Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
Capital gains tax is imposed on gains realized from the sale of capital assets such as a home, investments, and business interests. Under the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 (2003 Tax Act) and the Tax Increase Prevention and Reconciliation Act of 2005 (2005 Tax Act), certain dividends are also taxed at capital gains tax rates. Generally, capital gains tax rates are lower than the rates applied to ordinary income.
A distribution plan focuses less on accumulating wealth and more on making it last through retirement. After retirement, you typically no longer have money earned from your job or business to pay for your living expenses. You need safety and liquidity to ensure available funds for day-to-day costs of living along with growth to help ensure your funds last your lifetime. The growth-oriented portfolio structure of your earning years may no longer apply, and you may have to change the way you evaluate your portfolio’s performance.
529 prepaid college tuition plans offer an easy way to save for an education. Section 529 of the tax code established two types of higher education investment plans that receive preferential tax treatment. The 529 college savings plan allows assets in the account to grow and withdrawals for college expenses to be made tax free. The second type, 529 prepaid tuition plans, also known as prepaid educational arrangements or PEAs, provides tax-deferred growth on savings for tuition, based on the current cost of that tuition.
529 prepaid college tuition plans offer an easy way to save for an education. Section 529 of the tax code established two types of higher education investment plans that receive preferential tax treatment. The 529 college savings plan allows assets in the account to grow and withdrawals for college expenses to be made tax free. The second type, 529 prepaid tuition plans, also known as prepaid educational arrangements or PEAs, provides tax-deferred growth on savings for tuition, based on the current cost of that tuition.
Many experts on Wall Street and in the media don’t pay much attention to small cap stocks. They’re smaller, more obscure companies, they don’t usually involve large sums of money, and they aren’t as glamorous as the bigger caps available to invest in today. But some experts have argued that the lack of attention to small caps is unwarranted. Many argue that small caps offer much more opportunity for growth.
Money market mutual funds offer a convenient and liquid opportunity for investment. They may not be glamorous or bring extreme returns. But then, they aren’t meant to. Recently, money market mutual funds have found their way into a broad variety of investor’s portfolios as their returns have increased and their attractive reliability has continued.
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) are quickly becoming an alternative to mutual funds. Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs), have quickly become one of the most popular ways for Americans to reach their financial goals. While they’ve existed in some form or another since 1993, lately ETFs have been given a great deal of attention from both Wall Street andMain Street.
Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are a crucial component to many retirement plans. As the first wave of the Baby Boomer generation begins to enter retirement this year, the focus on a comprehensive retirement plan has never been more prevalent. Most financial professionals agree that a comprehensive retirement plan should include some sort of employer sponsored retirement plan such as a pension plan or a 401(k). But they should also include your own personal savings plan, including an Individual Retirement Account (IRA).
Bonds have never been known as glamorous, but since they’ve been teamed up with ETFs, they may be exciting enough for your portfolio. Since 1993, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have provided another investment tool for Americans. ETFs may offer easy trading options and their convenience, along with their added bonus: diversification.
Index funds have become an increasingly popular investment. But are they right for you? Index funds, which are a type of mutual fund, are a pretty simple concept in the world of investments.In an index fund, stocks are grouped together from companies included within an index, for instance the S&P 500 or the Dow Jones Industrial Average. The percentage of stock is kept the same as the indexes themselves in an attempt to mirror the index. While it’s a rather basic concept, it’s one that for some has proven to be successful over time.
Annuities offer an alternative for those who have already contributed the maximum to their other retirement savings.
What do you do when you’ve already made the maximum yearly contribution to your 401(k) and/or an IRA? What if you’re looking for an alternative all together? If either of those situations describes you, then an annuity might be a retirement savings option worth considering. Annuities are sometimes called “personal pensions,” because they pay you a guaranteed income during retirement. But how do they work? And are they right for you?
In the grief, confusion and stress of losing a spouse, survivors make the perfect target for scam artists. In the grief and confusion following a spouse’s death, you can’t be expected to remember websites and phone numbers for organizations that help uncover the unscrupulous. A few simple guidelines, however, can help you avoid most of the common scams.
Real Estate Investment Trusts offer a way for smaller investors to buy into big real estate. If you dream of emulating Donald Trump but don’t have millions to invest in real estate, a Real Estate Investment Trust or REIT can provide some of the upside income potential with a much smaller investment.
There’s a new kind of defined retirement plan on the market, but you may have to ask your employer to add it to your current plan. In 2001, Congress passed the Economic Growth and Tax Relief Reconciliation Act (EGTRAA), which provided a variety of changes, adjustments and extensions to rules for retirement plans to be phased in during the ensuing 10 years. Among those provisions was the creation of the Roth 401(k), a hybrid that allowed contributions of after-tax dollars (like a Roth IRA) through salary deferral up to $15,000 (2006 limit) with a $5,000 catch-up allowed for people over age 50 (like a 401(k) plan.)
The IRS lets investors hold off taxes on certain retirement accounts – but not forever.
While Congress encourages Americans to save for retirement by investing in tax-deferred accounts in which the earnings, and certain contributions, can grow free from the dilution of taxes, but eventually, the IRS wants that money out of those accounts and a percentage of it into the tax coffers.
Congress extends childhood when it comes to calculating the kiddie tax. Congress has officially extended childhood to age 18 – at least for purposes of calculating tax on investment income. The “kiddie tax” specifies the age at which children become a separate tax entity from their parents for purposes of calculating tax on investment income. From birth to age 14, children could earn investment income up to two times the standard dependent deduction and be taxed at their tax rate, typically 10 percent. Any investment income over that threshold was taxed at the parents’ presumably higher tax rate. After 14, all investment income was taxed at the child’s lower rate.
Do you know how much money is enough for retirement? We’ll show you how to find out. Even for those who have just started their career, retirement planning is essential to providing a secure future for themselves and their loved ones. But that doesn’t mean we’re defenseless against time. In fact, with the proper planning, life after work can be the most rewarding years of your life.
You don’t have to be developing cutting edge technology or a new pharmaceutical to take advantage of the Research and Development Tax Credit. Over the past 25 years, the Research and Development Tax Credit has been an elusive target for many businesses. Since its creation in 1981, the credit has died and been resurrected at least 11 times by Congress but never made permanent. Determining qualifying expenditures and the baseline for calculation would make the best business owner cringe. But armed with professional tax help, fighting the red tape can be a worthwhile endeavor for many businesses.
Small, mid and large cap stocks all have their individual benefits. But which one is right for you? One size usually doesn’t “fit-all” and especially not when it comes to the stock market. Choosing the right sized company or fund can be a tricky prospect. “How are the different levels defined?” and “What are the pros and cons of each type?” are two major questions many people have. When dealing with market capitalization and deciding which size is right, it can be a tough choice, so here’s an overview of all three major categories of market capitalization.
Small, mid and large cap stocks all have their individual benefits. But which one is right for you? One size usually doesn’t “fit-all” and especially not when it comes to the stock market. Choosing the right sized company or fund can be a tricky prospect. “How are the different levels defined?” and “What are the pros and cons of each type?” are two major questions many people have. When dealing with market capitalization and deciding which size is right, it can be a tough choice, so here’s an overview of all three major categories of market capitalization.
Many Americans collect Social Security benefits early and face a penalty, but by waiting until their official retirement age, they would receive full benefits.By drawing Social Security benefits early, (the earliest you’re eligible is age 62), you automatically reduce the amount in benefits you’ll receive for the rest of your life.
Many Americans collect Social Security benefits early and face a penalty, but by waiting until their official retirement age, they would receive full benefits.By drawing Social Security benefits early, (the earliest you’re eligible is age 62), you automatically reduce the amount in benefits you’ll receive for the rest of your life.
Be certain your financial professional is asking the right questions.
Financial professionals are generally perceived to be more concerned with the fiscal side of your plans, especially when it comes to retirement. And making sure you have a comfortable savings to retire on, and enough to continue living the same lifestyle, are two extremely important things they do their best to help you achieve. But it’s a deeper knowledge and understanding of you as a client that helps them truly succeed.
Your career rise can create new risks for financial loss. A comprehensive risk management approach can fill gaps you never new existed. As your career grows, your compensation, assets and lifestyle often follow suit – and so has your risk exposure. Have your insurance relationships and policies kept pace?
Your career rise can create new risks for financial loss. A comprehensive risk management approach can fill gaps you never new existed. As your career grows, your compensation, assets and lifestyle often follow suit – and so has your risk exposure. Have your insurance relationships and policies kept pace?
Your career rise can create new risks for financial loss. A comprehensive risk management approach can fill gaps you never new existed. As your career grows, your compensation, assets and lifestyle often follow suit – and so has your risk exposure. Have your insurance relationships and policies kept pace?
This is a short guide to overcoming your worries. An unusually helpful bit of pop psychology holds that we should worry only about things we can control or effect and put aside anxieties we cannot. That advice holds true for worrying about money and investing. Although some fears cannot be controlled by the individual or have little likelihood of happening, addressing a related fear that can be controlled may help alleviate some of the anxiety.
This is a short guide to overcoming your worries. An unusually helpful bit of pop psychology holds that we should worry only about things we can control or effect and put aside anxieties we cannot. That advice holds true for worrying about money and investing. Although some fears cannot be controlled by the individual or have little likelihood of happening, addressing a related fear that can be controlled may help alleviate some of the anxiety.
In a divorce settlement, you don’t get do-overs. Doing your homework and enlisting the help oftrusted professionals can prevent costly mistakes. Few times of crisis require immediate, clear-headed financial thinking like a divorce. From the time of the split to the signing of the settlement, both parties will face making those decisions in a whole new context – alone and with an adversary. In even the most amicable split, the decisions about who gets what come with a mountain of emotional baggage.
Because we often forget about insurance until we need it, life, health, homeowners and disability coverage issues can get overlooked during a divorce settlement. In working through your divorce, don’t forget your most valuable assets: your life and your health. Both directly affect your ability to earn income and to care and provide for yourself and your family. You have several areas to look at to ensure you’ve managed your risks.
Another handy way to save for retirement has been gaining media attention.
Maybe you’ve recently maxed-out your 401(k) and your IRA, and you’re still looking for ways to save for retirement and defer taxes.If so, a relatively new tool on the market may help you meet your financial goals. It’s called an Equity Indexed Annuity (EIA) and it’s gaining in popularity.
Another handy way to save for retirement has been gaining media attention.
Maybe you’ve recently maxed-out your 401(k) and your IRA, and you’re still looking for ways to save for retirement and defer taxes.If so, a relatively new tool on the market may help you meet your financial goals. It’s called an Equity Indexed Annuity (EIA) and it’s gaining in popularity.
Estate planning can be difficult and confusing. Here are the four basic ways to plan.
So how can you ensure that your legacy will be remembered for your entire life and not your final hours or days? The best way to be ready for major life and death decisions is to properly plan your estate. This means an all-encompassing look at the decisions to be made, who makes them, and who gets what. There are generally four major documents you need to prepare so that your estate is in order.
Probate can be costly and time consuming. We’ll show you a few potential ways to save. Probate is the (usually lengthy) process of proving if a will is valid, clearing your estate of any debt, and making sure that no one challenges it. All of this takes place in court, which adds to the costliness. Will or no will, an estate must go through probate.
Leaving a proper legacy has become a science. Here are the basics to help get you started. A person’s legacy cannot be measured by one solitary event in his or her life. Rather, legacies, like lives themselves, must be measured as a whole. If you’ve ever taken a step back and examined your own life and legacy, what have you found?
A trust may be one of the best options for ensuring your memory lives on. Here are two that may be right for you. Discussing death is never a pleasant aspect of financial planning, but it’s certainly one of the most important. While no one likes to discuss his or her own mortality, many of us wonder how we’ll be remembered. Perhaps you want your legacy to live on through the work of a charity, or maybe you’d rather bypass the probate that is associated with a will. Whatever the reason, a trust may be an option for you to consider.
A living will and medical power of attorney can be two of the most crucial estate planning steps you take.A living will is the first step to making sure you’re prepared in case of a medical emergency where you cannot make decisions for yourself. The second part of making sure your wishes are known is naming a medical power of attorney.
Gifting is one of the many estate planning tools available. If you’re like most Americans, you like to give gifts nearly as much as you like to receive them. Luckily, if you’re serious about estate planning there’s a handy technique called gifting that can potentially save your family, friends and heirs a lot of money on estate taxes in the future.
There are as many different types of insurance contracts as there are types of insurance. The provisions in an auto insurance policy, for example, are different from the provisions in a long-term care insurance contract. In some ways, comparing insurance contracts is like comparing apples with oranges. Nevertheless, insurance policies all share certain common elements. Once you understand the basics of insurance contracts, you should be able to make some sense of your insurance policy--no matter what the type.
There are as many different types of insurance contracts as there are types of insurance. The provisions in an auto insurance policy, for example, are different from the provisions in a long-term care insurance contract. In some ways, comparing insurance contracts is like comparing apples with oranges. Nevertheless, insurance policies all share certain common elements. Once you understand the basics of insurance contracts, you should be able to make some sense of your insurance policy--no matter what the type.
There are as many different types of insurance contracts as there are types of insurance. The provisions in an auto insurance policy, for example, are different from the provisions in a long-term care insurance contract. In some ways, comparing insurance contracts is like comparing apples with oranges. Nevertheless, insurance policies all share certain common elements. Once you understand the basics of insurance contracts, you should be able to make some sense of your insurance policy--no matter what the type.
Your goals and priorities will probably change as you plan to retire. Along with them, your insurance needs may change as well. Retirement is typically a good time to review the different parts of your insurance program and make any changes that might be needed.
Your goals and priorities will probably change as you plan to retire. Along with them, your insurance needs may change as well. Retirement is typically a good time to review the different parts of your insurance program and make any changes that might be needed.
Why do so many people never obtain the financial independence that they desire? Often it's because they just don't take that first step--getting started. Besides procrastination, other excuses that people make are that investing is too risky, too complicated, too time consuming, and only for the rich.
