staff in your family support center you may be able to find affordable forms of insurance to provide for and protect your family’s future.. hat it’s not financially - To Rent or to Buy?
THINGS BEING EQUAL it's almost always better to own your home rather than to rent. After all, you build equity and get to write off your mortgage interest.. THINGS BEING EQUAL it's almost always better to own your home rather than to rent. After all, you bu - Digging Out of Debt
THE SECRET to paying off credit-card debt is really very simple: All you need to do is earn more than you spend, and apply the savings toward paying down your debt. So then what makes tackling credit-card debt so hard ? Sadly, many seem to be losing the battle of the credit-card balance. Consider th - 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 - 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.. - 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 - 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 - How to Improve Your Credit Score
Your credit score is not set in stone; it changes over time as you use, manage and maintain your credit. If you have recently learned that you have a low credit score, the good news is that there are things you can do to improve your score: Request and review your credit report on file with each of - Pros, Cons and Options for Location-Independent Jobs
With the aid of modern technology more people than ever before are able to pursue, or consider, “location-independent” jobs – work that does not require you to be physically on-site at a specific location. Perhaps you would like to become location-independent.. chnology more people than ever before are able to - Getting Professional Help
If you’re at a point where you are having credit card problems, facing staggering debt, are receiving overdue notices, or getting calls from collection agencies you may feel scared. If you’re overwhelmed, can’t figure out how you are going to get out of this, or just feel like you could use someone - Next Steps: Recovering from a Service Member’s Death
As you work through the initial grief of losing your loved one it is important to know what resources the military provides: Legal Assistance Your casualty affairs officer will accompany you to a meeting with a Department of Defense legal assistance officer where you will learn about the benefits an - 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 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 - Preserving the Value of Your Home and Community When the Housing Market Changes
With the increased rate of home foreclosures nationwide, many homeowners, and home sellers, are facing tough questions about how to maintain as much of their home's value as possible, how to sell a home in a slowing real estate market, and how to ensure that their community remains a desirable place - Working with a Realtor or Going it Alone
One of the first impulses most people have when thinking about buying a home is finding a Realtor® But who exactly is a Realtor? And is a Realtor (capital R) the same as an agent? And what about a broker? Who exactly can help me? Real estate professionals can be very helpful in the home buying proce - 13 Things Your Family Can Do Today
All parents want their children to grow up knowing how to responsibly handle money – how to earn money, how to most wisely spend it, and how to invest it well for future needs. But how does that happen? Here are 13 things that every family can do together to take control of your finances to reach im - 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 - 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 to Do When the Deployment is Extended
Imagine learning that your spouse has 24 hours to report for duty and be deployed for combat. Now imagine that the day before the scheduled homecoming, you are notified that he/she won't be coming home for another 12-15 months.. Imagine learning that your spouse has 24 hours to report for duty and be de - Giving Wisely
Every year millions of people support nonprofit organizations to care for people in their communities, strengthen causes they feel strongly about, and reach out to people affected by disasters. Giving is a noble and generous act of caring and service.. Every year millions of people support nonprofit or - Selling Your Home Part II
Once you have decided to sell your home, and prepared it to put it on the market you have several choices to make.. Once you have decided to - Offers & Counteroffers
When you've found the home you want the next step is decide whether or not you want to make an offer, meaning that you want to tell the seller that you want to purchase the home. Making an offer is where you put pen to paper and outline exactly how much money you're willing to pay for the home and u - Comparing Mortgage Costs
There are several costs associated with borrowing money to buy a home including the interest rate you’ll be charged to borrow the principal (loan amount) points, mortgage insurance closing costs and the down payment. Interest Rate One of the most important pieces of information you need from a lende - Selling Your Home Part 1
Every year millions of Americans sell their homes. Some of the most common reasons for selling a home are: Relocating for a job Needing or wanting more room for a growing family Moving after retirement Downsizing Moving to a more desirable or convenient neighborhood for work or school This month we’ - 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 - 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