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The Basics

MORTGAGE POINTS, APRS, 401(K)S, auto leases, 529 plans...there's a dizzying amount of financial terminology we Americans must deal with these days. SmartMoney.com and SmartMoney University cover everything from soup to nuts. But it's not always easy to know where to begin. Consider this your guide to getting started.

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  Retirement
5 Things You Should Know About Your 401(k)
If you don't understand the policies of your plan, you just might stumble into traps that could seriously devalue your retirement stash.

What Are Your IRA Options?
Plug your numbers into our worksheet and find out exactly which IRA contribution options are available to you and how much you can contribute.

Article from
American Express Financial Advisors
How Much Will Retirement Cost?
We've run the numbers — and the results might surprise you.
  Insurance
Term or Whole Life?
We'll give you a hint: The one you want begins with a "T." Here's why it makes sense for most people.

10 Ways to Save on Life Insurance
Paying premiums to cover your family in the event of your demise is bleak enough. But overpaying is downright depressing.

  Real Estate
A Home-Buying Primer
Don't let the process intimidate you. From brokers to bank loans, we'll tell you everything you need to know.

10 Things Your Lender Won't Tell You
Need to borrow for a car or home? Look out: Your bank could be a loan shark in disguise.

Article from
American Express Financial Advisors
Financing The American Dream: Mortgage Basics
Learn about the first steps you should take when buying a home.
  Investing
Our One Asset Allocation System Are you invested too conservatively or too aggressively? Now more than ever, it's crucial that you strike the right balance.

Risk vs. Reward
Risk and investing go hand-in-hand, but investing wisely is often less risky than not investing at all.

Article from
American Express Financial Advisors
Focus on Time in the Market, Not Market Timing
For those who do not wish to subject their money to a potentially risky strategy, time — not timing — should be the focus.
  College Planning
College Savings Without the Tax Bite
Now with tax-free withdrawals, 529 plans look better than ever. Here's how to find a good one.

The College-Savings Superpage
The tax breaks for college are better than ever — if you know the ins and outs. Here's a guide.

  Autos
10 Ways to Keep Your Car Out of the Shop
Your mechanic does not want you to read this article.

Are Extended Warranties Warranted?
Usually, the extended warranties offered on new cars are better for the dealer than for you. Here's why.

Article from
American Express Financial Advisors
Buying a New or Used Car
Find out how to save money, avoid headaches, and get the car you want.
  Debt Management
Help! I'm Drowning in Debt
The creditors are calling. The bills are mounting. The panic is swelling. Here's how to get yourself back on track.

Debt and Your Taxes
Not all debt is bad. Some interest is deductible, which could give you a nice tax break.

 
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