IRAs

An adviser's strategy puts a distribution to work to potentially lower what clients owe the government for their IRAs and Social Security income. Plus, momentum investing is tempting again (just watch out for the capital gains expense), and a look at the efficiency and payoffs of preferred stocks.

Tax-wise strategies for charitable contributions can take a 180-degree turn when it comes time to create an estate plan.

A typically "balanced" portfolio (with 60% in stocks and 40% in bonds) yielded a return of 4% or more just 66% of the time.

As many as 30% of accounts are either abandoned or lost because many providers can no longer locate the account holders.

Advisers and clients may think it doesn't matter which account makes the distribution, as long as the total calculated amount is taken from some account. They are wrong.

Investing in more bonds for a short period is a good strategy for retirement savers to curb the sequence of return risk.

High front-end fees, complex payouts and a lack of dividend income are among the reasons.

Now may be the best time for retirees to make charitable donations, do a Roth conversion, and incur more qualified medical expenses to meet the threshold and qualify for a tax deduction.

Investors should take market volatility as an opportunity to engage in year-end tax planning that includes strategies such as tax-loss harvesting.

Clients fare just as well, and possibly better, with their other investments by developing the same savings habits of these retirement accounts. Plus, getting more out of munis.

Investments in certain closed-end funds or preferred shares are strategies clients should consider to make their savings last, an industry expert says.

How advisers can prepare for renewed interest in alternatives.

The early decision stops advisers from earning commissions on products that will also generate fees through the firm's Investment Advisory Program.

Those with the option of taking loans from their plans should consider tax implications and the possibility of missing out on the growth of the money that was borrowed.

Clients who borrow from their company retirement plans can often get a good rate with no hassle. But if they miss payments, they might face nasty tax charges.

Retirement investors should ensure they follow the rules so their heirs can fully gain from the account's tax advantages.

Commodities aren't a good inflation hedge, according to one expert. Instead, talk to clients about TIPS or even some securities.

A bond subsector worth looking at. Plus, help clients keep what they owe the government to a minimum with a roadmap for drawing down assets.

IRAs are not subject to as many rules, allowing investors to make withdrawals that conform to their portfolio strategy.

Understanding pro-rata rules can ensure that a client only pays their fair share to the government. Plus, these retirement preparations can boost returns and a look at when spending means better planning.