Here’s a move that might prove useful for you and your spouse. Are you wondering how to make the most of your pension? If you’re thinking about which income option to take, maybe it’s time to think outside the box. Here’s why. When most retiring public service employees meet with a pension administrator and look [...]

Many people underestimate lifestyle costs, medical expenses and inflation. What is enough? What is not enough? If you’re considering retirement in the near future, you’ve probably heard or read that you need about 70% of your end salary to live comfortably in retirement. This estimate is frequently repeated … but that doesn’t mean it is [...]

You might have a chance to go Roth with your 401k or 403b account. Big news for participants in 401k, 403b and 457 retirement plans. The Small Business Jobs Act of 2010 contained an interesting sidelight concerning employer-sponsored retirement plans. Some of these retirement plans are now allowing in-plan Roth conversions. This means: You may [...]

Here’s an overview of the retirement plan landscape. All retirement plans are not the same. In fact, there is such a wide variety of retirement plans that it is worth it to read up on your choices. Here’s a brief look at the different plans and what they have to offer. The traditional 401(k). Most [...]

Why are retirement plans often created assuming a 4% withdrawal rate? When retirement planners try to estimate just how much money a couple or individual should take out of their savings annually, their model scenarios often assume a 4% annual withdrawal rate. Why is 4% used so frequently? Was that percentage plucked out of thin [...]