Retirement scan

Clients shouldn't let their egos get in the way when making investment decisions. They will be better served with a dispassionate asset mix that's rebalanced annually, rather than making investing decisions "in purely personal terms."

While the stock market remains strong, clients should stress-test their portfolios and ensure that they reflect their risk tolerance levels.

If estate planning documents don't use the right language, it can sometimes lead to costly and time-consuming alternatives.

Adding five years to their working years will enable clients to replace their pre-retirement income by up to 90% instead of 60% in some cases.

Annual contribution limits for 401(k) plans have been raised to $18,500 this year, with catch-up contribution limits capped at $6,000.

Seniors looking to launch a business should consider collecting their retirement benefits early.

Retirees will have to change the way they file taxes under the new tax law, including making two years' worth of charitable donations every other year to exceed the standard deduction and itemize.

Clients who prefer a simple retirement investing strategy should consider a dividend stock index fund.

Tax-free withdrawals could outweigh an employer's match if early withdrawals are made for expenses like health care.

Retirees should stick to their strategies and diversify their portfolios with various sources of income.

The funded ratio for defined benefit plans at Fortune 1,000 firms rose to 83% at the end of 2017, a new report says.

One strategy to enhance financial prospects is to get a part-time job via the gig economy.

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.

Many millennials find it difficult to think beyond their student debt, which averages $32,731 with an average monthly payment of $393, according to the Federal Reserve.

If clients miss an RMD, they will be subject to a penalty equal to half the amount they should have taken, and they'll still owe ordinary income taxes on distributions.

When giving cash gifts to grandchildren this holiday season, clients have options that can also help minimize their estate taxes in the future.

Fixed indexed annuities guarantees minimal investment returns amid a down market, but investing in them still carries some risk.