Ken & Daria's Your Money Matters

Ken and Daria's Your Money Matters Weekender

We bet you didn’t know it, but today is “401(k) Day” in America, and we’re all for celebrating this important retirement tool. Whether you’re just starting out or can see retirement just around the corner, a 401(k) can help secure you a very rich future. But if you’re not taking advantage of your company’s plan, you could be passing up free money—and that’s one mistake you don’t want to make! Let’s take a look at how to avoid some other common 401(k) mistakes, and maximize your retirement dollars.

1.	5 Secrets Your Bank Doesn’t Want You to Know
2.	Sample Credit Card Cancellation Letter
3.	Hurricanes Threaten: Are You Prepared?
4.	Save Green by Going Green!
5.	9 Secrets to a Million Dollar Retirement

The ABC’s of the FDIC

We have received a lot of questions lately about FDIC insurance—and with good reason! The banking industry just suffered its 10th failure this year, and people are more concerned about the safety of their money than ever. The FDIC is designed to protect your bank deposits, but there are some important exceptions to this insurance that you need to know about. We break it down for you in simple terms in this special video.

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Which is better for a retirement that is only six years away—an IRA or a 401(k)? I’m currently losing more in my 401(k) than what I invest!
—Rick

Within that time frame, your 401(k) gets my vote because you can put more money away there than you can in an IRA. Try to put as much as you can into your 401(k) between now and retirement. Remember to stay very conservative in your investment choices!

Not long ago, we bemoaned the fact that many Americans during these difficult financial times are using their 401(k) plans as piggy banks, withdrawing money to pay their bills. These people are putting their retirement in serious jeopardy.

Now a number of financial institutions are offering a new 401(k) debit card that is absolutely fraught with potential retirement-killing consequences! They’ve really taken the cake with this one. Click here for all the details.

Do Your Debts Outweigh Your Retirement Funds?

If so, you’re not alone. Thirty percent of workers say they have more credit card debt than money saved for retirement. This is scary news, folks! It’s time to get your debts under control. Our calculator can help create a payment plan that works for you. To determine just how much you should be saving for the future, check out our handy worksheet.

Six Steps to Prepare for a Disaster

Even though Gustav has passed, the threat of hurricanes is still dominating the news as both Hanna and Ike are poised to hit the East Coast. We can tell you firsthand that this is scary stuff to live through. It’s also a reminder to be prepared beforehand. Here’s our six-step plan to protect yourself and your family now, before you need it.

Seniors at Greater Risk for Bankruptcy

The number of senior citizens filing for bankruptcy is beginning to soar, even as numbers for younger filers drops. It’s very sad, and shows you just how bad thing are right now. Bankruptcy is obviously a huge decision, so if you or someone you know is struggling right now, here’s what you need to know.