Must-Know Rules For Converting A 401(k) To A Roth
In 2008, the IRS spelled out the details for converting employer-plan funds directly to Roth IRAs.
Top 6 Myths About Social Security Benefits
Misinformation on retirement benefits is common. We'll set the record straight.
Five Tax(ing) Retirement Mistakes
Don't let these simple errors take the luster off your golden years.
Letter Of Instruction - Don't Leave Life Without It
This simple document can take the guesswork and headache out of settling your estate.
Maximize Your Social Security Benefits
The plan's cost of living adjustments can provide protection against inflation.
Systematic Withdrawal Of Retirement Income
You've accumulated the wealth you need to retire, but how will you distribute it? We'll lay out some options.
Immediate Annuities: Guaranteed Payout At A Price?
This vehicle can have very low, or even negative, rates. Find out when it pays to invest.
Five Ways To Fund Your Retirement
Generating income without going to work tends to be a murky concept. Find out how it works.
How Much Social Security Will You Get?
You've been paying in for years - now it's time to find out what the system owes you.
Not All Retirement Accounts Should Be Tax-Deferred
It may be better to leave your assets exposed to the tax man when you're saving to retire.
Ten Common Questions About Social Security
Find out everything you need to know about this program and whether it will benefit you.
For IRAs, Time Is Money
Don't procrastinate. The timing of your contributions can mean thousands more in savings.
Should You Convert Your IRA?
Discover the factors you must weigh to make this decision.
Playing Retirement Catch-Up
It's not too late, but if you want to retire comfortable, you'll have to be aggressive.
Overcome The Retirement "Gender Gap"
Learn why many women's post-work saving plans fall behind and what they can do to catch up.
No Need To Rush End-of-Career Retirement Planning
Your retirement is fast approaching, but your retirement plan needn't change as quickly.
Pursuing Alpha In A Well-Diversified IRA
This strategy is not as complex as some investment gurus would like you to believe.
New Option For Beneficiaries: Reversionary Annuities
This vehicle can provide survivors with guaranteed income and lower premiums.
Variable Annuities Safeguard Retirement Income
This option allows for more growth in your portfolio without putting your payout on the line.
Tax-Saving Advice For IRA Holders
Be informed about benefits and deductions that may apply to you and avoid costly mistakes on your return.
The 4-1-1 On 401(k)s
This plan has become one of the most popular retirement options. Find out why.
How After-Tax Rollovers Affect Your IRA
Consolidating retirement assets? Make sure you account for pre-tax and after-tax assets separately.
New Retirement Plan Limits For 2008
New changes to the law can have a huge impact on your nest egg.
The Simple Tax Math Of Roth Conversions
Roth conversions will be available to affluent taxpayers in 2010. Will you benefit?
Roth Or Traditional IRA...Which Is The Better Choice?
To answer this question, you need to consider several of the factors we outline here.
Taking Penalty-Free Withdrawals From Your IRA
If you need to take early distributions, learn under which circumstances you won't suffer expensive consequences.
Are You Buying Annuities Or Mutual Funds?
Investing a client's money in variable annuties is becoming a target for criticism.
IRA Contributions: Deductions and Tax Credits
We outline the incentives and help you take full advantage of the benefits.
IRA Contributions: Eligibility And Deadlines
Use this checklist for contribution requirements to make your payments on time.
Which Retirement Plan Is Best?
We'll show you how to choose between Roth IRAs, Traditional IRAs and 401(k)s.
Making Spousal IRA Contributions
Eligibility requirements, contribution limits and tax deductions all change with one little ring.
Is Your 401(k) On Track?
Small adjustments can have a significant impact on your returns. Learn what to watch for.
Bankruptcy Protection For Your Accounts
Will the plan assets you've worked hard for be safe if you experience a personal financial crisis?
Top 7 Estate Planning Mistakes
Many people try to avoid this process altogether, making things difficult for heirs.
High-Risk Retirement Portfolio Not Always Taboo
Find out how much risk your portfolio can take and whether your money will last.
Maxing Out Your RRSP (Canadian)
Increasing your savings will provide tax benefits - and peace of mind.
Income Relating: A New Concept In Medicare
You can retire, but you can never retire from income tax planning.
Retirement Living: Renting Vs. Home Ownership
Here are three simple questions you should consider when weighing this decision.
