With the final quarter of the year on the horizon, it's time to gear up for Q4 financial planning. The end of the year provides a unique opportunity to assess your financial landscape, recalibrate your goals, and set a course for a...
Read MoreIndividual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) and 401(k) plans are powerful tools for securing a financially stable retirement. However, misconceptions and myths can hinder individuals from making informed decisions about these essential...
Read MoreYour age significantly affects how much money you'll have during your retirement years, and different retirement benefits have different eligibility ages. Over the course of 23 years, from age 49 to 72, you'll need a financial...
Read MoreRetirement planning is essential to financial security in the latter half of life. An area that usually gets overlooked is healthcare expenses. While healthcare is necessary for retirees, it can often be the most significant unknown....
Read MoreRetirement is a time when most people expect to enjoy the fruits of their labor, with financial security and a steady income from investments or savings. However, for some individuals, this period can present a unique financial...
Read MoreLong-term care planning is an important aspect of retirement planning that is often overlooked. As people are living longer and healthcare costs are increasing, it is crucial to consider the cost of long-term care in retirement...
Read MoreA recent study by Investopedia found that Generation X’s biggest worry is retirement. The survey found that although many members of Gen X feel like they understand their finances, they are still concerned about transitioning into...
Read MoreWhether you’ve learned about annuities before or it’s your first time hearing about them, it’s important to first understand the basic concept and one of its simplest forms. In general, an annuity is a financial product that provides...
Read MoreAnnuities can be an excellent addition to your financial and retirement portfolio, but it's essential to determine whether they're the right fit for you and your financial goals. Here are some ways to know if annuities are right for...
Read MoreAn annuity is an investment product that is designed to provide a guaranteed income stream for a predetermined period, often for the rest of one’s life. An annuity is typically purchased from an insurance company, and the purchaser...
Read MoreJune is Annuity Awareness Month, a time to educate individuals on the benefits and importance of annuities. If you’re new to annuities or need a refresher, keep reading to understand the basics of annuities.Basically, an annuity is a...
Read MoreRetirement is a major milestone in the life of every individual, and it is no different for high-net-worth individuals. If you’re one of these individuals, you may think that being comfortable means you can worry less about retirement...
Read More529 Day is a holiday celebrated at the end of May, usually on May 29. It is a day dedicated to promoting and raising awareness for 529 college savings plans, a tax-advantaged way to save for college expenses, K-19 schooling expenses,...
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Read MoreCome springtime, you might be thinking about doing some spring cleaning, whether it’s cleaning out your garage, throwing out old items, or rearranging your furniture. However, it’s important not to forget to do some spring cleaning on...
Read MoreThe concept of financial literacy refers to knowing the basics of financial concepts to make smart decisions. Specifically, financial literacy can help prevent costly mistakes that could derail your life plans, prepare you for...
Read MoreIn the world of retirement strategizing, the focus tends to be on 401(k)s, IRAs, pensions, or other retirement investment accounts. But that doesn’t mean you should forget about the traditional savings account.Savings accounts can have...
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Read MoreFinancial Literacy Month is not only a celebration, it’s a challenge to take care of your finances as best you can. This month can be your opportunity to review your finances and take a concerted approach to improve them. But what’s...
Read MoreIf you’ve ever asked yourself, “what if there’s a way to reduce the taxes I owe when I sell stocks or rebalance my portfolio?” then you should know about the tax-minimization strategy called tax-loss harvesting. It’s important to know...
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Read MoreIn retirement, it’s not about receiving as much income as possible. During your working years, it might be, but when you’re the one paying yourself, it’s important not to turn your hard-earned savings into a large pile of income that’s...
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Read MoreDon’t wait until April to prepare your taxes! Tax filing preparation is an important process for individuals and businesses. It is the process of gathering, organizing, and submitting tax documents to the relevant tax authorities. The...
Read MoreAs the cost of higher education rises and the competition for spots at top colleges and universities steepens, you might wonder if it’s even worth it to make such a large investment in a college degree. The value of a college degree...
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Read MoreFinancial aid is a key piece of the college puzzle for many families. The sticker price of college in the US has gone up in the past decades, virtually across the board. What that means is financial aid is an increasingly important...
Read MoreThis month, the education community celebrates Financial Aid Awareness Month often by sharing information with students and families about access to federal, state, and institutional student aid. College and higher education costs can...
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Read MoreAchieving a comfortable retirement often comes down to investment performance and tax burden. However, it’s a tricky task to balance investment gains with a tax-minimization plan. If you expect your investments to perform well, you may...
