Reconciling Your Bank Account—Old-Fashioned?
Each month when you receive your bank statement, you should reconcile your checkbook register to your account statement. In this article we provide the steps and tips to keep your account balanced.
Understanding Your Personal Credit
Your personal credit report provides prospective lenders a history of your borrowing and payment habits.
Divorce and Retirement Plan Assets: The QDRO
A qualified domestic relations order allows retirement assets to be transferred to the other party’s retirement plan or IRA free of any current tax liability.
Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS)
TIPS are a type of security offered by the U.S. Treasury that provides protection against inflation. When you purchase a TIP, you will receive the interest payments semi-annually and you will at least receive your original principal amount at maturity, however unlike a regular Treasury bond, the interest and redemption amounts are tied to inflation rates.
Mortgage Rate Locks
Locking in a mortgage rate often ensures you receive the best rate possible, but there are a few items to look out for.
Budgets with Personal Finance Software
There are free online tools you can use to track your spending habits and keep you in line with your budget.
First Financial Steps Part 4: Investing in IRA and Other Accounts
When investing in an IRA, you have limitless choices, unlike an employer-sponsored plan. We have some suggestions to get you started.
First Financial Steps Part 2: Investing
The first place to start investing is your employer-sponsored retirement plan, but if you don’t have one or not eligible yet, there are other options.
Taking Your First Financial Steps
When you’re ready to take your first financial steps, do not rush into investing! You have three important steps you should tackle first.
Disability Insurance
Disability insurance is a key component to a stable financial foundation. Disability insurance ensures maintenance of lifestyle, and income, should an individual become unable to work.