For Mark Roberts' Use: Each spring, we all sit down with a calculator and piles of documents, and we file our tax returns. Despite efforts at simplifying the process, many of us still make mistakes. In fact, the Government Accountability Office says that a small undercover study in February detected errors in 17 out of [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: As you might already know, the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015 triggered significant changes to the Social Security system. In particular, Congress decided to close the “file and suspend” loophole, which helped many married couples maximize their benefits. However, there is another group of people who will be affected: Those who are [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: We hear a lot of questions in the financial planning industry, but one seems to be the most important in the minds of our clients: When can I retire? You're no doubt in a hurry to begin enjoying your retirement, so we've put together a list of steps for you to evaluate [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: At around age 40, most of us begin to think about retirement planning. As you look toward the future, one of your primary concerns is probably your savings plan. Are you saving enough for retirement? Will you be well prepared for retirement when the time comes? There is no one-size-fits-all answer that [...]
For Mark Roberts' use: Because 62 is the first age at which we can claim our Social Security benefits, many people plan to retire early. They do this even though their Social Security benefits will be permanently reduced from the full amount. This is sometimes a necessity, such as when a disability or illness prevents you [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Now that January has come and gone, how are you doing with your New Year's resolutions? Did you resolve to increase your savings this year, or get your financial documents in order? Hopefully, you're making great progress toward your goals. But as you continue to get your financial life in order, consider [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Our priorities will change over the course of our lives; that's just the way it is. When it comes to retirement planning, though, it's important to think about long-term goals and balance those with your more temporary, short-term objectives. In our 20s, most of us focused on short-term goals like buying [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: With the New Year often come new career goals. You might be feeling tired of your current job path, annoyed by a commute, ready to increase your income, or eager to find more fulfilling work. Whatever the reason, you might have decided to begin looking for a new job in 2016. We [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Planning for retirement involves a web of complex decisions, and there is no single path that provides the answer for everyone. The decisions you ultimately make will depend upon many individual factors, but there is one thing everyone should consider: The tax implications of their retirement savings and income decisions. If you're [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: Like most people, you might have given some thought to what will happen to your assets after your death. You have signed beneficiary forms and told close family members which possession you would like for them to inherit. However, even if everyone heeds your requests, your estate will be subject to [...]