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Once you start making big purchases -- buying vehicles, homes, or expensive luxury items -- insurance is of the utmost importance.  In order to protect your purchases from damage,yourself from liability, and your loved ones from financial ruin, adequate car insurance, home owner's insurance, and life insurance are must-haves. 

Did you know that millions of American lives are uninsured and underinsured?  The number of uninsured motorists is on the rise, too, despite state laws requiring drivers to carry minimal amounts of auto insurance.  Though there's little we can do to make up for other people's carelessness, here is a primer on the types of insurance needed by the average American.

Don't be left out in the cold -- a good insurance policy is not a luxury!      

Melanie @ 12:12 | comments(0) | Permanent link

Don't we all dream about retiring from work and making the last years of our lives the most adventurous and relaxing?  Retirement -- maybe even early retirement -- is something the average worker awaits with great anticipation.  However, increased worries about the state of social security and medicare, a faltering economy and shaky investments can make retirement seem like nothing more than an impossible dream.

That's why Bloomberg.com has put together a Retirement Calculator which is designed to put your future plans in perspective.   Not only will this calculator let you know where you stand using your current age, savings, and income, but it will also give you advice for maximizing your profits and minimizing your debts.  Ideally, you can tinker with the numbers to figure out the perfect formula for retiring at age 65, 60, or maybe even sooner (you lucky duck)! 

Even if your savings plan isn't perfect, thinking of ways to pay off credit cards, pay down the principle on your mortgage, and sneak money out of your paycheck and into some good investments, you will have a better grasp on your financial future than the average American. 

Check today and find out if you're on the right path to retirement! 

Jim @ 12:05 | comments(0) | Permanent link

The United States government intends to finish paying out "economic stimulus" funds before mid-summer.  Have you been stimulated by the government yet?

While many are eagerly anticipated the extra money that will be direct-deposited into their bank accounts, critics say the economic stimulus package is "akin to throwing rocks at an oncoming tank."  Rather than urging  Americans to spend wisely by paying off high-interest credit card debt or paying down other loans, the lump sum of funds is intended to stimulate the economy by encouraging unnecessary and frivolous spending. 

If you haven't yet spent your check on a shopping spree, consider paying off debts, reducing the amount owed on your loans, or simply setting the money aside for a rainy day.  Whatever you do, don't let the government convince you that the economic stimulus package is really going to improve the American economy in the long run.
 

Mark @ 11:59 | comments(0) | Permanent link

One of the newest sections on CNN Money is the timely "recession-proofing tips" area for Americans who are worried about the increasingly poor economy. 

These tips tackle everything from how to hold onto your job or maintain your career in the event of corporate downsizing, where to put your money to keep it safe and profitable, how to beat an impending foreclosure, and tips for critically examining the pros and cons of buying a home in the current "buyer's market." 

Whether you're getting ready to retire, planning to marry or start a family in the next few years, or just getting your career off the ground, these tips on how to avoid being hurt by the expected recession are incredibly helpful!      

Carrie @ 12:20 | comments(0) | Permanent link