Retirement Peace Project - News

Fourth Quarter Preview: What to Expect for the End of 2020

Tue, 15 Sep 2020 13:43:58 GMT

It took just under five months for it to happen. On August 17th, the S&P 500 closed at 3389.78—an all-time record. That record is also significant because it means the index officially recouped all losses from the downturn that happened in March. ¹

This year has been a rollercoaster ride for investors. The S&P 500 dropped 33.92% from February 19 to March 23 as the COVID-19 pandemic hit the United States. Since March 23, the index has increased 51.51%, triggering a new bull market. ²

However, a sharp increase in the stock market doesn’t mean the U.S. economy is out of the woods. In fact, other metrics would indicate that the economy is still struggling. In the second quarter, gross domestic product contracted at an annual rate of 32.9%, the largest quarterly contraction on record. That contraction is more than three times the previous record—a 10% contraction in 1958. ³

Also, not all sectors of the stock market have participated in the recovery. The increase over the last five months has been fueled by growth in the Information Technology (IT) and Consumer Discretionary sectors, each of which are up more than 23% year-to-date. However, other sectors, particularly Financials and Energy, are negative on the year. In fact, of the 11 S&P 500 Sectors, five are still negative on the year. ⁴

The 4th Quarter is historically the best quarter for S&P 500 performance, with the index up an average of 3.51% from October through December over the past 30 years. ⁵ However, 2020 is not like other years. There are factors and risks that could threaten the market’s recovery. Below are a couple things to watch as the year comes to a close:

Election

We’re only a couple months away from the election, as if 2020 needed more uncertainty. Everyone has their own preferred candidate. However, some investment managers are saying the real risk isn’t one of the candidates winning, it’s an unclear outcome.

Bridgewater Associates, which manages more than $140 billion, recently told clients the real risk is if there is “material concern over the legitimacy of the process.” Analysis of recent options transactions show that many investors are taking protective stances through January 2021, possibly an indication they are concerned about post-election volatility. ⁶

However, UBS notes that post-election volatility is often short-lived. They point to the most recent example of an election with an unclear winner—the 2000 election between Al Gore and George W. Bush. During that time, the S&P 500 fell around 6% in the weeks after the election as litigation mounted. However, those losses were erased as soon as the election reached resolution. ⁷

COVID

Of course, the other major risk to the economy and financial markets in the fourth quarter is developments related to COVID. The pandemic is now in its seventh month. As of mid-August, the death toll in the United States exceeded 168,000, with more than 5 million confirmed cases. ⁸

The development of a vaccine in the fourth quarter could deliver a boost to the economy. The government has implemented Operation Warp Speed, an initiative to deliver 300 million vaccines by January. Moderna has a vaccine in phase 3 trials, but it is uncertain whether the company will be able to meet the government’s target date. ⁸

Ready to protect your portfolio from fourth quarter uncertainty? Let’s talk about it. Contact us today at Retirement Peace Project. We can analyze your needs and goals and implement a plan. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

1 https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/17/stock-market-futures-open-to-close-news.html

2 https://www.google.com/search?q=INDEXSP:.INX&tbm=fin&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgecRowi3w8sc9YSntSWtOXmNU5eIKzsgvd80rySypFBLnYoOyeKW4uTj1c_UNDM0qi4t5FrHyePq5uEYEB1jpefpFAAAU6wGESAAAAA#scso=_iyc9X5L9Eq6E9PwPt8m4mAM1:0

3 https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2020/07/30/896714437/3-months-of-hell-u-s-economys-worst-quarter-ever

4 https://www.cnn.com/2020/08/17/investing/premarket-stocks-trading/index.html

5 https://stockanalysis.com/average-monthly-stock-returns/

6 https://www.foxbusiness.com/markets/2020-election-wall-street-stock-market

7 https://fortune.com/2020/08/18/trump-biden-stock-market-2020-election-contested-results-what-could-happen-investors/

8 https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2020/08/19/coronavirus-covid-live-updates-us/

Licensed Insurance Professional. This information is designed to provide a general overview with regard to the subject matter covered and is not state specific. The authors, publisher and host are not providing legal, accounting or specific advice for your situation. By providing your information, you give consent to be contacted about the possible sale of an insurance or annuity product. This information has been provided by a Licensed Insurance Professional and does not necessarily represent the views of the presenting insurance professional. The statements and opinions expressed are those of the author and are subject to change at any time. All information is believed to be from reliable sources; however, presenting insurance professional makes no representation as to its completeness or accuracy. This material has been prepared for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, accounting, legal, tax or investment advice. This information has been provided by a Licensed Insurance Professional and is not sponsored or endorsed by the Social Security Administration or any government agency. 20365 – 2020/8/20

COVID Economic Update: Is a Second Stimulus on the Horizon?

Wed, 02 Sep 2020 16:03:18 GMT

As the COVID-19 pandemic stretches into its seventh month, leaders in Washington are debating a second stimulus bill. On August 8, President Trump signed executive orders that extended the federal unemployment benefit, but reduced the amount from $600 per week to $400. The orders also suspended the payroll tax through the end of the year, and suspended interest on federal student loans. ¹

However, even as President Trump signed the orders, Republicans and Democrats continued to negotiate terms for a second stimulus package. Democrats support a $3 trillion package known as the HEROES Act, while Republicans have their own $1 trillion HEALS Act. ¹

It’s unclear whether the final bill will include direct stimulus payments to Americans. Both Republicans and Democrats have endorsed the idea. However, it’s difficult to predict at this point what stimulus payments may be included in the final legislation.

Market Update

Despite the uncertainty surrounding COVID, the election, and the overall economy, the financial markets continue to climb. After suffering deep losses earlier in the year, two of the three major market indexes are in positive territory. Through August 10, all index year-to-date returns are:

S&P 500: 3.53% ²

DJIA: -2.57% ³

NASDAQ: 22.24% ⁴

While the markets have mostly recovered from their losses earlier in the year, volatility can strike at any time. That’s especially true should the COVID pandemic worsen or if the economy suffers continued damage. There also may be increasing uncertainty as the election approaches.

