Money Over 55: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Soc. Security Spouse Benefit
A social security spouse benefit is called a “spousal benefit”. Here are some key things you need to know about the social security spousal benefit.
A social security spouse benefit is called a “spousal benefit”. Here are some key things you need to know about the social security spousal benefit.
Social Security Earnings Limit
If you take social security benefits before full retirement age, and you earn income in excess of the annual earnings limit, your social security benefit will be reduced. Working while receiving Social Security benefits can catch you off guard if you don't know the rules.
If you take social security benefits before full retirement age, and you earn income in excess of the annual earnings limit, your social security benefit will be reduced. Working while receiving Social Security benefits can catch you off guard if you don't know the rules.
6 Financial Advisor Fees
Financial advisor fees vary from advisor to advisor. Learn the six ways financial advisors charge fees and you can decide which way you think is best.
Financial advisor fees vary from advisor to advisor. Learn the six ways financial advisors charge fees and you can decide which way you think is best.
Retire At 55
Want to retire at 55? Here are three things to consider before you retire at 55.
Want to retire at 55? Here are three things to consider before you retire at 55.
Social Security At Age 62
Should you take social security at age 62... or not? Here are a few general guidelines you can use to determine if it makes sense for you to start taking social security benefits at age 62.
Should you take social security at age 62... or not? Here are a few general guidelines you can use to determine if it makes sense for you to start taking social security benefits at age 62.
Retirement Investments
If you’re searching for information on retirement investments you’re probably looking for an investment that will provide income for you. If so, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of retirement investments with additional information on each.
If you’re searching for information on retirement investments you’re probably looking for an investment that will provide income for you. If so, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find a comprehensive list of retirement investments with additional information on each.
401k Retirement Age
There is not a mandatory 401k retirement age. There are, however, different rules that apply to distributions you take at different ages. The three ages to take note of are 55, 59 1/2, and 70 1/2. Below are the rules that apply at each of those retirement ages.
There is not a mandatory 401k retirement age. There are, however, different rules that apply to distributions you take at different ages. The three ages to take note of are 55, 59 1/2, and 70 1/2. Below are the rules that apply at each of those retirement ages.
Taxes On Social Security
If you have sources of income in addition to Social Security, then you may have to pay taxes on your Social Security benefits. The amount of taxes you pay on Social Security benefits will depend on your combined income.
If you have sources of income in addition to Social Security, then you may have to pay taxes on your Social Security benefits. The amount of taxes you pay on Social Security benefits will depend on your combined income.
Retirement Income Calculator
A good retirement calculator will help you determine how much you may have available to spend each month in retirement, the likelihood your savings will last throughout your retirement, and options to make up for potential shortfalls.
A good retirement calculator will help you determine how much you may have available to spend each month in retirement, the likelihood your savings will last throughout your retirement, and options to make up for potential shortfalls.
5 Safe Investments
Looking for a safe investment? Here is a list of five investment choices that are considered safe. Their primary goal is to protect what you have rather than earn you a high return.
Looking for a safe investment? Here is a list of five investment choices that are considered safe. Their primary goal is to protect what you have rather than earn you a high return.
Best Social Security Calculators
Don't claim Social Security without calculating first. The right Social Security calculator can help you get more out of your benefits, particularly for married couples.
Don't claim Social Security without calculating first. The right Social Security calculator can help you get more out of your benefits, particularly for married couples.
Questions to Ask
Five questions to ask a potential financial advisor that will help you determine if they are the right financial advisor for you. These questions help you determine their level of integrity and their ability to communicate to you in language and terms you can understand.
Five questions to ask a potential financial advisor that will help you determine if they are the right financial advisor for you. These questions help you determine their level of integrity and their ability to communicate to you in language and terms you can understand.
Making Safe Investments
Here you'll find a list of five safe investments as well as answers to other questions about safe investments, such as how much of your money should be in them.
Here you'll find a list of five safe investments as well as answers to other questions about safe investments, such as how much of your money should be in them.
IRA Early Withdrawal
An IRA early withdrawal is any amount withdrawn from your IRA prior to your age 59 1/2. IRA early withdrawals are subject to a 10% penalty tax in addition to ordinary income taxes. Below are the circumstances which may qualify you for an exception to the 10% penalty tax on an IRA early withdrawal.
An IRA early withdrawal is any amount withdrawn from your IRA prior to your age 59 1/2. IRA early withdrawals are subject to a 10% penalty tax in addition to ordinary income taxes. Below are the circumstances which may qualify you for an exception to the 10% penalty tax on an IRA early withdrawal.
Divorce & Social Security
Can you collect social security benefits based on an ex-spouse's work record? Yes, and I’ve spent hours scouring the internet to pull together this and other relevant information on social security and divorce. I’ll give you the highlights, and the links to dig down into the nitty-gritty details.
Can you collect social security benefits based on an ex-spouse's work record? Yes, and I’ve spent hours scouring the internet to pull together this and other relevant information on social security and divorce. I’ll give you the highlights, and the links to dig down into the nitty-gritty details.
Credit Score Factors
You need to know exactly how your credit score is calculated. There are 5 components to your credit score and some carry more weight than others.
You need to know exactly how your credit score is calculated. There are 5 components to your credit score and some carry more weight than others.
Social Security Office Locations
Social security office locations can be found by inputting your zip code into the social security office location web page at the link below.
Social security office locations can be found by inputting your zip code into the social security office location web page at the link below.
Buying Rental Property
Rental property can provide a stable source of income, but like any investment, you need to understand what you are getting into before you buy. Here are the three things to consider.
Rental property can provide a stable source of income, but like any investment, you need to understand what you are getting into before you buy. Here are the three things to consider.
