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At Members 1st, we're here for you through all of life's stages. Ask us about the right financial products and services for you as you consider retirement.

Front Page | Article List

Achieve A Healthy Retirement

  • FAQ: Patient AdvocateTo help deal with today’s specialized, complex health-care system, consider using a patient advocate to communicate with health-care providers on your behalf.
  • FAQ: Universal DesignIf your wish is to live independently in your home as long as possible in your later years, incorporating aspects of universal design can help you fulfill that wish. These frequently-asked questions help dispel myths and explain the benefits.
  • Health Club Memberships: Get Fit, Be SmartExercise is good for your health, but joining the first fitness club you visit can wreak havoc with your finances. Do some sleuthing before you sign on the dotted line.
  • Medical Bills: Don't OverpayThe cost of medical care is high enough these days--make sure you don’t overpay. Know what to look for on your medical bills and what to compare.
  • Tips to Cut Health-Care CostsDouble-digit increases in health insurance premiums continue to serve as a wake-up call: We need to be proactive and take steps to curb health care costs.
  • Trim Doctor and Hospital BillsBe proactive in keeping health care costs as low as possible. These suggestions could mean much lower out-of-pocket costs for you.
  • ID Theft: Watch for Altered Medical RecordsVictims of identity theft now have another worry: altered medical records that reflect the crook’s medical information.
  • What to Know About Living WillsPlan ahead for end-of-life decisions with a living will. Although they’re not perfect, you’re better off having something in writing than if you have nothing in writing at all.
  • New Threat: Medical ID TheftHalf a million Americans are victims of medical identity theft. Know how to avoid it and what to do if you’re a victim.

    • Explore Housing Options

  • Pros, Cons of Rent-to-Own Your HomeSome home sellers are offering homes on the rent-to-own track. Make sure you weigh the disadvantages and advantages before signing on the dotted line.
  • Steer Clear of Foreclosure Rescue ScamsWith foreclosure rescue scams on the rise, know how to spot a con artist and where to go for help. If you let your guard down, you could lose your home.
  • Simple Steps Can Avoid Costly Moving ScamsIf you’re planning to relocate, take steps to protect yourself from costly moving company scams.
  • Struggling Homeowners Have Access to Resources, HelpDon’t let the possibility of foreclosure freeze you into inaction. Take advantage of the many resources available to financially strapped homeowners.
  • Use Home Value Search EnginesNew home value search engines can help estimate the equity in your house.
  • How to Own Property: Multiple ChoicesWhen you’re talking about owning property, the form of ownership you pick has legal consequences that affect ownership of the property now and in the future. The form of property ownership you choose can lead to results you may not have predicted.
  • Tap Your Home's EquityMany homeowners are turning to home equity loans to finance home improvements and to help with other financial needs. Find out why they are such a popular option.
  • Reverse Mortgages Step UpReverse mortgages are gaining in popularity as a home loan option for senior homeowners who want to convert part of the equity in their home into cash, but they’re not for everyone.

    • Face Family Challenges

  • Family Matters: When Mom and Dad Move InAs more adult children and their parents move in together, establishing ground rules improves the chances that the new family unit will be even stronger than before.
  • Taking Care of Aging Parents, RelativesAre you ready to care for aging parents or relatives? This article contains suggestions about how to prepare for this tough—but potentially rewarding—role.
  • Collaborative Divorce Softens Sting of SplitWanting to avoid high legal costs and the stress of a courtroom divorce, some splitting couples are looking for alternatives to traditional divorce. Here are the details about collaborative divorce.
  • Managing Money for Mom and DadHow can you approach parents on the subject of managing their money? How can you make sure your parents are comfortable managing their financial affairs? A number of simple steps can help assure safe and secure financial futures.
  • Suddenly Solo--Life After Losing a MateNo one wants to contemplate the loss of a spouse or life partner. But should you suffer such a loss, you'll make it easier on yourself if you've taken some basic steps beforehand.
  • Remarried, with Children Brings Special Financial ChallengesTwo people deciding to spend the rest of their lives together must find ways to merge their financial goals and obligations. People entering a second marriage face even bigger challenges.
  • Help Senior Parents Manage Their MoneyApproximately 44 million Americans are caring for an older adult, most likely a parent. Caretaking now includes assisting parents with money management tasks and, in many cases, financial decision making.
  • Caregivers Face Conflicting PrioritiesBaby boomers who care for aging family members often are stretched thin—emotionally and financially. Be proactive and take advantage of several resources to protect you and your family.
  • More Boomers Inherit Bills, Not WealthMore baby boomers are discovering their parents have low net worth, and dying broke is no longer uncommon. Know when you are—and aren’t—off the hook for mom and dad’s debt.

