How to Invest in Washington Mutual Funds

Washington Mutual, or WaMu, is a company that many people are familiar with through WaMu's customer-focused banking. The company created a customer-centered approach to help interested parties learn how to invest in Washington Mutual Funds. Washington Mutual offers several varied choices for mutual funds that are geared toward those just learning about mutual funds. Their educational component is well-developed and a good choice for those new to investing--particularly those new to mutual funds.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A computer with a high-speed connection to the Internet
• An idea of how much you expect to invest, both initially and periodically
• Time to work with a Washington Mutual financial consultant
• Time to learn about the basics of mutual funds

How to Invest in Washington Mutual Funds

1. Look over the Washington Mutual Financial Services website, taking note of the helpful links for further research on the general principles of mutual funds.

2. Contact a Washington Mutual representative through the site.

3. Talk to the Washington Mutual advisor about your investment goals.

4. Following this guidance, look up the mutual funds that he or she recommends.

5. Request the prospectus for each fund.

6. Read each prospectus, consulting the Washington Mutual advisor if you have any questions.

7. Make your investment directly with this advisor.

Tips & Warnings

• On the Washington Mutual website, visit the Mutual Funds page and click on 'Investment Strategies.' You'll learn about reducing risk, smart asset allocation, surviving a turbulent market, and making use of compounding interest.
• Washington Mutual offers free financial advice from their own consultants, so it doesn't hurt to take advantage of this service.
• The Washington Mutual Financial Services website also offers links to a Mutual Fund Expense Analyzer and a Mutual Fund Breakpoint Search page from NASD. Both can be helpful in determining your best bet for a Washington Mutual fund.
• It's important to devise specific goals before you invest. Examples of common goals include saving for a child's educational fund, purchasing a home, starting a business or achieving early retirement.
• You'll also want to determine your comfort level in terms of risk. The WaMu website provides a Risk Assessment tool. A general rule of thumb is that the younger you are, the more risk you can withstand.
• It's wise to remember that mutual funds, even when sponsored by a bank, are not insured by the FDIC or any government-related entity. They are not guaranteed by the bank and are also not considered a deposit.