Federal Retirement Seminars Since 1980, Personal Benefit Services Group (PBS) has conducted more than 750 federal government retirement seminars in nearly all 50 states. PBS seminars are taught by qualified instructors with: combined federal government seminar experience of more than 52 years experience in almost every government agency PBS Seminars not only cover the most important information on federal retirement benefits -- such as CSRS/FERS, Social Security and the Thrift Savings Plan -- but more importantly they provide: clear instruction of what to do, and what not to do risk protection plans to protect retirement assets To learn more about holding a retirement seminar at your office, click here.

In trying economic times, it is common to neglect your savings.  But it's

important to remain focused -- regardless of the economic state of our

country -- and paying ourselves is a must.

Here are seven  easy tips for growing your

savings:

1. Establish emergency reserve saving account.

2.  Save for long-term goals. 

Take advantage of retirement savings programs, especially if you have

employer matching.

3. Make savings automatic.

Set up drafts from your bank to your investments on a monthly basis. 

This is a simple way to be disciplined about savings and easy to change

(start/stop) if need.

4. Start small. 

Better to start small and get going to make it a habit rather than wait for a

magical day or amount to come available.

5.  Shop for low cost and best savings account rates. 

With all the banking debacles, many institutions have added on new

fees.  Be sure you are aware.

6.  Turn a payment into savings. 

Once you pay off a loan be sure that amount is added to your monthly savings.

7. Save your windfall. 

If you are receiving a big tax refund, an inheritance, or perhaps a gift or

bonus from work, you don't have to spend it just because it shows up

unexpectedly.  Set aside some of that money now for your future financial

needs.

About the Author

Sharla D. Rountree is a Certified Financial Planner and owner of href="http://www.myfederalretirement.com/public/595.cfm">Personal Benefit

Services Group, Inc. located in Lakewood, Colorado.  She is also a

registered representative with Royal Alliance Associates Inc., member

FINRA/SIPC.