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Read MoreYou may assume that there are no more tax minimization strategies to engage in after December 31. While most of your tax-lowering strategies do come before the new year, there are still steps you can take now, and all the way up until...
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Read MoreSaving for large expenses, whether in retirement or during your working years, is a tall task. It often requires you to cut back on spending and find ways to maximize your income. However, in retirement, there are some key differences...
Read MoreIf you search the Internet for tips on financial strategies, you’ll see many general rules and broad advice that may apply to an “average” retirement saver or retiree. But the truth is, those general pieces of advice rarely apply to...
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Read MoreConsidering a nursing home for long-term care or elder care is one of the most difficult decisions you and your family can encounter. Whether you have a health risk and planning for a future in a nursing home or are considering a...
Read MoreGovernment assistance programs are a common option for people looking for healthcare coverage, especially over the age of 65. However, while Medicare covers a lot, even covering emergency hospital visits at no cost, it doesn’t cover...
Read MoreThis month marks Long-Term Care Awareness Month. We have the knowledge and tools these days to live healthily and happily throughout our lives. But as we age, we need to invest more in our health. That’s why it’s crucial to understand...
Read MoreWhen the winter seasons come around, you’ll likely have to adjust your routines and prepare. If you’re in colder states you may be looking to purchase a new winter coat or snow boots, skiing equipment for your winter holidays, or you...
Read MoreThis Halloween season, you may be thinking about spending time with friends and family and planning fun Halloween events with them. You may not be thinking about all the nuances of your retirement strategy, but when you think about the...
Read MoreHealthcare is one of the largest expenses for people in retirement, but it’s not easy to budget for them. Sometimes, accidents happen, or certain health-related concerns can come out of nowhere. Because of how difficult it can be to...
Read MoreWith all this market volatility and inflation, talk about investment strategies and portfolio longevity seems to dominate the discussion on retirement. But one of the most important aspects of retirement is often overlooked: Medicare...
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You’re probably familiar with the classic retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions. But did you know there is a financial product out there that is customizable and can be tailored to your specific risks and financial goals?
An annuity is an insurance-based financial product that takes in payments from individuals and pays them back usually over a long period of time in a flow of payments or a lump sum when a certain event occurs, such as a specific time, age, or if an illness occurs. The insurance company can accept payments over time or in one lump sum as well. The money in it is invested by the financial institution and grows until the date that the payments are to be distributed to the beneficiary or account owner.
An annuity can provide regular payments from a fixed-rate, variable, or indexed annuity.
Fixed-rate annuities often take the form of a singular lump sum that is structured to provide you a set amount of income periodically. It’s not exposed to any market risk, its payout rates are fixed, and its principal value does not grow or decline.
Variable annuities are market-exposed annuities. These annuities have more risk involved and their payout amounts usually factor in the portfolio performance. The amount invested in a variable annuity can grow or decline.
Index annuities are market-exposed annuities but track a diversified index of stocks or equities. These types of annuities are a middle ground between some of the riskier assets that go into a variable annuity and the risk-averse, non-market-exposed fixed annuity.
Though annuities may seem complicated, the basic idea is simple. An insurance company receives a fixed or variable income stream for a predetermined period, or for life, in exchange for money in return.
With your retirement accounts, such as your 401(k)s, IRAs, or Roth IRAs, there are annual contribution limits and age restrictions that are meant to have your money used in a specific way regardless of your unique circumstance. With an annuity, the main benefit is that it is structured to be tailored to your unique needs.
It’s important to know that any guarantees, like interest or market protection, are backed by the financial strength and claims-paying ability of the issuing insurance company.
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Taxes are one of the most important things to consider when it comes to your retirement. You’ll likely have several sources of income in retirement that can be taxed, such as IRA distributions and Social Security benefits. But is your...
Read MoreEver wonder what type of life insurance is best for you? It depends on various factors, including how long you want the policy to last, how much you're willing to pay, and if you wish to use the policy as an investment vehicle. Let's...
Read MoreLong-term care is generally the most significant question mark when saving the optimal amount for your retirement years. According to Financial Professional Barry Bigelow, “statistically, if you're a married couple, there's a 25%...
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Read MoreThe average couple retiring today needs a whopping $315,000 to cover the cost of health care throughout their retirement.1 You’ll want to plan for those future health costs. Have you considered that your HSA (Health Savings Account)...
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Read MoreFor most families, navigating elder care decisions falls somewhere between adult siblings happily gathering together and planning for their parent’s future and siblings who barely speak making rash decisions in an effort to end a...
