What tools do you use to keep track of your TSP?

SGT(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 09:31:43 -0500

I always try to keep track on TSP and check it, at least, weekly. I've been using the Gov Exec App since is the easiest and simplest way to see changes in the market.

What tool do you use to keep track of your TSP?

Useful links:
http://www.govexec.com/pay-benefits/tsp/

Android App:
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.govexec

Iphone App:
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/government

Thrift Savings Plan Monthly Returns - Pay & Benefits - GovExec.com

Government news resource covering technology, performance, employment, telework, cybersecurity, and more for federal employees.

Response by SPC Paul Jennings, J.D. made Feb 23 at 2016 9:44 AM

SPC Paul Jennings, J.D. — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 09:44:34 -0500

I just use the TSP website. Honestly, unless your attempting market timing, there isn't much reason to check it that often. It's a long term investment so I simply allocate it based on my risk preference (I dislike their age based portfolios) and reallocate every year if needed.

Response by CAPT Kevin B. made Feb 23 at 2016 10:10 AM

CAPT Kevin B. — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 10:10:46 -0500

Although not an indicator of what will happen in the future, from say 1986 to 2013, the return of stock, bond, and secure government was the same at the end of 27 years. During that time, there were three instances where bailing out of stocks to G Fund and then back would pay big time. Those are the ones you want to hit. There were good indicators on them. I tended to bail about 6-9 months early but didn't want the pucker factor to rule my life. Got two of them right (Energy and Housing busts, sat a touch too long on dot.com and lost 4%). So many look at tinkering frequently with long term portfolios and become blinded to the bigger picture. There's a time to prune the tree and a time to chop it down. Keep your ax sharp.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 23 at 2016 12:51 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 12:51:18 -0500

Don't turn into a day trader, unless u have magical powers.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2016 1:43 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 13:43:56 -0500

I tried using SigFig (great app if you have a 401(k), IRA, Individual account). But it doesn't seem to update my TSP. I personally look every afternoon on the TSP's website. Not sure if there is a way (comment if you know), but see what exactly is in each fund, as in tickers.

Response by SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 23 at 2016 2:30 PM

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 14:30:52 -0500

Also, as everyone else has mentioned, TSP is a long term investment. Unless you are about to to take distributions from it, you shouldn't have to worry. The market itself over the past 100 years has been going into the same direction

Response by SFC David Davenport made Feb 23 at 2016 4:32 PM

SFC David Davenport — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 16:32:43 -0500

Gentlemen before assuming you are smarter or luckier than everyone else read the following link. Of note look at the return of the individual investor to their own investments. http://www.investopedia.com/articles/stocks/08/invest-on-your-own.asp
And for those wanting to time the market look here: http://www.forbes.com/sites/advisor/2014/04/24/why-the-average-investors-investment-return-is-so-low/#274959d063a4

I am not saying it can't be done but on average the masses are not being successful at managing their own investments or timing the market.

Manage My Own Investments? Are You Kidding? | Investopedia

Investors need not rely on professional advisors, but going it alone isn't easy.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Feb 23 at 2020 4:37 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Sun, 23 Feb 2020 16:37:00 -0500

Those invested in stocks should realize that it will go up and down in the short-term, but the long-term trend is upward. If your investment horizon is long-term, you can ride out the volatility of the market.