Why do so many people never obtain the financial independence that they desire? Often it's because they just don't take that first step--getting started. Besides procrastination, other excuses that people make are that investing is too risky, too complicated, too time consuming, and only for the rich.
Why do so many people never obtain the financial independence that they desire? Often it's because they just don't take that first step--getting started. Besides procrastination, other excuses that people make are that investing is too risky, too complicated, too time consuming, and only for the rich.
Why do so many people never obtain the financial independence that they desire? Often it's because they just don't take that first step--getting started. Besides procrastination, other excuses that people make are that investing is too risky, too complicated, too time consuming, and only for the rich.
Why do so many people never obtain the financial independence that they desire? Often it's because they just don't take that first step--getting started. Besides procrastination, other excuses that people make are that investing is too risky, too complicated, too time consuming, and only for the rich.
Legal battles often bring new meaning to the word stress. Knowing what to expect is half the battle of getting through the process. Although you may be one of the fortunate few who've never been a party to a lawsuit, that could change. Should you find yourself in this position, here are a few things you'll want to know.
Legal battles often bring new meaning to the word stress. Knowing what to expect is half the battle of getting through the process. Although you may be one of the fortunate few who've never been a party to a lawsuit, that could change. Should you find yourself in this position, here are a few things you'll want to know.
Potential liability claims are probably a big concern for you as a car owner. Consider the claims that might be brought against you for bodily injury or property damage (or both) resulting from a car accident. Adequate liability insurance coverage can protect you from the financial burdens associated with such claims.
Your need for life insurance changes as your life changes. When you're young, you typically have less need for life insurance, but that changes as you take on more responsibility and your family grows. Then, as your responsibilities once again begin to diminish, your need for life insurance may decrease. Let's look at how your life insurance needs change throughout your lifetime.
Your need for life insurance changes as your life changes. When you're young, you typically have less need for life insurance, but that changes as you take on more responsibility and your family grows. Then, as your responsibilities once again begin to diminish, your need for life insurance may decrease. Let's look at how your life insurance needs change throughout your lifetime.
Your need for life insurance changes as your life changes. When you're young, you typically have less need for life insurance, but that changes as you take on more responsibility and your family grows. Then, as your responsibilities once again begin to diminish, your need for life insurance may decrease. Let's look at how your life insurance needs change throughout your lifetime.
Your need for life insurance changes as your life changes. When you're young, you typically have less need for life insurance, but that changes as you take on more responsibility and your family grows. Then, as your responsibilities once again begin to diminish, your need for life insurance may decrease. Let's look at how your life insurance needs change throughout your lifetime.
Your need for life insurance changes as your life changes. When you're young, you typically have less need for life insurance, but that changes as you take on more responsibility and your family grows. Then, as your responsibilities once again begin to diminish, your need for life insurance may decrease. Let's look at how your life insurance needs change throughout your lifetime.
Your need for life insurance changes as your life changes. When you're young, you typically have less need for life insurance, but that changes as you take on more responsibility and your family grows. Then, as your responsibilities once again begin to diminish, your need for life insurance may decrease. Let's look at how your life insurance needs change throughout your lifetime.
If you're thinking about buying life insurance for your child, consider the decision carefully. The main purpose of life insurance is to replace income lost after someone dies, and there's little doubt that your income could decrease upon your child's death, due to lost time at work or lost productivity. However, you should also consider protecting your child's future by purchasing more life insurance for you and your spouse.
At some point in your life, you'll probably be faced with the question of whether you need life insurance. Life insurance is a way to protect your loved ones financially after you die and your income stops. The answer to whether you need life insurance depends on your personal and financial circumstances.
At some point in your life, you'll probably be faced with the question of whether you need life insurance. Life insurance is a way to protect your loved ones financially after you die and your income stops. The answer to whether you need life insurance depends on your personal and financial circumstances.
At some point in your life, you'll probably be faced with the question of whether you need life insurance. Life insurance is a way to protect your loved ones financially after you die and your income stops. The answer to whether you need life insurance depends on your personal and financial circumstances.
At some point in your life, you'll probably be faced with the question of whether you need life insurance. Life insurance is a way to protect your loved ones financially after you die and your income stops. The answer to whether you need life insurance depends on your personal and financial circumstances.
Like any insurance, health insurance can be complicated. Trying to understand the ins and outs of coverage can be like trying to crack an elaborate code. A big piece of the puzzle is getting familiar with policy limitations, exclusions, and riders.
As healthcare costs increase, long-term care insurance companies offer more options.
It’s no surprise that the price of healthcare in America is rising, and quickly. One of the largest medical costs today is long-term care. Caring for someone who cannot take care of themselves, whether they need an in-home companion or round-the-clock care, can be devastatingly expensive.
Whether you've had a long-term care insurance (LTCI) policy for years or you're thinking of buying one, it's critical to understand exactly what set of conditions will trigger coverage. This information is the bread and butter of any LTCI policy. In addition, you should know how to file a claim, preferably before you're on the verge of needing care.
It's hard to imagine becoming disabled, and harder still to imagine a disability lasting longer than a few weeks. But serious disabilities can last years or even a lifetime. That's why you should pay attention to whether a disability income insurance policy offers long-term or short-term disability benefits, and understand the difference between the two.
If you don't have disability income insurance because you can't afford the premiums, there are several ways to make disability coverage more affordable. But follow these two rules: buy the best quality coverage you can afford, and don't pay for what you don't need.
Section 529 plans are designed to accommodate the account changes that you may need to make over the years. Whether you need to change the account owner or beneficiary, your investment options, or your monthly contributions, here's what you'll need to know.
Cash value life insurance refers to a wide variety of insurance policies that provide both a death benefit and a cash value component that may build tax deferred over time. Many cash value policies let you borrow or withdraw from the cash value. This can sometimes be a good way to raise funds for expenses or emergencies. However, before you take a loan or withdrawal from your policy, make sure you explore all of your options and understand the issues involved.
If you're like most vehicle owners, you're concerned about who will pay your medical bills if you're injured in an accident. If you have a personal auto policy, the medical payments portion of your policy pays the medical expenses incurred (up to set limits) when you or other people insured under your policy (e.g., family members) are injured in a car accident. Medical payments coverage also extends to people not insured under your policy if they're injured while they're passengers in your car.
"Deadly mold invades home!" While this may sound like something out of a horror movie, many homeowners are concerned about health risks associated with infestations of toxic mold. And the insurance industry isn't taking the mold issue lightly either. Some insurers are excluding or limiting coverage, raising premiums, or even refusing to write policies in areas at high risk for mold-related claims.
A mutual fund is a pool of money managed by a professional investment advisor on behalf of individual investors who have purchased shares of the fund. The fund manager buys securities to pursue a stated investment strategy. By investing in the fund, you'll own a piece of the total portfolio of securities, which could be anywhere from a few dozen to hundreds of stocks. This provides you with both a convenient way to obtain personal money management and instant diversification that would be harder to achieve on your own.
A mutual fund is a pool of money managed by a professional investment advisor on behalf of individual investors who have purchased shares of the fund. The fund manager buys securities to pursue a stated investment strategy. By investing in the fund, you'll own a piece of the total portfolio of securities, which could be anywhere from a few dozen to hundreds of stocks. This provides you with both a convenient way to obtain personal money management and instant diversification that would be harder to achieve on your own.
A mutual fund is a pool of money managed by a professional investment advisor on behalf of individual investors who have purchased shares of the fund. The fund manager buys securities to pursue a stated investment strategy. By investing in the fund, you'll own a piece of the total portfolio of securities, which could be anywhere from a few dozen to hundreds of stocks. This provides you with both a convenient way to obtain personal money management and instant diversification that would be harder to achieve on your own.
A mutual fund is a pool of money managed by a professional investment advisor on behalf of individual investors who have purchased shares of the fund. The fund manager buys securities to pursue a stated investment strategy. By investing in the fund, you'll own a piece of the total portfolio of securities, which could be anywhere from a few dozen to hundreds of stocks. This provides you with both a convenient way to obtain personal money management and instant diversification that would be harder to achieve on your own.
A mutual fund is a pool of money managed by a professional investment advisor on behalf of individual investors who have purchased shares of the fund. The fund manager buys securities to pursue a stated investment strategy. By investing in the fund, you'll own a piece of the total portfolio of securities, which could be anywhere from a few dozen to hundreds of stocks. This provides you with both a convenient way to obtain personal money management and instant diversification that would be harder to achieve on your own.
In most states, insurance companies make payments based on each person's degree of fault in a particular motor vehicle accident. However, other states have adopted some form of a no-fault system of insurance. To find out whether your state operates under a no-fault system, read your auto insurance policy (Personal Injury Protection is often the heading for the part of a policy that provides no-fault coverage), or consult your insurance agent.
When you buy an individual disability income insurance policy, pay attention to whether the contract is noncancelable and guaranteed renewable, or only guaranteed renewable. You'll find this information in the Type of Contract section of the policy.
Congratulations! You've decided to start a family. Up until now, your health insurance has probably been adequate, paying for routine doctor visits and prescription drugs. But now that you're facing a lifestyle change, you must make sure that your health insurance policy will keep up with those changing needs.
Congratulations! You've decided to start a family. Up until now, your health insurance has probably been adequate, paying for routine doctor visits and prescription drugs. But now that you're facing a lifestyle change, you must make sure that your health insurance policy will keep up with those changing needs.
Did you know that you can tailor your personal auto policy coverage to your specific needs? Aside from any state-required minimum liability limits and from any requirements of a lender concerning coverage on the car itself, you can select the type and amounts of coverage you'd like and can afford. Here are some tips to help you choose the right policy for your situation.
You're not alone if you're feeling confused by health-care plans that offer you benefits with one hand and place restrictions on you with the other. Fortunately, the world of managed care has begun to loosen up. And point of service (POS) plans may be leading the way. A POS plan is a type of managed care health system that maintains a network of physicians, hospitals, medical labs, and pharmacies for the health care of its members. POS plans blend the provisions of two major managed care models, combining the low out-of-pocket costs of health maintenance organizations with the flexibility of preferred provider organizations.
If your doctor has prescribed medication for you recently, you may be well aware of the rising costs of prescription drugs. These costs can eat up a large portion of your budget, especially if you develop an illness (like diabetes) that requires regular medication.
Annuities come in many different forms. There are immediate and deferred annuities, with both fixed and variable rates. However, whatever the type of annuity, all can be classified as either qualified or nonqualified annuities. And the distinction is easy.
Most people hate the thought of reading a life insurance policy (or any insurance policy, for that matter). However, if you can find the time and muster the patience, it's probably a good idea to read through your policy. If you do, you'll understand your policy better and gain an understanding of your rights and obligations under the contract.
Most people hate the thought of reading a life insurance policy (or any insurance policy, for that matter). However, if you can find the time and muster the patience, it's probably a good idea to read through your policy. If you do, you'll understand your policy better and gain an understanding of your rights and obligations under the contract.
Although many insurance companies offer annuities with the same (or at least similar) features, that doesn't mean that all products and all companies are the same. As with all financial products, you should shop around and compare. Here are some things to consider when shopping for annuities.
Although many insurance companies offer annuities with the same (or at least similar) features, that doesn't mean that all products and all companies are the same. As with all financial products, you should shop around and compare. Here are some things to consider when shopping for annuities.
Let's face it: It's hard to buy a product that you can't see and really hope you'll never use. But unless you're wealthy enough to weather any foreseeable (and unforeseeable) financial storms, it's time to start shopping for insurance.
Let's face it: It's hard to buy a product that you can't see and really hope you'll never use. But unless you're wealthy enough to weather any foreseeable (and unforeseeable) financial storms, it's time to start shopping for insurance.
The longer you live, the greater the chances you'll need some form of long-term care. If you're concerned about protecting your assets and maintaining your financial independence in your later years, long-term care insurance (LTCI) may be for you.
If you're like most business owners, insurance is part of your cost of doing business. Like any other business expense, though, insurance costs must be managed and controlled. When it comes to handling your business's risk exposure, you basically have three choices: (1) transfer the risk to someone else (this is really what buying insurance does for you), (2) retain all of the risk within the business (self-insure), or (3) create some combination of these two strategies.
If you're like most business owners, insurance is part of your cost of doing business. Like any other business expense, though, insurance costs must be managed and controlled. When it comes to handling your business's risk exposure, you basically have three choices: (1) transfer the risk to someone else (this is really what buying insurance does for you), (2) retain all of the risk within the business (self-insure), or (3) create some combination of these two strategies.
Like most people, you probably don't expect to become disabled. However, you are three times more likely to become disabled due to illness or injury than to die during your earning years. (Source: 1985 Commissioner's Individual Disability Table A.) That's why it's important to know what disability benefits you may be entitled to under Social Security.
Like most people, you probably don't expect to become disabled. However, you are three times more likely to become disabled due to illness or injury than to die during your earning years. (Source: 1985 Commissioner's Individual Disability Table A.) That's why it's important to know what disability benefits you may be entitled to under Social Security.
Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor's, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor's, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor's, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor's, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor's, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor's, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor's, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
Social Security was originally intended to provide older Americans with continuing income after retirement. Today, though the scope of Social Security has been widened to include survivor's, disability, and other benefits, retirement benefits are still the cornerstone of the program.
When you think of Social Security, you probably think of retirement. However, Social Security can also provide much-needed income to your family members when you die, making their financial lives easier.
When you think of Social Security, you probably think of retirement. However, Social Security can also provide much-needed income to your family members when you die, making their financial lives easier.
When you think of Social Security, you probably think of retirement. However, Social Security can also provide much-needed income to your family members when you die, making their financial lives easier.
When you think of Social Security, you probably think of retirement. However, Social Security can also provide much-needed income to your family members when you die, making their financial lives easier.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Let's say you want to reward a few key executives with low-cost life insurance. Can you do so without providing the same benefit to your other employees? You can with a split dollar life insurance plan. In fact, such an arrangement can provide your business with several benefits. It can help you attract and retain employees, reward key executives, and fund severance packages and certain other benefit plans.
