Sunday, May 19, 2019
Although we assume many of our readers know what a 401(k) and an IRA are, let’s cover these quickly. What is a 401(k)? 401(k) retirement, savings, and investment accounts are places to store money in which your contributions are...
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Sunday, May 12, 2019
Individuals working for years and planning for retirement ultimately lead to be dynamic go-getters who don't want to think about the limitations and possible incapacitations of old age. However, with smart planning in your 50's and...
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...
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Monday, May 6, 2019
Social Security is one of the main benefit programs for workers in the United States. At some point, almost everyone will collect something from Social Security. If you are getting close to collecting from Social Security, you might be...
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Sunday, April 28, 2019
One of the crucial decisions in life if you have minor children is to make arrangements for the guardian or guardians who will finish raising your children if you and your spouse should happen to die in a common accident or weather...
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Thursday, April 25, 2019
This years tax deadline is behind us. If you received a refund, what’s your plan? Some taxpayers choose to spend the entire check on clothing, shoes, and their appearance. They never look into investing their money for their own...
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Sunday, April 14, 2019
Two years ago, the current government built their own mark on the United States with what some call the most necessary and important tax reform. The retirement reform that they are planning might be the long shot of 2019 since there...
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Sunday, April 7, 2019
Taxes are on the minds of many as we just passed the 2019 tax deadline. Unfortunately, many retirees every year fail to properly account for taxes when deciding things such as budgets, withdrawal rates, and whether or not they have the...
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...
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Friday, March 29, 2019
Many people spend years dreaming about the day they will retire. They envision spending time in their vacation home’s with their family and friends at their sides. However, for some, this vision doesn’t become reality....
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Sunday, March 24, 2019
Before you turn 60 years old, your 401k plan has a set up that you may want to take advantage of. In the past, there has been a lot of middle-aged taxpayers who were scared to open certain bank accounts. Nowadays, those thoughts of...
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...
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Sunday, March 17, 2019
Retirement income is not a one size fits all calculation as wants and needs vary significantly from one person to the next. Several factors such as life expectancy inflation, and balances do play a huge part but considering your...
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...
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Sunday, March 10, 2019
With each passing year, more baby boomers are reaching retirement age. There is a lot of discussion surrounding the management of retirement savings and how to turn this money into an income stream. This conversation is becoming...
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...
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Monday, March 4, 2019
Tax season is once again in full swing. While many concerned taxpayers file tax returns to meet the required deadline, criminals work harder to cash in taking advantage of the hectic tax season. Tax fraud remains a growing concern...
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...
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Monday, February 25, 2019
Democratic Congressman John B. Larson introduced the Social Security 2100 Act on January 30, 2019. The proposed legislation seeks to raise payroll taxes to keep Social Security solvent and expand benefits. Payroll Tax Increases Some...
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...
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Sunday, February 17, 2019
If your retirement dream includes bouncing around between a beachfront condo in the winter and a mountain retreat in the summer, you are in good company. Perhaps you want to keep a small condo close to the kids while also maintaining a...
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...
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Sunday, February 10, 2019
The average American gets a tax refund each year. In fact, the average tax refund is more than $2,700. That's a pretty nice infusion of cash. Windfalls can lead to temptation. For example, a nice vacation is something that many people...
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...
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Sunday, February 3, 2019
Millions of people in the U.S. are unable to care for themselves and need long-term care services. These people need assistance in performing one or more self-care activities of daily living such as eating, bathing, dressing, and...
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...
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Sunday, January 27, 2019
Elder financial abuse can be a complicated subject, but at its most basic level it involves taking advantage of an older adult through manipulation or intimidation to steal their money or property. Elderly adults are some of the most...
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...
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Monday, January 14, 2019
Congratulations you are closing in on your target retirement date! While the bulk of your retirement prep work and heavy lifting should be completed by the time you’re still a couple of years from retirement, there’s still...
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...
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Sunday, January 6, 2019
It’s not so uncommon when you hear someone who retired wanting to pack up their things and move. While it can be an exhilarating time, it can also be rather difficult, especially if their planning on buying a new house altogether...
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...
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Sunday, December 30, 2018
2018 was an up-and-down year for many Americans. The stock market boomed, and then it busted. No one knows what is on the horizon for 2019, but it doesn't hurt to set goals. Here are some financial goals that could help you get off to...
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...
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Sunday, December 23, 2018
Arm yourself to save more for your retirement in 2019! The Treasury has announced inflation-adjusted numbers for retirement savings for 2019, as well as a lot of changes that will help investors stuff these accounts. The amount which...
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...
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Monday, December 17, 2018
Since 2008, stocks have rewarded investors with solid returns. Can equity investors count on a repeat of recent history? Well, precise predictions about the market are notoriously difficult to distinguish from luck, and very easy to...
