If there is any consolation to be taken from the past eighteen months, it is that most people pay more attention to their financial picture – not just their stock and bond investments, but savings and spending habits as well. However, most people do not have time to focus on their savings.

Let us take an objective look at how to improve your finances – you will be surprised at the results. Through simple measures you can make sure your finances are back on track.

Our second opinion will be practical – through inventory of your assets and liabilities, i.e. using some savings in a cash account that yields zero to repay certain types of debt. We will revisit your retirement goals, explaining the impact of inflation on your nest egg. We will help you save, save, save. We will help you to be smart about your different insurance plans.

People should look at finances the way companies do. You need to protect the value of your work. We wouldn’t let panic dictate investment choices. Last year’s losses had many people changing their asset allocation and diversification strategies. Regardless of what the market is doing, sticking to a strategy that matches your investment principles is important especially when it comes to risk.

Make sure you can find someone you can trust. Get a second opinion and keep asking questions. We are here to help. Your success is our success.

Conveniently located in Central New York state, Ann Wolfson Associates is a financial planning and consulting firm dedicated to helping individuals, families and organizations reach their financial goals. If you have questions about this article or if you would like to become a client of Ann Wolfson Associates, please call (315)449-4730.

Savings bonds that are more than 30 years old will no longer be earning interest. Redeeming these and reinvesting the proceeds into an interest bearing investment may be a wise decision.

Series EE savings bonds dated May 1995 to April 1997 typically pay less than 2% interest. Consider reinvesting those assets to achieve a better return.

Series EE savings bonds issued after April 2008 pay 1.4% interest or less. These are good candidates for redemption towards a higher yielding investment.

Series I Bonds with fixed rates above 0.5% additionally pay a variable inflation rate. These bonds may or may not be a good idea to keep depending on inflation forecasts.

Keep in mind that savings bonds issued before May 1997 accrue interest twice a year. If you decide to redeem these bonds, you may want to wait until the first day or two after interest has accrued to maximize your investment.
Discuss your savings bond holdings with your financial professional to make the best decisions for your particular circumstances and financial needs.

Conveniently located in Central New York state, Ann Wolfson Associates is a financial planning and consulting firm dedicated to helping individuals, families and organizations reach their financial goals. If you have questions about this article or if you would like to become a client of Ann Wolfson Associates, please call (315)449-4730.