Six Ways To Lose Your Estate
Find out why you shouldn't put off putting your affairs in order.
Ethical Wills Share Final Thoughts With Heirs
This document allows a testator, the person making the will, to leave a personal legacy.
Five Retirement-Wrecking Moves
These common mistakes can sabotage your nest egg and your plans for retiring.
Healthy Survival Guide For Sandwiched Boomers
Caring for children and parents is squeezing baby boomers' finances. Find out how to cope.
Tax-Efficient Wealth Transfer
Taxpayers with large taxable estates must take steps to reduce them before 2011.
Combating Retirement's Silent Killer
Inflation can devour a once secure nest egg. Learn how to protect yours.
Variable Annuity Benefits: What The Fine Print Won't Tell You
Learn the truth before you strap yourself into these annuity "seat belts".
Weave Your Own Retirement Safety Net
Build savings to support yourself in case pension plans and Social Security fall through.
Journey Through The 6 Stages Of Retirement
Financial planning is important, but emotional planning is the key to retiree bliss.
Get A Step Up With Credit Shelter Trusts
Don't let unexpected taxes eat away at your inheritance or burden your heirs.
Money Can't Buy Retirement Bliss
Emotional snags can ruin your future happiness. Learn how you can avoid them.
Five Retirement Questions Everyone Must Answer
Find out what information you need to guide your planning and achieve your goals.
LTC Annuities: Two Safety Nets In One
Pairing insurance and an annuity sounds good, but do you really need this much coverage?
Bear-Proof Your Retirement Portfolio
Find out how to protect your assets so you can live out your dreams in style.
Burdening Your Retirement With A Mortgage
Carrying this debt can have benefits if done correctly, but is it worth the risk?
Boomers: Twisting The Retirement Mindset
This generation must take a whole new approach to post-work planning.
Are You Saving Too Much?
"Spend now! Don't worry about retirement," say some experts. Could they possibly be right?
Plan To Retire Rich
Don't just hope for the best - develop a course of action to achieve your goals.
Pension Plans: Pain Or Pleasure?
Employees have a love/hate relationship with this retirement option.
ETFs For Your 401(k)?
This investment's popularity is on the rise, but will it grow your retirement savings?
Need Retirement Income? Sell Your House!
Discover 10 tips for making a quick sale and a healthy profit.
Failing Health Could Drain Your Retirement Savings
You may not be able to prevent illness, but it doesn't have to infect your savings.
Find Secure And Affordable Post-Work Health Insurance
Learn how you can avoid financial catastrophe - without Medicare.
Can You Retire In Five Years?
The countdown is on. Find out whether you'll be ready to leave the working world.
Compound Your Way to Retirement
No more excuses. Make sure you are financially secure and independent for your golden years.
Immediate Annuities: More Income and Lower Taxes
These instruments may shed their bad rap to bring you a hefty tax break.
Life After Retirement
Here are some personal finance tips for those who want to live well after work ends.
Enjoy Life Now And Still Save For Later
Find out how to balance living well today and retiring well tomorrow.
A Pre-Retirement Checkup
Are you on track to post-work bliss? We'll tell you how to find out.
Stretch Your Retirement Budget
Living comfortably can be easy if you follow a simple plan.
Common Concerns For Retirees
Find out how to take action against some of the biggest financial post-work worries.
Insure Your Retirement Income
Use this vehicle to make sure your payout lasts as long as you do.
The Pros And Cons Of Life-Cycle Funds
These accounts will take charge of your retirement savings, but should you let them?
Chipping Away At The Pension Freeze Trend
Learn five steps that'll put your retirement back into your own hands.
Pension Law Could Reduce Your Payout
Discover how this act negatively affects your lump-sum withdrawals.
Retirement Saving Tips For 65-Year-Olds And Over
Find out how to save smarter after 65.
Build A Wall Around Your Assets
Learn how to protect your money from lawsuits, creditors and other judgment proceedings.
How IRA Contributions Affect Your Taxes
Learn how to work with the tax man to avoid getting gouged when you convert your plans.
Retirement Savings Tips For 55- To 64-Year-Olds
Find ways to save money and increase your nest egg for the fast-approaching golden years.
Retirement Savings Tips For 45- To 54-Year-Olds
Catch-up contributions can help you increase your nest egg.
A Year-End Retirement Planning Checklist
Make sure all your loose ends are tied with these simple reminders and tips for your plans.
