Employee benefits

Here’s how to help prepare clients for what comes next.

A Yale Law School professor proposes raising the full retirement age to 76 and imposing a steep 80% penalty for the highest earners who opt to claim their benefits early.

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.

Because federal rules now require parents to plan earlier for funding education, advisers can offer substantial value to clients through their financial aid expertise.

Tell clients in this situation to make sure they know key dates and review their statements to confirm the amounts are accurate.

How some firms bypass traditional methods and offer points and rewards programs.

Assets at firm's Total Return Fund have slipped 70% from its peak in April 2013 to $82.6 billion.

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.

Present information in manageable doses and start with demystifying the three most common costs for retirees on standard Medicare insurance.

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.

Workers over 60 can expect an increase in Social Security taxes next year but they won't get as much in return.

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.

Open enrollment offers seniors the opportunity to change their plans and save hundreds of dollars.