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Retirement

Your Social Security Benefit—When Are You Eligible?

It’s not uncommon for anyone to be a bit perplexed when it comes to understanding Social Security retirement benefits. Generally, Social Security retirement benefits are based on how much you, or your spouse, have contributed to the Social Security system during your working years. Here’s a brief overview of the circumstances that may result in your eligibility to receive Social Security benefits. Read more.

Roth IRAs—What You Need to Know

These days, most people know that saving for retirement is a personal responsibility and a necessity. One versatile savings alternative that offers a variet of tax benefits is the Roth IRA. The Roth IRA differs from the traditional IRA in several important ways. Many individuals, however, are still a bit unsure as to how the Roth IRA might fit into their overall financial plan. With this in mind, here's a quick review of this versatile savings vehicle. Read more.

Early Retirement—Is It Actually Possible?

An early retirement is usually on everyone’s "wish list." A relaxing lifestyle in a warmer climate, or the pursuit of a hobby or personal interest typically characterizes the vision of what retirement is all about. Unfortunately, retiring later, not sooner, than anticipated is becoming a fact of life. However, a select few are still managing to defy the norm and retire early. You may be asking yourself, "How do they do it?" Read more.

Is Retirement Close?—Here Are Some Things to Consider

If you’re a member of America’s largest generation, the baby boomers, you'll be entering retirement in the coming years. With this in mind, now may be a good time to review some of the retirement planning choices you’re bound to encounter in the years ahead. Read more.

Age 70½: Remember that Age When It Comes to Your IRA

Many people who have been contributing to IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts) for years may have watched their accounts grow considerably through benefits of tax deferred accumulation. However, did you know the Tax Code mandates that contributions to Traditional IRAs are no longer permitted after reaching age 70½, and mandatory minimum withdrawals must commence no later than April 1st of the year after the year in which you reach age 70½? Read more.

Your Income—It Can Affect Your Social Security Benefit

If you've started collecting Social Security benefits and are still working, there are two factors that may be working against you. The first is the "giveback." For 2004, if you are under full retirement age (65 to 67, depending on your year of birth), you will have to return $1 of benefits for every $2 earned in excess of $11,640. For the year full retirement age is attained, and until the actual month in which it is reached, you will have to return $1 for every $3 earned in excess of $31,080 in 2004. There is no earnings limit requiring a giveback after reaching full retirement age. Read more.