Money & Financial
How to Choose a Financial Advisor
Many investors still rely on their stockbroker to play the role of financial advisor, even when that stockbroker is often little more than a salesperson for stocks. In this article Dennis helps explain the different standard to which advisors are held and how you can get a good sense as to whether one will work for you.
How to Buy Annuities (and When Not To)
Annuities are more complicated than toy assembly instructions on Christmas Eve. How do we really know if we are getting a good deal? And are they ever a good investment?
How to Profit from Risk
Live off the interest, and never touch the principal. Today's retirees had this drummed into their minds long ago. It is, after all, a laudable goal, and something every retiree and person approaching retirement should aspire to. But how in the heck are we supposed to do it?
When to Buy a “Buy”
Buy, sell, hold, or pass altogether? This is the dilemma we face as investors, particularly if we subscribe to one or more investment newsletters.
Investing in REITs Instead of Property: Our Pick
I get a lot of questions from readers about holding real estate as an investment. Indeed, many are in response to another newsletter editor who was recently advocating that the only way for retirees to make decent income was to own property.
Will Obama’s Chained CPI Help Keep Inflation from Eating into Your Savings?
This week we examine ways in which inflation nibbles away at your retirement income, especially in light of the President’s proposal for Chained CPI adjustments to Social Security.
Does the Fed Think Old People Are Really that Stupid?
Notwithstanding what we read and hear, when Congress established the Federal Reserve as a central bank 100 years ago, its primary purpose was to protect the banking system. The Federal Reverse shifted risk from the private sector to the public, and through the slow devaluation of the dollar, the cost of this shift fell on the average Joe rather than on banking tycoons. Today, an entire generation is paying for this system with a good portion of their life's savings.
The Time is Now for Your Income Plan
Too many seniors put off serious consideration of how their generate income during retirement. And with interest rates being held down through 2015 and Social Security COLAs over the past three years of 0%, 0%, and 1.7%, it’s not like the government is helping much either. Dennis explains the importance of starting a plan now and even offers up his own.
The best free personal finance software programs online
There are numerous efficient online personal finance software options to track, plan and monitor your income and spending.
Retirees want to find states that do not tax Social Security benefits
Many retirees consider moving to a different state when they retire so their Social Security income is not included in state income taxation. Understanding which states tax this income can be important to older adults.
The pros and cons of index investing
Index fund investing is one of the safest forms of investment you can make. Like any investment strategy, there are pros and cons to be considered.
It seems the estate tax will return with a vengeance in 2013
If Congress doesn't act soon, January 2013 will see the estate tax – the death tax – come roaring back to live with huge impact on those with estates valued at just $1 million.
Don’t panic if you accidentally overpay a bill online
If you overpay a bill online, correct it if you can; otherwise take action to avoid penalties and bounced checks that can affect your credit record.
The pros and cons of alternative financial services for seniors
Seniors will find pros and cons about using alternative financial services companies. It pays to investigate first and invest later; seniors should be very careful about using AFS.
Should I choose whole life insurance or term life insurance?
Find out what the differences are between whole life insurance and term life insurance and learn which one is best for you.