Read More2020 came in like a hurricane and it’s still stirring up the landscape nine months later. Unemployment is at an all-time high and consumer spending at its lowest. Any changes from this year’s election won’t come in time to get your...
Read MoreThe elections are coming up fast and with the current state of the country, we can expect a lot of changes to take place soon after the election, regardless of the outcome. Many of these changes will impact you financially so you want...
Read MoreWith COVID-19 at the forefront of everyone’s mind, many who have been holding off on estate planning are now prompted to quickly finalize estate plans so they will have something in place should illness or worse come calling. Without...
Read MoreFor young couples just getting started, new commitments, such as buying your first home or having children, bring with them the responsibility of making sure your loved ones will be provided for financially. Life insurance can help...
Read MoreIf the fear of outliving your retirement savings really haunts you, then looking into income sources that will keep going as long as you do may not be such a bad idea. You can potentially alleviate this financial anxiety by considering...
Read MoreElection years historically bring uncertainty to the stock market, and uncertainty often translates to economic volatility. While the changing of the guard will have an impact on your retirement, changes you make today can determine if...
Read MoreHave you discovered the value of podcasts for financial insight? Gaining outside perspectives is a smart way to look at your financial future. There are podcasts for all ages, genres, and cultures and they can be fiction or nonfiction...
Read MoreAs we head into the second half of 2020, you may notice a change in the way investment plans are presented to you by your financial advisor. The SEC implemented a new ruling called Regulation Best Interest (REG BI) that is aimed at...
Read MoreThe Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced it has expanded retirement fund withdrawal eligibility to "take into account additional factors such as reductions in pay, rescissions of a job offer, and delayed start dates." The updated...
Read MoreSelect premium credit cards often come with a concierge service benefit and most cardholders don’t know or don’t take advantage of the service. Much like having an assistant at the office, a concierge can do the legwork for your...
Read MoreThe impact of COVID-19 is colossal and everyone is feeling the impact. We all know someone who needs extra care during this pandemic. Do you have the financial resources and peace of mind in place to help? Perhaps you are a child...
Read MoreEveryone ages and, as a result, they eventually need personal and medical care in a comfortable living environment. Seniors are tasked with deciding what their care will look like and where they want to wake up each morning. With...
Read MoreFor some, the onset of COVID-19 brought about a much-needed reprieve from the traditional Spring tax deadlines. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) extended the deadline for all taxpayers to July 15, 2020. Anyone, including Americans...
Read MoreThese days women not only have to worry about balancing their duties as a family manager, but must focus on their own identity as financial contributors as well. Despite being great savers and increasingly influential in the workforce,...
Read More“I’m getting a divorce.” When one hears that statement, the first thought that frequently comes to mind is prepare for an emotional roller coaster and all the expenses that come with it. Every divorce is emotionally and financially...
Read MoreDid you know that Medicare typically doesn’t cover nursing homes or any in-home care? According to statistics, someone turning 65 today has almost a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care assistance.1 This includes...
Read MoreWith warmer temperatures, longer days, and spending more time at home, summer may be the prime time for home renovations. Whether it’s repainting your home, building a backyard deck, or remodeling the kitchen, modifications can not...
Read MoreWhen it comes to growing and preserving wealth, it’s important to bear in the mind the volatility of the markets and how it could impact your retirement income. Fortunately, there are ways to help shield your savings from market woes....
Read MoreNot too long ago, everything was normal and seemingly under control. Since then, the spread of the pathogen has shaken the foundation of the world we once knew and exposed the vulnerabilities of our health care systems. On March 26,...
Read MoreOver the past several months, the pandemic has led many Americans to financial hardships. Individuals are fearful of how they’ll meet their financial obligations. The stimulus package may help alleviate some of the concerns, but what...
Read MoreIn response to the economic fallout of the COVID-19 pandemic, the CARES Act contains a number of essential measures important to the financial security of the American population. This far-reaching legislation offers protection and...
Read MoreKids and grandkids are out of school and many of us are looking for ways to keep them occupied and on track with their schooling. Below are a few free resources that you can use with your loved ones to explore the world with a simple...
Read MoreCould COVID-19 change our lives forever? Undoubtedly so. The viral outbreak has absolutely upended our lives. With the stock market meltdown that began on February 20, 2020 and panicked headlines dominating the news, the financial...
Read MoreMany of us are adapting to this new COVID-19-induced environment. While it can serve as a disruption, one can still be very productive in our work. To help you settle in and feel more in control of your own work while at home, we...
