If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If someone asks you to invest and promises impossible returns on your money, such as guaranteeing that your money will be doubled or tripled with no risk, it’s probably a Ponzi scheme.
Knowing how to recognize different types of fraud is a key component to financial literacy. There are many types of investment scams, but one of the most famous is known as the Ponzi scheme.
When it comes to saving, the way you choose to save will greatly influence your return on investment. Aggressive options may have the highest yield while posing the greatest risk of loss, where conservative saving options offer a slower, but risk-free return.
When should you start thinking about your estate plan? According to many experts, the answer is as soon as you’re an adult. However, only 1 out of 3 adults has taken care of estate planning essentials like creating a will. If you’re not one of them, it’s time to start thinking about your estate plan.
If you’re a member of the armed forces, the military lifestyle and return to civilian life can come with unique financial needs, and some valuable opportunities. Here are a few tips that can support your financial wellbeing in the military and beyond.
Cash gifts are the perfect solution for the ones on your list who have it all. More flexible than a gift card, giving cash allows the recipient to make the important decision of how to spend it.
You want to enjoy your retirement. You’ve earned it! So, the last thing you want to do is worry about your finances. If you’re recently retired or soon will be, you want to make sure your money will last, especially during these uncertain times. Here are six keys to saving money and simplifying your finances in retirement.
We have all heard it before — start saving now, so you can enjoy retirement on your terms. Unfortunately, if you’re like most 20-somethings, contributing to a retirement account is a task that tends to fall down your ever-growing list of to-dos. From student loans to rent and bills, it’s easy to understand how retirement planning, like selecting a Roth vs. traditional IRA, can be neglected.
If you’re looking for a simple solution that offers both steady earnings and protection for your funds, an IRA certificate could be right for you. While you may not have heard of this type of account, you’re probably familiar with the two accounts it combines: an individual retirement account (IRA) and a certificate (the credit union equivalent of a bank CD). Here’s why an IRA certificate could be a smart approach to your retirement savings.
Every January, people across the world set New Year’s resolutions — from saving money to losing 15 pounds, the start of a new year is a chance to plan for the future and reach new milestones. One resolution that should be at the top of your list? Retirement planning.
Choosing a partner to support your financial planning is one of the best ways to accomplish more with your money, reach important goals, and stay prepared for the future.
Whether you’re a few years or a few decades away from retirement, you want to make sure you can live comfortably when you do retire. First enacted in the 1930s, America’s Social Security program protects people against the loss of earnings due to retirement, death, or disability. But Social Security was meant to be a foundational element of planning for retirement, not the only source of income after retirement. Here are five important facts about the program.
It’s easy to put off saving for retirement. Everyday expenses like rent and groceries take precedence over something that’s decades away. And other savings goals like a new car or a down payment on a house are more exciting (and feel more tangible) than retirement. But starting to save for retirement when you’re young will make saving enough money to enjoy a comfortable retirement much easier. Here's why.
It’s never an easy thing to think about, but it’s something you need to consider: If you were to die, who would provide for your loved ones? September is Life Insurance Awareness Month, and now is the perfect time to learn about the types of life insurance and see what’s best for you.
A certificate or money market account (MMA) from your local credit union can be a smart, safe way to grow your money faster – and reach your savings goals sooner. Unlike stocks, both account options are federally insured, and they often pay much higher dividends than typical savings accounts. Certificates and MMAs are both good options, but they have some key difference you should know about when deciding which to choose.
Between paying off student loans to thinking about buying a home, your 20s is a time filled with change, excitement, and yes, lots of financial decisions. As you deliberate on these various decisions, securing a financial advisor may be a good strategy, one that can help you navigate these big life changes.
The first step to getting a financial advisor? Do your homework and ask the right questions.