Retirement Taxes
In the United States, there are no specific retirement taxes. Instead, you continue to pay tax on your income each year as you receive it, much like you did before you were retired. So, if there are no retirement taxes, how do you know how much tax you will pay in retirement? Each type of income you receive will have different tax rules that apply to it. Below is a summary of the most commons sources of retirement income, and the rules that apply.
In the United States, there are no specific retirement taxes. Instead, you continue to pay tax on your income each year as you receive it, much like you did before you were retired. So, if there are no retirement taxes, how do you know how much tax you will pay in retirement? Each type of income you receive will have different tax rules that apply to it. Below is a summary of the most commons sources of retirement income, and the rules that apply.
What Is Financial Planning?
What is financial planning, and what type of advice should I expect from my financial advisor? What will a good financial planner do?
What is financial planning, and what type of advice should I expect from my financial advisor? What will a good financial planner do?
Investment Income
Investment income can be defined as either predictable, variable or guaranteed. Learn more about how to find investments that generate each type of investment income.
Investment income can be defined as either predictable, variable or guaranteed. Learn more about how to find investments that generate each type of investment income.
Past Stock Market Returns
This table shows you historical stock market returns from 1973 through 2009, on a year by year basis. Negative stock market returns occur, on average, one out of every four years.
This table shows you historical stock market returns from 1973 through 2009, on a year by year basis. Negative stock market returns occur, on average, one out of every four years.
Lump Sum Or Annuity
When you retire from a company with a pension plan you are often given the choice of taking your distribution as a lump sum or as an annuity payment. Here you'll find the pros and cons and step by step instructions on how to compare the lump sum verses the annuity distribution.
When you retire from a company with a pension plan you are often given the choice of taking your distribution as a lump sum or as an annuity payment. Here you'll find the pros and cons and step by step instructions on how to compare the lump sum verses the annuity distribution.
Should You Buy An Annuity?
Questions to ask before you decide to buy an annuity.
Questions to ask before you decide to buy an annuity.
Best Index Funds
Index funds provide one of the most effective ways to invest to meet your long term investing goals. Below is a list of some of the very best index funds to choose from.
Index funds provide one of the most effective ways to invest to meet your long term investing goals. Below is a list of some of the very best index funds to choose from.
Full Retirement Age
Full retirement age – what you need to know about social security benefits, working, and full retirement age.
Full retirement age – what you need to know about social security benefits, working, and full retirement age.
Security Retirement Benefits
Here are the things you need to know about collecting social security retirement benefits; things like how working affects your benefits, if you will have to pay taxes on social security benefits, and how collecting benefits early affects you and your spouse.
Here are the things you need to know about collecting social security retirement benefits; things like how working affects your benefits, if you will have to pay taxes on social security benefits, and how collecting benefits early affects you and your spouse.
Tax On Home Sale
Will I pay tax when I sell my home? What kind of taxes do you pay on home sales?
Will I pay tax when I sell my home? What kind of taxes do you pay on home sales?
How Much To Retire?
How much to retire? Great question. It takes some soul searching and some calculating to come up with the answer. These four steps will help you determine how much you will need to retire.
How much to retire? Great question. It takes some soul searching and some calculating to come up with the answer. These four steps will help you determine how much you will need to retire.
Active vs. Passive
How does an actively managed mutual fund differ from a passive mutual fund? Academically, which performs better: actively managed investing or passive investing?
How does an actively managed mutual fund differ from a passive mutual fund? Academically, which performs better: actively managed investing or passive investing?
Taxable Retirement Income
Is retirement income taxable? It depends on where your retirement income will come from, and how much of it you will have. Below is a list of common sources of retirement income broken down into taxable retirement income, partially taxable retirement income, and tax free retirement income.
Is retirement income taxable? It depends on where your retirement income will come from, and how much of it you will have. Below is a list of common sources of retirement income broken down into taxable retirement income, partially taxable retirement income, and tax free retirement income.
Short Term Retirement Planning
Short term retirement planning: 5 steps you must take within 5 years of retirement.
Short term retirement planning: 5 steps you must take within 5 years of retirement.
5 Steps To Make An Investment Plan
To make an investment plan you simply ask yourself the right questions, and patiently work through the answers. Here are the five questions you need to ask.
To make an investment plan you simply ask yourself the right questions, and patiently work through the answers. Here are the five questions you need to ask.
Fee-Only Financial Advisor
What is the difference between a fee-only financial advisor and a fee based financial advisor?
What is the difference between a fee-only financial advisor and a fee based financial advisor?
Internal Rate Of Return
You can use an internal rate of return, or expected internal rate of return, to adequately compare investment alternatives. Here you'll learn more and find calculators to help you calculate your own internal rate of return.
You can use an internal rate of return, or expected internal rate of return, to adequately compare investment alternatives. Here you'll learn more and find calculators to help you calculate your own internal rate of return.
Collect Now And Later
This social security strategy allows your spouse to collect a spousal benefit based on your earnings record while you continue to work, maximizing your own benefit by accumulating delayed retirement credits
This social security strategy allows your spouse to collect a spousal benefit based on your earnings record while you continue to work, maximizing your own benefit by accumulating delayed retirement credits
IRA Minimum Distributions
When you reach the age of 70 ½ the IRS requires that you start taking distributions from your qualified retirement accounts. The amount required to be withdrawn is called a required minimum distribution. Find out when you have to take it, how much you have to take and what happens if you don't.
When you reach the age of 70 ½ the IRS requires that you start taking distributions from your qualified retirement accounts. The amount required to be withdrawn is called a required minimum distribution. Find out when you have to take it, how much you have to take and what happens if you don't.