    • Grow My Nest Egg

  • New Initiatives to Boost Savings for RetirementNew initiatives announced in September by President Obama and Treasury Secretary Tim Geithner make it easier-and more automatic--for American families to save for retirement.
  • Retire? Get RealAlthough most workers feel confident they'll be able to live comfortably into retirement, the evidence points to a different story. Know how to become "retirement ready."
  • Avoid Falling Prey to a Ponzi SchemeRecognize the warning signs of investment fraud to avoid falling prey to a Ponzi scheme.
  • Nest Egg Losses: Time to Play Catch-UpIn the wake of stock market losses and/or company cutbacks, get the ball back in your court. Know the strategies that can boost your savings and salvage your retirement plans.
  • Simplify Your Finances--Go Lean!The economic downturn presents an opportunity to streamline your personal finances. Choose to simplify with a few smart moves and tools described in this article.
  • It's 'Business as Usual' After Corp. Takeover
  • Switching to Roth May Ease Conversion TaxesIf you’re thinking of converting from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, make sure you follow the rules.
  • Money Market Share Accounts at CU's Are InsuredGiven recent economic uncertainties, it's important to know the difference between money market share accounts and money market mutual funds.
  • Social Security Launches Streamlined Benefits CalculatorIf you’re nearing retirement and looking for a more realistic estimate of your Social Security benefits, the Social Security Administration’s new online retirement estimator includes several key enhancements.
  • Key to Investing in Recession: Stay CalmIn a struggling economy, a smart investor stays calm and digs in for the long haul. This article contains valuable tips on what you should—and shouldn’t—do when times are tough.
  • Don't Stop Feeding Your 401(k)Don’t let stock market woes cloud your judgment. If you pull the plug on your 401(k), you’ll miss out on an investment “sale.”
  • Pay Attention to 401(k) FeesIf you don’t know how much you’re paying in 401(k) administrative fees, this article tells you how to calculate your expense ratio.
  • Study: Americans Who Understand Compounding Boost SavingsWhen it comes to saving money, don’t underestimate the power of compounding. Find out what savers say about successful saving strategies.
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 6This cliff-hanger episode of PreRetiree Lane will leave you breathless, starting with a flirtatious exchange between financial planner Austin Bryant and Mercedes, followed by a slam-the-door shouting match between Stu and Marta as they try to come to grips with their shaky finances in the home stretch before retirement. The real jaw-dropper, though, is the last scene—a phone call that no one expects nor wants to believe is true.
  • HR an Essential Member of Your Retirement Planning TeamIn your working years, you’ll need professional help to develop a retirement plan, make wise choices, and stay on track. Include your HR representative on your team.
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 3
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 4
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 2
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 1
  • Investing Too Much in Company Stock?Don’t make the mistake of putting too many investment eggs in your company’s stock. Know how to get the most out of your 401(k).
  • Can You Count on Social Security?Given the cloud of uncertainty hovering over Social Security, should you be worried? Saving on your own now to complement whatever the government will give you later is a good strategy.
  • Traditional 401(k) or Roth 401(k): Do the mathIf your employer offers the Roth 401(k), run the numbers to see whether this investment option is right for you.
  • What to Do When the Stock Market Takes a TurnBesides having nerves of steel, know what to do to ride out market highs and lows.
  • Boomers May Have to Postpone Retirement DateSome boomers may be better off working a few more years beyond retirement age to bolster their nest egg and improve retirement income security.
  • Mark These Key Birthdays in the Coming YearsLook ahead to key birthdays to guide your retirement planning process.
  • Flawed Assumptions Sap Retirement SavingsOnly one person out of four claims to be “very confident” about doing a good job preparing for retirement. To boost your own confidence, ditch these common flawed assumptions.
  • Read Your Social Security Benefits StatementTaking the time to read your social security benefits statement is worth the time--if you don’t and there are errors, you might get a smaller monthly check during retirement.
  • Did You Leave a Retirement Plan at a Former Job?Did you leave behind a retirement savings plan at a former job--or are you about to? Depending on your situation and assuming you’re not ready to retire, you generally have four options for your savings.
  • Help Senior Parents Manage Their MoneyApproximately 44 million Americans are caring for an older adult, most likely a parent. Caretaking now includes assisting parents with money management tasks and, in many cases, financial decision making.