Each option involves some element of risk and reward. Whichever option you choose, however, owning your own business offers a chance at more freedom and greater financial rewards.So, you're thinking of going into business for yourself. You have several options available, and all involve some degree of risk. Do you want to create a start-up operation? Perhaps you are planning on buying an existing business. Or, you may be considering the purchase of a franchise operation.
All states have financial responsibility laws that either explicitly or in effect require you to purchase at least some auto insurance. Although coverage requirements vary from state to state, you will typically need to buy some level of liability coverage. Other types of auto insurance coverage may be optional or required, depending on the state in which you live.
Even with all of your savvy college shopping and research about financial aid, college costs may still be prohibitive. At these prices, you expect you'll need to make substantial financial sacrifices to send your child to college. Or maybe your child won't be able to attend the college of his or her choice at all. Before you throw in the towel, though, you and your child should consider steps that can actually lower college costs. Although some of these ideas deviate from the typical four-year college experience, they just might be your child's ticket to college--and your ticket to financial sanity.
Even with all of your savvy college shopping and research about financial aid, college costs may still be prohibitive. At these prices, you expect you'll need to make substantial financial sacrifices to send your child to college. Or maybe your child won't be able to attend the college of his or her choice at all. Before you throw in the towel, though, you and your child should consider steps that can actually lower college costs. Although some of these ideas deviate from the typical four-year college experience, they just might be your child's ticket to college--and your ticket to financial sanity.
Even with all of your savvy college shopping and research about financial aid, college costs may still be prohibitive. At these prices, you expect you'll need to make substantial financial sacrifices to send your child to college. Or maybe your child won't be able to attend the college of his or her choice at all. Before you throw in the towel, though, you and your child should consider steps that can actually lower college costs. Although some of these ideas deviate from the typical four-year college experience, they just might be your child's ticket to college--and your ticket to financial sanity.
Even with all of your savvy college shopping and research about financial aid, college costs may still be prohibitive. At these prices, you expect you'll need to make substantial financial sacrifices to send your child to college. Or maybe your child won't be able to attend the college of his or her choice at all. Before you throw in the towel, though, you and your child should consider steps that can actually lower college costs. Although some of these ideas deviate from the typical four-year college experience, they just might be your child's ticket to college--and your ticket to financial sanity.
Even with all of your savvy college shopping and research about financial aid, college costs may still be prohibitive. At these prices, you expect you'll need to make substantial financial sacrifices to send your child to college. Or maybe your child won't be able to attend the college of his or her choice at all. Before you throw in the towel, though, you and your child should consider steps that can actually lower college costs. Although some of these ideas deviate from the typical four-year college experience, they just might be your child's ticket to college--and your ticket to financial sanity.
Even with all of your savvy college shopping and research about financial aid, college costs may still be prohibitive. At these prices, you expect you'll need to make substantial financial sacrifices to send your child to college. Or maybe your child won't be able to attend the college of his or her choice at all. Before you throw in the towel, though, you and your child should consider steps that can actually lower college costs. Although some of these ideas deviate from the typical four-year college experience, they just might be your child's ticket to college--and your ticket to financial sanity.
You vaguely remember signing a piece of paper every year at college registration time. Now that you've graduated, it's all become painfully clear--those pieces of paper were promissory notes detailing your student loan obligations. Your loans aren't going to go away, and you'll want to repay them as quickly and easily as possible. So whether you have a small sum or a small fortune to pay off, you'll want to brush up on some student loan basics.
You vaguely remember signing a piece of paper every year at college registration time. Now that you've graduated, it's all become painfully clear--those pieces of paper were promissory notes detailing your student loan obligations. Your loans aren't going to go away, and you'll want to repay them as quickly and easily as possible. So whether you have a small sum or a small fortune to pay off, you'll want to brush up on some student loan basics.
You vaguely remember signing a piece of paper every year at college registration time. Now that you've graduated, it's all become painfully clear--those pieces of paper were promissory notes detailing your student loan obligations. Your loans aren't going to go away, and you'll want to repay them as quickly and easily as possible. So whether you have a small sum or a small fortune to pay off, you'll want to brush up on some student loan basics.
You vaguely remember signing a piece of paper every year at college registration time. Now that you've graduated, it's all become painfully clear--those pieces of paper were promissory notes detailing your student loan obligations. Your loans aren't going to go away, and you'll want to repay them as quickly and easily as possible. So whether you have a small sum or a small fortune to pay off, you'll want to brush up on some student loan basics.
You vaguely remember signing a piece of paper every year at college registration time. Now that you've graduated, it's all become painfully clear--those pieces of paper were promissory notes detailing your student loan obligations. Your loans aren't going to go away, and you'll want to repay them as quickly and easily as possible. So whether you have a small sum or a small fortune to pay off, you'll want to brush up on some student loan basics.
Before you can choose a successor, you need to know what your business needs to succeed after your departure.Entrepreneurs often spend so much time building their business, they give little thought to how they’ll leave it and often get blind sided by the amount of time it takes to create and execute an effective succession plan.
What would you do with an extra $10,000? Maybe you'd pay off some debt, get rid of some college loans, or take a much-needed vacation. What if you suddenly had an extra million or 10 million or more? Whether you picked the right six numbers in your state's lottery or your dear Aunt Sally left you her condo in Boca Raton, you have some issues to deal with. You'll need to evaluate your new financial position and consider how your sudden wealth will affect your financial goals.
What would you do with an extra $10,000? Maybe you'd pay off some debt, get rid of some college loans, or take a much-needed vacation. What if you suddenly had an extra million or 10 million or more? Whether you picked the right six numbers in your state's lottery or your dear Aunt Sally left you her condo in Boca Raton, you have some issues to deal with. You'll need to evaluate your new financial position and consider how your sudden wealth will affect your financial goals.
What would you do with an extra $10,000? Maybe you'd pay off some debt, get rid of some college loans, or take a much-needed vacation. What if you suddenly had an extra million or 10 million or more? Whether you picked the right six numbers in your state's lottery or your dear Aunt Sally left you her condo in Boca Raton, you have some issues to deal with. You'll need to evaluate your new financial position and consider how your sudden wealth will affect your financial goals.
If you no longer need life insurance or want to cancel for some other reason, you might be thinking about surrendering your permanent life insurance policy and withdrawing the cash value that has accumulated. But before you do it, here are some things you should consider.
When you apply for disability income insurance, the underwriting process begins. During this process, the insurance company collects information about you and uses it to decide whether to issue you a disability policy. Because a disability claim can cost an insurer a lot of money, the underwriting process is thorough. Any information you give, whether formally or informally, may be used to classify you as an acceptable or unacceptable risk. Working with an insurance agent or broker can be helpful, because he or she can answer any questions you might have and guide you through the underwriting process.
Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you're not participating in it, you should be. Once you're participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you're not participating in it, you should be. Once you're participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you're not participating in it, you should be. Once you're participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you're not participating in it, you should be. Once you're participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you're not participating in it, you should be. Once you're participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you're not participating in it, you should be. Once you're participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you're not participating in it, you should be. Once you're participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans such as 401(k)s are some of the most powerful retirement savings tools available. If your employer offers such a plan and you're not participating in it, you should be. Once you're participating in a plan, try to take full advantage of it.
Over time, the value of your home has grown and your mortgage balance has been reduced (or even eliminated). The equity (the property's value minus any liens against it) you now have in your home is a reservoir of funding potential. You may decide to tap into it for various purposes, such as remodeling your home, paying off high-interest loans or credit card debt, buying a car, or sending your child to college.
Over time, the value of your home has grown and your mortgage balance has been reduced (or even eliminated). The equity (the property's value minus any liens against it) you now have in your home is a reservoir of funding potential. You may decide to tap into it for various purposes, such as remodeling your home, paying off high-interest loans or credit card debt, buying a car, or sending your child to college.
In tax lingo, your principal residence is the place where you legally reside. It's typically the place where you spend most of your time, but several other factors are also relevant in determining your principal residence. Many of the tax benefits associated with home ownership apply mainly to your principal residence--different rules apply to second homes and investment properties. Here's what you need to know to make owning a home really pay off at tax time.
In tax lingo, your principal residence is the place where you legally reside. It's typically the place where you spend most of your time, but several other factors are also relevant in determining your principal residence. Many of the tax benefits associated with home ownership apply mainly to your principal residence--different rules apply to second homes and investment properties. Here's what you need to know to make owning a home really pay off at tax time.
In tax lingo, your principal residence is the place where you legally reside. It's typically the place where you spend most of your time, but several other factors are also relevant in determining your principal residence. Many of the tax benefits associated with home ownership apply mainly to your principal residence--different rules apply to second homes and investment properties. Here's what you need to know to make owning a home really pay off at tax time.
Favorable tax treatment is one of the main reasons for buying an annuity. But what exactly are the tax benefits? And are there any drawbacks? It's important to know the answers to these questions before deciding whether to purchase an annuity.
Favorable tax treatment is one of the main reasons for buying an annuity. But what exactly are the tax benefits? And are there any drawbacks? It's important to know the answers to these questions before deciding whether to purchase an annuity.
Favorable tax treatment is one of the main reasons for buying an annuity. But what exactly are the tax benefits? And are there any drawbacks? It's important to know the answers to these questions before deciding whether to purchase an annuity.
Favorable tax treatment is one of the main reasons for buying an annuity. But what exactly are the tax benefits? And are there any drawbacks? It's important to know the answers to these questions before deciding whether to purchase an annuity.
Favorable tax treatment is one of the main reasons for buying an annuity. But what exactly are the tax benefits? And are there any drawbacks? It's important to know the answers to these questions before deciding whether to purchase an annuity.
Favorable tax treatment is one of the main reasons for buying an annuity. But what exactly are the tax benefits? And are there any drawbacks? It's important to know the answers to these questions before deciding whether to purchase an annuity.
The goal of income tax planning is to minimize your federal income tax liability. You can achieve this in different ways. Typically, though, you'd look at ways to reduce your taxable income, perhaps by deferring your income or shifting income to family members. You should also consider deduction planning, investment tax planning, and year-end planning strategies to lower your overall income tax burden.
The goal of income tax planning is to minimize your federal income tax liability. You can achieve this in different ways. Typically, though, you'd look at ways to reduce your taxable income, perhaps by deferring your income or shifting income to family members. You should also consider deduction planning, investment tax planning, and year-end planning strategies to lower your overall income tax burden.
The goal of income tax planning is to minimize your federal income tax liability. You can achieve this in different ways. Typically, though, you'd look at ways to reduce your taxable income, perhaps by deferring your income or shifting income to family members. You should also consider deduction planning, investment tax planning, and year-end planning strategies to lower your overall income tax burden.
The goal of income tax planning is to minimize your federal income tax liability. You can achieve this in different ways. Typically, though, you'd look at ways to reduce your taxable income, perhaps by deferring your income or shifting income to family members. You should also consider deduction planning, investment tax planning, and year-end planning strategies to lower your overall income tax burden.
The goal of income tax planning is to minimize your federal income tax liability. You can achieve this in different ways. Typically, though, you'd look at ways to reduce your taxable income, perhaps by deferring your income or shifting income to family members. You should also consider deduction planning, investment tax planning, and year-end planning strategies to lower your overall income tax burden.
The goal of income tax planning is to minimize your federal income tax liability. You can achieve this in different ways. Typically, though, you'd look at ways to reduce your taxable income, perhaps by deferring your income or shifting income to family members. You should also consider deduction planning, investment tax planning, and year-end planning strategies to lower your overall income tax burden.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
Self-employment . . . the opportunity to be your own boss, to come and go as you please, and oh yes, to establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay your own FICA taxes and take charge of your own retirement plan, among other things. Here are some planning tips.
It's no secret that auto insurance can safeguard your assets and provide you with peace of mind. But did you know that auto insurance may also benefit you at tax time? Certain insurance-related costs can be deducted on your individual federal income tax return. You'll need to know what can be deducted, and how insurance reimbursements can affect those deductions.
It's no secret that auto insurance can safeguard your assets and provide you with peace of mind. But did you know that auto insurance may also benefit you at tax time? Certain insurance-related costs can be deducted on your individual federal income tax return. You'll need to know what can be deducted, and how insurance reimbursements can affect those deductions.
It's no secret that auto insurance can safeguard your assets and provide you with peace of mind. But did you know that auto insurance may also benefit you at tax time? Certain insurance-related costs can be deducted on your individual federal income tax return. You'll need to know what can be deducted, and how insurance reimbursements can affect those deductions.
The income you receive from disability income insurance may or may not be taxable. The taxability of disability income insurance benefits depends on what type of benefits you receive, whether the premiums were paid with pretax or after-tax dollars, and who paid the premiums (you or your employer).
The income you receive from disability income insurance may or may not be taxable. The taxability of disability income insurance benefits depends on what type of benefits you receive, whether the premiums were paid with pretax or after-tax dollars, and who paid the premiums (you or your employer).
The income you receive from disability income insurance may or may not be taxable. The taxability of disability income insurance benefits depends on what type of benefits you receive, whether the premiums were paid with pretax or after-tax dollars, and who paid the premiums (you or your employer).
The income you receive from disability income insurance may or may not be taxable. The taxability of disability income insurance benefits depends on what type of benefits you receive, whether the premiums were paid with pretax or after-tax dollars, and who paid the premiums (you or your employer).
The income you receive from disability income insurance may or may not be taxable. The taxability of disability income insurance benefits depends on what type of benefits you receive, whether the premiums were paid with pretax or after-tax dollars, and who paid the premiums (you or your employer).
The income you receive from disability income insurance may or may not be taxable. The taxability of disability income insurance benefits depends on what type of benefits you receive, whether the premiums were paid with pretax or after-tax dollars, and who paid the premiums (you or your employer).