Election Year Returns
How do election years affect stock market returns? We'll look at every election year since 1928, and the corresponding stock market return, but should you make investment decisions based on this data?
How do election years affect stock market returns? We'll look at every election year since 1928, and the corresponding stock market return, but should you make investment decisions based on this data?
How To Invest 401k Money
No need to reinvent the wheel. Most 401k plan now offer foolproof ways to invest your 401k money. Learn how to identify these great choices.
No need to reinvent the wheel. Most 401k plan now offer foolproof ways to invest your 401k money. Learn how to identify these great choices.
Current/Past Earnings Limits
If you take Social Security benefits before you reach full retirement age, and you earn income in excess of the annual earnings limit, your Social Security benefits will be reduced. Here are the current and past years' earnings limits for reference.
If you take Social Security benefits before you reach full retirement age, and you earn income in excess of the annual earnings limit, your Social Security benefits will be reduced. Here are the current and past years' earnings limits for reference.
Capital Loss Carryover
Capital losses can carryover to future tax years to be used to offset future capital gains.
Capital losses can carryover to future tax years to be used to offset future capital gains.
T. Rowe Price Retirement Income Calculator
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Retirement Income Funds
Managed payout funds, monthly income funds, income replacement funds, or retirement income funds; they each have a different name, but a common goal, which is to provide you a way to invest your money, and receive regular retirement income. They offer a great, all in one investment management solution, and are a more flexible alternative to annuities.
Managed payout funds, monthly income funds, income replacement funds, or retirement income funds; they each have a different name, but a common goal, which is to provide you a way to invest your money, and receive regular retirement income. They offer a great, all in one investment management solution, and are a more flexible alternative to annuities.
Immediate Annuity Returns
To compare an immediate annuity to other investment options, you have to estimate the rate of return that it will provide.
To compare an immediate annuity to other investment options, you have to estimate the rate of return that it will provide.
High Yield Investments
High yield investments offer additional income, but remember with high returns come greater risks. When you evaluate investments that appear to pay more you should approach them like Sherlock Holmes… with a healthy degree of skepticism. Be sure to question everything, and pay attention to the details.
High yield investments offer additional income, but remember with high returns come greater risks. When you evaluate investments that appear to pay more you should approach them like Sherlock Holmes… with a healthy degree of skepticism. Be sure to question everything, and pay attention to the details.
Start A Consulting Business
Later life careers - 6 steps to take before you start a consulting business.
Later life careers - 6 steps to take before you start a consulting business.
Social Security Survivor Benefit
Upon the death of a spouse, you are eligible for a social security survivor benefit as long as you have been married for at least 9 months. Here are additional details on how much, what age, and documents needed to claim a social security survivor benefit.
Upon the death of a spouse, you are eligible for a social security survivor benefit as long as you have been married for at least 9 months. Here are additional details on how much, what age, and documents needed to claim a social security survivor benefit.
IRA Rollover
An IRA rollover or IRA transfer is a tax-free transaction, if done correctly. Here are eight frequently asked questions about IRA rollovers. They'll explain what qualifies and what does not.
An IRA rollover or IRA transfer is a tax-free transaction, if done correctly. Here are eight frequently asked questions about IRA rollovers. They'll explain what qualifies and what does not.
Best Financial Advisor
You want to make sure you hire the best financial advisor possible so before you hire a financial advisor, do your homework. Read through each of the seven steps below, follow them carefully and you will be able to find the best financial advisor for your situation.
You want to make sure you hire the best financial advisor possible so before you hire a financial advisor, do your homework. Read through each of the seven steps below, follow them carefully and you will be able to find the best financial advisor for your situation.
Social Security For Ex Spouse
Here are ten facts about social security benefits for an ex spouse.
Here are ten facts about social security benefits for an ex spouse.
Increase Social Security
Take these steps to increase the amount of Social Security you will receive.
Take these steps to increase the amount of Social Security you will receive.
dividendyields
The dividend yield on a stock can change just as rapidly as the stock price. Dividend stocks can be a good source of investment but take the time to understand how a dividend yield works so you won't get caught off guard.
The dividend yield on a stock can change just as rapidly as the stock price. Dividend stocks can be a good source of investment but take the time to understand how a dividend yield works so you won't get caught off guard.
401k Loans
Here are seven things you need to know about a 401k loan before you take one.
Here are seven things you need to know about a 401k loan before you take one.
Bond Prices And Interest Rates
You may have heard that bond prices rise when interest rates fall, and bond prices fall when interest rates rise. Why is this? A dollars and cents example offers the best explanation of the relationship between bond prices and interest rates.
You may have heard that bond prices rise when interest rates fall, and bond prices fall when interest rates rise. Why is this? A dollars and cents example offers the best explanation of the relationship between bond prices and interest rates.
When To Take Social Security
You are wondering when to take social security retirement benefits. Having the funds sooner rather than later sounds nice, but does it really work to your benefit? Of course, the answer depends. Here are the factors to consider.
You are wondering when to take social security retirement benefits. Having the funds sooner rather than later sounds nice, but does it really work to your benefit? Of course, the answer depends. Here are the factors to consider.
Investment Advisors
Investment advice and financial planning are two different services. What should you expect from a good investment advisor?
Investment advice and financial planning are two different services. What should you expect from a good investment advisor?
ROTH IRA Withdrawals
There’s a mass of messy information out there about ROTH IRA withdrawals. I read through several leading articles, and the IRS website, and found little information the average person could decipher. So here’s the simple scoop about ROTH IRA distributions.
There’s a mass of messy information out there about ROTH IRA withdrawals. I read through several leading articles, and the IRS website, and found little information the average person could decipher. So here’s the simple scoop about ROTH IRA distributions.