    • Insure Against Loss

  • Medicare Supplement: Filling the GapMedigap insurance—designed to cover gaps in Medicare coverage—can provide much-needed help when you are faced with the possibility of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket health-related expenses.
  • Your credit union accounts are safe, insuredCredit unions remain a safe harbor for your savings and other accounts, despite recent economic woes. This article describes why credit unions are well-positioned to weather tough times, and describes your share insurance coverage for different ownership situations.
  • When Your Medical Claim is DeniedIf your medical claim is denied, it pays to know the right way to appeal.
  • Who Pays for Hospice Care?Most private insurance and employer-sponsored medical plans, as well as Medicare and Medicaid, cover hospice care. Here’s what you can expect if you or a family member wants to enter a hospice program.
  • Smart Insurance Moves for Empty NestersAs you get older and your household shrinks, take time to review your insurance coverage to find ways to save money. A change in lifestyle should trigger an insurance review.
  • Do You Need Travel Insurance?Know what travel insurance does—and doesn’t—cover before you decide whether to sign on the dotted line. There are times when it just doesn’t make sense.

    • Manage My Estate, Taxes, And Legal Issues

  • Avoid Taxes on RMDIf you own an IRA and have already received a 2009 RMD this year, the Internal Revenue Service has a break for you.
  • Give $13,000, Avoid Federal Gift TaxTake advantage of the gift tax exclusion--a smart way to transfer assets during your lifetime and reduce your taxable estate.
  • Where There's a Will, There's a WayDespite new rules for 2009 that increase the federal estate tax exemption to $3.5 million, one-third of states have far lower exemptions. Take steps to protect your assets, and know where to go for help.
  • Spousal IRAs Complicated, But Worth ItIf you qualify as “married, filing jointly,” listen up. Recent changes to federal guidelines could lead to significant benefits as you beef up retirement funds.
  • Collaborative Divorce Softens Sting of SplitWanting to avoid high legal costs and the stress of a courtroom divorce, some splitting couples are looking for alternatives to traditional divorce. Here are the details about collaborative divorce.
  • Negotiate Before Accepting Buyout OfferWhen your employer offers you a buyout package to leave the company, it can come as a rude shock, a welcome opportunity, or anything in between.
  • Advance Directives Give Peace of MindDo the write thing: Prepare instructions for your medical care so that, when you can’t speak for yourself, you have a say in how your life story plays out.
  • Estate Planning MythsThe greatest estate planning mistakes come from common misunderstandings. This article can help you dispel some myths.
  • Make a Will to Have the Last WordDo you have a will? Is it current? This article explains why having one might be a smart move for you.
  • Eight Essential Estate-Planning StepsThis article outlines eight estate-planning steps to help you plan for the future.

    • Manage Spending And Credit

  • Don't Let Fake Check Scams Fake You OutIf you’re not careful and fall victim to a fake check scam, you could be left holding the bag to the tune of hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Know what to look for and how to protect yourself.
  • Guard Against Senior ScamsKnow how to spot a fraud, and take steps to reduce the likelihood you’ll be a victim.
  • What Budgeting System Is Best for You?It doesn’t matter how you budget. What matters is that you find a system that works for you and stick to it.
  • It Pays to NegotiateNegotiating for the best price, while a little more work, is well worth the extra effort. Try these simple negotiating tips to land a bargain on just about anything.
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 3
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 4
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 2
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 1
  • Health Club Memberships: Get Fit, Be SmartExercise is good for your health, but joining the first fitness club you visit can wreak havoc with your finances. Do some sleuthing before you sign on the dotted line.
  • Can You Count on Social Security?Given the cloud of uncertainty hovering over Social Security, should you be worried? Saving on your own now to complement whatever the government will give you later is a good strategy.
  • Small Blunders Contribute to Retirement CalamitiesDespite your best intentions, there are many ways to sabotage your retirement. Become familiar with these nine blunders so you don’t fall victim to a retirement calamity.
  • Retirement Living: What Will It Cost?As you plan for retirement, you’ll need to find a balance between anticipated expenses and income. Get a handle now on the kinds of expenses you’ll have later on.
  • Compile Your Financial NotebookA financial notebook doesn't have to be fancy. It can be as simple as a three-ring notebook that serves as a road map for you and your loved ones.
  • Financial Plan: Don't Stop in RetirementIf you don't have a plan in place to handle the highs and the lows of your financial retirement life, you could turn your golden years to bronze.
  • Boomers Urged to Choose Direct DepositThe U.S. government is trying to convince workers—particularly baby boomers—to have paychecks direct deposited. Getting in the direct deposit habit now will mean big savings for the fed once boomers start receiving benefit retirement checks.