Transfer Retirement Savings When You Change Jobs
Half of Americans lose their nest eggs when they switch careers. Learn why you should avoid this trap.
TIPRA Helps Convert Your Plans And Save More
Learn how to keep more of your money out of the tax man's pocket come retirement.
Retirement Savings Tips For 35- To 44-Year-Olds
Learn how the "sandwich generation" can save for retirement while taking care of their kids and parents.
Bursting Boomers' Inheritance Dreams
Waiting for a big payload from an aging relative? The chance of cashing in is lower than you think.
The Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation Rescues Plans
Find out how this "retirement lifeguard" can save drowning plans.
Retire In Style
Set your sights on the golden years and get there sooner.
Common IRA Rollover Mistakes
Avoid paying excess taxes by learning some simple transfer rules.
Eight Reasons To Never Borrow From Your 401(k)
Find out why dipping into your future savings can have serious consequences.
The Pension Bill: A Wolf In Sheep's Clothing
Find out why the 2006 act may not be all it's cracked up to be.
Stretch Your Savings By Working Into Your 70s
Staying employed a little longer may allow for a more comfortable retirement.
Pension Protection Act Of 2006 Becomes Law
Learn how the passed bill can help you save more for retirement.
Savings Plans For Minors
It's never too early to save for the future - learn how your children can get started.
Personal Pensions: Repackaging The Annuity
Discover an investment that can provide a stable income once you've left the work force.
Retiring Early: How Long Should You Wait?
Maximize your Social Security benefits by choosing when you retire.
IRAs: Legislative And Other Updates
Find out what's new in the world of IRAs and how you can get more bang for your buck.
Ten Tips For Achieving Financial Security
Follow this sound advice and plan for a comfortable future.
The Pros And Cons Of Alternative Investments
If you stray off the beaten path when investing your IRA assets, you'll find new potential pitfalls and rewards.
IRA Assets And Alternative Investments
Interested in non-traditional investing? Make sure you follow the rules to avoid prohibited transactions.
Time To Rethink Your Post-Work Needs
Don't rely on popular wisdom. Get the facts and plan for a comfortable future.
Introduction To Social Security
You've probably contributed to this fund, but will you reap the benefits? Find out here.
The Demise Of The Defined-Benefit Plan
Experts are making bleak predictions for your post-work years. Be prepared and plan for your future.
The Tax Benefits Of Having A Spouse
Check out the perks designed to promote and preserve your post-work savings - if you're married, that is.
Five Ways To Lose Your Nest Egg
We look at common mistakes that can put your savings at risk and provide ways to avoid them.
A New Approach To Long-Term Care Insurance
This practical product can protect you from the rising cost of care and provide for your beneficiaries at the same time.
A Closer Look At The Roth 401(k)
Learn about the benefits and drawbacks of this new investment account and see if it's right for you.
Saving Money With A Private Annuity Trust
Learn about a strategy that could help you reduce taxes, diversify your portfolio and generate income.
Avoiding Too Much Tax On Your Distributions
IRA assets can't be taxed twice - find out how to avoid paying the second time around.
Strategic Ways To Distribute Your RMD
We give you some tips on preserving your nest egg in the face of unavoidable withdrawals.
Should You Take A Loan From Your Plan?
Before you borrow from your retirement account, make sure you understand the implications.
Gifting Your Retirement Assets To Charity
There are several things to consider when it comes to this type of charitable giving. Make sure you're well informed.
Six Ways To Maximize The Value Of Your 401(k)
From matching employer contributions to proper asset allocation, we tell you how to get the most out of your plan.
The Importance Of Estate And Contingency Planning
What would happen if you were suddenly unable to manage your financial affairs? Preparation is the best protection.
Preparing To Tap Your Income Stream
You need to plan ahead to ensure a long and happy future away from the daily grind.
Tax Relief For Katrina Victims
Find out if you qualify for the assistance offered to hurricane survivors by the U.S. government.
An Overview Of After-Tax Balance Rules
Accumulating post-tax assets can work to your advantage. Find out how.
Lump Sum Versus Regular Pension Payments
If you're about to retire, you may be facing this dilemma soon. Find out what your options are.
Exploring Types Of Fixed Annuities
Understand what you're getting when buying these. Here we look at differences, advantages and disadvantages.