Safe Investment Returns
How much income can I expect to receive from safe investments? See a table showing historical safe investment returns from 1973 to today.
How much income can I expect to receive from safe investments? See a table showing historical safe investment returns from 1973 to today.
How Much In Stocks vs. Bonds?
As I get older, how much of my money should be invested in stocks vs. bonds?
As I get older, how much of my money should be invested in stocks vs. bonds?
Social Security & Early Retirement
There are four things you should know about early retirement and social security; how early retirement affects social security benefits, that you are not required to take social security early just because you retire early, how your pension benefits interact with social security, and how working during early retirement affects your social security. Details within.
There are four things you should know about early retirement and social security; how early retirement affects social security benefits, that you are not required to take social security early just because you retire early, how your pension benefits interact with social security, and how working during early retirement affects your social security. Details within.
Stop Social Security
You already filed for social security retirement benefits; now you want to stop social security and reapply later, can you? Maybe... it depends on how old you are. Details here.
You already filed for social security retirement benefits; now you want to stop social security and reapply later, can you? Maybe... it depends on how old you are. Details here.
Social Security Quiz
Social Security Quiz Sorry, but this quiz requires that you have javascript turned on. Please turn javascript
Social Security Quiz Sorry, but this quiz requires that you have javascript turned on. Please turn javascript
Withdrawal Rate Rules
Learn the six withdrawal rate rules you must follow when creating a portfolio to generate lasting retirement income. These rules help you make appropriate adjustments to your withdrawal rate, reducing the probability that you will run out of money.
Learn the six withdrawal rate rules you must follow when creating a portfolio to generate lasting retirement income. These rules help you make appropriate adjustments to your withdrawal rate, reducing the probability that you will run out of money.
Before Cashing Out 401k
Is cashing out of your 401k plan a good idea? Is it even possible? Don't make a decision to cash out your 401k plan without knowing what you might be giving up.
Is cashing out of your 401k plan a good idea? Is it even possible? Don't make a decision to cash out your 401k plan without knowing what you might be giving up.
Measuring Investment Risk
Measure investment risk accurately and you'll know what to expect. Learn how to tell the difference between low, medium and high risk investments and you'll avoid costly mistakes.
Measure investment risk accurately and you'll know what to expect. Learn how to tell the difference between low, medium and high risk investments and you'll avoid costly mistakes.
2012 IRA Limits
2012 Traditional IRA rules, contribution limits, and earned income limitations.
2012 Traditional IRA rules, contribution limits, and earned income limitations.
Verify Advisor Credentials
Two simple ways to check on the legitimacy of your financial advisor. Be sure to verify financial advisor credentials and complaint record.
Two simple ways to check on the legitimacy of your financial advisor. Be sure to verify financial advisor credentials and complaint record.
15 To Do's Pre-Retirement
15 most important things you must do during your pre-retirement years - ideas about health and fitness, family relationsips, anti-aging, careers, travel, money and more.
15 most important things you must do during your pre-retirement years - ideas about health and fitness, family relationsips, anti-aging, careers, travel, money and more.
Dividend Index Funds
Rising dividends can provide a hedge against inflation. One way to get exposure to dividend paying stocks with a solid dividend history is to use a dividend index mutual fund, or dividend index exchange traded fund. In moderation, one or all of the five dividend income stock funds below can be an appropriate addition to a retirement income portfolio.
Rising dividends can provide a hedge against inflation. One way to get exposure to dividend paying stocks with a solid dividend history is to use a dividend index mutual fund, or dividend index exchange traded fund. In moderation, one or all of the five dividend income stock funds below can be an appropriate addition to a retirement income portfolio.
Second Career Stories
This is a list of must read articles filled real life stories about those who found creative ways to make a living and find fulfillment with their second career choices.
This is a list of must read articles filled real life stories about those who found creative ways to make a living and find fulfillment with their second career choices.
What's a Bad Investment?
Five rules to use to help you avoid bad investments.
Five rules to use to help you avoid bad investments.
Fixed Annuities
A fixed annuity can be in the form of an immediate fixed annuity or a deferred fixed annuity. They provide a guaranteed return, but before investing you should compare them with other alternatives that may provide more flexibility.
A fixed annuity can be in the form of an immediate fixed annuity or a deferred fixed annuity. They provide a guaranteed return, but before investing you should compare them with other alternatives that may provide more flexibility.
Vanguard Retirement Income Calculator Review
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Immediate Annuity
When you purchase an immediate annuity you enter into a contract with an insurance company to purchase a guaranteed stream of income. The amount of monthly income you receive from the immediate annuity will be based on the type of annuity (fixed, variable or inflation-indexed), the term of the annuity that you choose (life-only, joint life, term certain), and your age and gender.
When you purchase an immediate annuity you enter into a contract with an insurance company to purchase a guaranteed stream of income. The amount of monthly income you receive from the immediate annuity will be based on the type of annuity (fixed, variable or inflation-indexed), the term of the annuity that you choose (life-only, joint life, term certain), and your age and gender.
RMD Calculator
RMD calculations vary depending on whether you are taking a current required minimum distribution, a beneficiary distribution or projecting your future distributions. Pick the RMD calculator below based on what you need to estimate. Here are 3 RMD calculators to try.
RMD calculations vary depending on whether you are taking a current required minimum distribution, a beneficiary distribution or projecting your future distributions. Pick the RMD calculator below based on what you need to estimate. Here are 3 RMD calculators to try.
Social Security Strategies
Are there social security strategies you can use to get the most out of your social security benefits? Yes, but each one only works if you fit a specific set of criteria.
Are there social security strategies you can use to get the most out of your social security benefits? Yes, but each one only works if you fit a specific set of criteria.
