You Inherited an IRA under the SECURE Act—Now What?
Follow these strategies to design a distribution plan with tax efficiency in mind.
Should I Consult with a Financial Adviser?
An adviser can help you balance today’s wants with tomorrow’s needs. Here’s what to consider when deciding whether to partner with one.
Go On a Treasure Hunt: Claim Back Your Own Assets
You might have assets sitting at the Pennsylvania Treasury that belong to you. All you have to do is claim them.
Beyond Financial Planning: Finding Vibrant Living in Retirement
Finding meaning and purpose after your career is a common concern. Here, we share ideas from “Vibrant Living,” a TV segment about developing a healthy, happy retirement.
Life Insurance in Retirement: Is it Necessary?
Determining whether you need life insurance in retirement can get complicated—and it depends on your unique situation. Let these questions guide you.
The Differences Between Estate and Inheritance Taxes
Estate tax is levied against someone’s estate upon death and is based on the size of the total estate. Inheritance tax is levied against the heirs of an estate.
The Importance of Reporting to Credit Agencies After Death
It is the responsibility of the surviving spouse or the estate’s executor to notify lenders on joint accounts, to close out accounts in the deceased’s name, and to notify the three major credit agencies.
Estate Planning Essentials Part 3: Protecting Beneficiaries from Themselves
Studies have shown that some heirs ultimately end up in worse financial shape after receiving an inheritance. This is so common that psychologists call it sudden wealth syndrome, although it is not an actual psychological diagnosis.
Estate Planning Essentials Part 2: Are Trusts Needed for Minor Beneficiaries?
Trusts can be an essential part of your plan—but they are often complex and time-consuming to set up.
Estate Planning Essentials Part 1: Take Time to Prepare the Heir
The mechanics of estate planning can be easy enough, but the big picture requires a lot of thought and soul searching.
You May Be Able to Reduce the Taxes from Inherited Assets
If you’re the beneficiary of retirement accounts or other inherited assets, it pays to learn about the IRD deduction.
Passive Investing: Index Mutual Funds vs. Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs)
The difference can be summed up in two words: intraday trading. Unlike mutual funds, ETFs can be bought and sold anytime throughout the day.
529 Plans: Know the Rules for K‑12 and College Qualified Expenses
529 plans can be a good option for both college and K‑12 savings. But to avoid paying taxes or early withdrawal penalties, it’s vitally important to keep up with any changes to the rules.
Non-working Spouses Can Contribute to an IRA: Here’s How
Income earned by one spouse can be used to fund retirement accounts for both spouses.
Why Chasing Yield Is a Bad Idea
A better overall strategy is to invest for total return.
Prudent Withdrawal Rate
Even if the probability of success for a 4% withdraw rate is less than some thought, it’s still strong when your portfolio is monitored actively.
Tax Benefits of Continuing Care Retirement Communities
Don’t overlook these benefits.
Reducing Future Taxes – What is Form 8606?
And what should you do if you have forgotten to file Form 8606?
What is Your Life Expectancy?
The major components to life expectancy are genetics and lifestyle.
What is The Widow’s Tax and How Will It Affect Me?
IRS tax code treats married people very differently than single people. When a spouse dies, the surviving spouse may often face a drop in income and a hike in income taxes at the same time.