Read MoreA pandemic poses a number of challenges that not only harms our health and our communities, but also our economies. As we’ve witnessed, the rapid-moving pathogen COVID-19 has brought daily lives of tens of millions of people to a...
Read MoreThe coronavirus is keeping us indoors, but you may still have to step out for essential errands like grocery shopping, grabbing take-out meals or picking up prescriptions from the pharmacy. As you’re venturing out, be cautious of...
Read MoreThe arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic has shook the financial stability of millions of Americans. In addition to mortgage relief, many financial institutions of all sizes, including Ally Financial, Bank of America, Citi, and Fifth Third...
Read MoreWith uncertainty swirling over the coronavirus (COVID-19), the markets are undoubtedly taking a hit. And while market volatility can be unsettling, it’s times like these when it’s important to remember we’re always keeping a watchful...
Read MoreAs the number of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. continue to rise, Americans are seeing their hours cut, jobs disappearing, and expenses adding up. While the situation remains grim and many are waiting to return to work, homeowners are...
Read MoreIn light of the coronavirus (COVID-19), we understand the concern and uncertainty you may be experiencing. As your entrusted financial professionals, we value not only the financial health of our clients and their families, but also...
Read MoreAmid the COVID-19 outbreak, the Treasury Department and Internal Revenue Service (IRS) announced that the tax deadline is being extended from April 15, 2020 to July 15, 2020.1 This allows three additional months for taxpayers to file...
Read MoreThe federal tax deadline of Wednesday, July 15 (recently extended in response to COVID-191) will be here sooner than you think. And many of you may be excited about the possibility of receiving a sizable refund. After filing taxes,...
Read MoreIf you’re feeling behind when it comes to retirement savings, you’re not alone. A surprising 70% of Americans are either falling short or don’t know where they stand.1 If you find yourself in this predicament, it’s time to stop...
Read MoreAs we get older and become frailer, we may find ourselves needing help with everyday activities that’s as simple as getting dressed, eating, or getting in and out of bed. Even if we’re healthy, accidents may necessitate assistance with...
Read MoreIf there’s one thing almost everyone can agree on, it’s not wanting to pay taxes. After all, who wants to give up their hard-earned money to the government? The retirement savings gap is a multifaceted issue for many working people....
Read MoreLife insurance proceeds can allow the bereaved to properly grieve without worrying about money. It gives families the financial protection that’s needed for potential funeral costs, living expenses, or even their financial future. If...
Read MoreAfter working hard all your life and planning diligently to achieve financial independence, the last thing you want is having to fork over a large percentage of your income to the IRS. Even when you’ve left the workforce, taxes will...
Read MoreSince its inception on August 14, 1935, Social Security has been instrumental in providing a foundation of income for many American retirees. Not only are Americans falling behind on savings for retirement, but Social Security was...
Read MoreThe retirement landscape is constantly in flux as Americans adapt to the ever-changing financial environment. On December 20, 2019, President Donald Trump signed the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act as...
Read MoreAs you’re making resolutions to do things better in the new year, here are three resolutions to ensure your estate plan is where it should be in 2020: Resolve to have an estate plan in place. According to a survey, 57% of U.S. adults...
Read MoreWhen planning for retirement, annuities can be critical to your strategy. They can provide a guaranteed stream of monthly payments that’ll last the rest of your life. Even though annuities may come in all shapes and sizes, here are...
Read MoreSaving is something many people wish to do more of, but a study finds 58% of Americans have less than $1,000 tucked away in their savings.1 Because we live in a society of consumerism and consumption, we spend beyond our means and have...
Read MoreLife insurance isn’t just for those married with children, single adults without children can benefit from it, too. When you’re single, healthy, and childless, a life insurance policy is probably the last thing on your mind. You might...
Read MoreHappy New Year! It’s a new year, a new you, and a new time to do things differently—like your taxes. Tax-filing season is officially here and there are many things you can do to be prepared and organized. Here are a few simple tips...
Read MoreThe New Year marks the opportunity for a new beginning. It’s a time to reflect, refresh, and recommit. A great way to start may be with solid financial resolutions that can help you reach your goals. You can start by making a list, but...
Read MoreThe average age most Americans expect to retire is 66, but there are a number of people settling into their golden years early. Planning for a traditional retirement isn’t always that simple and striving to retire early requires even...
Read MoreMany of us get so caught up in the holiday madness that we toss our budget aside and fall into what seems to be a never-ending spending cycle. Last year’s report shows about 51% of Americans overspent their budget on holiday gifts and...