Guaranteed Withdrawal Benefits
There are plenty of ways to create retirement income, but only a few of them come with guarantees. Several variable annuities now offer guaranteed retirement income by using something called a guaranteed withdrawal benefit or lifetime income rider. They're worth checking out.
There are plenty of ways to create retirement income, but only a few of them come with guarantees. Several variable annuities now offer guaranteed retirement income by using something called a guaranteed withdrawal benefit or lifetime income rider. They're worth checking out.
How To Look Younger
Creating a youthful look can be an important component of finding new pursuits in the workplace. Read these tips on how to look younger, many from the author of How Not To Look Old.
Creating a youthful look can be an important component of finding new pursuits in the workplace. Read these tips on how to look younger, many from the author of How Not To Look Old.
Social Security Retirement Age
The amount of benefits you receive will depend on the Social Security retirement age that you choose. If you take Social Security at 62, or any time before full retirement age (defined below), and continue to work and earn an amount in excess of the earnings limit, your Social Security benefits will be reduced. Details here.
The amount of benefits you receive will depend on the Social Security retirement age that you choose. If you take Social Security at 62, or any time before full retirement age (defined below), and continue to work and earn an amount in excess of the earnings limit, your Social Security benefits will be reduced. Details here.
Apply And Suspend
This social security strategy allows your spouse to collect a spousal benefit based on your earnings record while you continue to work, maximizing your own benefit by accumulating delayed retirement credits.
This social security strategy allows your spouse to collect a spousal benefit based on your earnings record while you continue to work, maximizing your own benefit by accumulating delayed retirement credits.
Take Money Out of a 401k Plan
Taking money out of your 401k plan in the wrong way can be costly. Read the rules and find the best way to take money out depending on your age and situation.
Taking money out of your 401k plan in the wrong way can be costly. Read the rules and find the best way to take money out depending on your age and situation.
Pre Tax Vs After Tax
When discussing retirement plans and taxes we often use the terms “pre-tax” or “after-tax” dollars. How do you know what is pre-tax and what is after-tax?
When discussing retirement plans and taxes we often use the terms “pre-tax” or “after-tax” dollars. How do you know what is pre-tax and what is after-tax?
Investing For Retirement
Here are the four things you must do when investing for retirement.
Here are the four things you must do when investing for retirement.
Retirement Asset Allocation
A traditional approach to retirement asset allocation would put your money in stocks and bonds and estimate how much you could withdraw each year. Your other alternative would be to buy an immediate annuity that guarantees lifetime income. A new retirement asset allocation models gives you the best of both worlds.
A traditional approach to retirement asset allocation would put your money in stocks and bonds and estimate how much you could withdraw each year. Your other alternative would be to buy an immediate annuity that guarantees lifetime income. A new retirement asset allocation models gives you the best of both worlds.
Do You Need Life Insurance?
I’m Retired…Do I Still Need Life Insurance? To answer this, first you must understand that life insurance isn't really about insuring your life.
I’m Retired…Do I Still Need Life Insurance? To answer this, first you must understand that life insurance isn't really about insuring your life.
Dividend Income Funds
Looking for dividend income, but you don't really want to pick and choose individual stocks? It might be time to dive in and take a good look at dividend income funds. Dividend income funds do the work for you, owning a diversified selection of dividend paying stocks, and collecting the dividends and paying them out to you typically on a monthly or quarterly basis.
Looking for dividend income, but you don't really want to pick and choose individual stocks? It might be time to dive in and take a good look at dividend income funds. Dividend income funds do the work for you, owning a diversified selection of dividend paying stocks, and collecting the dividends and paying them out to you typically on a monthly or quarterly basis.
Best Finance Magazines
Pick a finance magazine, or two or three, read them regularly, and you'll be amazed at what you learn in a relatively short amount of time. The problem is, with so many finance magazines on the market, where should you start? The list below will get you headed in the right direction.
Pick a finance magazine, or two or three, read them regularly, and you'll be amazed at what you learn in a relatively short amount of time. The problem is, with so many finance magazines on the market, where should you start? The list below will get you headed in the right direction.
Earned Income
Earned income is the money you earn from working. It includes wages, salaries, tips and net earnings from self employment income. Earned income does not include investment income like annuities, pension income, withdrawals from IRAs and other retirement accounts, capital gains distributions and passive income generated from rental real estate.
Earned income is the money you earn from working. It includes wages, salaries, tips and net earnings from self employment income. Earned income does not include investment income like annuities, pension income, withdrawals from IRAs and other retirement accounts, capital gains distributions and passive income generated from rental real estate.
Early Retirement Age
Many Americans think of age 55 or earlier as an early retirement age. My definition of early retirement age is any age before age 65. Here's why.
Many Americans think of age 55 or earlier as an early retirement age. My definition of early retirement age is any age before age 65. Here's why.
Financial Planner Fees
Unfortunately there is no such thing as a “typical” financial planner fee. Instead there are six ways financial planners may charge fees, which can vary from commissions to an hourly rate. Here are the six types of financial planning fees you may encounter.
Unfortunately there is no such thing as a “typical” financial planner fee. Instead there are six ways financial planners may charge fees, which can vary from commissions to an hourly rate. Here are the six types of financial planning fees you may encounter.
1000 Marbles
An inspiring story using 1000 marbles to reflect how many Saturdays we may have left, and how we choose to spend them.
An inspiring story using 1000 marbles to reflect how many Saturdays we may have left, and how we choose to spend them.
35 Years Of Work History Important
Social security uses your highest thirty-five years of work history to calculate your social security retirement benefit. To increase your social security benefits make sure you have a full 35 years of work history. Think of this calculation like an average; if you have a zero as one of the numbers, it will pull the average down.
