GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — Each week during the month of February we're focusing on financial advice for a different generation.
This week we are highlighting Gen Xers. If you were born between 1965 and 1985, here are three things financial adviser Nicole Middendorf from Prosper Well Financial says this group should be thinking about in terms of their finances.
Number 1: It's time to start maxing out your 401K plan
"These are the years where you are accumulating or making the most money," said Middendorf. "That's where it's so important that you are making sure that you are maxing out your 401K plan. This year it's $19,500 if you are under 50 and so making sure you are maxing out the 401K and the ROTH IRA, which is 6 grand a year."
You're making the most money - Number 2: Time to start protecting that money
"If you don't have a will, an estate plan, a financial plan, making sure you get those things in place so you know if you're on track toward retirement or if you're not on track… you know what you will need to do to get you there," said Middendorf.
Gen Xers are also known as the "Sandwich Generation" where you're caring for your aging parents while supporting your kids.
Nicole says it's important to make sure you have your finances in order.
"I get it... I am a mom," said Middendorf. "You wanna save for your kids and you want to do the 529 plans but make sure you are maxing out your retirement plans first, where you're maxing out your own 401k and ROTH IRA before you start saving for your kid's college."
RELATED: Money Monday: Millennials