Annuities

Clients give up access to their money with annuities, so they are advised to use only a portion of their savings in these products; Plus, they should activate a fraud alert if they think their Social Security number has been compromised.

Agents tout that these products offer 8% guaranteed returns, but this 8% is not a yield but an income rider; Plus, how the Supreme Court just improved your clients' retirement.

Gen Xers are more pessimistic than baby boomers about their retirement prospects; Plus, the surprising new company benefit that's helping Americans retire.

Hint: It isn't claiming at 62; Plus, four things to consider before retiring abroad.

If clients need to scramble to pay out-of-pocket medical expenses, that's just one red flag they haven't saved enough: Plus, some investors can't wait for higher interest rates.

A recent rule change has enhanced the appeal of these products. Here's what advisors need to know.

This type of insurance will not cover a policy holder's expenses for the first 180 days of care, a major concern for those without substantial savings; Plus, how to make the most from a Roth IRA.

For clients willing to wait for the start date, deferred income annuities can offer plump payouts.

Clients need to know the facts when offered a lump-sum payment for trading in their pensions; Plus, seven questions to ask before buying a qualified longevity annuity contract.

Why companies should have to offer low-cost funds in 401(k)s; Plus three secrets to maximizing Social Security spousal benefits.

Investing with borrowed money is just one way clients could harm their retirement portfolios; Plus, expats are advised to invest in a low-cost, taxable account.

Annuity guarantees will help improve relationships among couples, says annuity specialist; Plus, five great small cities for retirees.

Seniors should discuss their plans with their partners and designate a family member to manage their bills if necessary; Plus, clients should put their bonus in a retirement account.

The tax and financial advantages of a charitable gift annuity are substantial, but sometimes oversold. Make sure donor clients understand how these annuities work.

Third-quarter sales of annuities receded to $56.9 billion, down 5% from the previous quarter and 1% from the same period last year.

Buying immediate annuities early before retirement may not be a good strategy because the payouts will not account for future inflation; plus, deadlines for retirement plan contributions in 2014 and six things you need to know about Social Security benefits.

Nearly 97% of respondents said they were very or somewhat knowledgeable about saving for retirement, but just 20% passed a test to prove it; Plus, strategies to increase retirement income.

If your clients think they're going to make money off the policies they're buying, it's time to give them a reality check.

The tax and financial advantages of a charitable gift annuity are substantial, but sometimes oversold. Make sure donor clients understand how these annuities work.

Clients who retire early should consider withdrawing from their 401(k) with an eye toward delaying Social Security; Plus, a new way that 401(k) participants are able to convert their savings into steady retirement income.