    • Plan For Travel And Leisure

  • FAQ: Volunteer-- Feel Better by Doing GoodThere are significant health benefits associated with volunteering before and during retirement. Two experts explain how to search for the right volunteer fit for you.
  • Retirees Share Lessons LearnedIt pays to be prepared. That’s the common theme from retirees who give valuable advice to help others plan for life outside the workplace.
  • Keep on Growing with ElderhostelTraveling after turning 55 can be interesting and adventurous. Check out the many Elderhostel opportunities, including service learning and intergenerational vacations, and make lasting friendships along the way.
  • Social Networking Sites Help Keep You ConnectedThis article describes several online social networking sitesjust for boomersand explains how some sites can help you stay connected.
  • RV Travel Lets You Set the CourseA recreation vehicle is a popular travel choice for many. With a wide range of sizes and price tags, an RV may be a good alternative to motels, hotels, and resorts.
  • How to Retire EarlyRetiring before the traditional retirement age is doable—but only with proper planning. This article tells you how to get your finances in shape for early retirement.
  • Is Retiring Abroad Right for You?More Americans are saying “yes” to retiring abroad. But is it right for you? Examine your budget, do your homework, and follow the advice of those who live overseas.
  • Health Club Memberships: Get Fit, Be SmartExercise is good for your health, but joining the first fitness club you visit can wreak havoc with your finances. Do some sleuthing before you sign on the dotted line.
  • Learning Vacations: Travel for Your MindThe possibilities for learning vacations are nearly endless. Whatever your personal interests and passions may be, there's a learning vacation to suit you.
  • Do You Need Travel Insurance?Know what travel insurance does—and doesn’t—cover before you decide whether to sign on the dotted line. There are times when it just doesn’t make sense.
  • Travel Fraud: Watch the WordingKnow the tricks of the trade when it comes to travel fraud. Don’t let your vacation by ruined by false promises and misleading ads.
  • Tips for Using Plastic OverseasKnow the exchange rates and fees before you travel abroad—it pays to do your homework and take certain precautions before you leave.

    • Start A Small Business / Refresh My Career

  • Small Business: Tweet It OutSmall business owners have a variety of outlets to get the word out about their business—including free social networking. Learn how Twitter is transforming the world of advertising.
  • Job-Hunting Tactics for This RecessionIf you’ve lost your job, the Web offers a variety of job-hunting tools that help you fine-tune your application and broaden your search.
  • Choosing the Appropriate Small Business ModelSelecting the legal mode of operating a business—called the business form—is critical for small business owners. Understand the payroll requirements, legal protections, and tax implications for each before you set up shop.
  • New Online Courses Benefit Small Biz OwnersSmall business owners have a wealth of resources available from the Small Business Administration, including two new online courses dealing with sources of capital and how to prepare a loan package.
  • Self-employed must master year-round tax planningIf you’re thinking about starting a small business, make sure you keep good records, know your tax responsibilities, and become familiar with allowable tax breaks.
  • Read PreRetiree Lane Episode 2
  • Part-Time Work Pays Off for RetireesWhen considering part-time work options for retirement, consider what is really fulfilling for you. Be open to new opportunities, and pursue personal goals.
  • Negotiate Before Accepting Buyout OfferWhen your employer offers you a buyout package to leave the company, it can come as a rude shock, a welcome opportunity, or anything in between.
  • Small Business: Analyze the NumbersThe cash-flow statement, income statement, and balance sheet are three fundamental financial reports all small-business owners should recognize as crucial to their company’s financial success. Learn how to effectively use each statement from this article.
  • Small Business: Four Basic RulesEffectively manage your small-business finances by using these rules to help keep track of your expenses and the debts owed to you, and to help monitor your cash flow.
  • Business Owners: Plan for the Next GenerationSuccession planning for small businesses is about much more than simply keeping the doors open. It’s about achieving goals that may range from funding your retirement to simply making sure your business can keep running when you take a day off.
  • Retired and Returning to WorkHelp for seniors who are contemplating returning to the work force.
  • Boomers Launch BusinessesBaby boomers are the new entrepreneurs, and there are several reasons why—just when they’re supposed to be slowing down—they’re interested in starting their own business.

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