Social security uses your highest thirty-five years of work history to calculate your social security retirement benefit. To increase your social security benefits make sure you have a full 35 years of work history. Think of this calculation like an average; if you have a zero as one of the numbers, it will pull the average down.
Social Security Death Benefits
There are two types of Social Security death benefits paid out. One is a lump sum. The other is an ongoing monthly benefit called a survivor benefit.
There are two types of Social Security death benefits paid out. One is a lump sum. The other is an ongoing monthly benefit called a survivor benefit.
Enough To Retire?
Are you saving enough to retire? Will you have enough to retire? Walk through these five steps and in five minutes you can come up with a simple yes or no answer.
Are you saving enough to retire? Will you have enough to retire? Walk through these five steps and in five minutes you can come up with a simple yes or no answer.
4 Retirement Myths
These four retirement myths cause people to retire too soon.
These four retirement myths cause people to retire too soon.
Variable Annuity Taxation
Variable annuity taxation is talked up, but the reality is you may pay more in taxes by using a variable annuity than if you had used other investment alternatives.
Variable annuity taxation is talked up, but the reality is you may pay more in taxes by using a variable annuity than if you had used other investment alternatives.
Your Retirement Plan Timeline
What to do and how to plan as you near certain retirement ages. Key ages are 55, 59 1/2, 62, 65 and 70 1/2.
What to do and how to plan as you near certain retirement ages. Key ages are 55, 59 1/2, 62, 65 and 70 1/2.
Below Average Returns
Average investors earn market returns substantially less than the historical returns they should be earning. Find out why.
Average investors earn market returns substantially less than the historical returns they should be earning. Find out why.
Best And Worst Rolling Index Returns 1973 - Mid 2009
The charts in this series show investment performance in the form of rolling index returns. Rolling returns do not go by calendar year; instead they look at every one year, three year, five year, etc. time period beginning anew each month over the historical time frame selected. Rolling returns give you a much better indication of stock market performance than most other ways of looking at market returns.
The charts in this series show investment performance in the form of rolling index returns. Rolling returns do not go by calendar year; instead they look at every one year, three year, five year, etc. time period beginning anew each month over the historical time frame selected. Rolling returns give you a much better indication of stock market performance than most other ways of looking at market returns.
Retirement Expenses
To determine how much money you will need to retire, you must first estimate your retirement expenses; how much you think you will spend each year in retirement.
To determine how much money you will need to retire, you must first estimate your retirement expenses; how much you think you will spend each year in retirement.
Unfair Advantage Book Review
Unfair Advantage teaches great principles, yet there are three things I don't like about the book.
Unfair Advantage teaches great principles, yet there are three things I don't like about the book.
Earning Extra Money
Earning extra money is the fastest way to rebuild retirement plans. Here is a list of articles filled with tips and ideas on how to make extra money to jumpstart your own plans.
Earning extra money is the fastest way to rebuild retirement plans. Here is a list of articles filled with tips and ideas on how to make extra money to jumpstart your own plans.
Variable Annuity Comparison
It is rare you will see an objective comparison of a high fee variable annuity to other lower cost alternatives. This analysis shows you how a variable annuity would have held up under various historical market conditions.
It is rare you will see an objective comparison of a high fee variable annuity to other lower cost alternatives. This analysis shows you how a variable annuity would have held up under various historical market conditions.
Foreclosure And Credit Scores
There are several ways a foreclosure or short sale affects your credit score. If done correctly, a short sale can have less of an affect on your credit score than a foreclosure.
There are several ways a foreclosure or short sale affects your credit score. If done correctly, a short sale can have less of an affect on your credit score than a foreclosure.
Social Security Pay Back
This social security strategy entailed paying back social security benefits already received. As of December 2010, social security only allows you to change your mind and pay back benefits within the first twelve months of starting your social security retirement benefits.
This social security strategy entailed paying back social security benefits already received. As of December 2010, social security only allows you to change your mind and pay back benefits within the first twelve months of starting your social security retirement benefits.
Estimating Life Expectancy
Estimating life expectancy can help you make better financial decisions about social security, life insurance, annuities, pensions and more. Better decisions can potentially add thousands upon thousands of dollars to your lifetime income. From simple to advanced methods, here are six ways to estimate your life expectancy.
Estimating life expectancy can help you make better financial decisions about social security, life insurance, annuities, pensions and more. Better decisions can potentially add thousands upon thousands of dollars to your lifetime income. From simple to advanced methods, here are six ways to estimate your life expectancy.
Finding Financial Advisors
These five financial advisor search engines allow you to narrow down your search so you can find just the right financial advisor.
These five financial advisor search engines allow you to narrow down your search so you can find just the right financial advisor.
Early Retirement
Ask five people what early retirement means to them, and you’ll get five different answers. Regardless of what it means to you, here are the three steps to take to plan for an early retirement.
Ask five people what early retirement means to them, and you’ll get five different answers. Regardless of what it means to you, here are the three steps to take to plan for an early retirement.
Bond Ladders
What is a bond ladder or laddered bond portfolio? How do you use a bond ladder as part of a balanced portfolio, or to meet upcoming cash flow needs?
What is a bond ladder or laddered bond portfolio? How do you use a bond ladder as part of a balanced portfolio, or to meet upcoming cash flow needs?
Investment Fees and Expenses
Understand these six investment fees before you invest.
Understand these six investment fees before you invest.
Refinance A Home
Learn how tighter lending standards will affect your ability to refinance a home.
Learn how tighter lending standards will affect your ability to refinance a home.
What Is A Custodian?
What is a custodian and how can you determine if they can adequately protect your assests from investment fraud?
What is a custodian and how can you determine if they can adequately protect your assests from investment fraud?
