If your employment situation changes, you may wonder what to do with your retirement savings at your previous employer. In fact, you have a variety of options when it comes to taking distributions from your employer-sponsored retirement savings plan. This may be a...
Although most people recognize the importance of sound retirement planning, they don’t always embrace the work involved. With many investment possibilities, complex rules governing retirement plans, and the unpredictable future of consumer prices, it can be...
During your working years, you probably set aside funds in retirement accounts such as IRAs, 401(k)s, or other workplace savings plans, as well as in taxable accounts. Your challenge during retirement is to convert those savings into an ongoing income stream that will...
With the major stock market indices in bear market territory, this may be a good time to evaluate the potential benefits of realizing some capital losses in the investment portfolio. No one enjoys admitting defeat by selling an asset that has gone down in value, but...
Having a place to put money that you don’t need to spend on bills or necessities can help curb unnecessary spending. A savings account can hold your money for emergencies and be a good way to set aside money for a future purchase. To help you start your savings off in...
Many financial professionals recommend 529 plans as the best way for most families to save for college.* After new legislation that passed in 2019, 529 plans are more flexible than ever to help you make the most of your investment and your tax-free earnings. Here are...
Kids are naturally curious and learn about the world around them through play. So the best way to help them learn how money works is to make it playful, colorful, creative and adventurous! Try these helpful ideas to get your kids or grandkids interested: Set up a...
As the temperature goes down, you may notice your utility bills start to go up. Luckily, there are ways to avoid those increases. If you’re cranking up the heat at home, that’s definitely going to increase your monthly bills. Instead, consider optimizing your window...
The money you save for a “rainy day” can be “depleted” in only ONE of life’s storms. So, how do you recover? Deep breath… Assess your bills and income – and rework your budget to live very modestly for at least a year. Jumpstart your savings by moving in with family...
One of the best financial habits we can practice is pinching pennies. Identifying opportunities to save doesn’t mean you have to go without – it simply means you’re strategic before making a purchase. There are numerous places to find discounts on anything you buy –...
As the temperatures outside fall, energy bills rise. Combined with travel expenses, purchasing gifts and new fall fashions, the winter months can be disastrous to your budget. By following a few quick tips, you may be able to survive until spring with your savings...
A Spin on Spending is a place for Tips, Tricks, and Things You Should Know about managing your finances! In this episode we’re talking about Winter Savings.
Two of the largest savings plans consumers need to fund and manage in their lifetime are saving for their child’s college and for their personal retirement.
In most households, saving for the “big ticket” purchase is always on the radar; however, retirement nest eggs aren’t considered for immediate funding.
More than half of respondents reported now was a good time to buy major household items, but 39% indicated they made such a purchase in the past six months.
Consumers in Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma have plans to make major household purchases in the next six months and increase their household savings rate.
While more consumers across the region plan to make major purchases than six months ago, actual purchasing behavior has remained largely unchanged in 2015.