The income you receive from disability income insurance may or may not be taxable. The taxability of disability income insurance benefits depends on what type of benefits you receive, whether the premiums were paid with pretax or after-tax dollars, and who paid the premiums (you or your employer).
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to decipher the IRS regulations, here are some life insurance tax tips and background information to help you make sense of it all.
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to decipher the IRS regulations, here are some life insurance tax tips and background information to help you make sense of it all.
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to decipher the IRS regulations, here are some life insurance tax tips and background information to help you make sense of it all.
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to decipher the IRS regulations, here are some life insurance tax tips and background information to help you make sense of it all.
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to decipher the IRS regulations, here are some life insurance tax tips and background information to help you make sense of it all.
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to decipher the IRS regulations, here are some life insurance tax tips and background information to help you make sense of it all.
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to decipher the IRS regulations, here are some life insurance tax tips and background information to help you make sense of it all.
Understanding the importance of life insurance is one thing. Understanding the tax rules is quite another. As insurance products have evolved and become more sophisticated, the line separating insurance vehicles from investment vehicles has grown blurry. To differentiate between the two, a mix of complex rules and exceptions now governs the taxation of insurance products. If you have neither the time nor the inclination to decipher the IRS regulations, here are some life insurance tax tips and background information to help you make sense of it all.
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
Your health insurance coverage probably came in handy several times over the past year. It all seemed so simple at the time--you paid a deductible, and your insurance usually kicked in the rest. But what do you do at tax time? Just what are you taxed on, and what can you deduct on your federal income tax return?
The purpose of home insurance is obvious. The tax rules surrounding home insurance, though, aren't always so clear. For example, if your insurance won't cover you for a given loss, are you simply left holding the bag, or can you expect some tax relief? And what about premiums--can you deduct them or not? Here are some tax tips to help you make sense of it all.
The purpose of home insurance is obvious. The tax rules surrounding home insurance, though, aren't always so clear. For example, if your insurance won't cover you for a given loss, are you simply left holding the bag, or can you expect some tax relief? And what about premiums--can you deduct them or not? Here are some tax tips to help you make sense of it all.
The purpose of home insurance is obvious. The tax rules surrounding home insurance, though, aren't always so clear. For example, if your insurance won't cover you for a given loss, are you simply left holding the bag, or can you expect some tax relief? And what about premiums--can you deduct them or not? Here are some tax tips to help you make sense of it all.
The purpose of home insurance is obvious. The tax rules surrounding home insurance, though, aren't always so clear. For example, if your insurance won't cover you for a given loss, are you simply left holding the bag, or can you expect some tax relief? And what about premiums--can you deduct them or not? Here are some tax tips to help you make sense of it all.
Your chances of requiring some sort of long-term care increase as you age, and long-term care insurance (LTCI) can help you cover your long-term care expenses. Although tax issues are probably not foremost in your mind when you buy LTCI, it still pays to consider them. In particular, you should explore whether your premiums will be deductible and your benefits taxable.
Your chances of requiring some sort of long-term care increase as you age, and long-term care insurance (LTCI) can help you cover your long-term care expenses. Although tax issues are probably not foremost in your mind when you buy LTCI, it still pays to consider them. In particular, you should explore whether your premiums will be deductible and your benefits taxable.
Your chances of requiring some sort of long-term care increase as you age, and long-term care insurance (LTCI) can help you cover your long-term care expenses. Although tax issues are probably not foremost in your mind when you buy LTCI, it still pays to consider them. In particular, you should explore whether your premiums will be deductible and your benefits taxable.
Your chances of requiring some sort of long-term care increase as you age, and long-term care insurance (LTCI) can help you cover your long-term care expenses. Although tax issues are probably not foremost in your mind when you buy LTCI, it still pays to consider them. In particular, you should explore whether your premiums will be deductible and your benefits taxable.
It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?
It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?
It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?
It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?
It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?
It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?
It's nice to own stocks, bonds, and other investments. Nice, that is, until it's time to fill out your federal income tax return. At that point, you may be left scratching your head. Just how do you report your investments and how are they taxed?
Ask your five-year old where money comes from, and the answer you'll probably get is "From a machine!" Even though children don't always understand where money really comes from, they realize at a young age that they can use it to buy the things they want. So as soon as your child becomes interested in money, start teaching him or her how to handle it wisely. The simple lessons you teach today will give your child a solid foundation for making a lifetime of financial decisions.
When your child first started school, you doled out the change for milk and a snack on a daily basis. But now that your kindergartner has grown up, it's time for you to make sure that your child has enough financial knowledge to manage money at college.
When your child first started school, you doled out the change for milk and a snack on a daily basis. But now that your kindergartner has grown up, it's time for you to make sure that your child has enough financial knowledge to manage money at college.
Your teen is becoming more independent, but still needs plenty of advice from you. With more money to spend and more opportunities to spend it, your teen can easily get into financial trouble. So before money burns a hole in your child's pocket, teach him or her a few financial lessons. With your help, your teen will soon develop the self-confidence and skills he or she needs to successfully manage money in the real world.
Term life insurance provides life insurance coverage for a specific time period (the term). It is often referred to as pure insurance. The face amount of the policy is paid if you die during the term of the policy. When you live longer than the term of the insurance coverage, nothing is paid, as there is no cash surrender value.
Term life insurance provides life insurance coverage for a specific time period (the term). It is often referred to as pure insurance. The face amount of the policy is paid if you die during the term of the policy. When you live longer than the term of the insurance coverage, nothing is paid, as there is no cash surrender value.
Which type of life insurance is better--term or cash value? Insurance buyers have been asking this question for generations. When choosing between these two fundamentally different alternatives, you'll need to think about the amount of coverage you need, the amount of money you can afford to spend, and the length of time you need the coverage to continue.
Which type of life insurance is better--term or cash value? Insurance buyers have been asking this question for generations. When choosing between these two fundamentally different alternatives, you'll need to think about the amount of coverage you need, the amount of money you can afford to spend, and the length of time you need the coverage to continue.
If you're already saving for college, you've probably heard about 529 plans. 529 plans are revolutionizing the way parents and grandparents save for college, similar to the way 401(k) plans revolutionized retirement savings. Americans are pouring billions of dollars into 529 plans, and contributions are expected to increase dramatically in the coming decade. Where did these plans come from, and what makes them so attractive?
In the college savings game, all strategies aren't created equal. The best savings vehicles offer special tax advantages if the funds are used to pay for college. Tax-advantaged strategies are important because over time, you can potentially accumulate more money with a tax-advantaged investment compared to a taxable investment. Ideally, though, you'll want to choose a savings vehicle that offers you the best combination of tax advantages, financial aid benefits, and flexibility, while meeting your overall investment needs.
In the college savings game, all strategies aren't created equal. The best savings vehicles offer special tax advantages if the funds are used to pay for college. Tax-advantaged strategies are important because over time, you can potentially accumulate more money with a tax-advantaged investment compared to a taxable investment. Ideally, though, you'll want to choose a savings vehicle that offers you the best combination of tax advantages, financial aid benefits, and flexibility, while meeting your overall investment needs.
In the college savings game, all strategies aren't created equal. The best savings vehicles offer special tax advantages if the funds are used to pay for college. Tax-advantaged strategies are important because over time, you can potentially accumulate more money with a tax-advantaged investment compared to a taxable investment. Ideally, though, you'll want to choose a savings vehicle that offers you the best combination of tax advantages, financial aid benefits, and flexibility, while meeting your overall investment needs.
Like hot cocoa and apple pie, some things can be counted on to bring comfort every fall. Unfortunately, the college application process isn't one of them. In fact, for your child, it probably ranks right up there with going to a new school or wearing that first pair of eyeglasses. It's easy for your child to feel overwhelmed while trying to manage numerous applications, each with varying deadlines and requirements. Just imagine if you had to fill out multiple tax returns this year--and your future job depended on it!
Disability insurance pays benefits when you are unable to earn a living because you are sick or injured. Most disability policies pay you a benefit that replaces a percentage of your earned income when you can't work.
The way that you structure the ownership of your life insurance policy can have possible estate tax consequences. Without proper planning, the beneficiaries of your life insurance policy might not receive the maximum benefit you intended. So it's important to understand what it means to be a policyowner and the various forms of policy ownership.
The way that you structure the ownership of your life insurance policy can have possible estate tax consequences. Without proper planning, the beneficiaries of your life insurance policy might not receive the maximum benefit you intended. So it's important to understand what it means to be a policyowner and the various forms of policy ownership.
When investing in a mutual fund, you may have the opportunity to choose among several share classes, most commonly Class A, Class B, and Class C. The differences among these share classes typically revolve around how much you will be charged for buying the fund, when you will pay any sales charges that apply, and the amount you will pay in annual fees and expenses. This multi-class structure offers you the opportunity to select a share class that is best suited to your investment goals.
If you're a business owner, you probably carry insurance for financial protection and peace of mind. You don't need to be an expert on this type of insurance, but you should have a basic understanding of your own business owners policy (BOP). A little bit of knowledge may come in handy when you have to file a claim.
Your credit report contains information about your past and present credit transactions. It's used primarily by potential lenders to evaluate your creditworthiness. So if you're about to apply for credit, especially for something significant like a mortgage, you'll want to get and review a copy of your credit report.
Your credit report contains information about your past and present credit transactions. It's used primarily by potential lenders to evaluate your creditworthiness. So if you're about to apply for credit, especially for something significant like a mortgage, you'll want to get and review a copy of your credit report.
Your credit report contains information about your past and present credit transactions. It's used primarily by potential lenders to evaluate your creditworthiness. So if you're about to apply for credit, especially for something significant like a mortgage, you'll want to get and review a copy of your credit report.
There's no doubt about it--health insurance can seem complicated. A typical policy is filled with the kind of technical jargon that sends many of us into cold sweats. Fortunately, understanding the basics of your policy isn't as difficult as you might think.
Reading a homeowners insurance policy for the first time can be intimidating. With all the jargon, exclusions, and conditions you'll encounter, you may start thinking that Mom was right--you should have gone to law school after all. Nevertheless, all homeowners policies share certain common elements and follow a recognizable design. Once you understand the roadmap, you'll be able to make sense of the provisions and locate key information when you need it.
Let's be honest: Reading an auto insurance policy is no fun. After all, an insurance policy is really a legal contract. It contains a lot of dry, technical, legal language as well as jargon specific to the auto insurance industry--not exactly Saturday-afternoon leisure reading. Nonetheless, it's probably a good idea to sit down and thoroughly read your policy. Don't wait until you have a car accident--by then, it may be too late.
Even though almost every state requires its motorists to have auto insurance, many people drive without it. So if you're a car owner, you should be concerned about having an accident with an uninsured motorist. Fortunately, your own personal auto policy already has you covered. The uninsured motorist (UM) coverage section is designed to cover you for injuries sustained in an auto accident that's caused by another driver who is either completely uninsured or has less than the minimum insurance required by state law. UM coverage also protects you when you're the victim of a hit-and-run accident where the owner or driver of the other vehicle can't be identified.
Universal life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance that allows policyowners to decide how much premium to pay (so long as stated minimum costs are met), when to pay premiums, how much the death benefit will be, and more. Learning about the following features of a universal life insurance policy will help you decide whether this is the right coverage for your situation.
Universal life insurance is a type of permanent life insurance that allows policyowners to decide how much premium to pay (so long as stated minimum costs are met), when to pay premiums, how much the death benefit will be, and more. Learning about the following features of a universal life insurance policy will help you decide whether this is the right coverage for your situation.
If you're thinking about buying a stand-alone long-term care insurance (LTCI) policy, you might have another option. An increasing number of states are permitting the sale of long-term care hybrid products that allow you to obtain long-term care coverage with a special rider added on to your life insurance policy.
A variable annuity is a contract between an individual (the purchaser) and an insurance company (the insurer). In return for premium payments, the insurer agrees to make periodic payments to the purchaser (if the purchaser elects this option), beginning either immediately or at some future date. Deposits can be made by either a single purchase payment or a series of purchase payments.
If you want the assurance of a death benefit and level (unchanging) premium payments for the life of your policy, coupled with the possibility of enhancing your death benefit through the use of investments, then variable life insurance may be the answer you're looking for. You don't need to worry about monitoring the amount of money in your policy. Your coverage remains in force so long as you pay your premiums. On top of that, you have the chance to build additional benefits in a tax-deferred separate account.
If you want the assurance of a death benefit and level (unchanging) premium payments for the life of your policy, coupled with the possibility of enhancing your death benefit through the use of investments, then variable life insurance may be the answer you're looking for. You don't need to worry about monitoring the amount of money in your policy. Your coverage remains in force so long as you pay your premiums. On top of that, you have the chance to build additional benefits in a tax-deferred separate account.
A viatical settlement is the sale of a life insurance policy by an individual who is terminally ill. The individual sells the policy to a third party (often a viatical settlement funding company) that pays the individual a lump-sum cash payment that is a percentage of the face value of the policy, usually 40 to 85 percent. Terminally ill individuals may wish to sell their life insurance policies in order to use the money in advance of their death rather than leave it directly to a beneficiary. For instance, you may want to sell your life insurance policy in order to have money to pay for living expenses, to pay for medical care, or to experience the joy of using or giving away the money before you die.
A viatical settlement is the sale of a life insurance policy by an individual who is terminally ill. The individual sells the policy to a third party (often a viatical settlement funding company) that pays the individual a lump-sum cash payment that is a percentage of the face value of the policy, usually 40 to 85 percent. Terminally ill individuals may wish to sell their life insurance policies in order to use the money in advance of their death rather than leave it directly to a beneficiary. For instance, you may want to sell your life insurance policy in order to have money to pay for living expenses, to pay for medical care, or to experience the joy of using or giving away the money before you die.
