Visit the financial institution that has your 401(k). You should be able to login to area to find the ticker symbols for the various funds in your portfolio.

Visit Yahoo Finance or other financial places to get a check out your funds' performance. If you decide to use Yahoo Finance type in stock ticker and click on the "charts" link on the left side for more information. Add the ticker symbols in the add compare area. You will be able to see the performance of your funds in the chart.

Select a time period in years, preferably 7 to 10 years, because periods less than a year don't show relative performance. There is too much activity in a short period to show the average results. If you see negative results from a fund, then try to find a suitable replacement for your portfolio. Add the replacement ticker symbol to the chart.

Ask as many questions as possible from the person you have your 401(k) through. Find as much information as you need to make good decision. Consider a credit counseling institution to help you manage your financial burdens, so that you can effectively save and pay off your debts. You should check your results either quarterly or semiannually.