If you're concerned about risk, let’s talk about it. There are a wide range of strategies and tools we can implement to minimize risk and help protect your financial future. Let’s connect today and discuss your needs, goals and concerns. At Retirement Peace Project, we welcome the opportunity to help you implement the right strategy for your objectives.

1 https://www.forbes.com/sites/advisor/2020/08/10/does-trumps-executive-order-mean-theres-no-second-stimulus-check-coming/#170371841d71

3 https://www.google.com/search?q=INDEXDJX:.DJI&tbm=fin&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgecRozC3w8sc9YSmtSWtOXmNU4eIKzsgvd80rySypFBLjYoOyeKS4uDj0c_UNkgsry3kWsfJ6-rm4Rrh4RVjpuXh5AgAzsV5OSAAAAA#scso=_h64yX9HyDLOO9PwPrMKg2Ac1:0

4 https://www.google.com/search?q=NASDAQ:NDAQ&tbm=fin&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgecRoyi3w8sc9YSmdSWtOXmNU4-IKzsgvd80rySypFJLgYoOy-KR4uLj0c_UNzKtyzQyKeRaxcvs5Brs4Blr5AQkAEbRSnEgAAAA#scso=_7a0yX-q3AcyxtQbPt7HICg1:0

Is a resurgence threatening our recovery?

Mon, 17 Aug 2020 17:17:38 GMT

The United States set a somber record on Thursday, July 16, 2020, with more than 75,000 new COVID-19 cases. In fact, the U.S. set new single-day COVID-19 records 11 times between June 17 and July 16. Dr. Anthony Fauci predicts the country will soon top over 100,000 new cases each day. ¹

COVID-related deaths are also increasing in some states. Florida set its single day record for COVID deaths on July 16, with 156. Nine other states also set single-day death records the same week. ¹

The resurgence in coronavirus cases has led some states to enact new measures. More than half of all states now have some kind of mask mandate. California has even rolled back its reopening, closing bars, indoor dining, gyms, and more. ²

What does this mean for the economic recovery? And what does it mean for your financial future? It’s impossible to predict what will happen in the short-term, but knowing where things stand today may help you make important decisions with your strategy.

Stock Market

The stock market continues to rally in spite of the increasing COVID numbers and the return of restrictions. As of July 16, the S&P 500 is nearly back to even for the year. In fact, it’s up 43.71% since hitting a low 2237 on March 23. ³ NASDAQ set a record-high on July 9 when it reached 10,617. ⁴

The continued gains are good news for investors, especially after the sharp decline in March. However, that decline also shows us just how quickly the market can turn, especially if state governments introduce new orders that close businesses.

If you’re concerned about another potential downturn or future risk, this could be the right time to explore risk-protection strategies. For example, products like fixed annuities allow you to participate in a portion of the market upside but also protect you against losses. A financial professional can help you determine which risk-management strategy is right for you.

Unemployment

While the number of new unemployment claims has declined for 15 consecutive weeks, unemployment numbers are still much higher than they were pre-COVID. In February, there were approximately 200,000 new unemployment claims each week. That number exploded to 6.867 million new claims in one week in late March. While new claims have declined since that point, they’re still more than double their level during the height of the Great Recession in 2009. ⁵

Stimulus

In March, the government passed the CARES Act, which, among other things, provided direct stimulus payments to many Americans. A recent study found that 74% of recipients had used all of their stimulus payments within four weeks. ⁶

As the coronavirus pandemic continues to impact Americans, Congress is considering a second round of stimulus payments. In May, the House of Representatives passed the $3 trillion HEROES Act to provide a second round of direct stimulus payments. ⁶

In an interview in mid-July, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin indicated that a second round of stimulus payments was a possibility, even if it doesn’t align exactly with the HEROES Act. Senate Leader Mitch McConnell and President Trump have also recently expressed their willingness to negotiate a second stimulus package.

While stimulus payments may provide a nice boost, they’re not a replacement for long-term strategy. At Retirement Peace Project, we can help you analyze your needs and goals and implement strategies to limit your risk exposure. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

1 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/17/world/coronavirus-updates.html

2 https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/jul/15/california-coronavirus-shutdown-businesses-restaurants

3 https://www.google.com/search?q=INDEXSP:.INX&tbm=fin&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgecRowi3w8sc9YSntSWtOXmNU5eIKzsgvd80rySypFBLnYoOyeKW4uTj1c_UNDM0qi4t5FrHyePq5uEYEB1jpefpFAAAU6wGESAAAAA#scso=_Ap0RX4PNDdvRtAbPobiYBQ1:0

4 https://www.cnn.com/2020/07/09/investing/stock-market-supreme-court-trump/index.html

5 https://finance.yahoo.com/news/coronavirus-jobless-claims-unemployment-week-ended-july-11-175149759.html

6 https://amp.usatoday.com/amp/112232064

Annuities are long-term products of the insurance industry designed for retirement income. They contain some limitations, including possible withdrawal charges and a market value adjustment that could affect contract values.

5 Ways to Reduce Your Taxes in Retirement

Thu, 06 Aug 2020 21:25:43 GMT

What are the biggest expenses you’ll face in retirement? Healthcare? Housing? Travel? All of those costs could be significant, but one of the biggest could be taxes. That’s right. Just because you’re done working, doesn’t mean you’re done paying taxes.

Many sources of retirement income, like Social Security, pensions, and retirement account distributions, are taxable. That doesn’t even include the wide range of other taxes you could face, like property taxes, sales tax, and more.

Taxes may be a part of life, but they can also be a drain on your retirement. Every dollar you pay in taxes is a dollar that can’t be used to support your lifestyle and fund your goals.

Fortunately, you can take action to reduce your tax burden and maximize your retirement income. Below are five steps to consider as you approach retirement:

1) Use a Roth IRA. A traditional IRA is an effective savings vehicle for retirement. You get tax-deferred growth, and potentially tax deductions for your contributions.

However, a traditional IRA can also create tax issues in retirement. Most distributions from a traditional IRA are taxed as income. If you use an IRA to accumulate a sizable nest egg, you could face taxes on much of your income in retirement.

The alternative is a Roth IRA. In a Roth IRA, you don’t get tax deductions when you make a contribution. However, your distributions in retirement are tax-free, assuming you are at least age 59 ½ and you have held the Roth for at least five years.

