"Think Advisor" Articles

What’s going on with the yield curve, and how does it impact you?

People mistakenly believe they have a choice between claiming their own benefits or their spousal benefits. However, the reality is that spousal benefits are determined through a multi-part calculation and comparison.

While annuities have faced their share of criticism over the years, the reality is, these investment vehicles have the power to help address some of the biggest financial concerns: Fear of outliving your money, becoming a burden to your children or lacking coverage in critical care situations.

Figuring out how much money you need for retirement can feel daunting. Here, past podcast guest David Blanchett explores a study conducted by The Alliance for Lifetime Income, which reveals changing attitudes and behaviors toward retirement security.

If you’re like many successful investors or the “millionaire next door”, you’re hardwired to save instead of spend. Reframing your mindset won’t be automatic, but learning to embrace spending your money on what matters most to you is priceless.

While policymakers have reforming to do, rest assured, Social Security is more than likely here to stay.

If you are focused more on outperforming in bear markets than bull markets, fixed indexed annuities might be the answer, especially given this interest rate environment.

You’re well aware Uncle Sam wants his share of your retirement income, but some of the families we meet with are surprised to find that includes Social Security benefits.

The tax advantages of a Roth IRA versus a traditional IRA may seem black and white, but there is more to consider before choosing one over the other.

If you’re waiting to claim Social Security until age 70 and reap maximum benefits, it’s important to know the lump-sum option that could be offered to you beforehand.

Here’s a simple tax saving strategy: Take more than the minimum of your RMD and leverage that withdrawal before it must be taken.