Everyone seems to think that the start of the new year is the perfect time to resolve to put yourself on firmer financial footing. But why wait? Now is a great time to start making smart budget moves.
I keep hearing about bubbles. There was the tech bubble in the late 1990s, the oil bubble, housing bubble, debt bubble. Find out why bubbles keep happening, and how you can avoid losing money when they burst.
In September 2010, several features were added to enhance your secure online experience with Account Access, ICMA-RC's Web site where you can view your account information, perform transactions and more. Learn more about the new features.
The sooner you begin to save for retirement, the less money you will likely need to invest to reach your end goal. See how much less money you'd need to contribute to reach your goal if you start early rather than waiting.
A key provision of the new financial reform law will give some people free access to their credit scores. Find out how to get your score before you apply for a loan.
It's important to diversify the stock portion of your portfolio in funds that invest in different types of companies – with some money in mutual funds that, for example, focus on large companies and some that specialize in small companies. And it can also help to diversify your portfolio internationally.
If you're drowning in credit-card debt and want to bail yourself out, the following steps can help you lower your rates, get help, and get your debt under control.
The financial reform law focuses primarily on the regulation of banks, hedge funds, insurers, stockbrokers and lenders. But some of the provisions will have a direct impact on consumers. Find out how people who apply for mortgages can benefit from several new consumer protections and disclosures.
It's important to review your beneficiary designations for your retirement plans and insurance policies annually – especially if you get married or divorced or have children or grandchildren. Find out how to update designations so your intended beneficiary inherits your retirement account.
