Giving Strategies That Can Give Back

Americans gave more than $290 billion to charity in 2010, despite the slow economy. About 73% of charitable donations came directly from individuals. This article explains how a charitable remainder trust and a charitable lead trust could be used to provide more control over gifts while potentially benefiting the giver and his or her heirs.

Deciding When to Begin

Waiting until full retirement age (or up to age 70) to claim Social Security may result in significantly higher monthly benefits. At age 62, the earliest age to claim Social Security, the amount received could be only 70% of the benefit received at "full retirement age" (which ranges from age 65 to 67 depending on year of birth).

Ways to Save More

About two out of three American workers are saving for retirement, but less than half are confident that they will save enough money to live comfortably during their retirement years. This article includes suggestions for readers to take small steps that could make a big difference when they are ready to retire.

Be Ready for a Change in Interest Rates

Fluctuating interest rates can be challenging for bond investors who want to reinvest their principal. When rates are low, they may have to accept lower yields; when rates rise when principal is tied up, they may not be able to benefit. One strategy to help manage reinvestment risk is to build a bond ladder.

More Newsletters →

Life Insurance

How much life insurance would you need to produce a sufficient income stream for your family?

Savings Goals

How much do you need to save each year to meet your long-term financial goals?

Cost of Retirement

Use this calculator to estimate how much income and savings you may need in retirement.

Mortgage Refinancing

Determine whether you should consider refinancing your mortgage.

More Calculators →