(StatePoint) From layoffs in the federal government to a growing number of companies handing tasks off to artificial intelligence, today鈥檚 rapidly shifting job market is rightfully stoking concerns for many Americans. On top of that, the overall economic climate has lately been affected by market volatility, tariffs and inflation.
According to CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER庐 professionals, you can face times of economic insecurity head-on with a plan.
Job Insecurity
If you have or are concerned you might, here are steps you can take now:
Get the picture: Take an inventory of your full financial picture, including income, average monthly expenses and assets. Understanding how much it costs you to live, minus discretionary spending, can give you an idea of how long you can survive on your liquid assets. This is also a good time to consider what spending you can cut back on and, if possible, how to build your emergency fund.
Act wisely: Whether a Thrift Savings Plan or you work in the private sector and have an employer-sponsored retirement plan, it鈥檚 important to act with caution, not fear. If you lose your job and take a full distribution from your retirement account, that full distribution can come with tax penalties and leave you ill-prepared for the future. Instead, if you suffer a job loss, consider leaving untouched or rolling them over into an IRA. Federal employees should also reach out to the Office of Personnel Management or their specific agency to learn what benefits they鈥檙e eligible for.
Plan for health insurance: During a job transition, determine whether you will opt for COBRA coverage of your existing health plan or join a spouse or domestic partner’s plan. Keep in mind that COBRA coverage is temporary and often more expensive. You could also look for coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace at .
Get help: Affordable help may be available to you. More than 200 CFP庐 professionals have volunteered to offer no-cost or reduced-rate services to federal government employees. Visit to find help near you.
Market Volatility
Market volatility can be nerve-racking for investors, but CFP庐 professionals say these tips can help you weather periods of uncertainty:
Understand the history: Historic events such as Black Monday in 1987 and the COVID-19 crash in 2020 bear a consistent pattern. After a period of downturn, markets generally have rebounded with resilience. So, when the market declines, and give investments a chance to recover. A good rule of thumb is to only make significant changes to your financial strategy when your situation changes, not when the world does. While this can be easier said than done, avoiding sensational financial news and social media chatter can reduce anxiety. If you have concerns, lean on reputable sources for guidance, such as your CFP庐 professional.
Diversify: is more durable during tough financial times. Make sure your assets include a balance of investments that works well in different market environments.
Seek expert guidance: A recent CFP庐 professional-led webinar 鈥,鈥 which delved into the current state of the markets and provided general educational tools for investors, is available to all online. For tailored financial guidance, visit to find a CFP庐 professional who meets your needs.
Concerned about your finances? You鈥檙e not alone. During periods of uncertainty, lean on reliable resources to make a smart financial plan.
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