Personal Finance Advice and Commentary

Even though the U.S. unemployment rate is still about 9.2 percent overall, a study by The Hartford insurance company found that among households with incomes greater than $25,000, people are feeling more optimistic and saving more for retirement than they were a year ago. About 34 percent of people surveyed said they were “extremely confident”

The deficit reduction panel, otherwise known as the National Commission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform, released its final recommendations this week. One of the things it took aim at is tax-advantaged 401(k) savings accounts, an important part of most people’s retirement planning. The proposal would: Consolidate retirement accounts (401(k)s, IRAs, SEPs, etc., into one retirement