A viatical settlement is the sale of a life insurance policy by an individual who is terminally ill. The individual sells the policy to a third party (often a viatical settlement funding company) that pays the individual a lump-sum cash payment that is a percentage of the face value of the policy, usually 40 to 85 percent. Terminally ill individuals may wish to sell their life insurance policies in order to use the money in advance of their death rather than leave it directly to a beneficiary. For instance, you may want to sell your life insurance policy in order to have money to pay for living expenses, to pay for medical care, or to experience the joy of using or giving away the money before you die.
A viatical settlement is the sale of a life insurance policy by an individual who is terminally ill. The individual sells the policy to a third party (often a viatical settlement funding company) that pays the individual a lump-sum cash payment that is a percentage of the face value of the policy, usually 40 to 85 percent. Terminally ill individuals may wish to sell their life insurance policies in order to use the money in advance of their death rather than leave it directly to a beneficiary. For instance, you may want to sell your life insurance policy in order to have money to pay for living expenses, to pay for medical care, or to experience the joy of using or giving away the money before you die.
A viatical settlement is the sale of a life insurance policy by an individual who is terminally ill. The individual sells the policy to a third party (often a viatical settlement funding company) that pays the individual a lump-sum cash payment that is a percentage of the face value of the policy, usually 40 to 85 percent. Terminally ill individuals may wish to sell their life insurance policies in order to use the money in advance of their death rather than leave it directly to a beneficiary. For instance, you may want to sell your life insurance policy in order to have money to pay for living expenses, to pay for medical care, or to experience the joy of using or giving away the money before you die.
One of the many things you can get insurance for is your eye care. Vision care insurance is relatively new and has become more common in recent years. Here's a crash course on the basics.
One of the many things you can get insurance for is your eye care. Vision care insurance is relatively new and has become more common in recent years. Here's a crash course on the basics.
One of the most popular types of annuities is the variable annuity. A variable annuity contract is often described as a mutual fund family wrapped in an annuity contract. This is because variable annuities offer a selection of investment options that are similar to mutual funds. The typical issuer will offer, at a minimum, a stock, a bond, and a money market fund within its variable annuity product. Many annuities offer a wide range of investment options, with up to 50 different funds.
Long-term care refers to a broad range of medical and personal services designed to assist people who've lost their ability to function independently. If you're thinking of buying long-term care insurance (LTCI), you'll want to make sure it covers the services you may need.
All states and the District of Columbia have workers' compensation laws designed to protect employed individuals who get sick, injured, or killed on the job. Employers pay the cost of workers' compensation by purchasing private insurance or state-sponsored insurance, or sometimes by self-insuring. Each state has its own workers' compensation system, so the rules vary. As a business owner, you should know the following facts about workers' compensation.
All states and the District of Columbia have workers' compensation laws designed to protect employed individuals who get sick, injured, or killed on the job. Employers pay the cost of workers' compensation by purchasing private insurance or state-sponsored insurance, or sometimes by self-insuring. Each state has its own workers' compensation system, so the rules vary. As a business owner, you should know the following facts about workers' compensation.
At one time, the only way you could join your company's 401(k) plan, 403(b) plan, or 457(b) plan was to put pen to paper and sign yourself up by filling out the appropriate forms. Now, though, in an effort to help participants increase their retirement savings, some employers have begun enrolling their employees automatically. With automatic enrollment, you don't fill out a form to opt into your company's retirement plan; you only fill out a form to opt out of it.
At one time, the only way you could join your company's 401(k) plan, 403(b) plan, or 457(b) plan was to put pen to paper and sign yourself up by filling out the appropriate forms. Now, though, in an effort to help participants increase their retirement savings, some employers have begun enrolling their employees automatically. With automatic enrollment, you don't fill out a form to opt into your company's retirement plan; you only fill out a form to opt out of it.
Recent disasters have proven that flood insurance is more important now than ever before. Many policyholders do not realize that basic homeowners insurance does not include protection from flood damage. Instead, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) administers flood insurance through a federal program.
Did you know that insurance companies typically consider your credit history, whether positive or negative, when you apply for auto or homeowners insurance? Insurers may use your credit information when deciding whether to approve your insurance application and when determining the premium you'll pay.
Did you know that insurance companies typically consider your credit history, whether positive or negative, when you apply for auto or homeowners insurance? Insurers may use your credit information when deciding whether to approve your insurance application and when determining the premium you'll pay.
As the parent of a child with special needs, you face many of the same challenges that other parents face. But you'll have to cope with some unique issues as well. The term special needs is often used to describe a wide variety of conditions and may mean different things to different people. For example, special needs can include medical conditions such as cerebral palsy. It can mean physical conditions, such as blindness or the loss of a limb. And it can mean neurological conditions, such as learning disabilities, mental retardation, or autism.
Disability insurance comes in many forms--individual policies, group policies sponsored by employers or associations, and government-sponsored programs such as Social Security and workers' compensation. Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of each type of disability coverage.
You probably recognize the importance of having adequate health insurance for yourself and your family. But are you aware of all your options, and do you understand them well enough to make the right choices? If not, a crash course in the most common sources of health insurance may be helpful.
When you drop a quarter into a slot machine, you know that your chances of winning are pretty slim. But risking a quarter (or perhaps much more than a quarter) may be worth it to you if the potential payoff is great enough. Insurance is a lot like that. You pay premiums not because you expect to die today, get into a car accident next week, or lose your home in a fire next month, but because the peace of mind it offers and the financial protection it could provide are worth it. You don't have to bear the risk of financial loss alone. Insurance is all about risk and financial protection.
When you drop a quarter into a slot machine, you know that your chances of winning are pretty slim. But risking a quarter (or perhaps much more than a quarter) may be worth it to you if the potential payoff is great enough. Insurance is a lot like that. You pay premiums not because you expect to die today, get into a car accident next week, or lose your home in a fire next month, but because the peace of mind it offers and the financial protection it could provide are worth it. You don't have to bear the risk of financial loss alone. Insurance is all about risk and financial protection.
Your business represents a substantial investment of your ideas, time, and money (in addition to your sweat and elbow grease). Because your business faces a variety of risks and perils (e.g., property damage, theft, personal injury claims, and natural disasters), you'll want to protect your investment. You can do this with various types of business insurance. You may also want to attract and retain employees by providing insurance protection for them. Here are some reasons to insure your business.
Your business represents a substantial investment of your ideas, time, and money (in addition to your sweat and elbow grease). Because your business faces a variety of risks and perils (e.g., property damage, theft, personal injury claims, and natural disasters), you'll want to protect your investment. You can do this with various types of business insurance. You may also want to attract and retain employees by providing insurance protection for them. Here are some reasons to insure your business.
Your business represents a substantial investment of your ideas, time, and money (in addition to your sweat and elbow grease). Because your business faces a variety of risks and perils (e.g., property damage, theft, personal injury claims, and natural disasters), you'll want to protect your investment. You can do this with various types of business insurance. You may also want to attract and retain employees by providing insurance protection for them. Here are some reasons to insure your business.
Of course, you want to keep your auto insurance premiums as low as possible. But now that you've had an accident, will your rates climb dramatically? Is there anything you can do to avoid or limit an increase in your premiums? The answer depends on the state you live in, your insurance company's pricing practices, and a number of other factors. For example, was the accident your fault? Was another driver or someone else's property involved? Was anyone injured? How many accidents have you had in the past?
If you care about what happens to your money, home, and other property after you die, you need to do some estate planning. There are many tools you can use to achieve your estate planning goals, but a will is probably the most vital. Even if you're young or your estate is modest, you should always have a legally valid and up-to-date will. This is especially important if you have minor children because, in many states, your will is the only legal way you can name a guardian for them. Although a will doesn't have to be drafted by an attorney to be valid, seeking an attorney's help can ensure that your will accomplishes what you intend.
If you care about what happens to your money, home, and other property after you die, you need to do some estate planning. There are many tools you can use to achieve your estate planning goals, but a will is probably the most vital. Even if you're young or your estate is modest, you should always have a legally valid and up-to-date will. This is especially important if you have minor children because, in many states, your will is the only legal way you can name a guardian for them. Although a will doesn't have to be drafted by an attorney to be valid, seeking an attorney's help can ensure that your will accomplishes what you intend.
If you care about what happens to your money, home, and other property after you die, you need to do some estate planning. There are many tools you can use to achieve your estate planning goals, but a will is probably the most vital. Even if you're young or your estate is modest, you should always have a legally valid and up-to-date will. This is especially important if you have minor children because, in many states, your will is the only legal way you can name a guardian for them. Although a will doesn't have to be drafted by an attorney to be valid, seeking an attorney's help can ensure that your will accomplishes what you intend.
If you care about what happens to your money, home, and other property after you die, you need to do some estate planning. There are many tools you can use to achieve your estate planning goals, but a will is probably the most vital. Even if you're young or your estate is modest, you should always have a legally valid and up-to-date will. This is especially important if you have minor children because, in many states, your will is the only legal way you can name a guardian for them. Although a will doesn't have to be drafted by an attorney to be valid, seeking an attorney's help can ensure that your will accomplishes what you intend.
If you care about what happens to your money, home, and other property after you die, you need to do some estate planning. There are many tools you can use to achieve your estate planning goals, but a will is probably the most vital. Even if you're young or your estate is modest, you should always have a legally valid and up-to-date will. This is especially important if you have minor children because, in many states, your will is the only legal way you can name a guardian for them. Although a will doesn't have to be drafted by an attorney to be valid, seeking an attorney's help can ensure that your will accomplishes what you intend.
If you care about what happens to your money, home, and other property after you die, you need to do some estate planning. There are many tools you can use to achieve your estate planning goals, but a will is probably the most vital. Even if you're young or your estate is modest, you should always have a legally valid and up-to-date will. This is especially important if you have minor children because, in many states, your will is the only legal way you can name a guardian for them. Although a will doesn't have to be drafted by an attorney to be valid, seeking an attorney's help can ensure that your will accomplishes what you intend.
Tornadoes, hurricanes, and other windstorms can cause lots of damage to your home and its contents. But will insurance cover your losses if one of these storms strikes your home? The answer is that it depends.
The world of 50 years ago was a lot different than it is today. An individual often worked at the same job all his or her adult life, lived in the same house, and stayed married to the same spouse. In those days, too, one spouse could support a family, paying for college ordinarily didn't require taking out a second mortgage, and people could look forward to retiring on Social Security and possibly a company pension.
As the end of the year approaches, it's time to consider strategies that can help you reduce your tax bill. But most tax tips, suggestions, and strategies are of little practical help without a good understanding of your current tax situation. This is particularly true for year-end planning. You can't know where to go next if you don't know where you are now.
If you own a home, you may be wealthier than you think. The equity in your home could be one of your largest assets, especially if your mortgage has been paid down over the years or paid off. This home equity can be a valuable source of extra income during your retirement years.
If you own a home, you may be wealthier than you think. The equity in your home could be one of your largest assets, especially if your mortgage has been paid down over the years or paid off. This home equity can be a valuable source of extra income during your retirement years.
If you own a home, you may be wealthier than you think. The equity in your home could be one of your largest assets, especially if your mortgage has been paid down over the years or paid off. This home equity can be a valuable source of extra income during your retirement years.
If you own a home, you may be wealthier than you think. The equity in your home could be one of your largest assets, especially if your mortgage has been paid down over the years or paid off. This home equity can be a valuable source of extra income during your retirement years.
If you're thinking about joining a 529 plan, or if you've already opened an account, you might be concerned about how 529 funds will affect your child's chances of receiving financial aid. Of all the areas related to 529 plans, financial aid is perhaps the most uncertain, and the one most likely to change in the future. But here's where things stand now.
If you're thinking about joining a 529 plan, or if you've already opened an account, you might be concerned about how 529 funds will affect your child's chances of receiving financial aid. Of all the areas related to 529 plans, financial aid is perhaps the most uncertain, and the one most likely to change in the future. But here's where things stand now.
Section 529 plans and Coverdell education savings accounts are two of the most popular ways to save for college. But which savings option is right for you?
Section 529 plans can be a great way to save for college--in many cases, the best way--but they're not the only way. When you're investing for a major goal like education, it makes sense to be familiar with all of your options.
Section 529 plans can be powerful college savings tools, but you need to understand how your plan works before you can take full advantage of it. Among other things, this means becoming familiar with the finer points of contributions and withdrawals. A little knowledge could save you money and maximize your chances of reaching the educational goals you've set for your children.
Today, most states require car owners to purchase auto insurance coverage. Whether you already have auto insurance or are considering buying some, you may be wondering how much is enough and which types of coverage you need. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Today, most states require car owners to purchase auto insurance coverage. Whether you already have auto insurance or are considering buying some, you may be wondering how much is enough and which types of coverage you need. Here are a few tips to get you started.
In many cases, financial aid may be the deciding factor in whether your child attends the college of his or her choice or even attends college at all. That's why it's important to develop a basic understanding of financial aid before your child applies to college. Without such knowledge, you may have trouble understanding the process of aid determination, filling out the proper aid applications, and comparing the financial aid awards that your child receives.
In many cases, financial aid may be the deciding factor in whether your child attends the college of his or her choice or even attends college at all. That's why it's important to develop a basic understanding of financial aid before your child applies to college. Without such knowledge, you may have trouble understanding the process of aid determination, filling out the proper aid applications, and comparing the financial aid awards that your child receives.
In many cases, financial aid may be the deciding factor in whether your child attends the college of his or her choice or even attends college at all. That's why it's important to develop a basic understanding of financial aid before your child applies to college. Without such knowledge, you may have trouble understanding the process of aid determination, filling out the proper aid applications, and comparing the financial aid awards that your child receives.
Accidental death and dismemberment insurance (AD & D) is inexpensive life insurance coverage that pays a benefit if you die as a result of an accident. It also pays you a predetermined benefit if you lose, by accidental severance, two hands or two feet, or one hand and one foot, or if you permanently lose sight in both eyes. A partial benefit may be paid for loss of one hand or one foot.