Read MoreAs we set our eyes on the new year, it’s an ideal time to sit down and review your financial strategy. Take a few moments to review some of these deadlines and take advantage of the opportunity to grow your wealth and better position...
Read MoreWe all have financial responsibilities that can become a balancing act. Some that are significant to us while others aren’t. With competing financial obligations, there never seems to be enough money to go around and retirement becomes...
Read MoreToday, Americans 65 and older are more likely to be working than in 1985. More than 20% are working part- or full-time, and the numbers are projected to continue climbing, according to a recent study.1 Reasons for working longer? There...
Read MoreEvery day, thousands of baby boomers are reaching their retirement age. A report revealed the U.S. population age 65 or older has increased by at least 50 million people in the last ten years.1 With the growth of the retirement...
Read MoreIf you’re like most people, you don’t like the thought that you might need long-term care (LTC) at some point in your life. Today, there’s a 70% chance that you’ll be needing some type of LTC service when you turn age 65.1 However, LTC...
Read MoreIt’s a fact that many Americans aren’t saving enough for retirement with 69% only having 10% or less of their income saved.1 Reasons? They’re clouded by many misconceptions that leads them to ignoring the steps needed to secure their...
Read MoreLife insurance may seem bewildering at first glance, but it can be very simple. This insurance serves the purpose of lessening the financial burden on the family when a loved one passes away. If you have anyone that relies on you...
Read MoreRetirement might sound like a far-off dream, but it’ll become reality sooner than you think. You’ve worked hard for it and if planned right, you can enjoy the retirement that you’ve always envisioned. Here are a few tips that can have...
Read MoreIn the past few months, we’ve witnessed a number of natural disasters. With Hurricane Season looming over our coastal areas, being prepared can help you, your family or your business minimize the impact of not just hurricanes, but of...
Read MoreFor many retirees, Social Security is a key component of retirement with 97% either receiving or will receive it.1 It provides a foundation of income on which workers can build to plan their golden years. Though Social Security remains...
Read MoreBelieve it or not–someone turning 65 today has almost a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care (LTC) service.1 When you think about it, the odds of being in a nursing home are a lot higher than totaling your car or losing...
Read MoreAs parents, we bear the great duty of raising our children to be strong, independent, and better versions of ourselves. This responsibility comes with many financial obligations to balance for the goal of setting them up for success...
Read MoreLife can be full of surprises and you want to be ready for whatever lies ahead. Through life insurance, you can prepare for the unexpected by providing financial security for your loved ones in the event of your death. An important...
Read MoreWhat does it mean to be truly happy in retirement? Is it financial independence, health, adventure, or all of the above? The vision of the ideal retirement is often different from person to person, but the foundation of a happy and...
Read MoreMany Americans are aware of the tax benefits such as individual retirement accounts, or 401(k) savings plans; but the less-known HSA can provide some major tax relief. Here are three ways:Tax-free contributions. All money you set aside...
Read MoreA person turning age 65 today has almost a 70% chance of needing some type of long-term care service. It’s considered one of the largest potential expenses in retirement with the average lifetime long-term care expenditure being $138...
Read MoreCongratulations! You’re finally at the finish line. Your years of hard work are coming to an end and your days of freedom are here. Although a huge weight has been lifted off of your shoulders, there are a few blunders to avoid in...
Read MoreMarriage is about joining your life completely with someone else’s. It’s not what’s his is hers or what’s hers is his. No one said it’s easy when it comes to having to share your entire life. Studies revealed one of the top issues...
Read MoreRetirement is the time where we should be able to kick back, relax, and enjoy being free of responsibility. While we’re relieved from the heavy demands of being in the workforce, in retirement, we’re in charge of our own lives and...
Read MoreThere’s a common misconception that estate planning is only for the wealthy. Regardless of your financial situation, an estate plan allows you to have a plan in place after your death. Especially if you have a house, children, and...
Read MoreThe last thing you’d want to think about is your own death. But the fact is–death is inevitable. While it’s a difficult topic to process, it’s a good thing to be prepared and plan ahead for when the time comes. Ask yourself these...
Read MoreJuly marks the halfway point of the calendar year and is the perfect time to financially reflect on what’s already passed and what’s to come: Have I saved enough? How much have I spent so far? Where am I in reaching my goals? Is it too...
Read MoreOver the years, the cost of nursing home and long-term care costs have risen and continues to surge. Studies reveal 69% of retiring Americans will need some sort of long-term care during their life.1 And if there’s a single unsolved...
