RETIREMENT READY? SEMINARS AT THE LIBRARY

These difficult economic times affect the stock market and the retirement prospects for many,whether you are already retired or still investing and planning for retirement. The University ofIdaho has developed an extension program entitled “Retirement Ready?” to help addressconcerns about the stock market and your prospects for a comfortable retirement. It is appropriate for all ages, including young people who are just beginning to think about investingfor their future.

This program will be held at Pocatello’s Marshall Public Library on April 15, 2009 and April 22 2009 at 6:30 p.m. both nights. Courses will last approximately 2 ½ hours. The first evening’s topics will include estimating your retirement living expenses, determining savings required, reviewing your net worth, understanding investment choices, risks and associated fees, and determining your risk tolerance. The second evening will cover the risks and rewards of short and long term investing, how taxes affect wealth building, understanding the importance of asset allocation and portfolio rebalancing, sustainable withdrawal rates, preserving your investments with wise withdrawal strategies, and learning about alternative ways to fund your retirement years.

Instruction will be provided by Dr. Jim Schaffer, Extension Educator in financial management with the University of Idaho. The fee to attend will be $10 per person or $15 per couple. Handouts will be provided of pertinent information and resources to help you improve your understanding of investing and retirement planning. To register, contact Audrey Liddil at the Extension Office at 236-7310.