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”. You may be eligible for it even if you have your own 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”. You may be eligible for it even if you have your own benefit. Here are some key things you need to know about the Social Security spousal benefit.
401k Retirement Age - 55, 59 1
There is not a mandatory 401k retirement age. However the rules on taking money out of your 401k change depending on how old you are. 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. However the rules on taking money out of your 401k change depending on how old you are. 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
Taxes On Social Security Benef
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.
6 Financial Advisor Fees
Financial advisor fees vary from advisor to advisor. Here are the six common ways financial advisors charge fees. You can decide which structure is best for your needs.
Financial advisor fees vary from advisor to advisor. Here are the six common ways financial advisors charge fees. You can decide which structure is best for your needs.
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.
Should You Take Social Securit
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.
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.
What to Know Before Cashing Ou
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.
Full Retirement Age
Knowing your Full Retirement Age for Social Security benefits is important for two reasons. Get it wrong, and you may get less in benefits.
Knowing your Full Retirement Age for Social Security benefits is important for two reasons. Get it wrong, and you may get less in benefits.
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?
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.
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.
Social Security Quiz
Social Security Quiz: social security quiz security retirement benefits social security retirement sans serif font social security benefits
Social Security Quiz: social security quiz security retirement benefits social security retirement sans serif font social security benefits
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.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions On
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.
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.
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.
401k Hardship Withdrawals - Ru
Not all 401k plans allow hardship withdrawals. If they do, here are the rules that apply.
Not all 401k plans allow hardship withdrawals. If they do, here are the rules that apply.
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.
3 Things You Must Know Before
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.
401k Beneficiary – Inherited 4
You inherited money that is in a 401k plan. Here are the rules the apply to when and how you can take the money out.
You inherited money that is in a 401k plan. Here are the rules the apply to when and how you can take the money out.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Required Minimum Distributions
What is a required minimum distribution? It starts when you reach 70 1/2. Find out when you have to take it, how much you have to take and what happens if you don't.
What is a required minimum distribution? It starts when you reach 70 1/2. Find out when you have to take it, how much you have to take and what happens if you don't.
Social Security Formula
The forumula used to calculate how much Social Security you will get is complex. Here is a step-by-step guide, with examples, so you can see exactly what is used to calculate your Social Security benefits.
The forumula used to calculate how much Social Security you will get is complex. Here is a step-by-step guide, with examples, so you can see exactly what is used to calculate your Social Security benefits.
Should You Buy An Annuity? 5 Q
Five questions to ask before you buy an annuity.
Five questions to ask before you buy an annuity.
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.
What is My Social Security Ret
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.
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.
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.
8 IRA Rollover Frequently Aske
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.
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.
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.
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.
Social Security for Marrieds
Married couples should not look at when to take Social Security the same way a single person would. H
Married couples should not look at when to take Social Security the same way a single person would. H
High Yield Investments For Inc
High yield investments offer additional income, but remember with high returns come greater risks. Here's a list of high yield investments you can use to start your research.
High yield investments offer additional income, but remember with high returns come greater risks. Here's a list of high yield investments you can use to start your research.
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.
3 Foolproof Ways To Allocate Y
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
What Is Financial Planning?
What is financial planning, and what type of advice should I expect from my financial advisor? Here is what a good financial planner will do for you.
What is financial planning, and what type of advice should I expect from my financial advisor? Here is what a good financial planner will do for you.
2013 ROTH IRAS
2013 Roth IRA rules, contribution limits, and earned income limits.
2013 Roth IRA rules, contribution limits, and earned income limits.
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.
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.
When To Take Social Security
One of the most important retirement decisions you will make is deciding when to take Social Security. Here are the factors to consider.
One of the most important retirement decisions you will make is deciding when to take Social Security. Here are the factors to consider.
IRA Rates
The answer as to how to find the best IRA rate may surprise you.
The answer as to how to find the best IRA rate may surprise you.
Past Stock Market Returns
This table shows you historical S&P 500 stock market returns from 1973 through 2011, on a year by year basis. You can see that negative stock market returns occur, on average, one out of every four years.