Read MoreAmong the many challenges of retirement planning is whether you should pay off your mortgage before you retire. Though it’s collective knowledge to be debt-free as much as possible, it may not make sense or be possible for everyone. On...
Read MoreRunning out of money in retirement is a major concern for many Americans. You don’t work hard to just save for retirement and hope for the best. You want security and the stability and annuities can provide just that. Think of a...
Read MoreSocial Security benefits are the bedrock of retirement income for many Americans as they approach the end of their careers. As a vital part of a retirement plan, it’s important to understand what Social Security can mean to you and...
Read MoreAs retirees look ahead to a retirement with uncertainties, they need to have an adequate, dependable, and long-lasting stream of income. With an unpredictable stock market, grim outlook on Social Security and pensions, and a continuous...
Read MoreWhen it comes to investment types, annuities are often misunderstood. Annuities can play an important role in your retirement plan because it’s not just about saving, it’s also about generating a steady stream of income so you can...
Read MoreWe can all almost say money is always on our minds…how much do I have in my account? Am I able to afford that? Do I simply enough? Being aware of your financial health is important. Studies reveal Americans could be saving more with...
Read MoreMany people may think life insurance is just another unnecessary expense without realizing its purpose and benefits. The question to ask yourself is would someone in your life suffer financial hardships if you were to pass away? If the...
Read MoreIt’s never too early nor too late to start thinking about retirement and planning for one. It takes careful planning for your money to last a lifetime. Here are simple action steps you can take today to start preparing for your golden...
Read MoreMany Americans significantly underestimate the impact that a loved one’s long term care needs could have on their own lives, marriages, work, and not to mention their finances. As a matter of fact, 57% of caregivers surveyed tapped...
Read MoreOftentimes we tend to be unrealistic when it comes to planning how much we can achieve and how long it will take, especially when it comes to setting money goals. A general rule to reaching your financial goals is to establish a plan...
Read MoreFor many, our children’s high school graduation is just around the corner and then they’re off to college. And we ask ourselves–where did the years go by? Besides seeing an empty nest, parents are also seeing empty pockets; thus,...
Read MoreEstate planning is something that’s never easy to do or even to begin thinking about for that matter. But it can help give you comfort knowing your estate and loved ones are protected after your death. Avoid missteps and get your...
Read MoreToday, women are providing more financial value to their household than ever before. Studies show 51% of women are responsible for household finances while 37% reported to be the primary breadwinner of their family (compared to 31% in...
Read MoreSeniors can benefit from many discounts and offers; however, taxes aren’t one of them. Retirees will be shocked to find that much of their income is, in fact, subject to taxes. Here are a few that you can expect to face in...
Read MoreWhen it comes to annuities, misinformation surrounds them. To help you make a sound decision on whether or not an annuity is right for you, here’s the truth behind some of the most common misconceptions:They’re only for retirees. While...
Read MoreWhen it comes to retirement, both men and women face many risks. However, women are faced with greater financial obstacles:Living longer. It’s a known fact that women enjoy a longer lifespan than their male counterparts. As a matter of...
Read MoreFor many of us, we look forward to this time of year where we can expect some extra money in our pockets. The sooner we file, the sooner we can receive our tax refund. And you can do so by filing electronically, requesting your refund...
Read MoreMany of us look forward to our golden days, the days where we can simply kick back, relax, and do a lot more things we didn’t have time for during our days of labor. How comfortable and secure your retirement will be depends on how...
Read MoreRunning out of money in retirement is a worry for many people. In fact, 55% of baby boomers and 57% of Generation X expressed outliving their savings is one of their greatest fears. 47% of millennials also have similar concerns.1...
Read MoreMaking the decision to place your spouse, partner, or family member in long-term care (LTC) might be one of the hardest decisions in your life. Nobody wants to think about putting their loved ones in assisted care. For many, it is a...
Read MoreFiling season for the 2018 tax year is officially underway. To help you stay organized as you prepare to file, use the checklist below to gather all the forms and documents you’ll need.1Identification for You and Your SpouseFull...
Read MoreNearly 50 percent of Americans aren’t prepared for retirement.1 However, there’s still time to catch up. Here’s some insight on how you can better position yourself for securing a happy retirement:Pay off large debts. By focusing on...
Read MoreIt’s January of the New Year and other than starting fresh and enduring frigid temperatures, tax season has arrived. Below are some of the 2018 tax deduction changes you should know when filing in 2019.1Medical and dental expenses. You...
Read MoreHave a life insurance policy? That’s great! If you don’t, well, you may want to reconsider. But what are some of the features that a life insurance policy should have built-in to it? There are a lot of different options, but here are...
