May, 2017
Saving for a Large Purchase
Saving for a large-screen television? A new car? A real estate down payment? This checklist can help you reach any savings goal.
May, 2017
Understanding Defined Benefit Plans
This article explains what a defined benefit (DB) plan is and why participating in one can help employees achieve greater financial security.
May, 2017
Resources to Help Those Caring for a Loved One at Home
Being a caregiver can be overwhelming, particularly if you are juggling other responsibilities, such as working or raising a family. Knowing where to turn for help can make a difference -- both in the quality of care your loved one receives and in lessening the stress and responsibilities on you. This article provides some of the resources you can turn to for help.
May, 2017
Should You Convert to a Roth IRA?
Investors at any level of income can convert assets from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. This article explains the potential benefits and tax implications of a conversion.
April, 2017
Will Your Money Last? Risks to Retirement Income
To be viable, a retirement income strategy needs to account for the effects of longevity, inflation, health care expenses, and the uncertain future of Social Security.
April, 2017
Controlling Health Care Costs in a Small Business
Reducing health care costs is a high priority for many small-business owners, yet the decision to do so often forces them to make difficult decisions regarding the benefits they can offer to employees.
April, 2017
Is a High-Deductible Plan Right for You?
High-deductible health plans can offer significant savings in annual premiums, but they often pose greater limitations than low-deductible plans and are not for everyone.
April, 2017
Frequently Asked Retirement Income Questions
Frequently asked questions about retirement income planning with plain-English answers.
March, 2017
Tax Strategies for Retirees
Managing taxes in retirement can be complex. Thoughtful planning may help reduce the tax burden for you and your heirs.
March, 2017
Turning 30 and Getting Serious About Finances
This article profiles one hypothetical investor in order to highlight the benefits of beginning to pursue important financial goals as early as possible.
March, 2017
Ten Investment Mistakes to Avoid
What not to do to lose money: Avoid these 10 investment mistakes.
March, 2017
Job-Changer’s Financial Checklist
There may be a lot happening when you change jobs. This checklist can help you keep in touch with important details.
March, 2017
Starting Out: Begin Funding for Your Financial Security
This financial planning overview for those just entering the workforce offers tips on saving, budgeting, insurance, and paying off student loans.
February, 2017
Using Trusts to Maximize Charitable Giving While Minimizing Estate Taxes
This article describes the key characteristics and potential benefits of two types of trusts — charitable lead trusts and charitable remainder trusts.
February, 2017
The Alternative Minimum Tax—Not Just for the Wealthy
This article examines the alternative minimum tax (AMT) and identifies ways to potentially minimize or avoid it.
February, 2017
Social Security: Income Replacement Trends Declining for Working Couples
In a way it seems counter-intuitive. Yet a recent report published by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College found that as more women have left their posts as full-time homemakers and joined the workforce, the income replacement rate that Social Security provides to two-earner married couples has been in steady decline.
September, 2016
The Mathematics of Investing
A handy reference for those who want to calculate their own investment metrics such as yield and annual return.
September, 2016
Buying Life Insurance: What Kind and How Much?
Universal life policies are highly flexible in regard to premiums and face value. Premiums can be increased, decreased or deferred, and cash values can be withdrawn. You may also have the option to change face values.
September, 2016
College Planning—It’s About More Than Money
There is more to college planning than saving and investing. There is financial aid to consider as well as the search to find the "just right" institution for your child.
September, 2016
Income Inequality and Its Impact on Women’s Retirement
Gender issues affect more than just a woman's paychecks. Longevity, family caregiving, and the gender wage gap influence women's long-term financial well-being and retirement security.
August, 2016
Why More Americans Don’t Own Life Insurance
Here is some basic -- but important -- information about life insurance policies and why so many Americans are under- or uninsured.
August, 2016
Tips for Avoiding an Early Withdrawal Penalty
One way to potentially avoid paying an early withdrawal penalty on money taken from your IRA before age 59½ is to use what is called "substantially equal periodic payments (SEPPs)."
August, 2016
Sell Your Employer Match
Employer matching contributions can go far toward attracting and retaining talented, loyal employees. Make sure you are "getting the message out" about this important benefit
August, 2016
Buying a Car
Buying a car can be exciting, but also complex. This checklist can help you through the process.
August, 2016
Own a Retirement Account? Keep Your Beneficiary Designations Up to Date
When was the last time you checked the beneficiary designations on your retirement plans? It's an important -- but often overlooked or forgotten -- aspect of wealth transfer.