For Mark Roberts' Use: Have you heard the news about Social Security? Unlike most years, in which benefit checks increase slightly beginning in January, there won't be a cost of living adjustment (COLA) for 2016. If you're already drawing benefits, you're probably feeling a bit disappointed. If you're still planning for retirement, you should take this [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: December 31 marks the last day of the calendar year, and it also marks the deadline for taking advantage of certain tax advantages. You want to make sure you qualify for all possible credits and deductions, and you also want to avoid triggering certain penalties. Before you strap on your [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: As you probably already know, the burden of retirement planning falls on you. Social Security was never meant to fully fund your retirement, so you will rely upon your own savings or investments to provide the income you need once you retire. That realization can add up to a lot of [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: As the end of the year approaches, the holiday spirit might take over. You’re feeling festive - and generous. Giving to charity feels right, but it can also net you some significant savings on your taxes, via the charitable giving tax deduction. Before you start writing checks, make sure you’re taking [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: As you race toward the retirement finish line, escaping the office might be all you can think about! But it’s better to create a solid plan before entering into a new phase of your life. This will prevent you from feeling disappointed in your retirement, or making major financial mistakes. As [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: If you're like many people, Social Security will comprise a significant part of your retirement income. And yet, considering the size and complexity of the government program, it's no wonder that so many people are confused about how to file for their Social Security benefits. You have many options at your [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: According to a study by FINRA Investor Education Foundation, 84 percent of Americans aged 40 and older have been solicited to participate in what appeared to be a fraudulent money scam. Unfortunately, 11 percent reported that they lost money this way. Scammers love to target people as they are approaching retirement, [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: As we wrap up 2015, you might already be thinking about your state and federal income taxes. Toward the end of each year, it's a good idea to assess your income over the past year, find possible deductions, and take the right steps to lower your income tax burden. Many Americans [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: The life insurance industry has been around since the days of ancient Rome, helping to protect the dependent families of workers from worst-case scenarios. But a lot has changed in society since then, particularly over the last 100 years. Today's life insurance policies are changing quickly with the times, just as your [...]
For Mark Roberts' Use: The point of your retirement account, whether you have an IRA or an employer-sponsored plan, is to help you save for your retirement years. Most of these plans offer important tax-deferred benefits, so that you don't pay income taxes on the money until you begin taking withdrawals after age 59 ½. This [...]