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...
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Monday, December 10, 2018
Tax season comes quickly after the year comes to a close. In 2018, a few changes have occurred due to legislation that was created by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. One of the main changes was a lowering of tax rates and a near...
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...
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Sunday, December 2, 2018
You have until December 31 to do a qualified charitable distribution (QCD) for 2018. This is an effective tax strategy that many individuals are overlooking. A QCD is worth considering if you are donating to charitable organizations...
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...
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Sunday, November 25, 2018
Yes, saving for retirement and planning for income is important but so is planning for the unexpected. It is incredibly easy to get caught up in the present and not think about how much one needs to take care of themselves in the...
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...
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Sunday, November 18, 2018
You've spent the better part of your working years planning for your comfortable retirement. As you celebrated your last official day of work, you already had a pretty good idea of the value of your financial investment portfolio and...
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....
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Sunday, November 11, 2018
Planning for retirement will be easier for those contributing to in 2019! Recent changes to a list of savings accounts are going to yield higher returns for savers in the new year. You will be able to take advantage of...
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....
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Sunday, November 4, 2018
Time is almost up for this years Medicare Open Enrollment period. You have until the 7th of December to modify your existing Medicare plans. In this period you can enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan or a Part D drug plan. Any...
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...
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Monday, October 29, 2018
Some seniors are dependent on their Social Security benefits, but the majority of your retirement income may be derived from other sources. While your Social Security income may not be your primary source of income in retirement, you...
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...
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Friday, October 19, 2018
Halloween may be an appropriate time for a good scare, we should limit unwanted surprises in retirement! Generalizations may not necessarily reflect your individual circumstance although there are fact-based reasons why the average...
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...
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Monday, October 15, 2018
You have worked hard for your money, because you have a bigger goal than just paying the monthly expenses. You have a long term goal that is important to you. For some, that goal is to be able to retire comfortably, while others have...
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...
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Sunday, October 7, 2018
Retirement should be a time of rest, relaxation, and play. It should be about focusing on those pursuits that you wanted to do when you were younger, but you have yet to cross them off of your bucket list. Failing to plan for a...
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...
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Sunday, September 30, 2018
When planning one’s last will and testament, one always hopes that the people they will be passing on their hard-earned wealth to will be responsible enough to handle it well and if possible, carry on their legacy. This is a hope...
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 MoreLife insurance is one of those things that many people prefer to avoid thinking about because it often conjures up dark images. Many people are jarred into realizing the importance of buying life insurance after a close friend or...
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...
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Monday, September 17, 2018
It may seem as if the end of the year is very far away and that there is no need to start making end of the year financial plans as of yet. However, the reality is that the end of the year, and the activities which surround it are busy...
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 MorePresident Donald Trump signed an executive order Friday, August 31, that proposes asking for reviews on changing certain rules for tax-deferred retirement savings such as 401(k)s and individual retirement accounts, or IRAs. Trump...
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 MoreThe average individual can spend less during their retirement due to a budget. One exception can be giving to charitable causes. A study by the WPI or the Women's Philanthropy Institute looked at the way households in America spent...
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 MoreThe way we work and save for retirement has changed and the old rules no longer apply to every individual's situation. There are many professionals with the resources to retire early, but continue working until retirement age just to...
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 MoreIn retirement it’s not always about the money you have, it’s about how much you are spending. As you prepare or revise your retirement plan, one of the most important steps that you can take is to ensure that your projected...
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 MoreAchieving a high income and net worth is half the battle in the quest for financial security. The other half is trying to keep and grow your assets once you have them. While this latter half is perhaps a nice problem to have, it has...
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 MoreIf you are like many other hardworking adults, you may find yourself periodically dreaming about what life will be like after you leave the workforce and enter retirement. Regardless of whether you plan to simply kick back and relax...
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 MoreA common problem faced by insurance and annuity holders relates to a need to upgrade to a better financial option without paying taxes on gains earned on the old policy. There are many legitimate reasons for wanting to upgrade. AAFMAA...
Read MoreA common problem faced by insurance and annuity holders relates to a need to upgrade to a better financial option without paying taxes on gains earned on the old policy. There are many legitimate reasons for wanting to upgrade. AAFMAA...
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 MoreEveryone should have a will; it ensures that your loved ones will receive the assets you wish them to have in the event of your death. To be clear, a will is a legal document that states how you want your property to be distributed and...
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 More“To know the road ahead, ask those coming back” is the famous Chinese proverb although for this article it may be more fitting to say, to know the road ahead, ask those looking back. Everyone has different ideas of what it...
