Retirement benefits

A small group will actually pay less in premiums because the cost-of-living adjustment in their Social Security benefits next year won’t be large enough to cover the premium increase.

The wealth in retirement accounts could shrink by that much due to annual defaults on 401(k) loans. The projected loss is about 2.7% of the $7.8 trillion in retirement accounts.

The average beneficiary will receive $39 more a month next year.

What are the best strategies for clients looking to tap assets while minimizing penalties?

Advisors can help by being familiar with tax relief options that might be available to affected clients. Here's what to look for.

Seniors will have to pay income taxes on a certain portion of their benefits if their taxable income plus 50% of the benefits exceed a certain threshold.

Premiums appear to be stabilizing finally and even dropping in some states.

About that tax deduction, it’s not enough of a reason to keep a mortgage. Remember, it’s only a deduction, not a credit.

Certain clients may consider donating directly from their IRAs.

Someone who starts saving from age 20 can sock away 90% less per month than someone who gets a later start at age 50 and still build the the same size of portfolio.

Incumbents and startups are developing partnerships to help clients navigate difficult rollovers.

With the expenses no longer deductible, will clients ask for new planning options?

Investors have an average of 25 funds to choose from in their 401(k) plans, but some financial advisors suggest that the best approach is to pick a small number of very broad funds.

Some senior clients might consider buying a quality supplemental insurance plan, according to a Morningstar expert.

Recent tax law changes make gifting from an IRA an even better bet.

As college debt rises, borrowers want different perks from their employers.

Avoiding this oversight can save clients from costly and painful legal battles after a loved one has passed away.

The Trump administration is considering pushing back the age at which retirees have to take required minimum distributions from tax-deferred retirement account.

Waiting until your 70th birthday is the much-discussed strategy to maximize benefits. But in some circumstances, you won't miss out if you file earlier.

The founder of Edelman Financial Services says his critiques of automated advice have been proven right, and that the merger with Financial Engines sets his firm to reach new industry heights.