As a married couple, you cannot contribute to a Roth if your income is greater than $196,000 in 2020. For a single person, that limit is $124,000. ¹ Otherwise, you can contribute up to $6,000 this year, or up to $7,000 if you’re 50 or older. ²

You can also convert your traditional IRA to a Roth. This means paying taxes on the traditional IRA amount. However, after the conversion, you can grow the remaining assets in the Roth on a tax-free basis and take tax-free distributions in retirement.

2) Be strategic about Social Security distributions. Social Security will likely play a role in your retirement income puzzle. However, taxes will impact the net amount you receive from Social Security.

The extent that your Social Security benefit is taxed depends on a number called your “combined income.” Combined income is your adjusted gross income plus nontaxable interest plus half of your Social Security benefit. ³

If you are single and your combined income is between $25,000 and $34,000, up to 50% of your benefits could be taxable. If you earn more than $34,000, up to 85% of your benefits could be taxable. ^3.

For married couples, if your combined income is between $32,000 and $44,000, up to 50% of your benefits could be taxed. If you earn more than $44,000, up to 85% of your benefits could be taxed.

The key to reducing your combined income is to reduce your adjusted gross income. Non-taxable income is not included in that number. So, for example, you could maximize your Roth IRA to minimize your adjusted gross income. You could also delay Social Security until age 70 to increase your benefit, and draw down your taxable accounts, like a traditional IRA, before Social Security starts.

3) Consider downsizing. Simply moving to a new home could reduce your taxes. Property taxes may be a major tax burden depending on your home. If you no longer need a large home, consider moving to something smaller that has a lower value and thus lower property taxes. You also may look at a neighboring community that has a lower property tax rate.

4) Relocate to a more tax-friendly state. Another option is to move to another state completely. Some states are more tax-friendly for retirees than others. For example, Alabama doesn’t tax Social Security benefits and has a relatively low sales tax rate. ⁴ Florida is another option as it doesn’t have a state income tax. ⁵ Do your research and you may find a new home that is appealing and saves you money.

5) Use an HSA to pay for medical costs. Fidelity estimates that the average 65-year-old couple will pay $285,000 out-of-pocket for health care expenses in retirement. ⁶ If you’re using taxable distributions from an IRA or 401(k) to pay those costs, the impact on your savings could be even greater.

One strategy to minimize the tax burden is to use a health savings account (HSA) to pay for healthcare costs. In 2020, individuals can contribute up to $3,550 to an HSA. Families can contribute up to $7,100. ⁷

You can invest and allocate those funds to match your goals and risk tolerance. The assets grow on a tax-deferred basis as long as they stay in the account. When you’re ready to use the funds, you can take tax-free distributions to pay for qualified healthcare expenses like premiums, deductibles, copays, and more.

By using a tax-free source to pay for healthcare costs, you reduce the amount you need to take from taxable accounts, like an IRA or 401(k). That, in turn, reduces your overall tax burden. A financial professional can help you determine if an HSA is right for you.

Ready to develop your retirement tax strategy? Let’s talk about it. Contact us today at Retirement Peace Project. We can help you analyze your needs and develop a plan.

1 https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/amount-of-roth-ira-contributions-that-you-can-make-for-2020

2 https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-ira-contribution-limits

3 https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/taxes.html#:~:text=Learn%20Apply%20Manage-,Income%20Taxes%20And%20Your%20Social%20Security%20Benefit,on%20your%20Social%20Security%20benefits.&text=between%20%2425%2C000%20and%20%2434%2C000%2C%20you,your%20benefits%20may%20be%20taxable.

4 https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/baby-boomers/slideshows/the-most-tax-friendly-states-to-retire?slide=2

5 https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/baby-boomers/slideshows/the-most-tax-friendly-states-to-retire?slide=4

6 https://www.cnbc.com/2019/04/02/health-care-costs-for-retirees-climb-to-285000.html

7 https://www.shrm.org/resourcesandtools/hr-topics/benefits/pages/irs-2020-hsa-contribution-limits.aspx

The information contained herein is based on our understanding of current tax law. The tax and legislative information may be subject to change and different interpretations. We recommend that you seek professional legal advice for applicability to your personal situation.

Financial Moves to Consider in a "Down" Year

Wed, 15 Jul 2020 14:50:34 GMT

It’s hard to find good news in today’s economic environment. COVID-19 single-handedly brought an end to the longest bull market in history and ushered in record-setting unemployment.

If you’re like millions of others in the country, you’ve lost income or possibly even your job. You also may have lost savings due to market volatility. Given that the coronavirus pandemic is still ongoing, there’s no telling how the economy or the financial markets may respond through the rest of the year.

Even in down years, there are still opportunities to improve your financial future. Below are three such moves to consider in your strategy:

Fund a Roth IRA.

In 2020, you can contribute up to $6,000 to a Roth IRA, or up to $7,000 if you are 50 or older.1 A Roth can be helpful because you can take tax-free withdrawals from it after age 59 ½, assuming you’ve held the account for at least five years.

Not everyone can use a Roth. If you’re a married couple making more than $206,000 or a single person making more than $139,000, you can’t contribute to a Roth IRA.2 However, if a pay cut has pushed you below the income limits, you could use this time to open a Roth.

Convert your IRA to a Roth.

Another option is a Roth conversion. This is a process that converts a traditional IRA into a Roth. You pay taxes on your IRA balance and then the net amount is deposited into a new Roth IRA. You face a current tax liability, but you get potentially tax-free income in retirement.

It may make sense to do a Roth conversion during a down year, when your income is reduced. You may be in a lower tax bracket and will thus face a lower tax bill on the conversion. A financial professional can help you explore this option.

Dollar-cost average.

Dollar-cost averaging is a strategy that can be helpful at all times, but especially during volatile periods. You contribute the same amount of money at regular intervals, like once per month. That money is then invested in a predetermined strategy.

The benefit of this is that you buy more shares when prices are low and fewer shares when prices are high. This reduces your overall cost, which increases your potential for growth. Again, a financial professional can help you implement a dollar-cost averaging strategy.

We can help you determine the right strategy in this volatile time. Contact us today at Retirement Peace Project so we can help you develop a plan. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

1https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-ira-contribution-limits#:~:text=For%202020%2C%20your%20total%20contributions,less%20than%20this%20dollar%20limit.