Introducing The Roth 401(k)
Offering the advantage of tax-free withdrawals after retirement, this new plan may be the one for you.
Inflation-Protected Annuities: Part Of A Solid Financial Plan
If you worry about inflation and longevity risks, this may be the investment for you.
Tax-Law Changes: Involuntary Cash-Out and Roth 401(k) and 403(b)
Stay up-to-date on regulation amendments to avoid penalties as well as take advantage of new opportunities.
Common Questions About Retirement Plans
We offer some solutions for the individual taxpayer as well as the small business owner.
Managing Income During Retirement
Learn some sensible strategies for making your hard-earned savings last for as long as you need them.
Selecting The Payout On Your Annuity
Make sure you understand your options for withdrawing your funds from this complex instrument.
An Overview Of Annuities
These contracts provide a guaranteed income stream. Learn how they work and their benefits.
Rolling Over Company Stock: A Decision To Think Twice About
It may be more beneficial for you to pay tax now than deferring it to an IRA. We show you how and why.
Fundamentals Of A Successful Savings Program
We outline how to determine what you need and how to get it with tools and investing techniques.
Keeping Track Of Your Assets
Maintain records of your pension benefits or risk losing them.
Settling Wrap Fees
Discover the tremendous advantage of paying these out of pocket rather than from your account.
Determining Your Post-Work Income
Setting a target amount is the first step. We show you how to calculate your goal and how to reach it.
Changes In Cash-Out Rules For Qualified Plans
Business owners need to take note of how they handle qualified-plan distributions to former employees.
Exceptions To The 60-Day Rollover Rule
A non-qualified distribution might still be tax and/or penalty free under certain conditions. Here we explain what they are.
Are You an Active Participant?
We help you answer this important question, which determines whether you can deduct your IRA contributions.
Moving Plan Assets: How to Avoid Mistakes
Sometimes things go wrong in a simple transfer of funds. Learn how to make sure it doesn't.
Receiving an Unexpected Form 1099-R
Did your IRA custodian report distributions you thought were non-reportable? Find out what went wrong.
Deducting Losses on Your IRA Investments
Find out what requirements must be met and how it is done.
Missed Your RMD Deadline? What To Do
If you fail to take the required minimum distribution from your retirement account, you need to take proper steps.
Delay In Saving Raises Payments Later On
The effects of compounding make it cheaper over the long term to save for retirement.
Avoiding RMD Pitfalls
If you don't calculate your required minimum distributions accurately, you might have to pay an excise tax.
Year-End Housekeeping Tips for Your Retirement Plans
To avoid penalties or missed opportunities, make sure you know which transactions must be completed by December 31st.
Making Salary Deferral Contributions - Part 2
If you see barriers stopping you from participating in your employer-sponsored retirement plan, there may be some easy solutions.
Making Salary Deferral Contributions - Part 1
If you aren't participating in your employer-sponsored retirement plan, you're missing out! Learn the benefits.
Roth IRA: Back To Basics
Be sure to consider the tax benefits and the elegibility requirements of the Roth IRA.
IRS Modifies Separate Accounting Rules
If you are a younger multiple beneficiary, make sure you take advantage of the change to RMD regulations.
Problematic Beneficiary Designations - Part 2
Designating a trust as your IRA beneficiary can be beneficial, but it requires proper planning to avoid problems.
Problematic Beneficiary Designations - Part 1
Make sure your beneficiary designations not only reflect your intentions but also meet the requirements to be effective.
Choosing The Right Type Of 529 Plan
Before you fund one of these education-savings vehicles, be sure you know their differences.
Stretch Your IRA
Find out how your beneficiaries can enjoy tax-deferred growth for as long as possible.
SIMPLE IRA Vs SIMPLE 401(k) Plans
See the differences that may cause an employer to choose one plan over the other.
Introduction To SIMPLE 401(k) Plans
Learn about the features and benefits of the plan that is a cross between a SIMPLE IRA and a traditional 401(k) plan.
IRA/ESA Mid-Year Statements
Learn how to read and verify 5498 and 5498-ESA reporting your retirement-account contributions.
Correcting Ineligible (Excess) IRA Contributions - Part 3
Eager to save for retirement? Learn how to avoid overpayment penalties.
Correcting Ineligible (Excess) IRA Contributions - Part 2
Eager to save for retirement? Learn how to avoid overpayment penalties.
