Getting started How investing can help you reach big goals

Make it a reality

When you have more than a few years on your side, investing — rather than saving — for a goal might be the path to success. The market’s potential for higher long-term returns could mean you need to set aside less to meet your goal than if you put your money into a savings account or CD. Remember, however: Investing involves risk. Unlike many bank products, your money isn’t insured, and you could lose some or all of your investment.

Check your calendar

Some goals, like paying for a child’s college education, have a specific deadline. Others, such as generating the resources to start your own business, may be more flexible. How much time you have before you’ll need your money, as well as how much risk is right for you, will play a big role in planning your investment strategy.

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Update your goal

Because life changes, it’s wise to reassess your goal periodically. A change in plans, such as adding an extension instead of just remodeling the kitchen, could create a gap between what you have and what you’ll need. Or you may discover you’ll reach your goal sooner than expected.

Take advantage of tax-advantaged

If you’re investing to pay for a child’s college education and related expenses, look into tax-advantaged 529 college savings plans. (Tax-advantaged treatment applies to savings used for qualified education expenses. State tax treatment varies.) A Coverdell Education Savings Account is another tax-advantaged option that could fit your investing strategy.

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There’s more than one way to reach your goal

Growth and income

These funds typically invest in dividend-paying companies with good earnings prospects. Reinvested dividend income can provide a secondary source of investment growth.*

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Equity income

These funds seek to increase your wealth over the long term by primarily investing in well-established, dividend-paying companies,* as well as bonds and other fixed income investments.

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Balanced

These funds take a balanced approach to growth and income by investing across a mix of quality stocks and bonds. If your time horizon is just a few years, consider this investment option.

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Is a big change ahead?

Get in financial shape before you change your career or lifestyle.

PURSUE YOUR PASSION

*Dividends not guaranteed.

Investments are not FDIC-insured, nor are they deposits of or guaranteed by a bank or any other entity, so they may lose value.
Investors should carefully consider investment objectives, risks, charges and expenses. This and other important information is contained in the prospectuses and summary prospectuses, which can be obtained from a financial professional and should be read carefully before investing.
This material does not constitute legal or tax advice. Investors should consult with their legal or tax advisors.
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This content, developed by Capital Group, home of American Funds, should not be used as a primary basis for investment decisions and is not intended to serve as impartial investment or fiduciary advice.