Accidental death and dismemberment insurance (AD & D) is inexpensive life insurance coverage that pays a benefit if you die as a result of an accident. It also pays you a predetermined benefit if you lose, by accidental severance, two hands or two feet, or one hand and one foot, or if you permanently lose sight in both eyes. A partial benefit may be paid for loss of one hand or one foot.
You've grown tired of commuting to a job where you sit in a cubicle and do someone else's bidding. You've got a better idea, you can build a better mousetrap, you know you have the knack for being in the right place at the right time, and so you're thinking of self-employment. But how do you determine if this is a pipe dream or an idea worth pursuing?
An increasing number of Americans are choosing alternative methods for health improvement and medical treatment. Why has there been so much interest in alternative therapies lately? Is this something you should consider?
If you fail to estimate your federal income tax withholding properly, it may cost you in a variety of ways. If you receive an income tax refund, it essentially means that you provided the IRS with an interest-free loan during the year. By comparison, if you owe taxes when you file your return, you may have to scramble for cash at tax time--and possibly owe interest and penalties to the IRS as well.
If you fail to estimate your federal income tax withholding properly, it may cost you in a variety of ways. If you receive an income tax refund, it essentially means that you provided the IRS with an interest-free loan during the year. By comparison, if you owe taxes when you file your return, you may have to scramble for cash at tax time--and possibly owe interest and penalties to the IRS as well.
If you fail to estimate your federal income tax withholding properly, it may cost you in a variety of ways. If you receive an income tax refund, it essentially means that you provided the IRS with an interest-free loan during the year. By comparison, if you owe taxes when you file your return, you may have to scramble for cash at tax time--and possibly owe interest and penalties to the IRS as well.
So you're going to have or adopt a baby. Congratulations! Parenthood may be one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have. As you prepare for life with your baby, here are a few things you should think about.
So you're going to have or adopt a baby. Congratulations! Parenthood may be one of the most rewarding experiences you'll ever have. As you prepare for life with your baby, here are a few things you should think about.
You may have heard that IRAs and employer-sponsored plans (e.g., 401(k)s) are the best ways to invest for retirement. That's true for many people, but what if you've maxed out your contributions to those accounts and want to save more? An annuity may be a good investment to look into.
You may have heard that IRAs and employer-sponsored plans (e.g., 401(k)s) are the best ways to invest for retirement. That's true for many people, but what if you've maxed out your contributions to those accounts and want to save more? An annuity may be a good investment to look into.
You may have heard that IRAs and employer-sponsored plans (e.g., 401(k)s) are the best ways to invest for retirement. That's true for many people, but what if you've maxed out your contributions to those accounts and want to save more? An annuity may be a good investment to look into.
You may have heard that IRAs and employer-sponsored plans (e.g., 401(k)s) are the best ways to invest for retirement. That's true for many people, but what if you've maxed out your contributions to those accounts and want to save more? An annuity may be a good investment to look into.
You may have heard that IRAs and employer-sponsored plans (e.g., 401(k)s) are the best ways to invest for retirement. That's true for many people, but what if you've maxed out your contributions to those accounts and want to save more? An annuity may be a good investment to look into.
You may have heard that IRAs and employer-sponsored plans (e.g., 401(k)s) are the best ways to invest for retirement. That's true for many people, but what if you've maxed out your contributions to those accounts and want to save more? An annuity may be a good investment to look into.
Annuities are fairly straightforward products as far as taxation is concerned. To the extent that a distribution is considered a return of your investment in the contract, no income tax is due; to the extent that a distribution is considered earnings, income tax is due (ordinary, not capital gains). In addition, a distribution taken before age 59½ is subject to a 10 percent early withdrawal penalty tax on the earnings.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
An annuity is a contract between you, the purchaser or owner, and an insurance company, the annuity issuer. In its simplest form, you pay money to an annuity issuer, and the issuer pays out the principal and earnings back to you or to a named beneficiary.
Annuity distributions are categorized in two ways: withdrawals or annuitization (guaranteed income stream). The annuity contract itself explains the annuitization payout options available to you, including when they begin, whether the amount can be fixed or variable, and how long the payouts will last.
Would you like to reduce your health insurance costs, save on taxes, and put away more money for retirement? If you meet certain rules, an Archer medical savings account (Archer MSA) may be just what you're looking for.
Would you like to reduce your health insurance costs, save on taxes, and put away more money for retirement? If you meet certain rules, an Archer medical savings account (Archer MSA) may be just what you're looking for.
Would you like to reduce your health insurance costs, save on taxes, and put away more money for retirement? If you meet certain rules, an Archer medical savings account (Archer MSA) may be just what you're looking for.
Would you like to reduce your health insurance costs, save on taxes, and put away more money for retirement? If you meet certain rules, an Archer medical savings account (Archer MSA) may be just what you're looking for.
Asset allocation is a common strategy that you can use to construct an investment portfolio. Asset allocation isn't about picking individual securities. Instead, you focus on broad categories of investments, mixing them together in the right proportion to match your financial goals, the amount of time you have to invest, and your tolerance for risk.
Asset allocation is a common strategy that you can use to construct an investment portfolio. Asset allocation isn't about picking individual securities. Instead, you focus on broad categories of investments, mixing them together in the right proportion to match your financial goals, the amount of time you have to invest, and your tolerance for risk.
Asset allocation is a common strategy that you can use to construct an investment portfolio. Asset allocation isn't about picking individual securities. Instead, you focus on broad categories of investments, mixing them together in the right proportion to match your financial goals, the amount of time you have to invest, and your tolerance for risk.
Asset allocation is a common strategy that you can use to construct an investment portfolio. Asset allocation isn't about picking individual securities. Instead, you focus on broad categories of investments, mixing them together in the right proportion to match your financial goals, the amount of time you have to invest, and your tolerance for risk.
You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe from tax collectors, accident victims, health-care providers, credit card issuers, business creditors, and creditors of others.
You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe from tax collectors, accident victims, health-care providers, credit card issuers, business creditors, and creditors of others.
You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe from tax collectors, accident victims, health-care providers, credit card issuers, business creditors, and creditors of others.
You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe from tax collectors, accident victims, health-care providers, credit card issuers, business creditors, and creditors of others.
You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe from tax collectors, accident victims, health-care providers, credit card issuers, business creditors, and creditors of others.
You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe from tax collectors, accident victims, health-care providers, credit card issuers, business creditors, and creditors of others.
You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe from tax collectors, accident victims, health-care providers, credit card issuers, business creditors, and creditors of others.
You're beginning to accumulate substantial wealth, but you worry about protecting it from future potential creditors. Whether your concern is for your personal assets or your business, various tools exist to keep your property safe from tax collectors, accident victims, health-care providers, credit card issuers, business creditors, and creditors of others.
An automobile accident can be a confusing and stressful event, but being prepared can help you remain calm. It's important to know what to do immediately after an accident and what to do in the days following.
If you own a small business, you may be finding it increasingly necessary to implement a benefit program to attract and maintain employees. For small businesses, benefit plans generally consist of some of the major insurance benefits, discussed here, as well as employer-sponsored retirement plans.
If you own a small business, you may be finding it increasingly necessary to implement a benefit program to attract and maintain employees. For small businesses, benefit plans generally consist of some of the major insurance benefits, discussed here, as well as employer-sponsored retirement plans.
If you own a small business, you may be finding it increasingly necessary to implement a benefit program to attract and maintain employees. For small businesses, benefit plans generally consist of some of the major insurance benefits, discussed here, as well as employer-sponsored retirement plans.
If you own a small business, you may be finding it increasingly necessary to implement a benefit program to attract and maintain employees. For small businesses, benefit plans generally consist of some of the major insurance benefits, discussed here, as well as employer-sponsored retirement plans.
If you own a small business, you may be finding it increasingly necessary to implement a benefit program to attract and maintain employees. For small businesses, benefit plans generally consist of some of the major insurance benefits, discussed here, as well as employer-sponsored retirement plans.
Riders are policy add-ons that enable you to customize an individual disability policy to fit your needs. By using riders, companies do not require every policyowner to pay for every optional feature, whether they want it or not.
If you have a 401(k) plan at work and need some cash, you might be tempted to borrow or withdraw money from it. But keep in mind that the purpose of a 401(k) is to save for retirement. Take money out of it now, and you'll risk running out of money during retirement.
If you have a 401(k) plan at work and need some cash, you might be tempted to borrow or withdraw money from it. But keep in mind that the purpose of a 401(k) is to save for retirement. Take money out of it now, and you'll risk running out of money during retirement.
You've worked hard to get your business off the ground (or to keep it going). So the last thing you want to worry about is a lawsuit. Business automobile insurance is designed to protect businesses against liability and property damage claims that may result when an employee has an accident.
A natural disaster like a tornado or a fire can strike your business at any time, possibly resulting in a forced shutdown and an interruption of your normal business process. Such an event can lead to direct losses and indirect losses. Although your business's property and casualty insurance will likely cover your direct losses (e.g., any property that's been damaged, the expense of rebuilding your business facility), it probably won't cover any indirect losses.
A natural disaster like a tornado or a fire can strike your business at any time, possibly resulting in a forced shutdown and an interruption of your normal business process. Such an event can lead to direct losses and indirect losses. Although your business's property and casualty insurance will likely cover your direct losses (e.g., any property that's been damaged, the expense of rebuilding your business facility), it probably won't cover any indirect losses.
If you're in business for yourself, you know that your personal liability insurance won't cover losses related to your business activities. But what if you're sued? An expensive lawsuit could wipe you out before you get started or critically damage the valuable business you've built. Now is the time to talk to your insurance agent about business liability insurance.
If you're in business for yourself, you know that your personal liability insurance won't cover losses related to your business activities. But what if you're sued? An expensive lawsuit could wipe you out before you get started or critically damage the valuable business you've built. Now is the time to talk to your insurance agent about business liability insurance.
If you're in business for yourself, you know that your personal liability insurance won't cover losses related to your business activities. But what if you're sued? An expensive lawsuit could wipe you out before you get started or critically damage the valuable business you've built. Now is the time to talk to your insurance agent about business liability insurance.
Business overhead expense insurance is a type of disability insurance that's designed to protect your business if you become disabled. Specifically, it provides monthly payments to your business for a specified period of time so that your business can meet its routine expenses and remain open while you're disabled. Though you're the insured under the policy, the business is the owner and the beneficiary.
Business overhead expense insurance is a type of disability insurance that's designed to protect your business if you become disabled. Specifically, it provides monthly payments to your business for a specified period of time so that your business can meet its routine expenses and remain open while you're disabled. Though you're the insured under the policy, the business is the owner and the beneficiary.
Business overhead expense insurance is a type of disability insurance that's designed to protect your business if you become disabled. Specifically, it provides monthly payments to your business for a specified period of time so that your business can meet its routine expenses and remain open while you're disabled. Though you're the insured under the policy, the business is the owner and the beneficiary.
Business overhead expense insurance is a type of disability insurance that's designed to protect your business if you become disabled. Specifically, it provides monthly payments to your business for a specified period of time so that your business can meet its routine expenses and remain open while you're disabled. Though you're the insured under the policy, the business is the owner and the beneficiary.
Business overhead expense insurance is a type of disability insurance that's designed to protect your business if you become disabled. Specifically, it provides monthly payments to your business for a specified period of time so that your business can meet its routine expenses and remain open while you're disabled. Though you're the insured under the policy, the business is the owner and the beneficiary.
Maybe you've always pictured yourself driving a shiny red convertible. Or perhaps you've had a recent addition to the family and you're looking for the practicality of a minivan. Whatever the reason, you're in the market for a new car. Here are some tips to help make the car-buying process a bit easier.
The price of your new vehicle, not how much you'll pay to insure it, is your main concern when you're shopping for a new car. But a vehicle whose price seems right at the dealership may end up costing you a lot more than you expect once you factor in the cost of insuring it.
You're ready to buy an insurance policy, but you feel a bit uneasy embarking into the insurance world. After all, the language can be technical, and you're wary of insurance agents throwing sales pitches at you. Whether you're buying an auto policy, a homeowners policy, a life insurance policy, or some other type of policy, here are some general tips to help you tread the insurance waters.
Should you care about a temporary gap in your health insurance coverage, even if you and your family are healthy? If you really think about it, any lapse in your health insurance could be devastating. Accidents--a fall off the ladder, a trip down the stairs--occur every day. Hospitals are filled with people who never expected to be there, and medical expenses paid entirely out of pocket can drain your family's finances.
Medicare won't cover all of your health-care costs during retirement, so you may want to buy a supplemental medical insurance policy known as Medigap. Offered by private insurance companies, Medigap policies are designed to cover costs not paid by Medicare, helping you fill the gaps in your Medicare coverage.
Medicare won't cover all of your health-care costs during retirement, so you may want to buy a supplemental medical insurance policy known as Medigap. Offered by private insurance companies, Medigap policies are designed to cover costs not paid by Medicare, helping you fill the gaps in your Medicare coverage.
Medicare won't cover all of your health-care costs during retirement, so you may want to buy a supplemental medical insurance policy known as Medigap. Offered by private insurance companies, Medigap policies are designed to cover costs not paid by Medicare, helping you fill the gaps in your Medicare coverage.
Medicare won't cover all of your health-care costs during retirement, so you may want to buy a supplemental medical insurance policy known as Medigap. Offered by private insurance companies, Medigap policies are designed to cover costs not paid by Medicare, helping you fill the gaps in your Medicare coverage.
Medicare won't cover all of your health-care costs during retirement, so you may want to buy a supplemental medical insurance policy known as Medigap. Offered by private insurance companies, Medigap policies are designed to cover costs not paid by Medicare, helping you fill the gaps in your Medicare coverage.
You may have heard about the horrors of probate, but in truth, probate has gotten an undeservedly bad reputation, especially in recent years. If you bypass probate, your estate will go to your beneficiaries without any court proceeding, and you may save a certain amount of time and expenses. However, there is usually little reason for most people to avoid probate today.