Read MoreEvery birthday is special – but these are particularly important in your retirement journey.1 Here are some age milestones to keep in mind:Age 55 – Penalty-free distributions allowed from 401(k), if retiredAge 59 ½ – Penalty-free...
Read MoreHappy New Year! We are officially in 2019, and there’s no better time to start fresh with your finances than now by laying out your goals for the New Year. Follow these simple tips below to help your financial year start off on the...
Read MoreYou’ve worked hard this year and it’s that time of the year again for New Year’s Resolutions. And for many of us, that means getting your finances in order. Follow the calendar below to track important deadlines and notices for your...
Read MoreMany people think they don’t need life insurance for one reason or another. A lot of these same people also think life insurance is too expensive (it’s not). Add these two together, and you get a population that simply doesn’t...
Read MoreThere are millions of different ways a person can get themselves to be financially-stable in retirement, but what is the ideal way? Through examining studies and compiling expert opinions, MarketWatch came up with an ideal timeline for...
Read MoreNow’s the time to observe your entire financial situation. The new year is upon us, so it’s only smart to start looking towards next year so you aren’t caught off-guard. Follow this quick tips and be on your way to a current financial...
Read MoreThere are some things in life that are just worth knowing. Retirement terms is one of those things. Regardless if you’re far off from retirement or in the middle of it, it pays to understand some common retirement lingo, so you’re not...
Read MoreMany factors come into play when you consider an annuity. They come in various shapes and sizes, so it’s important to know which questions to ask to come away with the right annuity for you. We’ve compiled a list of questions you’ll...
Read MoreWe get it—life insurance isn’t the most exhilarating topic. No one wants to talk about their own death. And because of that, a lot of people don’t consider it a priority in their finances. Yet, nothing could be further from the truth....
Read MoreIn retirement, annuities can be an essential part of your income strategy. They can provide guaranteed income for as long as you live, and are often a great way to supplement income from the likes of a pension or Social Security....
Read MoreIf retirement is in your future, listen up: A secure retirement plan isn’t just about savings, it’s about generating income, too. If you’re focusing only on your retirement savings, you likely will miss out on the retirement you want...
Read MoreA lot of people purchase life insurance and never look back. If that’s you, you may think that once you place a life insurance policy, you’re set until, well, you know.But that’s not really the case, given life’s dynamism. Here are...
Read MoreWith life expectancy continuing to rise as care costs grow with it, finding sustainable funding for long-term care (LTC) needs can be a challenge. Here are three ways to fund your LTC.Annuities – Annuity-LTC hybrid products deliver a...
Read MoreDo annuities and retirement go hand-in-hand? Not always. But, annuities do serve as a great way to secure income in retirement, especially under certain conditions. Here are four situations where annuities make most sense in retirement...
Read MorePurchasing multiple term life insurance policies from different companies can prove to be a fiscally efficient strategy that works especially well if you’re able to predict when your coverage needs will diminish. For example, instead...
Read MoreLife insurance is most valuable to you in times of need, which is why it's important to know in advance when and how to file a claim. Insurance companies are required to pay insurance claims promptly, but there are steps you or your...
Read MoreA recent study found that there were 16.7 million victims of identity theft in 2017, combining for a total loss of $16.8 billion.1 Still to this day, one of the most effective ways to prevent identity theft is to spot and stop the...
Read MoreSending a child or grandchild to college comes with new insurance responsibilities. Whether they're already in college or still have a few years to go, your family's insurance needs change when your children go off to school....
Read MoreSending a child off to college? Sit down together and go over these important financial issues before dropping him or her off for the semester.Get your student set up with a credit card.If your child doesn't already have a credit card,...
Read MoreThere are some things in life that are just worth knowing. Retirement terms is one of those things. Regardless if you’re far off from retirement or in the middle of it, it pays to understand some common retirement lingo, so you’re not...
Read MoreNew types of policies are emerging that combine life insurance with long-term care (LTC) insurance, getting you covered for both. If you’re intrigued by these hybrid policies, they may be worth a look. Here’s a few notes about how they...
Read MoreHow much do you know about Social Security in 2018? Because of the program’s complexity, chances are you don’t know every little piece of information. These four facts serve to fill in some gaps in your Social Security knowledge. If...
Read MoreIf you’re retired or nearing retirement, you know how long you’ve been saving for your best years. Are you ready to manage your distributions well and budget correctly? If not, you may run out of money. Consider this tips when you’re...