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 MoreWhat is the status of the Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act of 2010 (ACA)? High-end net worth “seniors” planning for retirement need to know. How will the changes in the Affordable Care Act impact your retirement?...
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 MoreThe reality is that rising interest rates will likely continue through 2018. This has been choreographed by the Fed Reserve for some time now, and even most of the talking heads on television agree that this is more likely to continue...
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 MoreSummer seems to be the time to travel and the best thing about retirement is that you finally have time to travel. Whether you want to see more of the United States or explore foreign lands, the following list will help you find the...
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Monday, June 25, 2018
Summer seems to be the time to travel and the best thing about retirement is that you finally have time to travel. Whether you want to see more of the United States or explore foreign lands, the following list will help you find the...
Read MoreSocial Security has been a hot button topic for political pundits for decades. Many younger Americans fear that by the time they get to retirement age, the program's funds will be so depleted that they will receive little, if any,...
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 MoreFew Americans have employers that save for their retirements automatically. Pensions are going the way of the dinosaur. Therefore, Americans are required largely to save for their own retirements. This means that it's important to make...
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 MoreWith the exception of those under 35 years of age, between 60 and 70 percent of the median household wealth in the US is tied up in home equity. Those within 10 years of retirement have about 40 percent of their net worth held outside...
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 MoreFor millions of Americans, it's the question of how they will fund their healthcare expenses in retirement, according to a recent poll by Franklin Templeton. With the high costs of care, hospitalization, pharmaceuticals, and nursing...
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 MoreWhen you think of retirement, you probably think of a relaxing lifestyle free from the stresses of a 40-hour workweek. Life could instead get more stressful due to rising health care costs, which is one of the most expensive...
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 MoreSadly, unscrupulous people often prey on the most vulnerable among us, and too often that means our senior citizens are targeted. Even worse, in some instances these abuses can go unreported. Perhaps because of embarrassment or fear...
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Tuesday, May 8, 2018
Recent market volatility has some investors thinking about their “uncle point”. Yes, your uncle point, that moment when the market drops and you emotionally cannot stomach the loss. Managing risk in retirement is important...
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 MoreDivorce rates are surging in the 50 and older age group. Today, divorce for those 50 and older has more than doubled since the 90’s! Divorce can be complicated at any age. However, older couples usually have more financial...
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 MoreAre you in the retirement sweet spot (RSP)? No, it's not a trick question. The RSP refers to that time after you retire and before you take any required distributions from your 401k or traditional IRA at age 70 1/2. In addition to...
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Even 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 thought of growing older and retirement can be overwhelming to some. As the body begins to age, things like routine home maintenance are not as easy as they once were. It is estimated that homeowners will spend about one to four...
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 MoreDeductions are a way to lower your tax liability. Maximizing your deductions across all areas gives you access to tax savings. One area where some taxpayers could be missing out on deductions is in medical expenses. Here are ways to...
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...
Read MoreWhether you're aware of them or not, there are some substantial benefits to having a 401(k) plan. Here are four benefits that make these plans worth having. 1. Payroll deduction. At the surface it may not seem ideal, but in reality,...
Read MoreA lot of people ask, “When should I start my estate planning?” The shorter answer is: it’s never too early. There’s lots of ways to go about planning, but generally there are three main steps to be followed when you start: Start by...
Read MoreThe new year has begun, and with it, some tweaks and changes have been made to Social Security that its beneficiaries may notice. Here’s a look at what you can expect if you’re a beneficiary in 2018: A higher tax cap. Workers will now...
Read MoreAnnuities: insurance contracts that offer guaranteed income, usually for life. Some even have capital appreciation. But, you probably already knew that. Do you know the five primary types of annuities, though? Each is unique, and all...
Read MoreA new year brings with it lots of excitement, but also a lot of uncertainty. As a family, are you taking to necessary steps to set achievable, realistic financial goals for 2018 that will help remove any uncertainty from your personal...
Read MoreGiving to charities is a great way to help out your community and give back during the holiday season. Charitable gifting can take many forms, from cash donations to even donated appreciated assets. And individual donations make up...
Read MoreFinancial information can often include confusing industry jargon and lingo. But understanding your financial details can help you use better judgment to make decisions. We are continuing our guide to help you get a hold of common...
Read MoreNo matter your stage in life, saving money is essential to ensure you can afford your lifestyle. Yet, Americans have a money-savings problem: 69% of people do not have $1,000 in savings.[1] Without this financial buffer, we end up...
Read MoreLosing a loved one and life partner is a devastating experience that no one can fully predict. Despite the emotional heaviness one must navigate, another pressing topic requires attention: finances. Knowing how to move forward in your...
