These accounts are more commonly known as “CD” accounts.  They are insured and virtually risk-free and are similar to a savings account.  But, they differ from a savings account in that they are assigned a specific ‘term.’  These terms are often three month, six month or one to five years.  There is also an rate of interest assigned to the account.  The...

There is conflicting advice from financial experts about 401K savings and what to do with it. Many will say that you should contribute as much as allowed to the 401K savings plan; others think you should only contribute as much as your employer will match; and still others think there are better ways to invest your money than a standard 401K plan. But what do you...

This topic may seem needless in its context, but one who examines the facts is often surprised by the lack of retirement planning and the lack of answers to the reasons why. Retirement planning is a small part of an over financial plan which will help a person maintain an income level or provide for the necessary funds for creating an environment in which one can...

Along with the savings account, the checking account is the most basic of financial account available to a consumer.  This is the account that places you in control of your own finances.  You manage the money coming in and going out of this account on almost a daily basis. If you are new to personal banking, you might need a primer to help you make the right...

Once one has an established retirement plan several pitfalls should be avoided in order to help maintain the course established. Pitfalls often come in the form of the owner of the account adjusting the account in order to try to increase the returns.  This often invites disaster.  It is difficult for the plan owner to maintain a level of objectivity about their...

Retirement vehicles like 401k, IRAs and other retirement investments. Most everyone who has a solid job has the availability to place money which is often matched, into an account with the specific purpose of preparing for retirement.  Even the very young should choose to participate.  The more participation at a younger age, the more will be there for them when...