This table shows you historical S&P 500 stock market returns from 1973 through 2011, on a year by year basis. You can see that negative stock market returns occur, on average, one out of every four years.
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.
Find Unclaimed Money
Millions of dollars are waiting to be claimed in old bank accounts, pension plans, forgotten 401(k) plans, and at the IRS due to undeliverable tax refunds. Some of it might be yours. Here are seven ways to find unclaimed money that might be waiting for you.
Millions of dollars are waiting to be claimed in old bank accounts, pension plans, forgotten 401(k) plans, and at the IRS due to undeliverable tax refunds. Some of it might be yours. Here are seven ways to find unclaimed money that might be waiting for you.
ESPlanner Basic Retirement Calculator Review
See why ESPlanner Basic is the best free retirement calculator we could find.
See why ESPlanner Basic is the best free retirement calculator we could find.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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?
Apply For Medicare
Almost 65? Over 65? Covered by a group health plan still? Not yet enrolled in social security? Here are the guidelines as to when and how you should apply for medicare.
Almost 65? Over 65? Covered by a group health plan still? Not yet enrolled in social security? Here are the guidelines as to when and how you should apply for medicare.
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.
Stop Social Security
Can you stop Social Security benefits once you start? Sometimes. Here are the conditions that must apply.
Can you stop Social Security benefits once you start? Sometimes. Here are the conditions that must apply.
Real Estate in an IRA
Is buying real estate in an IRA a good idea? For most people, the answer is no. Here's why.
Is buying real estate in an IRA a good idea? For most people, the answer is no. Here's why.
2013 IRA Limits
2013 Traditional IRA rules, contribution limits, and earned income limitations.
2013 Traditional IRA rules, contribution limits, and earned income limitations.
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.
The Great Depression
The Great Depression effects are still felt today. You see it spending habits of those who grew up under the shadow of the Great Depression. You see it in media references too. See pics, facts and a timeline to learn Great Depression basics.
The Great Depression effects are still felt today. You see it spending habits of those who grew up under the shadow of the Great Depression. You see it in media references too. See pics, facts and a timeline to learn Great Depression basics.
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.
Family Inheritance
Inheriting money can be great! Make it even greater by avoiding these family inheritance mistakes.
Inheriting money can be great! Make it even greater by avoiding these family inheritance mistakes.
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?
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 you to collect a spousal benefit based on your spouse's earnings record while you continue to work, maximizing your own benefit by accumulating delayed retirement credits.
This social security strategy allows you to collect a spousal benefit based on your spouse's earnings record while you continue to work, maximizing your own benefit by accumulating delayed retirement credits.
Expense Ratio
Are you paying too much? Knowing the expense ratio on your investments can help you reduce fees and earn more. Here's how.
Are you paying too much? Knowing the expense ratio on your investments can help you reduce fees and earn more. Here's how.
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.
What Is The Difference Between
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?
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.
Retirement Checklist
This retirement checklist provides 15 things you must do to financially prepare for retirement.
This retirement checklist provides 15 things you must do to financially prepare for retirement.
3 Rebalancing Guidelines
Develop rebalancing guidelines up front: rules that tell you how and when you will change your allocation. These 3 rebalancing guidelines can give you a good start on how and when to change your portofolio.
Develop rebalancing guidelines up front: rules that tell you how and when you will change your allocation. These 3 rebalancing guidelines can give you a good start on how and when to change your portofolio.
Your 401k Plan - 6 Things
What should you do with your 401k plan? Here are 6 things to know before you do anything.
What should you do with your 401k plan? Here are 6 things to know before you do anything.
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.
Withdrawal Rate Strategies for
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.
I Bonds - Best Safe Investment
What's the best safe investment that is so good they limit the amount you can buy? The answer might surprise you.
What's the best safe investment that is so good they limit the amount you can buy? The answer might surprise you.
Contributions to 401k Plans
Use these factors to help determine how much to contribute to your 401k plan.