Read MoreFinancial literacy in America is staggeringly low. The U.S. ranks 14th on a global scale of financial literacy, and 1 in 5 teenagers do not have basic financial skills.[1] Helping our younger loved ones to understand the...
Read MoreSaving enough money to last through retirement is an ongoing responsibility and one that Americans should take seriously. And the money you may need could be is more than simply replacing the income you had during your career. You...
Read MoreOwning a business in the U.S. is an integral factor of our economy. In fact, the U.S. has 28.8 million small businesses, comprising 99.7% of all business in America.1 And while risks abound in entrepreneurship, owners can take...
Read MoreWhen purchasing a life insurance policy, you can opt to add on different benefits to a standard policy and expand your coverage. These riders help you customize your protection for supporting your family’s unique needs. Different life...
Read MoreWhen purchasing a life insurance policy, you can opt to add on different benefits to a standard policy and expand your coverage. These riders help you customize your protection for supporting your family’s unique needs. Different life...
Read MoreFinancially preparing for retirement is essential in order to maintain your quality of life as you age. As long-term-care costs continue to rise, having adequate money to cover any medical situations is an escalating concern. And the...
Read MoreSo, you have sent the kids off on their own and now find yourself an empty nester. This new life stage brings quieter vibes in the house and less multitasking to manage. But beyond the physical changes, you also have new financial...
Read MoreFinding any helpful reason to pull down your tax liabilities is a welcomed benefit, no matter one’s age. But, once you move into your golden years, exploring new tax benefits is worth the time and effort—you may have specific tax...
Read MoreOnce retired, many once-active people fall prey to the lure of the couch. With newfound time on their hands and a new life stage before them, finding ways to occupy themselves can be challenging. Yet, making a point to stay active and...
Read MoreSeptember is Life Insurance Awareness Month, which aims to increase awareness about the importance and helpfulness of having life insurance coverage. Over the years, life insurance has become an essential way to protect one’s...
Read MoreNo matter what life stage you’re in, knowing your financial health is important. Just as a regular checkup with the doctor will give you insights on your medical well-being—and any course corrections you should take—so, too, will...
Read MoreEnsuring you have the money you need to support you throughout retirement is an ongoing responsibility that shouldn’t be overlooked, no matter what retirement stage you’re in. When building and maintaining your plan, healthcare is a...
Read MoreServing as a caregiver for your parents and children is a hefty responsibility that can impact many areas of your life. As a “sandwich generation” member, you are supporting aging parents—who may be ill, unable to be financial...
Read MoreAging can be a difficult topic for families to address when planning for seniors’ financial and care needs. Discussing emotional details such as wills and caregiving needs can feel heavy and complicated, making the conversations easy...
Read MoreHaving enough money to last through retirement is essential, and retirees have a variety of financial strategies to help them build the lifelong income they need. One such financial option is purchasing annuities. Yet, many myths...
Read MoreMost of your adult life, you’ve probably focused on building a retirement savings that will cover your living costs. But once you officially retire, your financial planning shouldn’t stop. Managing your expenses to support your...
Read MoreOur lives inevitably change requiring us to evolve with the momentum. And for those holding life insurance policies, keeping your policy up-to-date and relevant to your life is essential. A variety of events can come our way at any...
Read MoreFor many people planning for retirement, investing into annuities is a helpful strategy to build guaranteed income. Once you take retirement distributions, you receive a set amount based on details like the annuity you purchased and...
Read MoreNo matter what stage of life someone’s in when he or she marries, a union brings reason to celebrate. And, for individuals who are 55 and older, remarrying is even on the rise.[1] When marrying later in life, people’s finances are...
Read MoreEveryday, more and more baby boomers retire, bringing with them a shifting retirement landscape. This large demographic began turning 65 years old in 2011, and by 2029, all boomers will be at least 65, forming 20% of the U.S....
Read MoreA seasoned military career brings a unique professional experience for millions of people each year. We have roughly 1.3 million active-duty military service members.1 And at least 1.47 million non-disability military retirees receive...
Read MoreAs retirees embrace their new life stage, many of them consider relocating to other locales. In fact, almost two-thirds of retirees plan to move or do move in retirement.1 While retirees move for a variety of reasons, relocating in...
Read MoreMany retirees invest in annuities as a helpful strategy for building retirement income. Since fixed-rate annuities can provide guaranteed payments at set amounts, retirees can more easily predict and manage their budget. And having...
Read MoreDivorcing later in life is becoming more normal for people who are 50 years or older. In fact, since the 1990s, this “silver divorce” rate has more than doubled. In 2015, for every 1,000 married people 50 and over, 10 divorced — an...
Read MoreSummertime is nearly here, along with running ACs, cooling off at the pool, and other quintessential summer actions returning across the country. Beyond the temperature increase, summer can also bring increased spending. Here are some...
