Using mutual funds to save for retirement may be a common solution, but this, like any investment, needs some research. Finding a fund that will perform effectively is important. The investment research specialist, Morningstar, offers a wide range of data and analysis tools that allow investors to assess and compare performance on over 13,000 funds. How can this help choose the best mutual funds?

Why is Mutual Fund Performance Important?

Those looking to invest in mutual funds are looking for a return on investment. A successful fund will deliver profit on the initial cash buy-in that suits the risk preference of the individual. An unsuccessful one may not give anticipated returns. It may not be possible to exactly predict future fund performance but investors should consider issues like fund type, asset allocation, risk and, of course, historical performance to help find suitable options.

How Can Morningstar Help Choose the Best Mutual Funds?

The Morningstar website may help some individual investors to understand more about their options with mutual fund investment. The data available to users may also help some to find and analyze suitable funds before choosing where to put their money. Based on a database of over 13,000 products, the site offers a wide range of services, including:

• Funds Group Investor

• Funds Income Retirement

  Retirement income: Designed for investors who are in or near the "drawdown" phase of retirement, in which they seek to withdraw assets for income

• New Jersey Tax Refunds

  Information and commentary on items of interest to tax professionals who practice in New Jersey by 39-year veteran tax preparer Robert D Flach.

• American Funds Break Points

  Glossary. This glossary is designed to help you learn more about investing and about the mutual funds, retirement plans and variable annuities offered by American Funds.

• Social Awareness Funds

  This free, easy-to-read guide will give you the knowledge you need to start investing in SRI mutual funds.