2https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/amount-of-roth-ira-contributions-that-you-can-make-for-2020

Is it time for an economic recovery?

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 14:48:20 GMT

The first half of 2020 has been a rollercoaster ride. The COVID-19 pandemic completely altered our way of life and threw the economy into a tailspin. Most states have started the reopening process, but there is still significant uncertainty about the long-term impact of coronavirus and how long the pandemic will continue.

Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell recently said the economy faces a “long road” to recovery, and predicted the process may take through 2022.1 While the recovery may be a long-term journey, there have been some signs of hope in recent months:

Stock Market Returns

The stock market had been enjoying the longest bull market in history before the coronavirus pandemic hit.2 The bull market came to an abrupt end starting in late February. On February 20, the S&P hit a high of 3373. From that point through March 23, the S&P fell to 2237, a decline of 33.7%.3

However, since that time, the market has increased to 3115 through June 18. That’s an increase of 39.25%. The S&P is nearly back to its pre-COVID levels.3

Of course, it’s impossible to predict the future direction of the markets. Just because the market has been on an upswing doesn’t mean it will continue. A spike in cases or a second round of shutdowns could send the markets back into a decline.

Unemployment

The pandemic has driven unemployment to record-high levels. Through mid-June, the country had 13 consecutive weeks with more than 1 million new jobless claims. Prior to the coronavirus pandemic, the record for a single week was 695,000 in May 1982.4

The good news is that jobless claims have been declining. At the beginning of the pandemic, weekly jobless claims exceeded 6 million. In fact, up until late-May, they exceeded 2 million. So while jobless claims remain at record highs, they are on the decline. The amount of continuing claims has also dropped from 25 million in early May to just over 20 million in early June.4

Consumer Spending

Consumer spending was impacted significantly by the COVID-19 pandemic. That’s not surprising, given most states were effectively shut down for two months. In April, consumer spending dropped by 16.4%, a record monthly decline.5

In May, consumer spending set another record—this time for biggest monthly increase. The figure rose by 17.7%, driven by large increases in clothing (188%), furniture (+90%), sporting goods (+88%), and electronics (+55).5

Consumer spending by itself doesn’t mean the economy is on the path to recovery. There are still plenty of uncertainties in the economy. However, it is a good sign that consumer spending is nearly back to its pre-pandemic levels.

This is uncharted territory for all of us. The situation and data changes so fast that it’s impossible to project where the economy may be headed. A comprehensive strategy that aligns with your goals and risk-tolerance can keep you on track to meet your long-term objectives.

Let’s connect today and talk about your concerns, questions and challenges. At Retirement Peace Project, we can help you develop and implement a strategy. Contact us today and let’s start the conversation.

1https://www.marketwatch.com/story/fed-sees-rates-near-zero-through-2022-says-asset-purchases-will-continue-2020-06-10

2https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/11/investing/bear-market-stocks-recession/index.html

3https://www.google.com/search?q=INDEXSP:.INX&tbm=fin&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgecRowi3w8sc9YSntSWtOXmNU5eIKzsgvd80rySypFBLnYoOyeKW4uTj1c_UNDM0qi4t5FrHyePq5uEYEB1jpefpFAAAU6wGESAAAAA#scso=_hL3sXpOQHsnWtAal04OQCA1:0

4https://www.cnbc.com/2020/06/18/weekly-jobless-claims.html

5https://finance.yahoo.com/news/consumer-spending-comes-back-with-a-vengeance-in-may-morning-brief-100600715.html

What's Next for a COVID-19 Economy?

Tue, 16 Jun 2020 18:15:16 GMT

The economic fallout from the coronavirus pandemic continues, even as states start to reopen restaurants, retail stores, and other businesses. The crisis brought an end to the bull market that started in 2009 and threatens to usher in a recession. 1

What does the future hold for the stock market and the economy? When will the economy recover? And how will this crisis impact your retirement and your financial future?

It’s impossible to definitively answer those questions. In many ways, this event is unprecedented. We don’t know how long the virus will present a threat, so it’s impossible to predict how or when the economy may recover.

However, it is possible to make adjustments to your strategy to minimize risk and take advantage of potential opportunities. It’s also helpful to keep in mind the long-term nature of the economy and the financial markets. Nothing lasts forever, including recessions and bear markets.

Stock Market Performance

The financial markets have been a rollercoaster since the onset of the pandemic. On February 19, the S&P 500 closed at 3386. On March 23, it closed at 2237, a drop of 33.93%. Since that time, the market S&P has climbed to 2863 as of May 15. 2

It’s important to remember that the stock market isn’t the same as the economy. A drop in the stock market doesn’t necessarily signal a recession, just like a rise doesn’t necessarily spell an economic recovery.

It’s also helpful to remember that bear markets are a natural part of investing. They aren’t always caused by global pandemics, but they do happen. There have been 16 bear markets since 1926. On average, they last 22 months and are followed by a 47% gain in the year following the market’s lowpoint. 3 We can’t predict when the market will hit its low point, or if it already has, but if history is any guide, the market will recover at some point.

Economic News

While the stock market has bounced back somewhat since its March decline, the overall economic news continues to be negative. More than 36 million people have filed for unemployment since late March. In 11 states, more than a quarter of the workforce is unemployed. 4

In the first quarter, the economy contracted for the first time since the 2008 financial crisis. GDP declined by an annualized rate of 4.8%. That’s not as steep as the GDP decline of 8.4% annualized decline in 2008. However, it’s possible the economy could face a greater decline in the second quarter. Consumer spending, which accounts for 70% of GDP, fell by an annualized rate of 7.6% in the first quarter. That’s the steepest drop for that metric since 1980. 5

While states may be starting the reopen process, there is still significant uncertainty surrounding the crisis and the economy’s future. The good news is you can take action to minimize risk. Contact us today at Retirement Peace Project. We can help you analyze your goals and needs and implement a strategy. Let’s connect today and start the conversation.