Read MoreHave a new college graduate? Give your loved one the gift of financial readiness. The time of year is here when budding college graduates go out into the world to make their career dreams and goals a reality. Yet despite their new...
Read MoreNavigating complex terms when managing your finances is an ongoing responsibility. Yet, with all the information to process, understanding the plethora of jargon and industry-specific terms can be cumbersome. We’re continuing our...
Read MoreWhen retirees have policies such as annuities, they receive distributions from these investments that can provide them with income. As such, when you hold annuities, you can typically elect different ways to receive this money, and...
Read MoreWhen you are planning for retirement, creating a strategy to receive ongoing income is an important way to help ensure you can maintain the quality of life you desire. Annuities can be a helpful tool for many investors, due to the...
Read MoreWith the spring season budding, now is a great time to ensure your financial accounts are up to date and secure. Just like the dust that can collect in your house, so too can your financial accounts grow stale. No one wants to add...
Read MoreKnow The Difference Between Qualified and Nonqualified Annuities For many investors looking to secure their cash flow in retirement, annuities are a common way to receive the guaranteed income they need in the future.1 Different...
Read MorePaying for healthcare in retirement is no small task. With costs escalating and coverage growing more complex, you can take steps today to help ensure you’re not struggling tomorrow. As your explore your own retirement planning and...
Read MoreMaintain Your Standard of Living in Retirement Saving for retirement, and working to maintain your standard of living, is an ongoing responsibility so you don’t see your quality of life drop in your later years. Unfortunately, for...
Read MoreLast week, all four of the indexes we discuss in these market updates saw their performance stumble. The S&P 500 lost 1.44%, the Dow was down 1.52%, the NASDAQ gave back 1.22%, and the MSCI EAFE declined 0.07%. 1 On Tuesday, March 21,...
Read MoreBeing a small business owner is a unique life experience that can provide many personal and professional rewards, such as being in control of your career. But, this also brings specific financial challenges when creating a path to...
Read MoreBefore you retired, you spent time creating strategies that could help you reach your goals in retirement. You might have invested for the income you need, minimized your debt, or protected yourself with long-term-care insurance,...
Read MoreLife insurance policies and annuities can be a helpful tool for providing extra protection and income for yourself and your family. But, you can also receive deeper benefits thanks to certain tax advantages that each investment offers...
Read MoreFinancial fraud is, unfortunately, a common practice in America that costs individuals and businesses billions of dollars each year. And research shows that people underreport financial fraud, which can also be difficult to...
Read MoreLosing a spouse is never easy — and a difficult topic for many to think about. But when you become a widow or widower, moving beyond the grief to address important financial items in your life is essential. Whether you recently lost...
Read MoreFinancial lives are inherently complex and require thoughtful perspectives and strategies for yourself and your loved ones. And you have even more financial nuances to organize if your family has two or more adult generations living in...
Read MoreEnjoying a comfortable retirement depends on how well you prepared ahead of time to support your desired lifestyle — and how well you keep a pulse on your financial wellbeing after your retire. You may need to periodically check in and...
Read MoreLife insurance and annuities can bring protection and retirement income that is essential for many people’s financial needs and goals. And when you purchase these items, you gain the opportunity to name beneficiaries who will receive...
Read MoreWhen preparing for retirement, imagining the new lifestyle you’ll embark on can be exciting. From travel to family time to relaxation, a fulfilling retirement looks different to each individual. But preparing for the quality of life...
Read MoreThe financial world is filled with confusing industry jargon and lingo. So, to help you get a hold of common terms you should know, we’ve put together a quick guide for your reference. From life insurance to annuities, use this...
Read MoreFor most of your adult life, you’ve had the protection of life insurance to help safeguard you and your family. But as your life evolves, your family's needs and financial goals will inevitably change, too. With every transition and...
Read MoreFor most of your adult life, you’ve protected yourself and your family with life insurance. Having a back-up tool in place to help replace income for your family should you pass away is part of a sound wealth-preservation plan. For...
Read MoreFor many Americans, preparing to retire takes decades of investing and careful saving so you have the income you need to support your lifestyle. And once that retirement begins, you have to start collecting on your investments into...
Read MoreWith 2016 ending in a handful of weeks, we’ve officially entered into the terrain of year-end tax planning. And if your assets include annuities, then you have specific details to be aware of when managing your taxes. A variety of...
Read MoreThanksgiving flew by, and now here we are, deep in the holiday season. And if you’re a grandparent, finding the perfect gift for your grandchildren can be challenging. While the hottest new toys and gadgets offer an exciting present...
Read MoreYour Beneficiary Planning — Life Insurance and Annuities Investing brings with it a world of planning complexities to navigate as you pursue your unique financial goals. And your beneficiary planning when you have life insurance and...