AARP Retirement Income Calculator Review
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
5 Types Of IRA Withdrawals
There are 5 types of IRA withdrawals; early (hardship IRA withdrawals are included in this category), regular IRA withdrawals (meaning you are over age 59 1/2), required minimum distributions (which start at 70 1/2), ROTH IRA withdrawals, and an IRA rollover or transfer.
There are 5 types of IRA withdrawals; early (hardship IRA withdrawals are included in this category), regular IRA withdrawals (meaning you are over age 59 1/2), required minimum distributions (which start at 70 1/2), ROTH IRA withdrawals, and an IRA rollover or transfer.
Guaranteed Income
The are many ways to build a floor of guaranteed retirement income: annuities, pensions, reverse mortgages, longevity insurance and more. Here's what you need to know about using these vehicles to maximize your own guaranteed, lifetime income.
The are many ways to build a floor of guaranteed retirement income: annuities, pensions, reverse mortgages, longevity insurance and more. Here's what you need to know about using these vehicles to maximize your own guaranteed, lifetime income.
Social Security Checks
Need to know when your Social Security check will be deposited? Find the Social Security check schedule and answers to additional questions.
Need to know when your Social Security check will be deposited? Find the Social Security check schedule and answers to additional questions.
Qualified Advisors
How to choose a finanical advisor: learn what credentials, compensation structure and type of experience you must look for when you seek out a financial advisor, financial planner, investment advisor or certified financial planner.
How to choose a finanical advisor: learn what credentials, compensation structure and type of experience you must look for when you seek out a financial advisor, financial planner, investment advisor or certified financial planner.
Midlife Career Change
Using a midlife career change to extend the life of your career can have a substantial impact on your balance sheet. Begin to think of your career as your greatest asset.
Using a midlife career change to extend the life of your career can have a substantial impact on your balance sheet. Begin to think of your career as your greatest asset.
Immediate Annuity Alternatives
An immediate annuity can be a good solution if you want to know you can not outlive your money. Once you buy an immediate annuity, however, you can no longer access your principal. Before you make such a permanent decision, consider alternatives to immediate annuities. The best solution may be to build a combination of income producing investments by using an immediate annuity along with one or more of the choices below.
An immediate annuity can be a good solution if you want to know you can not outlive your money. Once you buy an immediate annuity, however, you can no longer access your principal. Before you make such a permanent decision, consider alternatives to immediate annuities. The best solution may be to build a combination of income producing investments by using an immediate annuity along with one or more of the choices below.
Pension Benefits For Spouse
When you retire and you are vested in your pension plan, you will have to choose how you want to receive your pension benefits. Your pension benefit will offer choices like life-only, joint and survivor, or life with ten years certain. How do you evaluate these choices and pick the right one for you and your spouse?
When you retire and you are vested in your pension plan, you will have to choose how you want to receive your pension benefits. Your pension benefit will offer choices like life-only, joint and survivor, or life with ten years certain. How do you evaluate these choices and pick the right one for you and your spouse?
Managed Payout Funds
Vanguard has three funds called Managed Payout Funds, each designed to provide monthly income while maintaining or growing your original investment. Here's an overview of how they work, expenses, and minimums.
Vanguard has three funds called Managed Payout Funds, each designed to provide monthly income while maintaining or growing your original investment. Here's an overview of how they work, expenses, and minimums.
Reduce Taxable Income
You may be able to rearrange your investments to reduce your taxable income.
You may be able to rearrange your investments to reduce your taxable income.
Tax Planning Strategies
To implement effective tax planning strategies, use these ideas to look at your expected taxable income each year, and figure out how to shift income to a lower tax bracket.
To implement effective tax planning strategies, use these ideas to look at your expected taxable income each year, and figure out how to shift income to a lower tax bracket.
Creating Retirement Income
As you begin to think about where your retirement income will come from, take the time to work your way through this set of articles that spell out 9 ways to generate retirement income from your investments.
As you begin to think about where your retirement income will come from, take the time to work your way through this set of articles that spell out 9 ways to generate retirement income from your investments.
First Time Home Buyer
Certain penalty-free IRA withdrawals, or more recently, tax credits, may be available if you qualify as a first time home buyer.
Certain penalty-free IRA withdrawals, or more recently, tax credits, may be available if you qualify as a first time home buyer.
S&P 500 Index Rolling Stock Market Returns
This bar chart shows the rolling returns from 1973 - mid 2009 for the S&P 500 Index over 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, and 20 years.
This bar chart shows the rolling returns from 1973 - mid 2009 for the S&P 500 Index over 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, and 20 years.
Schwab Retirement Savings Calculator Review
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Online Investment Classes
Online investment classes and online education about retirement planning. These investment courses provide fantastic information. Everyone nearing retirement should have a basic level of investment education and this is a great place to start.
Online investment classes and online education about retirement planning. These investment courses provide fantastic information. Everyone nearing retirement should have a basic level of investment education and this is a great place to start.
Strategic Asset Allocation
What is strategic asset allocation and how does it differ from tactical asset allocation?
What is strategic asset allocation and how does it differ from tactical asset allocation?
2011 IRA Limits
2011 Traditional IRA rules, contribution limits, and earned income limitations.
2011 Traditional IRA rules, contribution limits, and earned income limitations.
What Is An Index Fund?
Buying an index fund, or even better, a portfolio of index funds, is a way to own almost every publicly traded stock that is available. Think of it like owning every team in the NFL, instead of trying to bet on which team will win the Superbowl this year.
Buying an index fund, or even better, a portfolio of index funds, is a way to own almost every publicly traded stock that is available. Think of it like owning every team in the NFL, instead of trying to bet on which team will win the Superbowl this year.
