Financial Planning Week

With the economy the way it has been for the last several years, it's hard for many people to think about putting money into their nest egg. Many people are lucky just to pay their bills and put food on the table. But even then, it's good to have some sort of financial plan. And since it is Financial Planning Week, it seems like a good time to take a look at some tools (in print and online) to achieve your financial goals.

Online Tools:

MyMoney.gov -- This government website from the Financial Literacy and Education Commission provides materials designed to promote financial literacy and education in the United States. There is information geared toward different life events, along with tools and other resources.

Choose to Save -- This national public education and outreach program is dedicated to raising awareness about the need to plan and save for long-term personal financial security. Be sure to check out the Calculator section and the Ballpark E$timate section for tons of helpful and interactive information.

Consumer's Guide to Credit Cards -- This site, from the Federal Reserve Board, provides a basic guide to navigating the credit card process. There is a nifty little tool to help you determine how long it will take you to pay off your credit card balance.

America Save$ -- This site, comprised of over 1,000 non-profit government and corporate groups, is designed to encourage Americans to save and plan for the future. There are areas with Savings Tips and What to Save For, along with other topics.

Kids.gov -- This site gives some information for kids and teens to help them understand the importance of saving their money. There is even an area for parents.

Books: 

The Busy Family's Guide to Money by Sandra Block

The Wall Street Journal Guide to Starting Your Financial Life by Karen Blumenthal

For a list of Suze Orman books, click here.

For a list of Dave Ramsey books, click here.

Magazines:

Kiplinger's Personal Finance

SmartMoney

Economist

Better Investing

And for in-person information, plan on attending a couple of programs we have coming up at Monroeville Public Library, presented by CPA Wil Stunkel from the Pennsylvania Institute of Certified Public Accountants:

Learning to Save - Tuesday, October 23, 7-8:30 PM (Gallery Space)

Good Debt, Bad Debt - Tuesday, November 13, 7-8:30 (Gallery Space)


-- Post by Tracy