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Fifty-six percent of American workers have saved less than $25,000 for retirement, and 46% have saved less than $10,000.1
Source: 1) Employee Benefit Research Institute, 2011

Will you outlive your retirement income?  How much liability insurance should you have? Should you add stocks to your portfolio?  Are your financial expectations for the coming year realistic?

Our financial newsletters are designed to provide helpful information on a wide variety of financial topics.  Simply click on one of the newsletter topics below to read the article in its entirety.

  • August

    HOT TOPIC: Why Global Investors Are Worried About European Debt
    European officials are working on a bailout deal to help debt-laden Greece avoid default, but some are worried a broader eurozone financial crisis may be waiting in the wings. How likely is a Greek sovereign debt default, and how could it affect European and U.S. financial markets?

    What Kind of Investor Are You?
    Although most Americans seem to understand that investment involves risk, there is a wide spectrum in how much risk each investor is willing to assume. Among the factors to consider are comfort level, time horizon, and net worth. This article helps investors to consider their appropriate level of risk.

    Rising Popularity of Roth IRA as Retirement Vehicle
    Investment in the Roth IRA has been growing dramatically. Fueling the growth of this popular investment vehicle are tax-free distributions in retirement and no mandatory withdrawals due to age. Compare the trade-offs of Roth IRAs with traditional IRAs, including eligibility limitations, annual contribution limits, and withdrawal considerations.

    Earning Income from Mutual Funds
    More than half of working Americans are concerned that they may not have enough money to live comfortably during retirement. Although mutual funds are often thought of as a tool to build savings, they can also be used to generate income. This article examines the potential income benefits of bond funds, equity or stock income funds, and hybrid funds.

    Evaluating Life Insurance Needs
    It's a good idea for people to evaluate their life insurance coverage to help ensure it keeps pace with their needs. Not only do major life events affect the amount of coverage that may be needed, but inflation can reduce the purchasing power of the death benefit and a greater benefit may be needed to cover estate taxes and other debts.

  • July

    Tips for Surviving the Estate Tax
    The federal estate tax was reinstated retroactively to January 1, 2010, by the 2010 Tax Relief Act. However, the favorable provisions are scheduled to expire at the end of 2012, when estates exceeding $1 million could be subject to the federal levy.

    Finding a Good Time to Invest
    When a prominent stock market index closes above an important threshold, many investors who have been sitting on the sidelines may see it as good time to invest, but they may have missed a significant part of the rally. Waiting for the "right" moment to invest could prove to be a costly and ineffective strategy.

    Favorable Dividend and Capital Gains Tax Rates Extended—for Now
    The 2010 Tax Relief Act extended the 15% maximum tax rates on qualified dividends and long-term capital gains through December 31, 2012. But without further legislation, dividends will be taxed at ordinary income tax rates and capital gains tax rates will return to 20% (23.8% for investors in the two highest tax brackets) in 2013.

    Managing Cash When Interest Rates Are Low
    It's generally a good idea to keep three to six months of income in an emergency fund, but where should cash be kept when interest rates are low? This article discusses the advantages and disadvantages of savings accounts, certificates of deposit, and money market funds.

    Put It in Writing
    A high level of job satisfaction is fairly typical of business owners, but it can also be a hindrance if it keeps them from thinking about a planned exit strategy. A written exit plan could help you avoid surprises.

  • June

    Using a Variable Annuity for Guaranteed Income
    One recommendation from the White House Task Force on Middle Class Working Families was for retirees to consider purchasing annuities to help provide a stable income. Investors who want their retirement portfolios to go the distance might want to learn more about variable annuities.

    The Difference Between the Debt and the Deficit
    The terms "debt" and "deficit" are often used interchangeably to describe the federal government's financial situation, yet they have significantly different meanings. This explanation of the budget deficit and the national debt may help readers understand the conversation.

    Deciding When to Begin
    Waiting until full retirement age (or up to age 70) to claim Social Security may result in significantly higher monthly benefits. At age 62, the earliest age to claim Social Security, the amount received could be only 70% of the benefit received at "full retirement age" (which ranges from age 65 to 67 depending on year of birth).

    Understanding the Appeal of Mutual Funds for High-Income Households
    Mutual fund ownership increases directly with household income. In fact, 81% of households with incomes of $200,000 or more own mutual funds. What is it about mutual funds that attracts affluent investors?

    Tax Law Keeps S Corporations Attractive
    S corporations are more common than C corporations and partnerships, perhaps because they are not subject to the corporate tax. Instead, profits and losses flow directly to shareholders, who are currently taxed at lower individual income tax rates. Read why reorganizing as an S corporation may be a smart move.