Many people talk about financial independence; however, few are able to achieve it. Too few of us know enough to create and are disciplined enough to start and maintain a sound plan. Financial planning should always start with cash management.
The rising costs of sending children or grandchildren to college give the term "higher education expenses" a new meaning. Even with scholarships, financial aid and student loans, higher education expenses can result in current financial strain, with indebtedness extending beyond graduation. Planning early can help ease the financial burden.
Investing is a little like sailing. The stronger the wind, the faster you sail. In the stock market, the more volatile the stock fund, the higher the potential for growth and loss. A skilled sailor can navigate rough weather and perhaps even move faster toward a goal. However, a good sailor knows when to tack, and when to take the sails down and ride it out. A skilled investor is like a good sailor.
Retirement income consists of three traditional sources — Social Security, personal savings and pension plans or employer-sponsored retirement plans. Understanding how these three sources work together and examining your retirement needs can help you determine if you have properly planned for your retirement. Be prepared so you will not have a retirement gap.
The past several years have seen tremendous changes in the federal tax code. These changes were designed to increase Americans' ability to save and invest for their futures. Are you taking full advantage of these new savings and investment opportunities?
Important Notice about Purchasing a VALIC Annuity From Us
To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money-laundering activities, federal law requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person who purchases certain annuity products. What this means for you: When you purchase certain annuity products from us, we will ask for your name, address, date of birth and other information that will allow us to identify you. We may ask to see your driver's license or other identifying documents.
Annuities and insurance products are offered by The Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company (VALIC), AIG Annuity Insurance Company, AIG-affiliated insurance companies or other approved companies. Each underwriting company is financially responsible for its own insurance products.
Securities and investment advisory services are offered by AIG Retirement Advisors, Inc., member FINRA, SIPC and an SEC-registered investment advisor.
AIG Retirement is the marketing name for the group of companies comprising AIG Retirement Advisors, Inc.; AIG Retirement Services Company; and The Variable Annuity Life Insurance Company (VALIC); each of which is a subsidiary of American International Group, Inc.
This information is general in nature and may be subject to change. Neither VALIC nor its financial advisors or other representatives give legal or tax advice. Applicable laws and regulations are complex and subject to change. For legal or tax advice concerning your situation, consult your attorney or professional tax advisor.