Read MoreNo matter what life stage you’re in, making sure you have the income you need for retirement is an ongoing planning need. However, fewer than half of Americans are prepared to afford at least 80% of retirement expenses1. Retirees have...
Read MoreManaging your family’s financial needs requires daily, ongoing oversight and planning if you want to uphold lifelong wellness. And for families who have loved ones with disabilities, the planning needs become even more intricate. You...
Read MoreOwning a small business can be an incredibly rewarding experience. But, when you’re your own boss, you also control your business’ destiny — which can directly affect your own life outside of being a business owner. And in order to...
Read MoreSo, you’re looking to save more money to support the income you need in retirement and are considering or want to revisit your annuities. As a retirement-income investment, annuities can help you grow tax-deferred savings until you’re...
Read MoreGrowing older in America today isn’t what it used to be. Twenty years ago, the average person’s life expectancy was 76 years1. Fast forward to 2016, and a woman turning 65 today can expect to live until 87 years old and a man can...
Read MoreLife with grandchildren means getting to spend your later years doting on your favorite little ones. For some, it also means a new chapter of raising a family in a “second parenthood.” In fact, across the U.S., 2.7 million people are...
Read MoreRetiring in America is how many people look to their futures. Saying goodbye to your working years and entering a stage of enjoying your life in new ways — often in ways you’ve dreamed of — is a rite of passage for most Americans. Of...
Read MoreSo, you’ve saved with your 401(k) and maxed out your IRA contributions and other traditional retirement-savings strategies. And you still have taxable money that should be helping you develop lasting retirement income, rather than...
Read MoreWe all know that life isn’t static. A constant ebb and flow of events like family developments, career changes, and retirement inevitably bring changes to your financial needs and lifestyle. When these events occur, they can often...
Read MoreFor most people, life insurance is an essential tool for protecting your estate and loved ones should anything happen to you. When you take out a permanent life insurance policy — whole, universal, or variable — you gain another...
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 MoreIf you’ve ever had your credit card number stolen or found unauthorized activity on one of your financial accounts, you know what a headache financial fraud can cause. A 2016 study found that 13.1 Americans became the victims of...
Read MoreYou know you should be saving for retirement, but what about your other goals? Intermediate goals can be more challenging to plan for because they have a shorter timeframe ¬– three-to-seven years – and may be given short shrift by...
Read MoreWe’ve all made financial mistakes. Whether it’s living beyond our means and accumulating debt, buying a too-expensive house, saving too little for the future, or any other blunder – we’ve all been there. Here are some tips for learning...
Read MoreIf you are seeking to cut costs, reducing or dropping your life insurance may seem like a safe bet. In some cases, it might even be a good idea. However, think very carefully before making changes to your policy; once you drop...
Read MoreThere are many reasons to own an annuity and there are some situations in which using tax-deferred money to purchase an annuity can be a good idea. You want to turn some of your retirement savings into guaranteed income. Income that...
Read MoreHow long do you plan to live? Ridiculous question, right? If we could know exactly how long we will live, it would make life (and retirement planning) so much simpler. But, we don’t know. We can look at many variables to come up with...
Read MoreTraveling this summer? Save yourself a headache by using these tips to help keep your money safe while you’re away. Notify your financial institutions if you’ll be traveling abroad. Few things are more annoying than to have your cards...
Read MoreOne of the best gifts you can give a grandchild is the gift of being financially savvy. Unfortunately, many children leave home without understanding basic financial skills such as how to set a budget, use a credit card, or invest for...
Read MoreAre you and your spouse on the same page about money? Do you talk regularly about your finances? If not, a monthly family finance meeting might help. I know, talking about money and budgets every month doesn’t sound like a lot of fun,...
Read MoreMany couples prefer to divide household tasks and take on separate family responsibilities. However, when one member of the couple handles all financial chores, the other spouse may find himself or herself in the dark about the family...
Read MoreIf you’ve been watching the news, you probably know that Britain voted to exit the European Union (EU) on June 23rd after being a member of the European community since 1973. The shocking news caused financial markets to whipsaw, and...
Read MoreThough it may be hard to imagine retiring early, many Americans manage to do it while still living comfortable lifestyles. If you’re serious about ending your career early, think carefully about the challenges you face: preparing for...
Read MoreIf you’re like many Americans, the idea of spending your retirement on the couch isn’t all that attractive. The good news is that baby boomers are using their numbers and influence to redefine retirement. While some fill their time...
Read MoreMuhammad Ali, possibly one of the greatest boxers in history, passed away last week, leaving behind an incredible legacy of strength, perseverance, and vision. While we might not be world-class boxers, we can still take away some...
