Help me start investing

[CT Mommy]

Hi all-

One of my new year's resolutions was to learn about and start investing money. We have recently just accumulated enough living expenses for 8 months in our savings account should something go wrong and we are now ready for the next step. I have checked into several financial planning services, but they all charge big fees for their help/advise and I know that there are several online services/agencies/etc. that I could use once I learn this on my own.

Does anyone have any advice on how to get started? Any online tools, tricks, services?

THANKS!

[zinemama]

Start with Roth IRAs, if you don't have them. If you are interested in socially responsible investing, here is a chart listing the performance of a ton of funds.

http://www.socialfunds.com/funds/cha...nd+Performance

I would avoid big company financial planning services. But it's a good idea to seek out an independent financial planner. Ask around for recommendations. Yes, it may cost you. But it can be very helpful, especially if this is new to you. (If you belong to a credit union, they may offer a free one-time session with a planner; ours does.)

[velochic]

Read, read, read, read, read. There are many books out there for beginning investors that will show you the ropes. Go to a library and check out beginning investing books by anyone you can find. I have favorite authors (Eric Tyson, John Bogle, Suze Orman (especially for women and money)), but just reading a good variety will give you a lot of great perspectives. Avoid any author who talks about getting high returns quickly... long and slow and consistent is the key. Good luck and happy investing!

[dancebaraka]

If you will be investing for a long period of time & will continue to add wealth to it... then I'd interview a bunch of local brokers & find one that you feel good about. IMO it's worth the cost to have someone skilled in investments make money for you...

[dancebaraka]

Oh and a BIG YES on the start with Roth IRAs advice from zinemama