Whitepapers

Distributions from an IRA or employer-sponsored retirement plan (employer plan) are subject to a 10% additional tax (early distribution penalty) if taken before the owner reaches age 59½. This penalty is waived if the distribution qualifies for an exception. One of these exceptions is the death exception, which applies to distributions taken from beneficiary accounts. However, spouse beneficiaries often lose qualification for this exception because they make wrong elections for the retirement accounts, they inherit.

Getting ready for retirement? Before you can cross that bridge, you’ll need to cross some important items off your to-do list. But thanks to our work together, you might be more prepared than you think! This handy checklist of ten crucial steps can help you visualize how far you’ve come.

For most, it is difficult to think about the possibility of needing long-term care. But many will need it, and that is where advisors can lend help and hope. Start the discussion and prepare clients now so they do not face a financial crisis later

What would happen if a retiree moved from a 30% equity/70% cash asset allocation to a 50% equity/50% cash allocation? We see what difference it would have made in their average monthly withdrawal over rolling 25-year retirement periods.

Long-term care planning—if not now, when? Two big questions loom as the American population comes of age for long-term care—How do I plan for it? Can I afford it?

Will you be paying more in taxes next year? Let’s ask the question in another way. Since politicians have taken aim at high earners: Are taxes going to rise for the wealthiest taxpayers?

We think of annuities as providing protected lifetime income for retirees, but they can be put to other, not-so-obvious uses as well, including for building wealth and passing it on to heirs.

Are you on track to retire comfortably? What are your financial goals? How much income will you need to generate each month when you have retired? What might be some of your longer-term goals outside the financial arena, but goals that would be aided by a larger pool of savings?

While you can't be certain what the future holds, you can strategize for the retirement life you want- and take these five steps to help you get there with confidence.

Thinking of all that you have seen may amaze you at times. But now you’re six months shy of your 60th birthday. You are 59½, to be exact. Why is that age so significant?

Fueled by powerful tailwinds, major indexes were at or near all-time highs as the week began. But are cracks beginning to appear?...

As a business owner, you face unique challenges and opportunities when building your financial future. This special report provides insights on mistakes to avoid and steps to take for building the retirement you desire—while managing your myriad responsibilities.

Taking steps to help protect your estate is a key financial choice. With proper strategies, you may be able to maximize your opportunities and help manage stress and confusion for your loved ones. This whitepaper outlines critical elements worth considering when creating your own estate strategies.

Women investors face many challenges to building wealth and
securing their financial futures. We developed this resource as
a guidebook for women who are seeking perspectives on how
to take control of their financial lives. We hope you find useful
information that helps you make the most of your financial
well-being today and every day.