Use these factors to help determine how much to contribute to your 401k plan.
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.
Closing an Estate
When closing the estate of a spouse or loved one it is easy to make costly mistakes. Here are 5 things you must and must not do after the loss of a loved one.
When closing the estate of a spouse or loved one it is easy to make costly mistakes. Here are 5 things you must and must not do after the loss of a loved one.
Safe Investment Returns
In today's low interest rate environment what returns can you expect from safe investments? Not much. See a table showing historical safe investment returns from 1973 to today.
In today's low interest rate environment what returns can you expect from safe investments? Not much. See a table showing historical safe investment returns from 1973 to today.
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.
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.
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.
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.
File And Suspend
The file and suspend 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.
The file and suspend 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.
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.
Is a Condo a Good Investment?
Should you buy a condo as an investment? Is a condo even a good investment? Here are the questions - and the numbers - that you'll need to address to determine the answer.
Should you buy a condo as an investment? Is a condo even a good investment? Here are the questions - and the numbers - that you'll need to address to determine the answer.
6 Investment Fees To Ask About
Investment fees lower your returns. Ask about these six investment fees before you buy.
Investment fees lower your returns. Ask about these six investment fees before you buy.
4 Retirement Myths
These four retirement myths cause people to retire too soon.
These four retirement myths cause people to retire too soon.
Is Gold a Good Investment?
Gold might be a good investment in some cases, but is retirement one of them? Here are my thoughts on gold as a retirement investment.
Gold might be a good investment in some cases, but is retirement one of them? Here are my thoughts on gold as a retirement investment.
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.
Survivor vs Spousal Benefits
There are a few key differences between a social security survivor benefit and a social security spouse benefit (spousal benefits taken while your spouse is alive.)Understanding them can help clear up much of the information you find about social security benefits.
There are a few key differences between a social security survivor benefit and a social security spouse benefit (spousal benefits taken while your spouse is alive.)Understanding them can help clear up much of the information you find about social security benefits.
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.
Retirement Expenses
Accurately estimating retirement expenses is one of the most important things you can do. Here's how to get started.
Accurately estimating retirement expenses is one of the most important things you can do. Here's how to get started.
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.
Restricted Application
In many cases you must use a restricted application to collect one type of Social Security benefit while preserving your option to later switch to another type. Here is an overview of the restricted application rules.
In many cases you must use a restricted application to collect one type of Social Security benefit while preserving your option to later switch to another type. Here is an overview of the restricted application rules.
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.
5 Search Engines To Use To Fin
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.
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.
What Should I Do With My Money
Before I, or anyone else, can tell you what you should with your money, we first need to know what you
Before I, or anyone else, can tell you what you should with your money, we first need to know what you
6 Ways A Financial Planner Can
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.
6 Social Security Mistakes
Social security claiming mistakes cost Americans billions. Avoid these costly mistakes and get more from your Social Security benefits.
Social security claiming mistakes cost Americans billions. Avoid these costly mistakes and get more from your Social Security benefits.
When to Retire
Wondering when to retire? Here's what you need to think about if you are trying to decide to retire at 55, 62, or 65. There is a lot to learn, so don't decide when to retire until you've armed yourself with good information.
Wondering when to retire? Here's what you need to think about if you are trying to decide to retire at 55, 62, or 65. There is a lot to learn, so don't decide when to retire until you've armed yourself with good information.
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.
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.
AARP Retirement Income Calculator Review
This a review of AARP's retirement calculator. Additional retirement calculator reviews are provided in this series.
This a review of AARP's retirement calculator. Additional retirement calculator reviews are provided in this series.
How to Make a Retirement Budget
Believe it or not, a retirement budget can lead to more fun in retirement. In addition, it can help you avoid one of the biggest mistakes people make in retirement.
Believe it or not, a retirement budget can lead to more fun in retirement. In addition, it can help you avoid one of the biggest mistakes people make in retirement.
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.
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.
