Released on: October 17, 2008, 11:24 am

Press Release Author: Banyan Rock & Talent

Industry: Accounting

Press Release Summary: Dale Merritt, financial advisor for Banyan Rock & Talent,
suggests now is the ideal time to take advantage of corporate 401(k)s and individual
retirement savings plans.

Press Release Body: Market Wary Young Professionals Advised to Look at Retirement
Savings
401k and Roth IRAs are Still Safe Savings Options

RALEIGH, N.C. (October 17, 2008) EUR" For many young professionals, saving for
retirement is not a high priority. And now, with the economy experiencing extreme
fluctuation, the odds have become even less so. Despite the temptation to steer
clear, Dale Merritt, financial advisor for Banyan Rock & Talent, suggests now is the
ideal time to take advantage of corporate 401(k)s and individual retirement savings
plans.

EURAlthough retirement seems far off, start saving immediately,EUR says Merritt. EURThe
ultimate incentive to begin investing now is that early investors will gain greater
compound interest than those who begin saving later.EUR

Most large companies offer 401(k) plans that set aside funds for retirement while
deferring income taxes until withdrawal. If an individualEUR(tm)s company does not offer
such a plan, the Roth IRA is another secure means of saving. Merritt explains, EURAn
individual that begins a Roth IRA plan at age 25, saving $200 a month until age 65,
could have a compound yield of $700,000.EUR Roth IRA conditions for qualification
include having an account for at least 5 years and distribution must be made after
reaching age 59 ½. However, earlier distributions may be made in the event of an
individualEUR(tm)s death, permanent disability, or for first-time homebuyer expenses.
Distributions made prior to age 59 ½ and without approved reasoning are subject to a
federal income tax penalty.

Merritt adds, EURIn many cases putting money away is easier said than done, but by
starting small and remaining consistent youEUR(tm)ll be much better off for the future.EUR

For more information on how to begin investing for retirement, visit
www.dalemerritt.net.

About Dale Merritt:
Dale Merritt is a wealth strategist with Banyan Rock & Talent. Having grown up in
Zebulon, Dale is eager to provide financial opportunities to the community in which
he was raised, offering real estate and retirement planning as well as other
financial services to eastern Wake County. Merritt has several securities
registrations including Series 6, 7, 63 and 66, as well as a long-term care
insurance license and a life insurance license. Merritt believes in remaining active
in the community. In addition to being part of the Knightdale and Zebulon Chambers
of Commerce, he maintains active membership in the North Carolina CattlemenEUR(tm)s
Association and the Appalachian State University Triangle Alumni Chapter. He and his
wife, Katie, also volunteer with GarnersEUR(tm) Paw Prints Animal Rescue. For more
information, call (919) 782-0033 or visit www.dalemerritt.net .

About Banyan Rock & Talent:
Based in Raleigh, Banyan Rock & Talent is a collaboration of registered reps with
FSC Securities Corporation. Founded in 1986, the company holds the philosophy that
strength, growth and the diversification of their clientEUR(tm)s hard-earned money is made
possible through knowledge, diligence and years of experience. Banyan Rock & Talent
specializes in areas including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, variable annuities,
retirement strategies, market timers, life insurance, disability insurance and
applied real estate. All strategists are registered representatives offering
securities through FSC Securities Corporation, a registered broker-dealer, and
member of FINRA/SIPC. For further information, visit 3356 Six Forks Road Raleigh, NC
27609, or call (919) 782-0033.

Securities and Advisory Services offered through FSC Securities Corporation, Member
FINRA/SIPC. Banyan, Rock & Talent is not affiliated with FSC Securities Corporation
or registered as a broker/dealer or investment advisor.

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Web Site: http://www.dalemerritt.net

Contact Details: Cindy Stranad
919.232.5008
cindy@articulon.com