Retirement Planning

  • 2009 Required Minimum Distributions Suspended

    Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs) from Individual Retirement Accounts have been suspended for 2009.  This rule change has a variety of complexities, and the implications for each client vary.  Suffice to say, we will be discussing this issue and how it applies to you when we meet later this year.

  • Maximize Your Social Security Benefits

    One of the most important decisions a retiree faces is deciding when to file for social security benefits. This decision will not only affect the retiree in his or her lifetime but it will also have a significant impact on a spouse throughout his or her lifetime. Many people have begun to refer to social security as “Longevity Insurance,” as it is arguably one of the best “annuities” available to an individual, with its cost of living adjustment and 100% survivor benefit.

  • Retirement Planning and Social Security Retirement Benefits

    One of the most important and least-understood decisions we face as we approach retirement is when to start taking Social Security retirement benefits. Should you start early and receive benefits longer, or should you wait to get a larger monthly check? Unfortunately, many people make the wrong decision.

  • Roth IRAs 101

    Unlike the traditional IRA, the Roth IRA provides no tax deduction for contributions, but instead provides for tax free withdrawal of earnings. For many individuals, the Roth IRA is an excellent financial planning tool because it provides a vehicle for shielding your long term investments from taxes. However, because of limiting eligibility requirements, many of our clients have been unable to take advantage of the Roth’s benefits. That will change in 2010, when a window of opportunity opens, enabling more people to participate in Roth IRA accounts.

  • Tough Questions To Ask Your Retirement Plan Sponsor

    Many employers offer 401(k) retirement plans, and it's usually a good idea to contribute to these programs. Contributions will lower your tax liability in the present, and the contributions often are matched (or partially matched) by the employer. The tax break and the match are basically free money.

    But 401(k) plans are not all alike. Companies have a great deal of flexibility, especially in the investment choices that are available to plan participants. Here are some questions that you should ask to determine how much you should contribute to your 401(k), or if you should contribute at all...