(StatePoint) From layoffs in the federal government to a growing number of companies handing tasks off to artificial intelligence, today’s rapidly shifting job market is rightfully stoking concerns for many Americans. On top of that, the overall economic climate has lately been affected by market volatility, tariffs and inflation.
According to CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professionals, you can face times of economic insecurity head-on with a plan.
Get the picture: Take an inventory of your full financial picture, including income, average monthly expenses and assets. Understanding how much it costs you to live, minus discretionary spending, can give you an idea of how long you can survive on your liquid assets. This is also a good time to consider what spending you can cut back on and, if possible, how to build your emergency fund.
Act wisely: Whether you’re a federal employee with a Thrift Savings Plan or you work in the private sector and have an employer-sponsored retirement plan, it’s important to act with caution, not fear. If you lose your job and take a full distribution from your retirement account, that full distribution can come with tax penalties and leave you ill-prepared for the future. Instead, if you suffer a job loss, consider leaving your retirement accounts untouched or rolling them over into an IRA. Federal employees should also reach out to the Office of Personnel Management or their specific agency to learn what benefits they’re eligible for.
Plan for health insurance: During a job transition, determine whether you will opt for COBRA coverage of your existing health plan or join a spouse or domestic partner’s plan. Keep in mind that COBRA coverage is temporary and often more expensive. You could also look for coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov.
Get help: Affordable help may be available to you. More than 200 CFP® professionals have volunteered to offer no-cost or reduced-rate services to federal government employees. Visit https://www.cfp.net/fedworkers to find help near you.
Market volatility can be nerve-racking for investors, but CFP® professionals say these tips can help you weather periods of uncertainty:
Understand the history: Historic events such as Black Monday in 1987 and the COVID-19 crash in 2020 bear a consistent pattern. After a period of downturn, markets generally have rebounded with resilience. So, when the market declines, stay the course and give investments a chance to recover. A good rule of thumb is to only make significant changes to your financial strategy when your situation changes, not when the world does. While this can be easier said than done, avoiding sensational financial news and social media chatter can reduce anxiety. If you have concerns, lean on reputable sources for guidance, such as your CFP® professional.
Diversify:A diversified portfolio is more durable during tough financial times. Make sure your assets include a balance of investments that works well in different market environments.
Concerned about your finances? You’re not alone. During periods of uncertainty, lean on reliable resources to make a smart financial plan.
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