Ask the Adviser: What are my Annuity Payout Options?
Understanding how and when to take income from a non-qualified annuity
is essential—especially as contracts approach maturity. Learn the key payout
options, tax considerations, and questions to review before making a final
decision.
The Three Ghosts of Retirement (Past, Present, and Future)
Your retirement is personal, but it’s easy to worry if it’s as secure as it could be. Inspired by *A Christmas Carol*, we explore the three “ghosts” that haunt retirees: taxes, inflation, and sequence of returns. Learn how planning can drive away these common fears.
Ask the Adviser: What are Some Common Estate Planning Mistakes?
You’ve worked hard to build your nest egg. But are you sure your legacy is secure? Many people make critical errors by assuming a Will covers everything or by missing key tax-saving opportunities. Here are three common estate planning mistakes to avoid.
Securing Your Legacy: Using Trusts to Protect Wealth in Pennsylvania
Trusts can be an effective tool for protecting your wealth in Pennsylvania. Discover how different types of trusts can help minimize taxes and secure your legacy.
Ask the Adviser: What is the Difference Between Capital Gains and Capital Gains Distributions?
Many investors are surprised to learn that mutual funds can trigger taxable gains even when nothing is sold. This article explains the difference between capital gains and capital gains distributions—and how choosing the proper investment structure can help reduce surprise taxes.
“It Won’t Happen to Me”: Why Scam Victims Are More Common Than You Think
When it comes to scams, most people have the same reaction: “I’d never fall for that.” We like to think we’re too smart, too cautious, or too experienced to be tricked. Yet, year after year,…
Ask the Adviser: How Should I Title My Vehicles to Limit Liability?
To properly assess the risk that liability poses, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your overall net worth. Vehicle titling and insurance strategies can then work together to limit exposure and help protect your finances.
Medicare Open Enrollment: What Every Retiree Should Know
Medicare Open Enrollment runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7. Learn how to review your options and avoid costly mistakes. Navigating healthcare options is an important part of your retirement planning.
Ask the Advisor: Should You Name Your Estate as Your IRA Beneficiary?
IRA beneficiary rules can be tricky. The wrong choice may trigger taxes, probate costs, and delays. Learn expert retirement planning advice to protect your heirs.
The Risks of Adding Your Child to Your Home’s Deed
Thinking of adding your child to your home’s deed to avoid probate or taxes? It might backfire. Explore the legal, tax, and family risks—and safer alternatives.
Ask the Adviser: What’s the Difference Between Spousal and Survivor Social Security Benefits?
When it comes to financial planning for retirement, understanding the distinction between Social Security spousal benefits and survivor benefits is critical. Eligibility rules, timing, and benefit amounts vary significantly between the two, and knowing how each works can help you make the most informed decisions for your future.
10 Exciting Hobbies to Explore in Retirement (They’re Worth the Investment!)
Retirement isn’t the end of the journey — it’s the start of a new adventure. Discover 10 fulfilling hobbies that can enhance your lifestyle in retirement.
5 Things Retirees Should Know about “the Big Beautiful Bill”
The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduces tax law changes that may reshape your retirement financial planning. From enhanced deductions to estate exemption increases, here’s what retirees need to know now.
The Enhanced Senior Deduction: A Big, Beautiful Deduction for Retirees
The “One Big Beautiful Bill: introduced several significant changes. Along with permanently extended current tax rates and increasing standard deduction, one key provision stands out for retirees: The Enhanced Senior Deduction.…
Ask the Adviser: How can I Find Fulfillment in Retirement?
In 1986, David Barrett wrote the song titled “One Shining Moment”. This song is now played to wrap up coverage of the NCAA Division I men’s basketball tournament championship game. Highlights…
Protect Your Path to Retirement: Managing Risk with Insurance
A well-rounded financial plan isn’t just about growing wealth—it’s about protecting it. Life and disability insurance play a crucial role in safeguarding your financial future and ensuring that your loved ones are provided for, regardless of what life brings.
Ask the Adviser: How are Assets in My IRA Different Than Other Assets in my Estate?
IRAs are subject to their own set of rules, and those rules can be complex. Here’s what to know at a high level.
Five Strategies for Gifting to Adult Children
Giving your children money during your lifetime can be helpful for them and fulfilling for you. There’s a delicate balance, though.
How do I fix a missed RMD?
RMD rules can be highly complex, and it’s easy to make mistakes by taking the wrong RMD amount, taking an RMD from the wrong account, or missing an RMD altogether.
Ask the Adviser: What is Form 5498, and why did I receive it so late?
Form 5498 must be mailed to the IRS by May 31. However, because IRA contributions can be made up until April 15, you might not receive Form 5498 until after Tax Day.
