Earning Income from Mutual Funds

More than half of working Americans are concerned that they may not have enough money to live comfortably during retirement. Although mutual funds are often thought of as a tool to build savings, they can also be used to generate income. This article examines the potential income benefits of bond funds, equity or stock income funds, and hybrid funds.

Evaluating Life Insurance Needs

It's a good idea for people to evaluate their life insurance coverage to help ensure it keeps pace with their needs. Not only do major life events affect the amount of coverage that may be needed, but inflation can reduce the purchasing power of the death benefit and a greater benefit may be needed to cover estate taxes and other debts.

Deciding When to Begin

Waiting until full retirement age (or up to age 70) to claim Social Security may result in significantly higher monthly benefits. At age 62, the earliest age to claim Social Security, the amount received could be only 70% of the benefit received at "full retirement age" (which ranges from age 65 to 67 depending on year of birth).

Doing Your Heirs a Favor

Although a will and a trust specify disposition of assets, many other details of an individual’s final wishes might be explained in a letter of instructions. This article offers some topics to consider addressing in the letter to help loved ones make decisions and take care of final arrangements.

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IRA Eligibility

Use this calculator to determine whether you qualify for the different types of IRAs.

Roth IRA Conversion

This calculator can help you determine whether you should consider converting to a Roth IRA.

Tax-Deferred Savings

Compare the potential future value of tax-deferred investments to that of taxable investments.

Retirement Portfolio Lifespan

How Long Will Your Funds Last?

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