What To Do In Times of Financial Uncertainty

We are living in uncertain times. It’s understandable that the recent drops in the stock market are having an impact on investors’ peace of mind, and the threat of a worldwide pandemic is making many people question how well-prepared they are financially to weather this latest storm. In times of financial uncertainty, there are a few pieces of advice we can all benefit from.

Don’t Panic

This isn’t the first financial crisis and it won’t be the last. Unless you need to get money out of the stock market, don’t stress too much about your portfolio, 401(k) or other stock market linked investments. You invested for the long-term, and long-term the stock market does tend to recover. It may not seem like much consolation right now, but it does. The average annualized return of the S&P 500 Index is around 7% over the long-term, and that’s after adjusting for inflation. So if you’re worrying right now about what your pension will look like in 20 years’ time, that’s not a good use of your energy.  No-one can perfectly predict the future, but this is something to always keep in mind in uncertain times.

Educate Yourself

There’s never a bad time to brush up on your financial education. While it’s often essential to consult a professional about your finances, it’s also vital that you fully understand them yourself. If you do need to talk to a professional, having a good grasp on personal finance issues is a plus. Having an idea of what your options are can mean you’re much better placed to help them help you. Here at Wealthtender, you’ll find a range of tips, explanations, and clarifications that will support you as you think about how you’ll manage the various issues that this crisis might present you with.

Find Out What Help Is Available

There have been many government announcements recently, around the world, about how much help will be available. Governments want to get people through the current crisis and out the other side. Wherever you are in the world, take a look at what is on offer. For US citizens, Investopedia has created a useful page that aims to help you assess how the Coronavirus Stimulus Bills will affect you.

Assess Things Very Carefully

Now is a good time to take a very close look at your finances, assess and plan. Credit card companies and other creditors may put specific programs in place to help their customers during this time. Banks may waive fees, and various companies may support their customers to manage their accounts better as the crisis progresses. However, fortune favors the proactive. You may need to dig around to find out what’s on offer, and what some of the companies you use are willing to do.

Seek Guidance

Even if you usually consider yourself financially astute, uncertain times often mean we all end up a little out of our depth. Now may be the time to seek guidance from a professional regarding your finances. Remember that some non-profit credit counseling services are free to those that are eligible, or highly affordable. Even if you are currently in an area on lockdown, most of these services are offered over the phone, and some financial professionals will be working overtime right now, to assist those who need advice and reassurance.

Karen Banes

I’m a freelance writer specializing in online business, personal finance, travel and lifestyle. I also work as a content creator for hire, helping brands and businesses tell their stories, grow their audiences, and reach their ideal customers. I’ve lived, worked and studied in six countries, across three continents. Stop by my blog TheSavvySolopreneur.net to learn how to run your own (very) small business on your own terms. You can also connect with me at my website KarenBanes.com or follow me on Medium.com.