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Market swings causing you some anxiety? These four money mantras can help you overcome it. Whether it’s the continuing presence of the COVID-19 pandemic, a sudden boost in prices related to gas, food, housing and other essentials, supply chain hiccups, an uncertain labor market (or any number of other things), the stock market has certainly seen its share of ups and downs over the past six months. As always, it’s impossible to predict what the market will do on any given day. But at the start of a new year, it’s always a good idea to take some deep, measured breaths and focus on some basic...

Heartland Retirement Plan Services are offered through Dubuque Bank and Trust Company. The information provided herein is general in nature and is not intended to be nor should be construed as specific investment, legal or tax advice. The factual information has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but is not guaranteed as to accuracy or completeness. Heartland Retirement Plan Services makes no warranties with regard to the information or results obtained by its use and disclaims any liability arising out of your use of, or reliance on, it. Products offered through Heartland...

The Nuts & Bolts of Your Investment Line-Up View Full Webinar Presentation When it comes to finances, you can’t fake it till you make it. Understanding the principles of investing, as well as how they work together, can help set you up for success to reach your financial goals, even if you’re just getting started. A workplace retirement plan (like a 401(k)) is a great place to begin an investing strategy. By investing for retirement through your employer-sponsored plan, you are helping to manage a critically important financial risk: the chance you will outlive your money. Choosing to...

Just like with a car, it’s a good idea to perform some annual maintenance on your retirement plan. Here’s a five-point inspection guide to help you continue to get good mileage out of your plan and ensure it stays reliable on your trip to retirement. 1. Review Your Retirement Saving Goals It’s challenging to predict your retirement needs, particularly if you’re in your 20s or 30s. But financial planners generally recommend replacing about 75% of preretirement income. Even if your retirement is decades away, you should use a retirement calculator at least once a year to estimate whether you’re...

Despite all the budgeting and cash flow tracking apps available, many people still struggle to manage their spending habits on a daily basis. What if there was a simple blueprint you could follow that could help you manage the way you spend your money and hold yourself accountable? The 70/20/10 rule of thumb helps provide a framework for managing your finances, limiting your spending, and assessing any debt that you plan to take on. According to the 70/20/10 rule, you should spend: 70% of your after-tax income on living expenses, such as food, childcare, insurance, discretionary expenses, and...