1 https://www.cnn.com/2020/03/11/investing/bear-market-stocks-recession/index.html

2 https://www.google.com/search?safe=off&tbm=fin&sxsrf=ALeKk01UjyvpIcf62vDAgyulZ3dZuL1GWg:1589832165005&q=INDEXSP:+.INX&stick=H4sIAAAAAAAAAONgecRowi3w8sc9YSntSWtOXmNU5eIKzsgvd80rySypFBLnYoOyeKW4uTj1c_UNDM0qi4t5FrHyevq5uEYEB1gp6Hn6RQAAItD1MEkAAAA&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwikycWrmr7pAhWWU80KHfhUBrcQlq4CMAB6BAgBEAE&biw=1536&bih=754&dpr=1.25#scso=_JerCXv0o9o70_A-NwLLYBg1:0

3 https://www.fidelity.com/viewpoints/market-and-economic-insights/bear-markets-the-business-cycle-explained

4 https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/14/business/economy/coronavirus-unemployment-claims.html

5 https://www.npr.org/sections/coronavirus-live-updates/2020/04/29/847468328/tip-of-the-iceberg-economy-likely-shrank-but-worst-to-come

Are "Penalty-Free" 401k Withdrawals Free?

Tue, 09 Jun 2020 21:47:48 GMT

On March 27, the government passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, otherwise known as the CARES Act. The Act had a wide range of provisions to provide Americans and small businesses with economic support during the coronavirus pandemic. The bill provided stimulus payments, enhanced unemployment, and various forms of business loans.

One provision that flew under the radar was the ability for qualified individuals to take distributions from their 401(k) plans and IRAs without paying early distributions penalties. Normally, you face a 10% early distribution penalty if you take a withdrawal from these accounts before age 59 ½. 1

However, under the CARES Act you can take up to $100,000 as a penalty-free distribution from your qualified accounts, assuming you are a qualified individual.2 Are you qualified? And even if you can take a distribution, is it wise to do so?

CARES Act Qualified Plan Distributions

Under the CARES Act, you can take up to $100,000 in qualified plan distributions if you are a qualified individual. Who is qualified? Anyone who meets the following criteria:

You are diagnosed with the virus SARS-CoV-2 or with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by a test approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;
Your spouse or dependent is diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 or with COVID-19 by a test approved by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention;
You experience adverse financial consequences as a result of being quarantined, being furloughed or laid off, or having work hours reduced due to SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19;
You experience adverse financial consequences as a result of being unable to work due to lack of child care due to SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19; or
You experience adverse financial consequences as a result of closing or reducing hours of a business that you own or operate due to SARS-CoV-2 or COVID-19. 2

If you meet any of these criteria and you decide to take a distribution, you won’t have to pay the 10% early distribution penalty, even if you are under age 59 ½. However, you will still have to pay income taxes on the distribution. You can spread the taxes out over a three-year period, but you still have to pay them. 2

Should you take a CARES Act distribution?

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3 Ways the SECURE Act Benefits Women

Wed, 27 May 2020 17:33:06 GMT

It seems like the entire world has revolved around the coronavirus for the past two months. It has changed our way of life, the way we work, and even the way we interact with friends and family.

Believe it or not, there have been other new developments in 2020 besides coronavirus. One of those new developments could have a big impact on your retirement. It’s the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Act, also known as the SECURE Act. It was signed in December 2019 and became effective as a law on January 1, 2020.1

The SECURE Act makes big changes to many areas of retirement planning, including IRA contributions, 401(k) investment options, and even things like required minimum distributions (RMDs). It is likely to impact all retirees, but it could have significant benefits for women. Below are three ways in which the SECURE Act could help women in their retirement planning:

Delayed RMDs

One of the biggest changes in the SECURE Act is the adjustment of the RMD age from 70 ½ to 72.1 RMDs are mandatory withdrawals you must take from your 401(k), IRA, and other qualified accounts. The withdrawals are taxable, and there’s a steep penalty if you fail to take an RMD.

The RMD amount is based on life expectancy and your account balance. Generally, as you get older, your RMD increases. The same life expectancy formula is applied to both men and women, even though women generally live longer than men. According to the Social Security Administration, the average 65-year-old man will live to 84 while the average woman will live to 86.5.2

The SECURE Act doesn’t change the life expectancy formula, but it does reduce the amount of time that an individual will be forced to take RMDs. Retirees can start taking these distributions later, which could be especially helpful if your goal is to leave assets behind for your loved ones.

Guaranteed Income Options in 401(k) Plans

Another big change in the SECURE Act is the way it impacts investment options in 401(k) plans. The law makes it easier for 401(k) plans to offer annuities that provide guaranteed* lifetime income. The guarantees* vary by product. However, the general idea is that the funds allocated to the annuity option are used to create a guaranteed* income stream when you retire. You get the income for life, no matter how long you live.

Again, this could be beneficial for women because of their longer life expectancy. One of the biggest challenges in retirement planning is generating income that will last for life, especially if you live into your 90s or beyond. This option could provide you with certainty and a predictable income, no matter how long you live.

401(k) Access for Part-Time Employees

The SECURE Act also made 401(k) plans more accessible for part-time employees. Under the old rules, an employee needed to work 1,000 hours in a year to be eligible for 401(k) participation. Under the SECURE Act, an employee can be eligible by either working 1,000 hours in one year or 500 hours in three consecutive years.1

For a variety of reasons, more women work part-time than men. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 12.4% of male workers in the United States were part-time in 2016. More than 25% of female workers were part-time over that same period.3 This change in rules now allows those part-time workers to use a 401(k) to save for retirement.

Ready to see how the SECURE Act impacts your plans for retirement? Let’s talk about it. Contact us today at Retirement Peace Project. We can help you analyze your needs and develop a strategy. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

1https://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/iras/articles/what-is-the-secure-act

2https://www.ssa.gov/planners/lifeexpectancy.html

3https://www.bls.gov/opub/ted/2017/percentage-of-employed-women-working-full-time-little-changed-over-past-5-decades.htm

What to do after you max out your 401(k)?

Fri, 15 May 2020 14:58:51 GMT

Are you one of the more than 58 million Americans who use a 401(k) plan to save for retirement? As of the end of 2019, 401(k) plans held more than $6.2 trillion, which accounts for nearly 20% of all retirement assets in the United States.1

A 401(k) can be an effective savings vehicle for a few reasons. First, all growth is tax deferred. You don’t pay taxes on your gains until you start taking distributions from the account. You also may receive employer contributions, which could significantly increase your savings.

