Approximately 66 million people today receive some form of Social Security benefits, including retirement, disability, survivor, and family benefits. (Source: Fast Facts & Figures About Social Security, 2017) Although most people receiving Social Security are retired, you and your family members may be eligible for benefits at any age, depending on your circumstances. How does […]
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Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you’re not participating in it, you should be. Once you’re participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it. Understand your employer-sponsored plan Before you can take advantage
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In times of crisis, you don’t want to be shaking pennies out of a piggy bank. Having a financial safety net in place can ensure that you’re protected when a financial emergency arises. One way to accomplish this is by setting up a cash reserve, a pool of readily available funds that can help you
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Do you picture yourself owning a new home, starting a business, or retiring comfortably? These are a few of the financial goals that may be important to you, and each comes with a price tag attached. That’s where financial planning comes in. Financial planning is a process that can help you target your goals by
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What is coping with unemployment? Coping with unemployment means breaking away from the past and facing your future. It means dealing with the emotional, financial, and professional challenges unemployment can bring. Although this process can be painful, facing unemployment with a plan will help make coping with it easier. Dealing with your emotions When you
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If you’ve lost your job, or are changing jobs, you may be wondering what to do with your 401(k) plan account. It’s important to understand your options. What will I be entitled to? If you leave your job (voluntarily or involuntarily), you’ll be entitled to a distribution of your vested balance. Your vested balance always
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What is it? In the past, workers stayed with the same company for years and years, working their way up in the company. However, times have changed. Businesses facing hard economic times restructure, forcing employees to look for new jobs. It’s also become common for workers to change jobs several times throughout their careers as
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Introduction Downsizing is one reason you may be seeking a new career. Reaching a professional plateau is another. The fact is, many people change careers, sometimes more than once. With proper planning, you can start a fulfilling new career without sacrificing your financial security. Assessing your career path Consider working with a professional career counselor
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Answer: Most people face this question at some time in their lives. Buying a home is part of the American dream. It’s also one of the biggest financial investments you’ll ever make. One of the main advantages of buying a home is that you build equity in your property. For example, if you paid
Should I buy a home or continue renting? Read More »
Answer: There is no definitive answer–you must determine which option works best for you. Use these simple guidelines to help you decide. How long will you keep the car? Leases typically run two to four years. If you like the idea of driving a new car every few years, consider leasing. If you prefer to
Should I buy or lease a car? Read More »
Want to take control of your financial future? Our FREE workshops cover everything from retirement planning to Social Security strategies.