Read MoreLong-term care (LTC) insurance is often overlooked as a necessity, but as humans continue to live longer lives, LTC is becoming an important asset to have in your later years. It helps take care of daily tasks when you’re unable...
Read MoreWith retirees living longer than ever before, it’s becoming more and more important to accrue enough savings during your working years to help you live the retirement you deserve. The three strategies below can help you get your...
Read MoreThere are many types of annuities, but immediate annuities are one of the most popular options. These annuities are purchased with one lump-sum payment and begin paying out the agreed-upon amount right away. But, to be sure this...
Read MoreTechnology today allows for access to more information and choices than ever before across all industries – and financial advisory is no different. But, before you think about trying the next up-and-coming “robot advisor”, consider...
Read MoreDid you know that 65% of Americans end up saving little or nothing at all? And only 39% can cover a $1,000 emergency. This begs the question, are you saving enough money? Here’s four signs that you need to be saving more.You don’t have...
Read MoreThinking of life insurance? You should be doing your math then, too. With a few simple “rules of thumb”, and dependent on your age, you can define a solid estimate based on your loved one’s needs in the future and your current...
Read MoreConverting your individual retirement account (IRA) into an annuity can be an excellent way of supplying yourself with a steady income stream for the rest of your life. That doesn’t mean it’s for everyone, though. Here’s two pros and...
Read MoreSocial Security is meant to lead people into a comfortable, stress-free retirement. But, that doesn’t mean you don’t encounter some unchartered territory along the way. These tips should help you navigate Social Security with greater...
Read MoreEstate planning is no easy task. There’s a lot of time and energy put into each plan. Every estate plan is unique, but unfortunately, the same mistakes occur. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but these three classic mistakes are...
Read MoreThe reality is many Americans – about 50 percent – aren’t prepared for retirement. If you don’t have enough saved up for your golden years, there is one way to catch up relatively quickly. Work a little longer. We know, we know, it’s...
Read MoreYou may have heard about fixed indexed annuities (FIAs) through the news, your friends or family, or perhaps your financial advisor…but do you know what they offer? Here’s four important characteristics of FIAs. FIAs allow people to...
Read MoreIt’s no secret that life insurance gives a much-needed financial safety net for your dependents if you aren’t around to be there. Mortgages, funeral costs, debt – the list of costs is plentiful. But when you’re deciding on a new policy...
Read MoreMany Americans are aware of the tax benefits from certain savings accounts such as individual retirement accounts, or 401(k) plans; but the less-known HSA can provide some major tax relief. Here’s three ways: 1. Tax-deductible...
Read MoreMost of our lives are spent saving for retirement, but when the time comes, how do you turn that nest egg you’ve created into a steady income? We’ve broken down three ways. 1. Annuitization. Income annuities take a lump sum of cash...
Read MoreAmericans routinely report being anxious about their money and retirement plans. Today, over 50% of American adults report being either “very” or “moderately” worried about retiring with too little money. How can you achieve a...
Read MoreAs you get older, the pressure to plan for long-term care costs rise with your age. To get a good deal on long-term care (LTC) insurance easier, here’s a few secrets for you. 1. Assess your risk. When you’re searching for the right LTC...
Read MoreEven though required minimum distributions (RMDs) are due by the end of the year, there’s some practicality in taking advantage of your RMDs earlier rather than later. Here’s three reasons why taking RMDs out early can be advantageous:...
Read MoreThe “bucket” savings strategy has been gaining traction in recent years, but is it right for you? The idea is simple: have three “buckets” of money where you save – one for now, one for soon, and one for later. Assets are then...
Read MoreWith all its intricacies and technicalities, life insurance can be tough to figure out. Knowing these three myths can make your pathway to coverage easier to understand. Myth #1: I should always buy term insurance and invest the...
Read MoreAnnuities have been a hot commodity in recent years but can sometimes get a bad reputation. While annuities aren’t for everyone, there are situations where annuities may be the best option available, especially as you near retirement....
Read MoreIt’s that time of year—Uncle Sam is asking for money again. If you’ve kept up with the news, you probably know the tax laws have changed a bit. Here’s five important changes you should know before Tax Day. 1. Standard deductions...
Read MoreNot the most exciting topic, long-term care (LTC) is often avoided or overlooked by people when planning their retirement years. However, it can be one of the most important things to have later in life. Having an LTC policy in place...
Read MoreIt’s not for everyone. But, if it’s possible for you, there’s a few great reasons to start collecting Social Security once you hit the age of 62. Check out the reasons below and see if it seems right for you. Reason #1: You may have to...
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