A number of groups (the Consumer Federation of America, the Jump$tart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy, Americans for Consumer Education and Competition, the American Savings Education Council) have conducted personal financial literacy quizzes with different audiences. Most of these show that literacy levels are low. (more…)

In examining your financial condition and setting financial goals, you succeeded in nailing down where you are and where you’re going financially. But it’s important that you conduct these exercises at least annually. Keep the cash in a checking account, and watch it disappear! Wouldn’t it be better to put all the money you’ve saved on that extravaganza toward financing your child’s pay college education? (more…)

For a complete look at your financial situation, you should create a personal balance sheet and a cash flow statement. These reports are known as personal financial statements. A personal financial statement is a document that provides information about an individual’s current financial position and presents a summary of income and spending. (more…)

You do need plenty of conversation as a couple to determine your personal and financial goals. With financial flexibility as the key to long-term happiness in the 21st century, how do you and your spouse want to live? You may, for example, choose to pursue the traditional American Dream (more…)