Retirement Watch Weekly
How College Saving Plan Can Enhance Your Estate Planning
Section 529 college savings plans aren’t just for higher education. While great education planning tools they can be used as valuable Estate Planning tools, especially by grandparents. To ensure you and your family get the maximum benefit of these plans, don’t forget 529 accounts when drafting your estate plan. We’ve reviewed the advantages of 529 […]
Five Strategies for Underwater Investments
We’ve done better than most investors since the market peak in March 2000, including the most recent market decline. Even so, you still might own some underwater investments, especially in your Core Portfolio. For example, American Century Income & Growth has declined with the general market. These underwater investments can be used productively to minimize […]
Deductions For Diets?
The IRS surprised tax advisors and generated a lot of headlines last spring by expanding tax write offs for weight loss programs. In the past, the IRS had ruled that no part of the cost of weight loss programs was deductible. The new ruling reverses that, expanding the medical expenses that are potentially deductible by […]
The Secrets Of Annuity University Exposed
My readers are likely to hear numerous pitches for annuities. Americans over age 50 are prime sales targets because they have the money. This age group has more wealth than any in history, and many are susceptible to pitches that promise to preserve that wealth. Few annuities are appropriate for older Americans, yet annuity sales […]
How to Get The Best Deal on a Car
Car buying has changed dramatically. Not long ago, the route to a good deal on a car was simple. Find the manufacturer’s invoice price of a new car and offer enough above that to give the dealer a reasonable profit. For a better deal, wait to buy during the traditional sale season from November through […]
Estate Planning Strategies for Heirs and Inherited IRAs
IRAs are the most valuable assets in many estates, often exceeding the value of the family homes. Despite this, IRAs often don’t get the attention in estate planning that they should. Estate planning for IRAs requires more work and consideration than for most other assets. First, the IRA has to be fully integrated into your […]
Two Estate Planning Documents You Must Have
An estate plan might contain many documents. Estate plans that fail, however, often do so because of two key and often overlooked documents. Take care that these documents are in your estate plan and meet your needs. The first document to consider is the durable power of attorney. Most of us won’t ever use this document, […]
Durable Power Estate Planning Essentials
Consider which specific powers to give, including making tax-free gifts for Estate Planning. Be sure you have documents that all your financial institutions will accept. Consider keeping all copies with your attorney until needed. Name at least one alternate attorney-in-fact. Review and update the documents every few years. […]
