Retirement

Planning for retirement involves making a lot of decisions, including how to allocate your portfolio. Among stocks, bonds and other investments, many pre-retirees wonder what percent of a retirement portfolio should be in cash. Cash plays an important role in ensuring stability, accessibility and peace of mind. However, holding too…

If you’re receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you may also receive additional benefits for a dependent child. But what happens to your SSDI when your child turns 18? Many parents rely on this supplemental income and want to understand how their child turning 18 will impact eligibility and benefits.…

If you work in the education, healthcare or nonprofit sector, you’ve likely asked an important question regarding your plan for retirement: how much should I put in my 403(b) per paycheck? The right amount to contribute depends on several factors, including your age, salary, employer match and overall retirement strategy.…

Stocks tend to dominate financial headlines due to their volatility and potential for rapid gains or losses. But, bonds also play an important role by providing investors with stability and income. Both markets are large, and their size can change depending on the economy, interest rates and investor behavior. Knowing…

Bonds and stocks each offer benefits, but they come with different levels of risk and return. A balanced mix can help build wealth while also reducing the impact of market swings, which is especially important as retirement approaches. The allocation for your 401(k) will depend on your age, risk tolerance,…

When you participate in a 401(k) plan, both your contributions and your employer’s contributions can help you build retirement savings. However, not all the money in your account may fully belong to you right away. Employer contributions typically follow a vesting schedule, meaning you earn the right to keep those…

Annuities are often marketed as a retirement solution because they offer guaranteed income streams that can last a lifetime. However, there are several factors to consider whether an annuity is truly the “best” option. It depends on your financial situation, income needs, risk tolerance and long-term goals. For many, the…

Planning how much to withdraw in retirement often starts with understanding the safe withdrawal rate by age. This concept helps retirees estimate how much they can spend each year without running out of money over time. While a 4% withdrawal rate has been a common benchmark, actual safe rates can…

Deciding when to claim Social Security can be one of the most important retirement decisions you’ll make. Delaying your benefits can result in higher monthly payments. But there are many reasons you might choose to take Social Security earlier — as soon as age 62. Early retirement, health concerns or…

Rolling over your 401(k) to a 403(b) is only an option if you start a job that offers a 403(b) plan. These plans are typically available through public schools, nonprofits and certain government organizations. If you do become eligible, transferring your retirement savings from a 401(k) to a 403(b) can…