Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Showing 337–352 of 361 results
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21st century financial services – Go online to manage your personal finances
November / December 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 350
Abstract: Today, the Internet affects almost all facets of many people’s lives, including managing their personal finances. There’s a wealth of information literally at one’s fingertips, including current bank account balances and up-to-the-minute stock prices. Two important vehicles for online management are banking sites and podcasts.
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On the same page – Communicate your estate planning motives with a mission statement
November / December 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 580
Abstract: There are several reasons to create an estate plan, and there are many estate planning techniques and strategies to help achieve one’s estate planning goals. But, to avoid disputes, an important final step is communicating one’s intent and wishes to family members. This can be accomplished through a written mission statement — an effective way to help loved ones understand the decedent’s motives and the values and principles underlying the estate plan.
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Is it time to refinance your mortgage?
November / December 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 557
Abstract: After the Federal Reserve Board slashed interest rates last spring, it triggered a new wave of mortgage refinancing applications from homeowners seeking to lock in the historically low borrowing costs. But it’s important to review the pros and cons for one’s specific situation before taking the refinancing plunge. Homeowners need to ask themselves questions about their existing mortgage rate and whether it’s fixed or adjustable, along with how long they’ve had their mortgage and how long they expect to be in their home. And strong credit is more important than ever. A sidebar to this article looks at loan-to-value ratios.
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Two options, one choice – As retirement nears, should you keep funds in your employer’s 401(k) plan or roll over into an IRA?
November / December 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 813
Abstract: There’s no one right answer about whether someone approaching retirement should roll over retirement assets or leave them in their 401(k) plan. But one thing is true for everyone — the choice can make a difference in their ability to achieve their long-term financial goals. Taxes and penalties, investment fees, opportunities for diversification, timing of withdrawals, the ability to borrow, and inheritance issues should all be considered in arriving at the best answer.
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Smooth transition – Financial tips for managing unemployment
September / October 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 510
Abstract: The possibility of becoming unemployed is on many people’s minds these days. But it may be possible to mitigate the effects of unemployment by planning ahead. Items to consider include possible severance pay, unemployment benefits, and health insurance options.
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An additional gift for your heirs – Educate beneficiaries on the advantages of using a trust
September / October 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 713
Abstract: After a person’s death, his or her heirs will receive their inheritance, which then becomes a part of their taxable estates. To avoid this potential additional estate tax liability, it might be advisable to leave amounts to a trust rather than directly to loved ones. This article describes some of the benefits of a trust and discusses what to look out for when setting one up.
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Do you have enough life insurance?
September / October 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 682
Abstract: Life insurance can help a family maintain its standard of living even if the breadwinner is no longer around to provide for it. A policy can help prevent a family from having to sell its house or make other dramatic adjustments in their standard of living to make ends meet. But different people have different insurance needs. This article explains what to consider when planning for the future, while a sidebar describes the differences between term and permanent insurance.
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Nest egg repair – Rebuild your retirement savings one step at a time
September / October 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 594
Abstract: For all but the most conservative investors, it’s not likely that retirement account balances are what they used to be. Unfortunately, only time may bring back what many have lost. But the silver lining is that they can take steps today to rebuild their 401(k) plans or other retirement accounts and prepare their portfolios for better times ahead. Among their options are to save more, invest automatically, and work longer.
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Consider taxes before you hire household help
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 571
Abstract: When you hire someone to work in your home, you become an employer. Thus, you have specific tax obligations, such as withholding and paying Social Security and Medicare (FICA) taxes and possibly federal and state unemployment insurance. So before you say, “You’re hired,” make sure you understand your tax obligations — and the penalties for not meeting them. This includes knowing who qualifies as an employee, what taxes are owed, and how to pay them.
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Planning ahead – Tips for a near-term retirement
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 756
Abstract: Whether you’ve already retired or plan to do so soon, one question is likely foremost on your mind: “Will I have enough?” To make sure the answer is “yes,” there are a number of specific steps you can take to keep your portfolio growing and to balance income and spending — and to play “catch-up” if it looks as if you’re falling short of your objectives.
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Education savings – Making the most of your 529 plan
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 918
Abstract: Many are discovering that their 529 college savings plans have taken a hit in the current economic downturn. You can’t change the past, but you can make the most of the present situation. Depending on your investing time frame, you may be able to use market conditions to your advantage. Also, as a sidebar explains, recent legislation has expanded the kinds of higher education expenses that are covered. Even if you choose to close an account, you may be eligible to claim a loss on your income tax return.
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Do your dependents qualify you for tax breaks?
July / August 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 790
Abstract: When you’re doing your taxes, can you count your unemployed brother-in-law as a dependent? How about your live-in niece? IRS rules say that both of the above could qualify as a dependent, under the right circumstances. For federal tax purposes, it all depends on whether that person is your “qualifying child” or, in some cases, a “qualifying relative.” This article discusses some of the criteria that can help you determine whether a child or relative may give you a tax advantage.
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Are tax-free investments really worth it?
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 690
Abstract: If you think investing in tax-exempt securities such as state and municipal bonds is an ideal way to diversify your portfolio and enjoy tax-free income, hold that thought. There are a few possible cons to consider along with the potential pros. This article discusses both, and points out that credit quality, price volatility and the investment’s role in your asset allocation strategy also need to be taken into account.
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A silver lining – Market drops can provide long-term opportunity
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 798
Abstract: If you’ve looked at your retirement plan statements since last fall, you hardly need to be told how incredibly challenging the investment environment has been. But if you can stomach the market’s volatility, down markets often provide brave investors with attractive long-term buying opportunities. This article discusses the pros and cons of stocks, bonds and fixed-income equities, and why a long-term, patient approach might be better than trying to time the market.
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Avoid 2 costly life insurance snafus with an ILIT
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 757
Abstract: Life insurance can help you provide for your loved ones’ financial security after your death. But if you own the policy, you could threaten the estate-tax-free status of your life insurance proceeds and significantly reduce the amount that’s left for your family. And if you designate a minor or legally incompetent person as a beneficiary, he or she might not receive the proceeds according to your wishes. Creating an irrevocable life insurance trust (ILIT) can avoid these problems.
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Personal finance 101: Advice for recent grads
May / June 2009
Newsletter: Planning for Prosperity / Wealth Management Advisor
Price: $225.00, Subscriber Price: $157.50
Word count: 878
Abstract: With their college degrees in hand, it’s time for the recent graduates in your life to take on the responsibilities that come with the rewards of financial independence. And given today’s economic challenges, it’s critical for them to establish good money management habits from the outset. This article offers some key personal financial tips you can give them along with your graduation gift.