Read MoreSocial Security is a major source of income for most retirees, and deciding when to claim your benefit is critical to maximizing your guaranteed government income. Social Security rules changed in 2015, taking away two claiming...
Read MoreGrandparents are in a fantastic position to teach their grandchildren about money. Often, grandparents can more openly speak with grandchildren than their parents can. Grandparents often take on the role of family storyteller and...
Read MoreGuaranteed acceptance life insurance can be a boon to people who can’t get term life insurance coverage because of age, medical history, or other issues. Applications don’t require medical exams or even detailed questionnaires and...
Read MoreMost people have dozens of financial priorities competing for attention at any given time. Sitting down for an annual review can help you sift through those priorities and ensure that you are still on track to meet your goals. Though...
Read MoreA recent survey found that 68% of women and 56% of men are losing sleep over at least one money issue. While most respondents were concerned about saving enough for retirement, many also worried about healthcare, debt, education...
Read MoreEven though you may not be thinking about your estate yet, there are a few practical matters you don’t want to leave unresolved. Lack of preparation can leave your family scrambling during an already traumatic period. Though it’s not...
Read MoreAn Allianz survey showed that 61% of Americans fear outliving their retirement nest egg more than they fear death. With lifespans stretching to age 100 and beyond, many Americans may spend 30 years or more in retirement. This...
Read MoreA generation ago, retirement looked more or less the same for everyone: you left your job with a pension and transitioned into your golden years. But today, retirement looks quite different for everyone. One reason for that is that...
Read MoreAll parents worry about what would happen to their children if something happened to them. Many people purchase life insurance to provide for their children, and it may seem like a natural choice to name them as beneficiaries on a...
Read MoreDave Ramsey, Suze Orman, Jim Cramer, and other gurus have made their fortunes telling others what to do with their money. Should they tell you what to do with yours? One of the challenges of being an investor today is the overwhelming...
Read MoreOne of the most important decisions you’ll have to make as a retiree is whether you’ll stay in your current home or move. Some people prefer to stay in their homes for financial or lifestyle reasons while others relish the...
Read MoreMillions of homeowners are renting rooms (or even their entire house or apartment) to travelers and short-term tenants using Airbnb, VRBO, and many other online rental platforms. The income can help make real estate in expensive areas...
Read MoreSpring cleaning is the annual ritual of clearing out the accumulated dust and debris of winter for a fresh new spring. This year, as you sweep away the dust bunnies, do some spring cleaning on your insurance as well. 1. Give your auto...
Read MoreIf you have a cash-strapped senior in your life, you may have come across advertisements for “reverse mortgages,” a type of loan that gives older homeowners payments in exchange for the value of the property while allowing...
Read MoreIf you’re looking ahead at retirement, you might wonder what role “Medigap” supplemental insurance policies play in Medicare coverage. Medicare has four parts that, used together, offer coverage for most medical care...
Read MoreLong-term care insurance is complex, and there’s no way to predict with certainty whether you will actually end up needing coverage for expensive care later in life. However, the odds are good that you may one day need some type...
Read MoreBudgeting and monitoring your household’s spending are critical to building long-term financial success. However, money is an emotional topic for many, and it’s common for couples and families to dread budget talks. Here...
Read MoreWhat would you do if you weren’t able to earn an income because of an illness or injury? The financial consequences of a disability can be severe; a short-term illness or injury might not set your family back too far if you have...
Read MoreMany of us take advantage of credit cards to make everyday purchases and smooth out cash flow. However, you shouldn’t always reach for plastic. Here are three types of expenses that you should never put on a credit card: Tuition...
Read MoreDid you know that your lifestyle can affect life insurance premiums? Age is by far the biggest determinant, but there are a number of other factors that can affect how much you pay. Here are 3 common lifestyle factors that can boost...
Read MoreFor many people, having a new baby triggers the thought: I really ought to get some life insurance. One estimate put the lifetime cost of raising a child to age 18 at over $300,000 for a middle-income couple – not including the...
Read More2016 is here and we want to help you make it one of your most financially successful years to date. Here are a few simple tasks you can complete while your resolutions are fresh in your mind: 1. Get acquainted with your finances If you...
Read MoreDid you know that most renters don’t have renters insurance? While 95% of homeowners carry homeowner’s insurance, a 2014 poll found that just 37% of renters own renters policies.1 Many renters wrongly assume that their...
Read MoreIf you’re worried about leaving your children or loved ones with expenses after you die, you may take a second look at life insurance as a senior. Seniors face special challenges when purchasing life insurance; premiums get more...
Read MoreWhen you’ve figured out the basics of why you need life insurance, how much you need, and how long you need it for, there are still some details that you need to work out. One area consists of the policy add-ons we call riders....
