Three Questions to Ask When Inheriting an IRA in 2025
The distribution rules for inherited IRAs can be very confusing. Here, we look at three key questions to help you see through the fog and avoid unnecessary pitfalls.
I Just Inherited an IRA From My Parent. Now What?
The new rule for adults who inherit an IRA from their parents in 2020 and beyond is that they must liquidate that account within 10 years.
Ask the Adviser: What’s the difference between premium bonds and discount bonds?
Bonds can be sold on the secondary market for more—or less—than par value. That sale price separates a “premium” from a “discount” bond.
Which Retirement Accounts Allow Qualified Charitable Distributions?
Other accounts with RMD requirements include SEP IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, 401(k)s, and 403(b)s. So, can QCDs be made from these accounts?
Ask the Adviser: Are Gifts to Children Tax-Deductible?
Although gifts to individuals are not tax deductible, you can get a partial deduction for money that will eventually go to your children.
Downsizing for Retirees: A Practical Guide
Downsizing is an opportunity to embrace a new chapter— with less maintenance, more mobility, and the chance to explore hobbies, travel, or community living.
Ask the Adviser: How can I start planning a tax-efficient 2025?
While we can’t be certain about all the possible changes, we do know that some legislation passed in previous years will begin to take effect in January.
Are You an Investor—or a Speculator?
When you purchase gold, cryptocurrencies, or art, you own an asset you hope will appreciate—without any real idea if it will.
Are You Overspending in Retirement?
The 4% rule was developed taking economic downturns into account, and it has generally held up well during recent financial crises.
Should You Do a Roth Conversion?
Deciding to convert to a Roth IRA doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Let your tax bracket be your guide when determining the amount to convert.
Your 2024 Guide to Year-End Tax Planning
Reducing your tax liability means taking advantage of regulatory updates. We’ll look at some of the year’s tax law changes and opportunities.
Don’t Overlook HSAs as a Retirement Savings Vehicle
It’s a little-known fact that health savings accounts can provide an excellent way to save, invest, and take distributions—without paying taxes.
Ask the Adviser: What are the benefits of using a donor-advised fund?
If charitable giving is part of your long-term financial plan, a donor-advised fund can help you tap into greater tax benefits and more easily direct your giving.
The Cost of Car Insurance Is Up, Here’s How to Bring It Back Down
We’ll look at why insurance rates rose 21% last year—and consider six practical ways to pay less.
Is Your Estate Plan Ready for the Digital Age?
Take this 10-question quiz to learn why taking charge of your digital assets is more important than ever.
Ask the Adviser: What’s predicted to happen with bonds in 2024?
The Fed is slated to cut interest rates, which may likely raise bond prices. Here’s what to know.
How to Reduce (or Avoid!) Taxes on Social Security Benefits
These five strategies can minimize the taxes you’ll pay on Social Security and help extend the life of your nest egg.
Ask the Adviser: Are my investment advisory fees tax deductible?
While it’s no longer possible to deduct advisory fees outright, we’ll explore other tax-efficient ways to cover them.
Recapping Market Highlights and Most-Read Articles from 2023
This past year, we covered topics ranging from inflation and legislative changes to RMDs and asset allocation. Here is an overview.
Ask the Adviser: How can I give to my grandkids in a way that supports my own retirement plans?
Assuming you’ve determined that you can contribute financially without hindering your own retirement plans, you should carefully consider how you may be able to help.