While a 401(k) can be an effective savings vehicle, you may need other options in your strategy. In 2020, you can contribute up to $19,500 to a 401(k). That number is increased to $26,000 if you’re age 50 or older.2 If you hit the contribution limit and still want to contribute more money for retirement, you may need to find another vehicle to do so.

Below are three savings vehicles that could be good options if you hit the max on your 401(k) this year:

Individual Retirement Accounts (IRA)

In addition to your 401(k), you can also contribute up to $6,000 to an IRA in 2020. If you are 50 or older, you can contribute an additional $1,000 to an IRA, bringing your total potential contribution to $7,000.3.

There are a few different types of IRAs, but the two most popular are the traditional and the Roth. In a traditional IRA, you make upfront contributions that are potentially tax-deductible. Your assets can then grow on a tax-deferred basis, just as they would in a 401(k). All future withdrawals are taxed as income.

In a Roth, your contributions aren’t deductible, but your withdrawals in the future are potentially tax-free. Unfortunately, not everyone can contribute to a Roth IRA. If you are single and your income is more than $139,000 or a joint-filing couple with income of more than $206,000, you cannot contribute to a Roth IRA.3

A financial professional can help you determine which type of IRA is right for you.

Brokerage Account

Another option is to simply open a taxable brokerage account. With these, you don’t get tax-deferred growth, deductible contributions, or any of the other tax benefits you might find with an IRA or a 401(k).

However, you do get a great deal of flexibility. In most qualified accounts, you can’t take a withdrawal before age 59 ½ without facing an early-distribution penalty. That’s not the case with a brokerage account. You can take withdrawals anytime you like, which could come in handy if you’re forced to retire early or have a costly emergency.

Again, a financial professional can help you determine if this is the right path for you and help you implement an investment strategy.

Insurance-Based Vehicles

Insurance may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about saving for retirement. However, there are insurance-based vehicles that can make effective retirement savings tools.

Annuities are insurance-based products that allow you the opportunity for growth while also benefiting from some risk-protection features. Some annuities offer guaranteed* minimum values, so you won’t lose money due to market declines. Others offer guarantees* of future income, so you can protect your cash flow in retirement.

Ready to compliment your 401(k) with other savings vehicles? Let’s talk about it. Contact us today at Retirement Peace Project. We can help you develop and implement a strategy. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

1https://www.ici.org/faqs/faq/401k/faqs_401k

2https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/401k-contribution-limit-increases-to-19500-for-2020-catch-up-limit-rises-to-6500

3https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/401k-contribution-limit-increases-to-19500-for-2020-catch-up-limit-rises-to-6500

*Guarantees provided by annuities are subject to the financial strength of the issuing insurance company; not guaranteed by any bank or the FDIC. Guaranteed lifetime income available through annuitization or the purchase of an optional lifetime income rider, a benefit for which an annual premium is charged. The information contained herein is based on our understanding of current tax law. The tax and legislative information may be subject to change and different interpretations. We recommend that you seek professional legal advice for applicability to your personal situation.

What Does the 2020 Election Mean for Your Portfolio?

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 18:04:01 GMT

The 2020 election cycle is in full swing. It’s primary season, which means the general election is right around the corner. Before you know it, the two major parties will have their conventions and we’ll be heading to the ballot box.

Of course, you may already have election fatigue. From the local level all the way up to national races, candidates are already flooding television with political ads.

As is the case in most presidential elections, candidates are also talking about the economy. They may make claims about what will happen in the economy if they’re elected or that the markets might decline if their opponent is elected.

That kind of rhetoric is common during elections, but is it accurate? Will the outcome of the election impact your portfolio? Should you worry about the election? Or perhaps even change your allocation to protect yourself. Below are a few tips to keep in mind through the rest of the election year:

Keep history in perspective.

Often when there is one issue or story dominating the news, like the presidential election, it’s easy to focus solely on that story. It’s in the news and on social media so much that it feels like it’s the most important issue in the world.

However, the truth is that this country and the stock market have been through many presidential elections. In fact, in most of those years, the markets performed positively. In fact, since 1928, there have been 23 presidential elections. In 19 of those years, the S&P 500 had a positive return.1

In fact, in the four instances when the markets did have negative returns, there were also economic events happening that may have driven the performance. In 1932, the country was in the midst of the Great Depression. In 1940, the country was entering World War II.

The markets declined in 2000, which was the year George W. Bush ran against Al Gore. However, the bursting tech bubble in Silicon Valley may have had more influence on the markets than the election. Finally, in 2008, the S&P 500 also declined, but that was the year of the financial crisis.

The takeaway is that market declines can happen in any year. The fact that it’s an election year may cause news stories and rhetoric, but the market is likely driven by investor concerns and economic conditions.

Focus on the long-term.

Your investment strategy was likely designed for the long-term. Perhaps you’re saving for retirement or some other goal that is years or possibly even decades in the future. Over that period, you’ll likely see times of market volatility.

Whether it’s an election year or not, it’s always helpful to focus on the long-term during challenging periods. Market downturns happen, but they are always temporary.

There are two common types of downturns: corrections and bear markets. Corrections are losses of 10% or more. Bear markets are losses of 20% or more. As you can see in the chart below, the average correction loses around 13% and the average bear market sees a loss of around 30%.2

However, the duration of each is also important. A correction, on average, lasts around four months. After that period, there is an average four-month recovery period to recoup the losses. Bear markets last longer. They have an average duration of 13 months with a 22-month recovery period.2

Market downturns are never pleasant, but they are temporary. Keep an eye on the long-term and stick to your strategy.

Don’t make gut decisions.

It can be easy to make a gut, impulse decision when you hear and see stressful news on a regular basis. It might be tempting to sell your investments and move to asset classes that have less risk and volatility.

However, a move to perceived safety could do more harm than good. The chart below shows how the average equity investor has fared compared the S&P 500 over different periods of time. As you can see, the index always wins, sometimes by a wide margin. 3

Why does this happen? Primarily because the index stays invested at all times, while the average investor is constantly moving in and out of the market based on gut decisions or attempts to avoid loss. While investors may miss some declines with this strategy, they also miss out on gains. Staying invested usually leads to better long-term performance.

