Summer 2013 FDIC Consumer News

For Seniors: 15 Quick Tips for Protecting Your Finances
As many consumers get older, they often face issues such as how to maintain their lifestyle and pay for medical expenses on a fixed income for years into the future. Here are banking and other money-management tips for seniors to consider for their retirement years… Read more.

How Older Adults Can Steer Clear of Scam Artists
Anyone can be a victim of financial fraud, but older adults are particularly at risk. Among the reasons: Scam artists and thieves know that many senior citizens have accumulated money and other assets throughout the years. Those who commit elder fraud range from loved ones — family members, friends or caregivers — to complete strangers. Here are practical tips on how to protect yourself or someone else:… Read more.

Borrowing From Your Home in Retirement? Carefully Research the Benefits and Risks
For most homeowners, particularly retired Americans who have paid off or nearly paid off their mortgage, their house is a major part of their financial picture. Unfortunately, for retired homeowners who may have limited sources of income, the equity in their house may seem to be one of their only potential sources of additional money for everyday living expenses and healthcare… Read more.

Tips for Seniors Wanting to Help Relatives
Be on guard against phone calls from con artists who target seniors. A common scam involves an imposter pretending to be a relative in trouble. (“My wallet was stolen” or “I’m in jail.”) These callers do enough homework to mention the name of the relative or other people the senior citizen knows. And by “crying,” it is difficult to recognize the voice… Read more.

Key Facts About Your FDIC Insurance
Deposit insurance is especially important for older Americans who have worked hard over the years to accumulate savings. Here are some facts to remember.

Every depositor is protected for up to at least $250,000 if an FDIC-insured bank fails. The basic FDIC insurance coverage amount is $250,000 for each depositor at a bank; however, coverage may be higher based on how accounts are set up. For instance, at one bank, your combined deposits in single accounts (for one owner) are covered up to $250,000, and your share of any joint accounts (for two or more people) is separately protected up to an additional $250,000.

FDIC insurance protects only deposits. Insured deposits include all traditional bank accounts such as checking, savings and certificate of deposit (CD) accounts. While some non-deposit investment products — such as stocks, bonds, mutual funds, annuities (see For Seniors: 15 Quick Tips for Protecting Your Finances) and municipal securities — typically offer potentially greater returns than deposits, they are not FDIC-insured, even if they were sold through an insured bank. You may risk losing some or all of your investment.

The FDIC can answer all of your questions about deposit insurance coverage. For deposit insurance resources and more information about different ownership categories and qualifying for more than $250,000 in coverage, see For More Help or Information for Seniors and Families.