Read MoreThe end of the year is approaching, but there’s still time to maximize deductions and take advantage of tax breaks. Here are three tips that could help you reduce your tax burden and get ready for tax season: 1. Plump up your...
Read MoreAs we get close to the end of 2015, there are a few final tasks you need to check off of your to-do list for the year: Max out retirement account contributions Whether you have a 401(k), 403(b), 457, or other workplace retirement...
Read MoreMany pet owners treat their beloved companions like full members of the family and wouldn’t dream of denying them medical care. Advances in veterinary medicine mean that diseases and injuries that once spelled certain death can...
Read MoreIf you are currently collecting Medicare or will be beginning soon, the news that many Medicare recipients faced a 52% premium hike next year might have shocked you. Fortunately, the budget deal signed in November 2015 brought the...
Read MoreLife insurance is a valuable tool in your financial arsenal that’s designed to help your family live comfortably in the event of your death. Unfortunately, mistakes can cost you dearly when you need insurance most. Here are some...
Read MoreThe end of the year is fast approaching, and it’s a good time to review insurance and make sure that you’re making the most of your options this year. Review your coverage Now is an excellent opportunity to review your home...
Read MoreIf you’re approaching retirement, it might seem logical and comforting to pay off your mortgage before you leave the workforce. No mortgage means one less major bill to pay each month, and you might feel more at ease knowing that...
Read MoreHealthcare needs in retirement are complex and purchasing a long-term care insurance policy is a major decision that you should not undertake lightly. Long-term care (LTC) insurance is designed to transfer the risk and cost of...
Read MoreYou buy insurance to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your finances from risk. However, all insurance policies aren’t created equal and you want to be careful to choose policies from companies that will be able to pay claims...
Read MoreInsurance-related Identity theft is a major problem in United States. Estimates suggest that life insurance fraud costs tens of billions of dollars each year.(1) Fraudsters can use sensitive personal information to make fraudulent...
Read MoreIf you own a business, what would happen to your business and your family if you were to die unexpectedly? Life insurance can help give your business and your family some breathing room to recover from the financial, emotional, and...
Read MoreMillions of Americans risk running out of money during retirement or not being able to retire on time. The most common reason? Not having saved enough for retirement during their working years. While inflation, turbulent markets, and...
Read MoreThe Bureau of Justice Statistics found that 16.6 million Americans were victims of identity theft in 2012. While the elderly and those for whom English is a second language are often specially targeted by scammers, anyone can become a...
Read MoreYour child’s teenage years may be your last opportunity to teach valuable financial lessons before he or she heads out into the world. Today’s financial world is complex, and a solid financial base can help young adults adopt good...
Read MoreWeekly Update - July 1, 2015 Like many important life transitions, retirement comes with a host of emotional and financial changes. Though you may have a lot of other things on your mind when you retire, you don’t want to make these...
Read MoreWeekly Update - July 8, 2015 Life insurance for children is a controversial issue. On one hand, most children are born healthy and will live long, productive lives. Since they don’t work and contribute income to your family, one of...
Read MoreWeekly Update - July 15, 2015 Everyone has goals that they'd like to reach. Maybe it's running a marathon, writing a novel, retiring early, or taking control of your finances. Whatever your personal goals are, reaching them takes...
Read MoreWeekly Update - July 22, 2015 Suffering an injury or illness abroad can be extremely expensive, especially if it requires emergency medical care or unplanned evacuation. If you're planning a cruise or vacation overseas, take some time...
Read MoreWeekly Update - July 29, 2015 If you have life insurance, you probably sat down at some point and calculated how many years of income your family might need or what costs your death might incur for your loved ones. However, rules of...
Read MoreWeekly Update - August 5, 2015 Sending a child off to college? Sit down together and go over these important financial issues before dropping him or her off for the semester. Update insurance coverage: While some homeowner's policies...
Read MoreWeekly Update - August 12, 2015 Ever wondered about the differences between term and permanent life insurance options? Though every type of life insurance is designed to provide a death benefit, policies can differ in length of...
Read MoreIt takes most people a lifetime to build significant wealth, but a few mistakes can completely derail your progress. Usually, it's not just a single bad decision or a few bad calls that hurt; instead, it's often a pattern of mistakes...
Read MoreLong-Term-Care is something that some Americans rarely discuss. This underdiscussed topic is something that could be life-changing for families, potentially saving them thousands in the long run. If you are in a position to have the...
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Wednesday, January 2, 1980
The divorce is being called the most expensive divorce in recent history, the divorce of Amazon CEO & Founder, Jeff Bezos and his wife. While his divorce could be expensive, he will financially be able to survive the transition. Some...
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