You may have heard about the horrors of probate, but in truth, probate has gotten an undeservedly bad reputation, especially in recent years. If you bypass probate, your estate will go to your beneficiaries without any court proceeding, and you may save a certain amount of time and expenses. However, there is usually little reason for most people to avoid probate today.
You may have heard about the horrors of probate, but in truth, probate has gotten an undeservedly bad reputation, especially in recent years. If you bypass probate, your estate will go to your beneficiaries without any court proceeding, and you may save a certain amount of time and expenses. However, there is usually little reason for most people to avoid probate today.
You may have heard about the horrors of probate, but in truth, probate has gotten an undeservedly bad reputation, especially in recent years. If you bypass probate, your estate will go to your beneficiaries without any court proceeding, and you may save a certain amount of time and expenses. However, there is usually little reason for most people to avoid probate today.
You may have heard about the horrors of probate, but in truth, probate has gotten an undeservedly bad reputation, especially in recent years. If you bypass probate, your estate will go to your beneficiaries without any court proceeding, and you may save a certain amount of time and expenses. However, there is usually little reason for most people to avoid probate today.
You may have heard about the horrors of probate, but in truth, probate has gotten an undeservedly bad reputation, especially in recent years. If you bypass probate, your estate will go to your beneficiaries without any court proceeding, and you may save a certain amount of time and expenses. However, there is usually little reason for most people to avoid probate today.
You may have heard about the horrors of probate, but in truth, probate has gotten an undeservedly bad reputation, especially in recent years. If you bypass probate, your estate will go to your beneficiaries without any court proceeding, and you may save a certain amount of time and expenses. However, there is usually little reason for most people to avoid probate today.
Being able to send your child to college is near the top of the wish list for most parents. A college education can open doors to many opportunities, and is increasingly necessary in today's economy. But that diploma doesn't come cheap. Unless you are very well off financially, it's difficult to sit on the sidelines for years and then suddenly find the money to pay for college when your child is ready to go.
Being able to send your child to college is near the top of the wish list for most parents. A college education can open doors to many opportunities, and is increasingly necessary in today's economy. But that diploma doesn't come cheap. Unless you are very well off financially, it's difficult to sit on the sidelines for years and then suddenly find the money to pay for college when your child is ready to go.
Caring for your aging parents is something you hope you can handle when the time comes, but it's the last thing you want to think about. Whether the time is now or somewhere down the road, there are steps that you can take to make your life (and theirs) a little easier.
Cash value, or permanent, life insurance is life insurance that is designed to be kept until your death--whenever that may be. Part of your premium pays for the "pure" insurance coverage and expenses, and the balance is held by the insurance company in a cash value account.
Cash value, or permanent, life insurance is life insurance that is designed to be kept until your death--whenever that may be. Part of your premium pays for the "pure" insurance coverage and expenses, and the balance is held by the insurance company in a cash value account.
Cash value, or permanent, life insurance is life insurance that is designed to be kept until your death--whenever that may be. Part of your premium pays for the "pure" insurance coverage and expenses, and the balance is held by the insurance company in a cash value account.
Cash value, or permanent, life insurance is life insurance that is designed to be kept until your death--whenever that may be. Part of your premium pays for the "pure" insurance coverage and expenses, and the balance is held by the insurance company in a cash value account.
Cash value, or permanent, life insurance is life insurance that is designed to be kept until your death--whenever that may be. Part of your premium pays for the "pure" insurance coverage and expenses, and the balance is held by the insurance company in a cash value account.
Cash value, or permanent, life insurance is life insurance that is designed to be kept until your death--whenever that may be. Part of your premium pays for the "pure" insurance coverage and expenses, and the balance is held by the insurance company in a cash value account.
Cash value, or permanent, life insurance is life insurance that is designed to be kept until your death--whenever that may be. Part of your premium pays for the "pure" insurance coverage and expenses, and the balance is held by the insurance company in a cash value account.
When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.
When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.
When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.
When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.
When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.
When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.
When developing your estate plan, you can do well by doing good. Leaving money to charity rewards you in many ways. It gives you a sense of personal satisfaction, and it can save you money in estate taxes.
Selecting beneficiaries for retirement benefits is different from choosing beneficiaries for other assets such as life insurance. With retirement benefits, you need to know the impact of income tax and estate tax laws in order to select the right beneficiaries. Although taxes shouldn't be the sole determining factor in naming your beneficiaries, ignoring the impact of taxes could lead you to make an incorrect choice.
Selecting beneficiaries for retirement benefits is different from choosing beneficiaries for other assets such as life insurance. With retirement benefits, you need to know the impact of income tax and estate tax laws in order to select the right beneficiaries. Although taxes shouldn't be the sole determining factor in naming your beneficiaries, ignoring the impact of taxes could lead you to make an incorrect choice.
Selecting beneficiaries for retirement benefits is different from choosing beneficiaries for other assets such as life insurance. With retirement benefits, you need to know the impact of income tax and estate tax laws in order to select the right beneficiaries. Although taxes shouldn't be the sole determining factor in naming your beneficiaries, ignoring the impact of taxes could lead you to make an incorrect choice.
Selecting beneficiaries for retirement benefits is different from choosing beneficiaries for other assets such as life insurance. With retirement benefits, you need to know the impact of income tax and estate tax laws in order to select the right beneficiaries. Although taxes shouldn't be the sole determining factor in naming your beneficiaries, ignoring the impact of taxes could lead you to make an incorrect choice.
Selecting beneficiaries for retirement benefits is different from choosing beneficiaries for other assets such as life insurance. With retirement benefits, you need to know the impact of income tax and estate tax laws in order to select the right beneficiaries. Although taxes shouldn't be the sole determining factor in naming your beneficiaries, ignoring the impact of taxes could lead you to make an incorrect choice.
Like dandelions in a spring lawn, credit card offers pop up everywhere--stuffing your mailbox, flashing on the Internet, even falling from the magazines in your doctor's waiting room. And they all sound so attractive. "0% APR until next year!" "No fee if you transfer a balance now!" "Low fixed rate!" You're thinking of applying for a card, but how do you decide which offer is best for you?
Like dandelions in a spring lawn, credit card offers pop up everywhere--stuffing your mailbox, flashing on the Internet, even falling from the magazines in your doctor's waiting room. And they all sound so attractive. "0% APR until next year!" "No fee if you transfer a balance now!" "Low fixed rate!" You're thinking of applying for a card, but how do you decide which offer is best for you?
Basically, three separate categories of entities exist: partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies. Each category has its own advantages, disadvantages, and special rules. It is also possible to operate your business as a sole proprietorship without organizing as a separate business entity.Now that you've decided to start a new business or buy an existing one, you need to consider the form of business entity that's right for you.
Basically, three separate categories of entities exist: partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies. Each category has its own advantages, disadvantages, and special rules. It is also possible to operate your business as a sole proprietorship without organizing as a separate business entity.Now that you've decided to start a new business or buy an existing one, you need to consider the form of business entity that's right for you.
Basically, three separate categories of entities exist: partnerships, corporations, and limited liability companies. Each category has its own advantages, disadvantages, and special rules. It is also possible to operate your business as a sole proprietorship without organizing as a separate business entity.Now that you've decided to start a new business or buy an existing one, you need to consider the form of business entity that's right for you.
Selecting a filing status is one of the first decisions you'll make when you fill out your federal income tax return, so it's important to know the rules. And because you may have more than one option, you need to know the advantages and disadvantages of each. Making the right decision about your filing status can save money and prevent problems with the IRS down the road.
Selecting a filing status is one of the first decisions you'll make when you fill out your federal income tax return, so it's important to know the rules. And because you may have more than one option, you need to know the advantages and disadvantages of each. Making the right decision about your filing status can save money and prevent problems with the IRS down the road.
Selecting a filing status is one of the first decisions you'll make when you fill out your federal income tax return, so it's important to know the rules. And because you may have more than one option, you need to know the advantages and disadvantages of each. Making the right decision about your filing status can save money and prevent problems with the IRS down the road.
Selecting a filing status is one of the first decisions you'll make when you fill out your federal income tax return, so it's important to know the rules. And because you may have more than one option, you need to know the advantages and disadvantages of each. Making the right decision about your filing status can save money and prevent problems with the IRS down the road.
Selecting a filing status is one of the first decisions you'll make when you fill out your federal income tax return, so it's important to know the rules. And because you may have more than one option, you need to know the advantages and disadvantages of each. Making the right decision about your filing status can save money and prevent problems with the IRS down the road.
The sale of insurance products has undergone enormous change in the past 10 years. Before 1990, the only way to buy property and casualty insurance was through the insurance company's agent or an independent insurance broker. Gradually, over the last decade, states have allowed banks to enter the arena and sell insurance.
The sale of insurance products has undergone enormous change in the past 10 years. Before 1990, the only way to buy property and casualty insurance was through the insurance company's agent or an independent insurance broker. Gradually, over the last decade, states have allowed banks to enter the arena and sell insurance.
Life insurance benefits are not paid automatically. If you are the beneficiary of a life insurance policy, you must file a claim in order to receive any money. Often, this is as simple as contacting your insurance agent and the deceased's employer and filling out some paperwork. You will need to provide each insurance company with a certified copy of the death certificate.
When you determine how much income you'll need in retirement, you may base your projection on the type of lifestyle you plan to have and when you want to retire. However, as you grow closer to retirement, you may discover that your income won't be enough to meet your needs. If you find yourself in this situation, you'll need to adopt a plan to bridge this projected income gap.
When you determine how much income you'll need in retirement, you may base your projection on the type of lifestyle you plan to have and when you want to retire. However, as you grow closer to retirement, you may discover that your income won't be enough to meet your needs. If you find yourself in this situation, you'll need to adopt a plan to bridge this projected income gap.
When you determine how much income you'll need in retirement, you may base your projection on the type of lifestyle you plan to have and when you want to retire. However, as you grow closer to retirement, you may discover that your income won't be enough to meet your needs. If you find yourself in this situation, you'll need to adopt a plan to bridge this projected income gap.
When you determine how much income you'll need in retirement, you may base your projection on the type of lifestyle you plan to have and when you want to retire. However, as you grow closer to retirement, you may discover that your income won't be enough to meet your needs. If you find yourself in this situation, you'll need to adopt a plan to bridge this projected income gap.
When you determine how much income you'll need in retirement, you may base your projection on the type of lifestyle you plan to have and when you want to retire. However, as you grow closer to retirement, you may discover that your income won't be enough to meet your needs. If you find yourself in this situation, you'll need to adopt a plan to bridge this projected income gap.
Section 529 plans are popular college savings vehicles. Due to the demand for them, nearly every state now operates at least one type of 529 plan (either a prepaid tuition plan or a college savings plan), and an increasing number are offering both. To choose the type of 529 plan that's right for you, it's important to understand how prepaid tuition plans and college savings plans work and the differences between them.
A commercial general liability (CGL) policy will insure your business against general liability exposures, unless a possible liability is specifically excluded from coverage. Benefits are paid for actual damages and legal costs when the business is held legally responsible for bodily injury, property damage, or personal and advertising injury liability. If someone is injured on the premises of your business, benefits may be paid even if the business is not held legally responsible.
A commercial general liability (CGL) policy will insure your business against general liability exposures, unless a possible liability is specifically excluded from coverage. Benefits are paid for actual damages and legal costs when the business is held legally responsible for bodily injury, property damage, or personal and advertising injury liability. If someone is injured on the premises of your business, benefits may be paid even if the business is not held legally responsible.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Go out into your yard and dig a big hole. Every month, throw $50 into it, but don't take any money out until you're ready to buy a house, send your child to college, or retire. It sounds a little crazy, doesn't it? But that's what investing without setting clear-cut goals is like. If you're lucky, you may end up with enough money to meet your needs, but you have no way to know for sure.
Individual disability income insurance is a very flexible product. Many types of policies with an array of features and options are available, allowing you to design a policy that fits both your needs and your budget. But because there's no such thing as a standard disability policy, comparing policies can be difficult.
Perhaps you're starting a new job or trying to integrate employee benefits with your new spouse. Or maybe you're shopping for individual health insurance coverage.
Like anyone else, you want a life insurance policy that meets your needs and budget. But how do you find the right policy when there are so many to choose from and many of them seem so similar? The key is knowing how to compare policies and evaluate the results.
Because long-term care insurance (LTCI) is a relatively new product, policies are not standardized. This can make it especially difficult to compare policies when you're shopping for this type of insurance. However, comparing LTCI policies is a lot easier when you know what to look for and follow a few simple guidelines.
A home inventory is a complete and detailed written list of all your personal property that's located in your home and stored in other structures like garages and toolsheds. It should include your possessions as well as those of family members and others living in your home. You should prepare an inventory whenever you move into a new home. To keep track of new additions and discarded items, be sure to update it every year.
If you're a senior, the future may present more of a concern than it once did--you may wonder what you'll do if your health deteriorates. If you must enter a nursing home, for example, how will you pay for it? Fortunately, you may have several options. One such option is long-term care insurance (LTCI). Government-regulated programs can also help. These include Medicare, Medigap, and Medicaid.
If you're a senior, the future may present more of a concern than it once did--you may wonder what you'll do if your health deteriorates. If you must enter a nursing home, for example, how will you pay for it? Fortunately, you may have several options. One such option is long-term care insurance (LTCI). Government-regulated programs can also help. These include Medicare, Medigap, and Medicaid.
If you're a senior, the future may present more of a concern than it once did--you may wonder what you'll do if your health deteriorates. If you must enter a nursing home, for example, how will you pay for it? Fortunately, you may have several options. One such option is long-term care insurance (LTCI). Government-regulated programs can also help. These include Medicare, Medigap, and Medicaid.
If you're a senior, the future may present more of a concern than it once did--you may wonder what you'll do if your health deteriorates. If you must enter a nursing home, for example, how will you pay for it? Fortunately, you may have several options. One such option is long-term care insurance (LTCI). Government-regulated programs can also help. These include Medicare, Medigap, and Medicaid.
