Retirement planning

The online tool, created by the advocacy organization and state regulators, suggests tough questions for the hiring process.

The drastic changes are shaking up the status quo of estate planning. Here’s how financial planners need to change their approach.

Clients may want to opt for a fund that follows small companies as they will benefit from a lower corporate tax rate under the new tax law.

Clients will no longer be able to undo Roth conversions once the new tax law takes effect next year.

Seniors who are 70 1/2 and older should ensure that they take their first required minimum distribution from tax-deferred retirement accounts by December 29.

Clients should refrain from cosigning their child's student loan, as Social Security could garnish their retirement benefits if the child defaults on the loan payments.

What the next generation of tech innovation means for planners.

"Maybe commissions aren’t so evil after all?"

There’s a powerful source of income hiding in your client’s home.

Advisors should not overlook client savings accounts as idle funds.

Be aware of changes to retirement savings plans and alimony. Here’s what clients and advisors need to know.

Clients ask: "Will I run out of money?" Here’s how planners can confidently tell them "no." Like every approach, however, there are a few drawbacks.

Investors are advised to do a Roth conversion before year-end to make the most of the federal tax deduction for state and local income taxes, which could disappear next year.

Relying too much on tax-loss harvesting to generate an income is a common mistake that clients should avoid after they retire.

A relatively new approach for measuring savers’ progress toward goals is gaining steam, but it’s not without its imperfections.

Retirees should take advantage of their flexible schedule, which allows them to go on vacation during off season to save on costs.

Retirees who have reached the age of 70 1/2 should take required minimum distributions from tax-deferred accounts, while those who are younger should draw from their taxable accounts.

Medicare Part B premiums will stay flat next year, but most retirees will still pay more.

Clients should consider tax breaks such as education expenses, mortgage interest payment and small business costs.