For Mark Roberts' Use: Each fall, Social Security releases an expected cost of living adjustment (COLA), which takes effect on January 1 of the following year. And each fall, seniors who live on a fixed income anxiously await this news, so they can prepare their budgets and make any necessary adjustments. With the cost of [...]
After years of dreaming and planning for retirement, you’ve finally crossed the finish line. In the first few months after you retire, you might experience a period of readjustment. You’re learning to live in an entirely different way, on a different schedule, and without the grind of a daily commute. At first you might feel [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Even though it’s a common purchase, life insurance is one of the most important financial decisions you will ever make. Just as you wouldn’t purchase a home or invest money without conducting some thorough research, you also shouldn’t select a life insurance policy without arming yourself with complete information. Avoid these common [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Many people set a retirement savings goal early in their careers, and diligently save a specific amount of money each year. But even if you’re on track to meet your original goal, you should still re-evaluate your plan on a regular basis. Many of us watched our parents and grandparents retire, and [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: As you plan for retirement, you might view Social Security as the foundation of your long-term stability. Over the years, you have made contributions to this system through paycheck deductions, and you expect your benefits to be there when you need them. But, as you have probably heard, the Social Security [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Your retirement dream is as unique as you are. Some people dream of retiring in the mountains, while others plan to move to Florida. You might even plan to travel the globe on a cruise ship! But some seniors prefer to simply stay in their own homes. In fact, a poll [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: If you are (or were) and employee for someone, chances are good that you've utilized the company's sponsored retirement account. You're already ahead of the curve because you have considered your retirement income needs and you're working toward a secure future. However, what happens to that account if you decide to change [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Along the road to retirement, you might encounter many hazards that can set back your financial goals. From failing to max out your retirement plan contributions, to overlooking tax consequences, there are plenty of mistakes to be made. But you probably wouldn't think of parenting as a potential retirement pitfall! You [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: If your company offers a 401(k) plan, this valuable work benefit can help you save for retirement while also reducing your income tax liability. But like most financial planning tools, a 401(k) is most helpful when it is utilized correctly. Follow these five rules to reap the most benefit from your [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: It can be difficult for many families to juggle their priorities, so you're not alone in feeling this way. For parents in particular, putting yourself and your own financial needs first can induce feelings of guilt. You might feel tempted to place college savings above your own retirement planning on the financial [...]