Individual financial planning is the process of putting together a “living” schematic organizing your personal finances to help you secure a solid financial future.

Some people forget to plan for the future when they focus on their current situations. While you may think you don't need to worry about retirement yet, you should start planning for it. Doing so can help you in various ways, especially as you put forth effort to plan and start saving for your retirement. Let's talk about the benefits you will enjoy if you start right away on your retirement plan.

A recent Wall Street Journal article (subscription required) by financial columnist Glenn Ruffenach discusses the importance of planning for long-term care and identifies insurance and financial professionals as an important source of guidance for consumers. He says that “your best first step is not to shop for a carrier or policy. Rather, it’s to shop for a knowledgeable, independent agent.”

Many Americans look forward to retirement as a time when the pressures of the working world are behind them. However, it can also create new challenges—especially around tax season.

Congratulations! You’ve made the commitment to get yourself out of debt.

Eliminating debt is an important and difficult goal to achieve, but it can be done — if you do it the right way. Here are five common mistakes to avoid:

Life insurance is not one-size fits all. Term policies tend to be less expensive and provide crucial protection for many families, but permanent life carries benefits you may not have considered. An insurance and financial advisor, such as a NAIFA member, can help you determine what type of coverage best meets your goals and fits your financial plan.

Premiums Never Change

One of the best benefits of permanent life insurance is that premiums are locked in on the policy's start date. Premiums don't change as long as they are paid, regardless of what might happen to your health as you get older. Buying early and when rates are good can provide a substantial long-term benefit for young people who get permanent life insurance. 

Do you have a retirement savings goal? Do you know how much you need to save?

Chances are good you don’t. Most Americans have no idea how much they need to save to live comfortably in retirement.

People of any age can make a plan, no matter your age.  This advice will help you determine your retirement savings goal — and get there. Starting now.

When you retire, do you plan on doing one or more of the following?

We all make mistakes. But errors in your taxes can prove costly. That’s why it’s important to educate yourself and find a quality tax planner who can help navigate you through the daunting process.

Whether you’re just starting out in your career or approaching retirement, organizing your finances and knowing exactly what you need to do to prepare for the future can feel daunting.