Staying up to date with the value and performance of your 401k retirement funds is very important. For some people it becomes an obsession and this is just as unhealthy as never checking on the performance, there is however a good mix. Most 401k programs send out quarterly performance statements and this is a great time to track the winners and losers.

Tracking the winners and losers show which fund values are high and which are low. Remember the old financial statement, buy low and sell high? Same holds true for your 401k funds. If a fund has performed well for the past year maybe it’s time to sell off some of that balance and buy another fund that has a good long term track record but has had a bad year.

If you are approaching the age of retirement in the next few years you may want to thoroughly examine your balances and do some detailed calculations about how much money you will need in retirement. It may even be a good idea to speak with a financial adviser about your options. If the past few years have shown poor performances you may want to consider working another year or so before calling it quits.

Keeping up to date with your 401k and retirement accounts will secure your financial future. Don’t be afraid to ask a professional financial adviser for advice. Spending a few dollars now could save or earn you a few thousand dollars in the future.