IRA Rates
In order to find the best IRA rate, first you have to know there is no such thing as an IRA rate. What? It's true. An IRA is simply a type of account. It is up to you to decide which investments to put in that account. The investments you choose will dictate the rate, or investment returns, you receive.
In order to find the best IRA rate, first you have to know there is no such thing as an IRA rate. What? It's true. An IRA is simply a type of account. It is up to you to decide which investments to put in that account. The investments you choose will dictate the rate, or investment returns, you receive.
Mutual Fund Fees
All mutual funds have fees; some more than others. Mutual fund fees will fall into one of these 5 categories. Find out which fees your funds have.
All mutual funds have fees; some more than others. Mutual fund fees will fall into one of these 5 categories. Find out which fees your funds have.
Pay Off Mortgage Early
A study conducted by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College concluded that “retired households are, in theory, better off repaying their mortgage.” Does that mean you should go cash in your investments to pay off your mortgage now? It depends, of course, on your individual situation. You need to factor in risk and taxes before making a decision to pay off your mortgage early. Below are resources to help you make a smart decision.
A study conducted by the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College concluded that “retired households are, in theory, better off repaying their mortgage.” Does that mean you should go cash in your investments to pay off your mortgage now? It depends, of course, on your individual situation. You need to factor in risk and taxes before making a decision to pay off your mortgage early. Below are resources to help you make a smart decision.
Retirement Inome Plan
A retirement income plan is a year by year timeline that shows you where your retirement income will come from. It can be done on a sheet of graph paper, or quite easily in an Excel spreadsheet (or other spreadsheet program). Here is how you create one.
A retirement income plan is a year by year timeline that shows you where your retirement income will come from. It can be done on a sheet of graph paper, or quite easily in an Excel spreadsheet (or other spreadsheet program). Here is how you create one.
Retirement Account Withdrawals
Socking away all your money into tax deductible retirement accounts may not always be the best thing to do.
Socking away all your money into tax deductible retirement accounts may not always be the best thing to do.
Investing Basics
Investing basics: the perfect investment would be safe, provide income and grow. Unfortunately, it doesn't exist. Instead you have to understand investing basics so you can combine investments (which is called building a portfolio) to achieve the right combination of safety, income and growth.
Investing basics: the perfect investment would be safe, provide income and grow. Unfortunately, it doesn't exist. Instead you have to understand investing basics so you can combine investments (which is called building a portfolio) to achieve the right combination of safety, income and growth.
Start In Real Estate
How To Get Started In Real Estate Investment is one in a series of books by John T. Reed, all filled with practical, how to advice, checklists and scripts.
How To Get Started In Real Estate Investment is one in a series of books by John T. Reed, all filled with practical, how to advice, checklists and scripts.
401k Contribution Limits
401k contribution limits are composed of salary deferral and catch up contributions. Find maximum 401k contribution limits here.
401k contribution limits are composed of salary deferral and catch up contributions. Find maximum 401k contribution limits here.
Start A Small Business
6 non-financial steps to take to research a small business start up.
6 non-financial steps to take to research a small business start up.
Treasury Securities
Treasury securities come in the form of treasury bonds, notes, bills, TIPS, as well as Series EE and I savings bonds. You can now buy treasury securities direct by opening your own Treasury Direct account.
Treasury securities come in the form of treasury bonds, notes, bills, TIPS, as well as Series EE and I savings bonds. You can now buy treasury securities direct by opening your own Treasury Direct account.
Bond Yields
Need a simple explanation of bond yields? This example is for you.
Need a simple explanation of bond yields? This example is for you.
Retirement Calculator Reviews
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Find the best retirement calculator for your situation, see pros and cons of popular retirement calculators, learn what they do well, and what their limitations are.
Best and Worst Index Returns Over One Year Rolling Time Frames
The charts in this series show you stock market performance in the form of rolling returns. Rolling returns do not go by calendar year; instead they look at every one year, three year, five year, etc. time period beginning anew each month over the historical time frame selected. Rolling returns give you a much better indication of stock market performance than most other ways of looking at market returns.
The charts in this series show you stock market performance in the form of rolling returns. Rolling returns do not go by calendar year; instead they look at every one year, three year, five year, etc. time period beginning anew each month over the historical time frame selected. Rolling returns give you a much better indication of stock market performance than most other ways of looking at market returns.
Avoid Investment Fraud
Investment fraud, such as that perpetuated by Bernie Madoff, could have easily been avoided if investors followed one simple rule.
Investment fraud, such as that perpetuated by Bernie Madoff, could have easily been avoided if investors followed one simple rule.
Table of Social Security Taxation
This table shows how much tax an average married couple will pay in retirement, and how much tax they will pay on their Social Security benefits.
This table shows how much tax an average married couple will pay in retirement, and how much tax they will pay on their Social Security benefits.
6 Ways to Buy Things For Less
6 Ways to Buy Things For Less
6 Ways to Buy Things For Less
Buying Mutual Funds
These 5 mutual fund buying mistakes will cost you money. Here's how to avoid them.
These 5 mutual fund buying mistakes will cost you money. Here's how to avoid them.
Retire at 62
Should you retire at 62 or 65? Here are several things you'll want to consider before you decide.
Should you retire at 62 or 65? Here are several things you'll want to consider before you decide.
401k Vesting
401k vesting, or what you may call your “vested balance”, refers to how much of your 401k balance goes with you if you leave the company. Vesting is also used to determine how much you can borrow if you take a 401k loan, as you can only borrow from your vested balance.
401k vesting, or what you may call your “vested balance”, refers to how much of your 401k balance goes with you if you leave the company. Vesting is also used to determine how much you can borrow if you take a 401k loan, as you can only borrow from your vested balance.