Financial companies are trying to make tax season a bit less taxing for people who bank online.

As personal financial management software gains traction at banks, vendors are starting to tinker with its long-established formula.

linkedFA's launch comes amid a debate over how advisors can use social networking to expand their businesses, while still following compliance rules under the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934.

The focus will be on improving the parts of the business that interact directly with customers.

Discount broker Charles Schwab has been ordered by the New York Stock Exchange to compensate a former employee for "emotional distress" caused by the firm's handling of her computer.

Advisors can anticipate the rollout of a full suite of marketing and sales tools designed to help them expand their IRA businesses.

The site now includes educational and sales materials, industry news and detailed information on plans that they serve.

The company has partnered with an information portal for financial advisors to make its services more widely available.