Hardship Withdrawals – What are the Real Costs?
Withdrawing money early from a retirement account is meant to be a last resort—and can come with consequences. Make sure you know these penalties and exemptions first.
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.
Follow This Formula When Converting an IRA to a Roth
Here, we break down the IRS pro-rata rule—a calculation that helps distinguish pre-tax and after-tax funds.
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.
Tips for Enduring Inflation in Retirement
According to a survey conducted at the end of 2021, about 88% of Americans are very worried about inflation and many say they are planning to cut back their spending.1 Prices…
Using the New Three-Legged Stool™ Strategy to Support the Weight of Your Income
Protecting your portfolio from avoidable income tax is key to creating a sound income strategy for retirement.
Know the Tax Consequences of Your Hobby
Is that new pursuit a hobby or a business? Learn the difference and follow the corresponding tax rules to avoid penalties.
Social Security Do-Overs: What Are the Options?
If you’re regretting the timing of starting Social Security, you may be able to rethink your strategy by restarting or suspending benefits.
Know the Biases That May Affect Your Investment Strategy
The best way to avoid investing bias is to learn how it commonly shows up—and to pursue an objective investment strategy.
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.
What to Know Before Drawing Social Security Benefits
Deciding when to begin Social Security benefits is complicated. Weighing these factors, and running careful tax projections, can help.
How the New Three-Legged Stool™ Strategy Helps Reduce Taxes in Retirement
Learn how diversifying your taxability (not just investments) is key to creating a sound retirement plan.
Taking Inventory with Financial Tracking Apps
If managing your financial accounts feels clunky or time-consuming, a money management app can help you track spending, savings, and performance. Here are three to consider.
Consider These Three Factors Prior to Drawing Social Security Benefits
Keep in mind that claiming Social Security benefits before FRA results in a permanent reduction in the benefit amount, whether you are claiming spousal benefits or your own.
Immediate Fixed Income Annuity: Is It Right For You?
Immediate fixed-income annuities are often sold quoting an interest rate that is not available in certificates of deposit or bonds. Generally, the interest rate quoted far exceeds more traditional fixed-income products and is quite a lure to investors.
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.
It Takes Planning to Reduce Your Medicare Premiums
With appropriate income withdrawal strategies, a retiree can lessen their exposure to IRMAA surcharges.
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.
