Before making any other financial decisions -- investments, home purchases, retirement -- people need to start with one simple choice....

Steve got a substantial raise and needs to decide how much he should put aside towards investments each month....

You want to balance your present needs with your future needs, between saving too little or too much. If you are on track, we generally recommend saving no less than 10% and no more than 20% of your income. You may have to save more than 20% if you are behind or want to retire before your Social Security full retirement age....

Save money today and have a better life tomorrow....