Correcting Ineligible (Excess) IRA Contributions - Part 1
Eager to save for retirement? Find out how to avoid overpayment penalties.
The Saver's Tax Credit: An Added Incentive to Fund Your Plan
Here's another reason to put money toward your retirement nest egg.
Retirement Plan Tax Forms You May Need to File - Part 2
If you have a Roth IRA, you are responsible for keeping track of your pre-tax versus after-tax assets.
Establishing An SEP IRA
Setting up this simple plan may be right for your business.
Tax Credit For Plan Expenses Incurred By Small Businesses
Determine whether your business is eligible to claim a tax credit for establishing a retirement plan.
IRA Year-End Statements
Make sure you understand what these are telling you.
Year-End Reminders
If you don't know what must be done before the finish of the tax year, you may miss opportunities or even pay penalties.
Inherited Retirement Plan Assets - Part 2
To take full advantage of new RMD regulations, beneficiaries need to take action before important deadlines.
Inherited Retirement Plan Assets - Part 1
If you're a beneficiary of a retirement account, you should know your distribution options.
Preparing for the RMD Season - Part 2
Paying taxes is inevitable - that's why you need to learn about the rules for required minimum distributions.
Preparing for the RMD Season - Part 1
Paying taxes is inevitable - that's why you need to learn about the rules for required minimum distributions.
401(k) Plans For The Small-Business Owner
If you own a business, this may be the plan for you! Find out about its benefits and eligibility requirements.
Recharacterizing Your IRA Contribution or Roth Conversion
Learn reasons for making this transaction and the calculation of any earnings or losses.
The Importance Of Sept 30 For Multiple Beneficiaries
Unless certain action is taken by this date, distribution rules can put the youngest inheritor at a disadvantage.
Did Your Roth IRA Conversion Pass or Fail?
If you are moving assets from a Traditional IRA to a Roth IRA, you need to know the associated tax rules.
Avoiding IRS Penalties On Your IRA Assets
The best way to do this is to know what transactions can cause expensive consequences.
Consequences Suffered by Non-Conforming IRAs
To avoid jeopardizing your IRA assets, find out what transactions are prohibited.
Qualified Plan Loans: Guidelines to Operations
Thinking of adding a loan feature to your company's plan? Here's what you need to know.
Borrowing From Your Plan
Left with no alternative but to take money out from your retirement savings? Here are some guidelines.
Benefits for Members of the Armed Forces
If your plans have been affected by your time in the combat zone, fear not!
Getting A Divorce? Understand the Rules Of Dividing Plan Assets
Learn how different rules of asset handling apply to various retirement plans.
Combining Your Plan Assets? Not So Fast!
You might reduce the costs of maintaining more than one account, but you could also be forfeiting tax benefits.
Tough Times...Should You Disturb Your Qualified Plan's Assets?
Before you do, know the eligibility rules, tax consequences and the proper procedures.
Disclaiming Inherited Plan Assets
There are some good reasons for choosing not to accept the funds, but be sure you follow the proper process.
Moving Your Plan Assets?
You may want to do so if you are changing jobs or retiring, but make sure you know the rules and your options.
Update Your Beneficiaries
Life changes make it time to rewrite your plan's designations.
Tax Treatment Of Roth IRA Distributions
Learn the requirements for withdrawing funds tax and penalty free.
Don't Forget The Kids: Save For Their Education And Retirement
Retirement and education financing are the two most important planning items for taxpayers.
Traditional IRA Deductibility Limits
Find out where you can take a tax deduction on the contributions you make.
Increased Savings Opportunities
Find out how the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2001 gave taxpayers greater ability to prepare for the future.
'Tis The Season For Required Minimum Distributions
Make your RMD deadlines and save more of your nest egg.
Rules Regarding Substantially Equal Periodic Payment (SEPP)
Learn an exception to the early-withdrawal penalty.
Plans The Small-Business Owner Can Establish
Don't hesitate to adopt a smart plan for you and your employees.
Supplementing Your Retirement Income With IRAs
According to the Trustees of the Social Security Fund, the fund will be depleted by 2034. Are you ready?
Passing the Buck: The Hidden Costs of Annuities
These may look like good retirement vehicles, but beware of fees buried in the fine print.
What Enron Taught Us About Retirement Plans
Past mismanagement of employer stock-ownership plans can help you learn what to avoid today.
