Q: I am 26 and behind in the investing game. My bank offers a Roth IRA and i’m going with that.
I was thinking about going with Edward Jones for a 401(k). Is this a good idea?
A: Congratulations on getting started investing. You’re not too late to the investing game: you’re right on time.
A lot of 36, 46 and 56-year olds wish they’d started when they were 26, as you are. So don’t beat yourself up at all about your age.
Glad to hear you’re starting a Roth IRA. It’s a great way to save for retirement. Regarding the 401(k), your investment options will be dictated primarily by the offerings that your employer has available.
I can tell you in general that Edward Jones has a good reputation and is known for quality financial advice. However, the mutual funds you choose are equally important.
So the main question you need to find out tackle is: based on my investment objectives, how much of my 401(k) should be in stocks, bonds, and cash? Then you can think about what funds or stocks to buy to match those objectives.
If you don’t have an adviser helping you, I’d strongly suggest that you get a professional to create a financial plan for you and offer you some specific recommendations based on your goals, risk tolerance and personal circumstances.
You can get good help from the National Association of Personal Financial Advisors or from the Financial Planning Association.