Ready to protect your portfolio this election year? Let’s talk about it. Contact us at Retirement Peace Project. We can help you analyze your needs and develop a strategy. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

1https://www.thebalance.com/presidential-elections-and-stock-market-returns-2388526

2https://www.cnbc.com/2018/12/24/whats-a-bear-market-and-how-long-do-they-usually-last-.html] 3https://www.marketwatch.com/story/americans-are-still-terrible-at-investing-annual-study-once-again-shows-2017-10-19

Are You Facing a Retirement Tax Bomb?

Thu, 26 Mar 2020 18:00:34 GMT

Do you use a 401(k) or IRA to save for retirement? You’re not alone. These types of accounts are popular for many reasons, but one of the biggest is their tax treatment. As you may know, these accounts are tax-deferred. That means you don’t pay taxes on growth as long as the funds stay inside the account.

Qualified accounts may also offer upfront tax benefits for your contributions. Contributions to your 401(k) come out on a pre-tax basis. That reduces your taxable income, which in turn reduces your taxes. Contributions to an IRA.may also be tax-deductible, depending on your income level.

Qualified accounts aren’t completely tax-free, however. While you may get a deduction upfront and taxes may be deferred over time, eventually, you do have to pay taxes on these assets. That time is usually when you take withdrawals in retirement.

Most distributions from qualified accounts are taxed as income. That could be problematic if you plan on using your 401(k) or IRA to generate most of your retirement income. You could create high levels of taxable income that may create a significant tax liability, which could reduce your net income and your ability to live a comfortable lifestyle.

Fortunately, you can minimize your tax burden by planning ahead. Every situation is unique, so there’s no universal strategy that is right for everyone. However, the following three-step process can help you project your tax liability in retirement and take steps to control it.

List all your sources of retirement income.

The first step in managing your retirement taxes is to project just exactly where your income will come from. In fact, this isn’t just useful for tax planning; it’s important for your entire retirement strategy.

Make a list of all your potential income sources. The list could include things like:

● 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plans

● Traditional IRA

● Roth IRA

● Annuities

● Social Security

● Defined Benefit Pension

● Business income

● Real estate income

● And more

Categorize them by tax treatment.

Once you have your list, you can start to categorize your income sources according to how they are taxed. Some income sources will likely be taxable, like:

● Part-time work wages

● 401(k) distributions

● IRA distributions

● Investment income

● Business and real estate income

Other types of income may be tax-free, such as:

● Municipal bond interest

● Life insurance distributions

● Roth IRA withdrawals

And finally, there could be some sources of income that simply require more research. They may be taxable, but also may not be. It could depend on your total taxable income or perhaps other factors. These types of income could include:

● Annuity payments

● Social Security

● Defined Benefit Pension

● And more

Meet with a professional and develop a tax strategy.

The final step is to work with a professional to create a detailed projection of your potential income and tax liability in retirement. They can estimate your income and your possible taxes each year. They can then work with you to develop a strategy that minimizes tax payments.

For example, they might recommend the use of tax-free income from municipal bonds or a Roth IRA. They could suggest the use of life insurance to create tax-free income. They may recommend that you delay Social Security or choose a different pension benefit to reduce your taxable income. A financial professional can help you find the strategy that is best for your needs.

Ready to develop your retirement tax strategy? Let’s talk about it. Contact us at Retirement Peace Project. We can help you analyze your needs and develop a strategy. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

19662 - 2020/1/16

Should You Leave Money in Your 401(k)?

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 17:16:52 GMT

There’s a growing trend among new retirees. With increasing frequency, Americans are choosing to leave their retirement savings. According to data from Fidelity, 55% of workers leave their retirement savings in their former employer’s 401(k) plan for a full year after retirement. That’s up from 45% just four years ago.1

Why are retirees leaving their assets in their old 401(k) rather than rolling those funds to an IRA? There could be a variety of reasons. Workers may be happy with the plan’s investment options and administration. They may feel comfortable with the plan’s online access and other management tools. They might not need the money immediately, so they don’t have urgency to do anything with it. It’s also possible that some retirees may not be aware that they can roll their funds into an IRA tax-free.

While there are certainly benefits to keeping your assets in your employer’s 401(k), there are also good reasons to roll the assets into an IRA. If you’re approaching retirement, now is the time to consider your options for your 401(k), which may be your largest retirement asset. Below are a few factors to consider:

Investment Options

If you’ve been in your 401(k) plan for a significant amount of time, you are likely familiar with the plan’s investment options. You may feel comfortable with your allocation and perhaps you even like the plan’s fee structure and performance.

However, your goals and risk tolerance won’t always be the same as they are today. Just as your investment strategy has evolved through your career, it will likely continue to evolve through retirement. What you’re comfortable with today may not be something you’re comfortable with in the future.

Generally, IRAs offer significantly more investment options than most 401(k) plans. That’s not necessarily true with every IRA and 401(k), but it is often the case. While a 401(k) plan may offer dozens of options from select providers, an IRA will often allow you to choose from a wide universe of stocks, bonds, mutual funds, ETFs, annuities, and more. That greater diversity of options can help you develop an allocation that is just right for your goals and risk tolerance, no matter how it changes in the future.

Management and Administration

You also may be comfortable with your 401(k) plan’s management and administration tools. Perhaps the website is easy to use. Maybe you have a dedicated support person within the plan administrator’s office. You know how to make changes and review your account, and you may not want to make changes at this time.

Again, though, consider whether it will still be convenient in the future to keep your assets in your old 401(k). If you’re like many retirees, you may have multiple 401(k) plans from old employers. You also might have IRAs and other investment accounts. It’s difficult to manage and adjust your strategy when you have accounts spread across multiple custodians and institutions. You could simplify the process by consolidating your qualified retirement assets into one IRA.

Also, when you reach 72, you’ll have to take required minimum distributions (RMDs) from your 401(k) and IRA. Again, that process may be inconvenient if you have to pull distributions from multiple accounts. If you consolidate your qualified assets into one IRA, you simply have to make withdrawals from one account to satisfy your RMD each year.