Average Retirement Age
The U.S. Census Bureau tells us the average retirement age in the United States is 62. Social Security however, defines 62 as your early retirement age. There are 5 steps you should take if you are within 5 years of the average retirement age.
The U.S. Census Bureau tells us the average retirement age in the United States is 62. Social Security however, defines 62 as your early retirement age. There are 5 steps you should take if you are within 5 years of the average retirement age.
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.
Deferred Annuities
With deferred annuities, you deposit your funds with the annuity company (by investing in either a fixed, variable, longevity, or equity indexed annuity) and the taxes on any investment gains are deferred until such time as you take a withdrawal.
With deferred annuities, you deposit your funds with the annuity company (by investing in either a fixed, variable, longevity, or equity indexed annuity) and the taxes on any investment gains are deferred until such time as you take a withdrawal.
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.
Social Security for Widows
Social Security rules for widows and widowers are complicated. The amount you'll get depends on whether your spouse had or had not started their benefits, how old they were, and how old you are.
Social Security rules for widows and widowers are complicated. The amount you'll get depends on whether your spouse had or had not started their benefits, how old they were, and how old you are.
Dive Into Dividend Income Fund
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.
401k Vesting And What It Means
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.
Delayed Retirement Credits
Want to increase your social security retirement income by twenty-five percent or more? Once you reach full retirement age, your benefits do not cap out. As a matter of fact for each year after full retirement age that you delay taking benefits, you will accumulate delayed retirement credits, which result in a permanent increase in your benefits of five to eight percent a year.
Want to increase your social security retirement income by twenty-five percent or more? Once you reach full retirement age, your benefits do not cap out. As a matter of fact for each year after full retirement age that you delay taking benefits, you will accumulate delayed retirement credits, which result in a permanent increase in your benefits of five to eight percent a year.
2013 Tax Rates
With 2013 tax rates comes good news for lower earners and bad news for higher earners.
With 2013 tax rates comes good news for lower earners and bad news for higher earners.
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.
2013 401(k) Contribution Limits
2013 401(k) contribution limits went up slightly from 2012 limits.
2013 401(k) contribution limits went up slightly from 2012 limits.
6 Ways to Buy Things For Less
6 Ways to Buy Things For Less
6 Ways to Buy Things For Less
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.
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.
Health Insurance Retirement
Your health insurance has always been provided by your employer, but now you're preparing for retirement. What do you do? You’ll want to follow the steps below to evaluate your health insurance retirement options.
Your health insurance has always been provided by your employer, but now you're preparing for retirement. What do you do? You’ll want to follow the steps below to evaluate your health insurance retirement options.
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.
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?
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.
4 Things To Know About Investi
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 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.
6 Steps To Take Before You Sta
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.
The Scoop on Managed Accounts
Managed accounts come in many forms, some with excessively high fees. Bad ones reduce your wealth. The best managed accounts, however, are likely worth the price.
Managed accounts come in many forms, some with excessively high fees. Bad ones reduce your wealth. The best managed accounts, however, are likely worth the price.
Retirement Income 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.
Investment Advisors
Investment advice and financial planning are two different services. Here is what you should expect from an investment advisor.
Investment advice and financial planning are two different services. Here is what you should expect from an investment advisor.
Borrowing Money From Your 401k
If you need money should you borrow from your 401k? Here are the pros and cons.
If you need money should you borrow from your 401k? Here are the pros and cons.
Exercising Stock Options
Here are five factors to use in deciding when to exercise employee stock options.
Here are five factors to use in deciding when to exercise employee stock options.
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.
Taxes On IRA Distributions
Normal distributions (meaning you are over age 59 ½) from a Traditional IRA plan are included in your taxable income in the calendar year in which you take the distribution. The total amount of tax you pay on this IRA distribution will depend on the total amount of income and deductions that you have that year.
Normal distributions (meaning you are over age 59 ½) from a Traditional IRA plan are included in your taxable income in the calendar year in which you take the distribution. The total amount of tax you pay on this IRA distribution will depend on the total amount of income and deductions that you have that year.