If you're a senior, the future may present more of a concern than it once did--you may wonder what you'll do if your health deteriorates. If you must enter a nursing home, for example, how will you pay for it? Fortunately, you may have several options. One such option is long-term care insurance (LTCI). Government-regulated programs can also help. These include Medicare, Medigap, and Medicaid.
If you're a senior, the future may present more of a concern than it once did--you may wonder what you'll do if your health deteriorates. If you must enter a nursing home, for example, how will you pay for it? Fortunately, you may have several options. One such option is long-term care insurance (LTCI). Government-regulated programs can also help. These include Medicare, Medigap, and Medicaid.
A single procedure or trip to the hospital can fill your mailbox with stacks of bills. These can come from hospitals, doctors, pharmacies, emergency rooms, labs, and many others. The stress involved with handling all of this paperwork can be almost as overwhelming as the illness or injury itself. If your medical bills start to pile up faster than you can pay them, don't wait for a crisis to occur before doing something about it.
A single procedure or trip to the hospital can fill your mailbox with stacks of bills. These can come from hospitals, doctors, pharmacies, emergency rooms, labs, and many others. The stress involved with handling all of this paperwork can be almost as overwhelming as the illness or injury itself. If your medical bills start to pile up faster than you can pay them, don't wait for a crisis to occur before doing something about it.
Why are prescription drug costs increasing more rapidly than other health-care expenses? Drug companies are spending more on research and development, and passing those costs along to consumers and insurance companies. Consumer demand for newer and costlier drugs is rising, and physicians are writing more and more prescriptions.
You've identified your goals and done some basic research. You understand the difference between a stock and a bond. But how do you actually go about creating an investment portfolio? What specific investments are right for you? What resources are out there to help you with investment decisions? Do you need a financial planner to help you get started?
You've identified your goals and done some basic research. You understand the difference between a stock and a bond. But how do you actually go about creating an investment portfolio? What specific investments are right for you? What resources are out there to help you with investment decisions? Do you need a financial planner to help you get started?
You've identified your goals and done some basic research. You understand the difference between a stock and a bond. But how do you actually go about creating an investment portfolio? What specific investments are right for you? What resources are out there to help you with investment decisions? Do you need a financial planner to help you get started?
You've identified your goals and done some basic research. You understand the difference between a stock and a bond. But how do you actually go about creating an investment portfolio? What specific investments are right for you? What resources are out there to help you with investment decisions? Do you need a financial planner to help you get started?
You've identified your goals and done some basic research. You understand the difference between a stock and a bond. But how do you actually go about creating an investment portfolio? What specific investments are right for you? What resources are out there to help you with investment decisions? Do you need a financial planner to help you get started?
You've identified your goals and done some basic research. You understand the difference between a stock and a bond. But how do you actually go about creating an investment portfolio? What specific investments are right for you? What resources are out there to help you with investment decisions? Do you need a financial planner to help you get started?
It's hard to imagine functioning in today's society without access to credit. However, you need to be careful not to fall victim to some of the pitfalls associated with it.
It's hard to imagine functioning in today's society without access to credit. However, you need to be careful not to fall victim to some of the pitfalls associated with it.
Divorce can be a lengthy process that may strain your finances and leave you feeling out of control. But with the right preparation, you can protect your interests, take charge of your future, and save yourself time and money.You certainly never expected divorce when you cut the wedding cake--you and your spouse planned on spending the rest of your lives together. Unfortunately, the fairy tale didn't work out, and you're headed for a divorce. So where do you begin?
Divorce can be a lengthy process that may strain your finances and leave you feeling out of control. But with the right preparation, you can protect your interests, take charge of your future, and save yourself time and money.You certainly never expected divorce when you cut the wedding cake--you and your spouse planned on spending the rest of your lives together. Unfortunately, the fairy tale didn't work out, and you're headed for a divorce. So where do you begin?
Anyone who has been involved in a car accident knows that it is a stressful event. And the added pressure of getting your car fixed certainly doesn't make things any easier. Fortunately, knowing how the auto repair process works can make things go more smoothly for you.
If you have a lot of debt, you're not alone. Today, more and more Americans are burdened with credit card and loan payments. So whether you are trying to improve your money management, having difficulty making ends meet, want to lower your monthly loan payments, or just can't seem to keep up with all of your credit card bills, you may be looking for a way to make debt repayment easier. Debt consolidation may be the answer.
If you have a lot of debt, you're not alone. Today, more and more Americans are burdened with credit card and loan payments. So whether you are trying to improve your money management, having difficulty making ends meet, want to lower your monthly loan payments, or just can't seem to keep up with all of your credit card bills, you may be looking for a way to make debt repayment easier. Debt consolidation may be the answer.
When you change jobs, you need to decide what to do with the money in your 401(k) plan. Should you leave it where it is, or take it with you? Should you roll the money over into an IRA or into your new employer's retirement plan?
When you change jobs, you need to decide what to do with the money in your 401(k) plan. Should you leave it where it is, or take it with you? Should you roll the money over into an IRA or into your new employer's retirement plan?
Tired of paying out of pocket every time you go to the dentist? Concerned about the health of your teeth down the road? Dental insurance may be the answer you're looking for.
Tired of paying out of pocket every time you go to the dentist? Concerned about the health of your teeth down the road? Dental insurance may be the answer you're looking for.
A beneficiary is the person or entity you name (i.e., designate) to receive the death benefits of a life insurance policy. Some states require that your beneficiary have an insurable interest in your life or be related to you (at least at the time the contract is initiated), while others have no such restriction.
A beneficiary is the person or entity you name (i.e., designate) to receive the death benefits of a life insurance policy. Some states require that your beneficiary have an insurable interest in your life or be related to you (at least at the time the contract is initiated), while others have no such restriction.
Your ability to earn income is your most valuable asset. It allows you to buy and maintain assets such as your house, your car, and your jewelry. People routinely insure these types of property against loss, yet a lot of us neglect to buy insurance for the one cash source that makes it possible to maintain a particular lifestyle--the ability to earn income.
Your ability to earn income is your most valuable asset. It allows you to buy and maintain assets such as your house, your car, and your jewelry. People routinely insure these types of property against loss, yet a lot of us neglect to buy insurance for the one cash source that makes it possible to maintain a particular lifestyle--the ability to earn income.
Your ability to earn income is your most valuable asset. It allows you to buy and maintain assets such as your house, your car, and your jewelry. People routinely insure these types of property against loss, yet a lot of us neglect to buy insurance for the one cash source that makes it possible to maintain a particular lifestyle--the ability to earn income.
Although there is no such thing as a standard disability policy, you're likely to see most of the following terms, conditions, and benefits included and explained in most individual disability contracts.
Unfortunately, businesses of all sizes and in all industries are vulnerable to dishonest acts. Crime insurance provides coverage that isn't part of general business insurance policies. It is designed to protect your business from losses that result when your employees or other third parties commit dishonest acts.
Unfortunately, businesses of all sizes and in all industries are vulnerable to dishonest acts. Crime insurance provides coverage that isn't part of general business insurance policies. It is designed to protect your business from losses that result when your employees or other third parties commit dishonest acts.
People ordinarily buy property and casualty insurance to protect their possessions (houses, cars, and furniture) and life insurance to provide income for their survivors. However, many people don't think about protecting their income with disability income insurance. But how well could you live if you weren't able to work? Disability is an unpredictable event, and if you become disabled, your ability to make a living could be restricted. Although you may have enough money in the bank to meet your short-term needs, what would happen if you were unable to work for months or even years? The real value of disability income insurance lies in its ability to protect you over the long haul.
People ordinarily buy property and casualty insurance to protect their possessions (houses, cars, and furniture) and life insurance to provide income for their survivors. However, many people don't think about protecting their income with disability income insurance. But how well could you live if you weren't able to work? Disability is an unpredictable event, and if you become disabled, your ability to make a living could be restricted. Although you may have enough money in the bank to meet your short-term needs, what would happen if you were unable to work for months or even years? The real value of disability income insurance lies in its ability to protect you over the long haul.
We live in an age of medical miracles. People live longer than ever before, and life expectancies are increasing at a steady rate. This means that many of us will be fortunate enough to still have our parents with us as we ourselves reach retirement age. As our parents age, however, their health may decline, and the greater the chance becomes that they will require home care, nursing home care, or other assisted-living arrangements.
We live in an age of medical miracles. People live longer than ever before, and life expectancies are increasing at a steady rate. This means that many of us will be fortunate enough to still have our parents with us as we ourselves reach retirement age. As our parents age, however, their health may decline, and the greater the chance becomes that they will require home care, nursing home care, or other assisted-living arrangements.
If you haven't started investing towards a long-term goal because you're worried about short-term market volatility, consider using a popular investment strategy called dollar cost averaging. Dollar cost averaging takes some of the guesswork out of investing in the stock market. Instead of waiting to invest a single lump sum until you feel prices are at their lowest point, you invest smaller amounts of money at regular intervals, no matter how the market is performing.Your goal is to reduce the overall volatility of your portfolio by purchasing more shares when the price is low and fewer shares when the price is high. Although dollar cost averaging can't guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market, over time your average cost per share is likely to be less than the average market share price.
If you haven't started investing towards a long-term goal because you're worried about short-term market volatility, consider using a popular investment strategy called dollar cost averaging. Dollar cost averaging takes some of the guesswork out of investing in the stock market. Instead of waiting to invest a single lump sum until you feel prices are at their lowest point, you invest smaller amounts of money at regular intervals, no matter how the market is performing.Your goal is to reduce the overall volatility of your portfolio by purchasing more shares when the price is low and fewer shares when the price is high. Although dollar cost averaging can't guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market, over time your average cost per share is likely to be less than the average market share price.
If you haven't started investing towards a long-term goal because you're worried about short-term market volatility, consider using a popular investment strategy called dollar cost averaging. Dollar cost averaging takes some of the guesswork out of investing in the stock market. Instead of waiting to invest a single lump sum until you feel prices are at their lowest point, you invest smaller amounts of money at regular intervals, no matter how the market is performing.Your goal is to reduce the overall volatility of your portfolio by purchasing more shares when the price is low and fewer shares when the price is high. Although dollar cost averaging can't guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market, over time your average cost per share is likely to be less than the average market share price.
If you haven't started investing towards a long-term goal because you're worried about short-term market volatility, consider using a popular investment strategy called dollar cost averaging. Dollar cost averaging takes some of the guesswork out of investing in the stock market. Instead of waiting to invest a single lump sum until you feel prices are at their lowest point, you invest smaller amounts of money at regular intervals, no matter how the market is performing.Your goal is to reduce the overall volatility of your portfolio by purchasing more shares when the price is low and fewer shares when the price is high. Although dollar cost averaging can't guarantee a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market, over time your average cost per share is likely to be less than the average market share price.
Most homeowners policies have very limited coverage for earthquake damage--excluding direct loss from earth movement but covering loss by a subsequent fire, explosion, breakage of glass, or theft. As a result, if you live in an area prone to earthquakes, you may want to purchase additional coverage with earthquake insurance.
It's tax time, and your kitchen table is littered with papers and forms. As if this isn't bad enough, you recently paid your child's college semester bill, and you don't know where you'll find the money to pay the taxes that you expect to owe. Well, you might finally catch a break. Now that your child is in college, you might qualify for one of two education tax credits--the Hope credit and the Lifetime Learning credit. And because a tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction against taxes owed, it's more favorable than a tax deduction, which simply reduces the total income on which your tax is based.
It's tax time, and your kitchen table is littered with papers and forms. As if this isn't bad enough, you recently paid your child's college semester bill, and you don't know where you'll find the money to pay the taxes that you expect to owe. Well, you might finally catch a break. Now that your child is in college, you might qualify for one of two education tax credits--the Hope credit and the Lifetime Learning credit. And because a tax credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction against taxes owed, it's more favorable than a tax deduction, which simply reduces the total income on which your tax is based.
Do you ever wonder where your money goes each month? Does it seem like you're never able to get ahead? If so, you may want to establish a budget to help you keep track of how you spend your money and help you reach your financial goals.
Do you ever wonder where your money goes each month? Does it seem like you're never able to get ahead? If so, you may want to establish a budget to help you keep track of how you spend your money and help you reach your financial goals.
Do you ever wonder where your money goes each month? Does it seem like you're never able to get ahead? If so, you may want to establish a budget to help you keep track of how you spend your money and help you reach your financial goals.
Do you ever wonder where your money goes each month? Does it seem like you're never able to get ahead? If so, you may want to establish a budget to help you keep track of how you spend your money and help you reach your financial goals.
In times of crisis, you don't want to be shaking pennies out of a piggy bank. Having a financial safety net in place can ensure that you're protected when a financial emergency arises. One way to accomplish this is by setting up a cash reserve, a pool of readily available funds that can help you meet emergency or highly urgent short-term needs.
When you contribute to a 529 plan, you'll not only help your child, grandchild, or other loved one pay for college, but you'll also remove money from your taxable estate. This will help you minimize your tax liability and preserve more of your estate for your loved ones after you die. So, if you're thinking about contributing money to a 529 plan, it pays to understand the gift and estate tax rules.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
By definition, estate planning is a process designed to help you manage and preserve your assets while you are alive, and to conserve and control their distribution after your death according to your goals and objectives. But what estate planning means to you specifically depends on who you are. Your age, health, wealth, lifestyle, life stage, goals, and many other factors determine your particular estate planning needs. For example, you may have a small estate and may be concerned only that certain people receive particular things. A simple will is probably all you'll need. Or, you may have a large estate, and minimizing any potential estate tax impact is your foremost goal. Here, you'll need to use more sophisticated techniques in your estate plan, such as a trust.
It was February of 1980, at MadisonSquareGardens during the height of the Cold War. It was there, that the U.S. Men’s Olympic Hockey team took on what experts considered the world’s best hockey team at the time: The U.S.S.R. It was an exhibition match meant to be a preview of the upcoming Olympics and the U.S. was trounced, 10-3.