Income Protection

While you may not need to tap into your 401(k) assets today, it’s possible that at some point in the future you will need to take withdrawals from your retirement savings. Of course, it’s difficult to know how much you can safely take in a withdrawal each year. What if you live longer than you anticipate? What if the market takes a downward turn? How can you be sure your assets and income will last for life?

In most IRAs, you can use financial vehicles like annuities to convert a portion of your savings into guaranteed* income. You receive a regular consistent check that is guaranteed* for life, no matter how long you live or how the markets perform.

Historically, annuities with guaranteed income benefits have been more available in IRAs than in 401(k) plans. However, the passage of a new law, called the SECURE Act, creates the possibility for 401(k) plans to start offering these vehicles. Whether it’s through your IRA or 401(k), guaranteed income could give you a base level of financial stability confidence in retirement.

Ready to implement a plan for your 401(k) assets? Let’s talk about it. Contact us today at Retirement Peace Project. We can help you analyze your needs and develop a strategy. Let’s connect soon and start the conversation.

1https://www.marketwatch.com/story/more-americans-are-leaving-their-money-in-401k-plans-after-retirement-should-you-2019-10-31

*Guarantees, including optional benefits, are backed by the claims-paying ability of the issuer, and may contain limitations, including surrender charges, which may affect policy values.

19563 - 2019/12/16

What in the World is an Investment Policy Statement?

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 17:18:58 GMT

For decades, some of the world’s largest institutional investors have used one tool to guide their decision-making. Mutual funds, educational endowments, defined benefit pensions, and more all use this document to focus on their long-term goals and select only the investments that meet their specific criteria. It’s an investment policy statement (IPS).

An IPS isn’t just for institutional investors though. Individuals are now often using their own IPS to set long-term strategy and develop a formal process for choosing investments. While the format of an IPS can vary, most involve the following elements: 1

● Goals - A description of the purpose of the investment and the investor’s specific objectives.

● Risks - The various risks that may threaten the strategy and a statement about the maximum acceptable risk that the investor is willing to accept.

● Strategy - A description of the portfolio strategy and target allocation.

● Current Investments - A list of all current assets and investments that are covered by the IPS.

● Selection Criteria - The criteria that an investment must meet to be included in the strategy. The criteria could be based on past return, volatility, expense ratios, and more.

● Monitoring Policy - A description of how the strategy will be monitored. When will reviews take place? When will the portfolio be rebalanced? What would need to happen to trigger a change in policy?

Do you need an IPS? It could be a valuable tool to help you maintain a long-term strategy and stick with a consistent investment approach. Below are a few ways in which you might benefit from an IPS:

It helps you avoid emotional decisions.

The average equity investor routinely underperforms the S&P 500 index. In fact, over the past 30 years, the average investor has had a 3.98% average annual return. The S&P 500 has averaged more than 10% annually over that same period.2

Why do investors underperform the market? There are many reasons but one of the biggest is that investors change their strategy based on emotional decisions and short-term impulses.

For example, you may get out of the equity markets if they take a downward turn. However, by the time the market has improved, you’ve already missed much of the recovery. These kinds of decisions cost investors return over the long-term.

An IPS helps you avoid short-term impulse decisions because all of your actions are guided by the document. If a change or adjustment isn’t specified in the IPS, you don’t make it. In many ways, an IPS protects you from yourself.

It clarifies risk.

What is your risk tolerance? Don’t know? You’re not alone. Unfortunately, many investors jump right into their strategy without considering their own tolerance for risk. That often leads to an allocation that isn’t right for their needs and goals.

Risk tolerance is an important component in IPS. Before you can establish your long-term strategy, you have to define the specific levels of risk that are or are not acceptable to you. You then develop an allocation that aligns with your acceptable level of risk. Without an IPS, you might choose an allocation that has far more potential for risk than is right for you.

Ready to create your own IPS? We can help. Contact us today at Retirement Peace Project. We can help you document your goals, clarify your risk tolerance, and create a comprehensive policy that keeps you focused on the long-term.

1https://www.morningstar.com/articles/808692/how-to-create-an-investment-policy-statement

2https://www.marketwatch.com/story/americans-are-still-terrible-at-investing-annual-study-once-again-shows-2017-10-19

19564 - 2019/12/16

This powerlifting 82-year-old made an intruder regret breaking into her home

Tue, 26 Nov 2019 23:27:00 GMT

https://www.cnn.com/2019/11/24/us/82-year-old-bodybuilder-grandma-intruder-trnd/index.html

Almost all Americans take Social Security at the wrong time, study says

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 18:07:00 GMT

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/study-says-retirees-lose-more-than-100k-by-claiming-social-security-at-the-wrong-time/

Why Lifting Weights Can Be So Potent for Aging Well

Tue, 19 Nov 2019 19:43:00 GMT

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/03/20/well/move/lifting-weights-exercise-older-aging-muscles-psychology.html

Americans’ retirement know-how rates ‘F’: Survey

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 19:06:00 GMT

https://www.cnbc.com/2014/12/03/americans-retirement-know-how-rates-f-survey.html

Retirement Peace Project - News

Fourth Quarter Preview: What to Expect for the End of 2020

Election

COVID

COVID Economic Update: Is a Second Stimulus on the Horizon?

Market Update

Is a resurgence threatening our recovery?

Stock Market

Unemployment

Stimulus

5 Ways to Reduce Your Taxes in Retirement

Financial Moves to Consider in a "Down" Year

Is it time for an economic recovery?

What's Next for a COVID-19 Economy?

Stock Market Performance

Economic News

Are "Penalty-Free" 401k Withdrawals Free?

CARES Act Qualified Plan Distributions

Should you take a CARES Act distribution?

3 Ways the SECURE Act Benefits Women

What to do after you max out your 401(k)?

What Does the 2020 Election Mean for Your Portfolio?

Are You Facing a Retirement Tax Bomb?

Should You Leave Money in Your 401(k)?

What in the World is an Investment Policy Statement?

This powerlifting 82-year-old made an intruder regret breaking into her home

Almost all Americans take Social Security at the wrong time, study says

​​Why Lifting Weights Can Be So Potent for Aging Well​

Americans’ retirement know-how rates ‘F’: Survey

Why Lifting Weights Can Be So Potent for Aging Well