| Personal Effects of the Financial Crisis |
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With the financial crisis looming over every aspect of American news for several weeks, confusion about the effects on the ordinary American is inevitable. While the economic rescue plan approved on Friday, October 3 brings a peace of mind as it is expected to ease the economic crisis, experts have warned there are tough economic times ahead, making now the ideal time to consider a debt negotiation service such as MyDebtNegotiation® offered by U.S. Financial Management.
In regards to the effects of the crisis on your personal finances, here is what you should know. -Checking and savings accounts: Although some major banks like Washington Mutual and Wachovia have been severely affected, most banks are functioning normally. You should make sure your bank is insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. (FDIC). Per the new bailout package, the FDIC will insure up to $250,000 until at least the end of 2009. If your accounts are at a credit union, make sure it is insured by the National Credit Union Insurance Fund, similar to the FDIC protection for credit union members. -Retirement investments: Accounts like IRAs at FDIC-insured banks are covered up to $250,000. If you have over $100,000 saved for retirement, check how much you are insured online at http://www.fdic.gov/edie -Brokerage accounts: There is insurance for investors in case the company you invest with runs into trouble. The Securities Investor Protection Corp., or SPIC, covers investors up to $500,000 if a brokerage fails or has other problems. The SPIC does not protect portfolios that decline due to the market or bad investments. -Money markets: The traditionally safe investment has experienced a few recent troubles, but the Treasury Department has put money market guarantees in place to dispel worries. Mutual fund firms have also made efforts to ease concerned investors by disclosing their holdings and information about their decision-making. If choosing a money market, select a large, low-cost fund from a large company. -Consumer credit: For most, the credit crunch has only effected major financial institutions, but experts say it is too soon to hit everyday lives. It will be increasingly difficult and more expensive to borrow money for a new car or home, or even to be approved for a new credit card. Credit lines are even being reduced for current card holders who are deemed risky clients. -Business credit: The credit crunch could also make it more difficult for small- and midsized business owners to obtain loans. This could make doing business harder and eventually lead to layoffs. Starting new businesses may be difficult as well, as finding money becomes more challenging. -Mortgages: If you are currently paying your mortgage on time, there shouldn’t be any negative implications, but refinancing or taking out a second mortgage may be trickier due to stricter lending requirements. With all these potential financial worries, now is not the time to be concerned with outstanding debt. Fortunately, U.S. Financial Management can provide your solution with our MyDebtNegotiation® program that works with your creditors and your current financial situation to negotiate your debt down call 1.800.738.5351 for a free, no-obligation consultation. Source: MSNBC
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