Financial Planning Articles
August 2026
Trump Accounts: Key Rules to Know Before You Contribute
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
The positives and caveats to consider with the new Trump Accounts.
August 2026
What to Do When You Get a Large Windfall
AAII Journal Article by Sam Levine
Regardless of where newfound wealth comes from, it’s important to prepare to manage it properly.
August 2026
Midyear Checkups: AAII Members Weigh in With Disparate Opinions
AAII Journal Article by Jenna Brashear
A lively exchange on performing a midyear financial checkup brought out wildly different philosophies among AAII members.
April 2026
Managing the Tax Impact of Capital Gains Stacking
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Understanding all the income sources and deductions that drive your tax bill can help you identify opportunities to lessen their tax impact.
March 2026
Opportunities for Donor-Advised Funds Opened by the OBBBA
AAII Journal Article by Sam Levine
When used properly, donor-advised funds allow donors to align their gifts with their tax situation.
11/27/2025
Important Family Conversations for Thanksgiving Weekend
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
A checklist to help guide discussions with your family about late(r)-in-life care, estate plans, finances and related issues.
10/30/2025
Shut Up, Brain: Why Investing Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
Though running and long-term investing are very different activities, the keys to succeeding at both share similar traits.
October 2025
This Isn't Your Grandpa's Retirement
AAII Journal Article by Cynthia McLaughlin
AAII Retirement Investing guides retirees and those saving for retirement through the constantly evolving challenges and opportunities.
April 2025
A One-Page Wealth-Building Plan for Managing the Costs of Late-in-Life Care
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
One of the biggest challenges in financial planning and investing is longevity risk. A one-page PRISM plan can help you prepare for the forthcoming costs.
April 2025
Smart Leverage vs. Debt-Free Living: Which Helps Build Wealth Faster?
AAII Journal Article by Jenna Brashear
Share your thoughts on strategically using debt for wealth-building.
March 2025
Understanding the Role of Long-Term Care Insurance
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut, Cynthia McLaughlin, Howard Gleckman
Dispelling misconceptions can help you make an informed decision.
March 2025
Key Financial and Estate Planning Steps for Aging Parents and Children
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Insights from our personal experiences can help you prepare your loved ones to handle the financial planning and management needed after your death.
March 2025
Mind Over Money: Financial Awareness Drives Smarter Decisions
AAII Journal Article by Omar Beirat
Higher financial awareness levels lead to increased savings, lower credit card delinquency and improved retirement planning.
01/02/2025
2024's Most-Read Investor Updates: High Yields and Buying on Dips
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
Topics that got the most attention in 2024 ranged from double-digit dividend yields to retirement planning and family caregiving.
January 2025
A One-Page Wealth-Building Plan for College Savings
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Creating a plan for funding college can help you clarify what choices you will make and keep you on track to meet your goal.
January 2025
Big Financial Goals for 2025? Start Small (Like Finding Your Tax Forms)
AAII Journal Article by Jenna Brashear
Share your financial goals for 2025 and how you will measure your success.
11/28/2024
Thanksgiving Conversations: Planning for the Future
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
Thanksgiving weekend may be a good time to talk to your family about late(r)-in-life care, estate plans, finances and related issues.
October 2024
Finding the Right Retirement Allocation and Withdrawal Strategy
AAII Journal Article by Christine Benz, Cynthia McLaughlin
A bucket approach provides income and growth in retirement, but flexibility with withdrawals is also key.
October 2024
Shifting Control of Personal Finances With a Daily Money Manager
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut, Cynthia McLaughlin, Susie Marbury
How to choose the right professional when you or a loved one needs help with finances like bill paying.
August 2024
Maximizing Retirement Income With Asset Location
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
While smart asset location can reduce your tax exposure in retirement, be sure not to let the tax tail wag the portfolio dog.
07/11/2024
Balancing Longevity Risk With Late-in-Life Care Expenses
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
How to strike a balance with late-in-life care expenses.
July 2024
3 Ways to Redo Your Social Security Claim
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein
Certain circumstances may allow you to improve your retirement prospects by changing a prior Social Security claiming decision.
July 2024
A One-Page Plan for Maximizing Long-Term Wealth
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
The flexibility of the PRISM Wealth-Building Process includes its ability to be adapted for the purpose of simply accumulating wealth.
May 2024
For Qualified Charitable Distributions, Timing Is Everything
AAII Journal Article by Brian Dobbis
With careful planning, a QCD can be a smart tax-planning strategy for an IRA holder taking distributions.
April 2024
How to Protect Yourself From Social Security Clawbacks
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut, Terry Savage, Cynthia McLaughlin
The Social Security Administration is demanding repayment of benefits it erroneously overpaid over the years, with little recourse available to recipients.
April 2024
A One-Page Wealth-Building Plan for First-Time Homebuyers and Other Short-Term Goals
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Saving for goals you want to reach within the next five years entails different risk considerations and allocation choices than long-term goals.
April 2024
Passing the Financial Torch: Start the Generational Dialogue
AAII Journal Article by Jenna Brashear
For National Financial Capability Month this April, AAII is all about bringing different generations together, from baby boomers to Generation Z.
February 2024
Informal Care Essential to Narrowing the Long-Term Care Expense Gap
AAII Journal Article by Grace Malone
When examining elder care in the U.S., informal care is often more significant than formal care.
January 2024
A One-Page Wealth-Building Plan for Leaving an IRA Inheritance
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
How to create a high-level summary of an intended bequest that ensures you reach your goal.
January 2024
Even When Using a CPA, Taxpayers Must Ensure Their Returns Are Filed
AAII Journal Article by Andrew Gomes
It is the responsibility of the taxpayer to ensure their tax return has been filed, even when an accountant or other tax preparer is hired, ruled the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit.
November 2023
How Safe Retirement Withdrawal Rates Work in Practice
AAII Journal Article by Chris Pedersen
The 4% rule doesn’t guarantee safety, but combined with some judgment and adaptation based on market conditions, it gives a very high likelihood of success.
November 2023
A Case Study: How to Reduce Marginal Tax Rates in Retirement
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein, William Meyer
Combining an optimal Social Security claiming strategy with a multiphase withdrawal strategy that exploits the rising and falling pattern of marginal tax rates can add substantial value to a retirement portfolio.
October 2023
Guiding Heirs: Estate Planning and Investing Talks
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
The PRISM Wealth-Building Process can assist with communication when passing along your investing knowledge, your inventory of important documents and your final wishes.
September 2023
The Importance of Considering Marginal Taxes When Taking Withdrawals
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein, William Meyer
Your withdrawal strategy should be optimized to take into account potential spikes in marginal tax rates caused by factors like taxation of Social Security benefits and income-based Medicare premiums.
July 2023
Reasons That Investors Part Ways With Their Financial Adviser
AAII Journal Article by Pratham Shah
There are several common, but multi-dimensional, reasons that advisers are terminated by their clients according to research by Morningstar.
July 2023
Changes Made to Retirement Savings by SECURE 2.0 Act
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
The rules in plain-English plus post-passage observations can help you make changes for the current and future tax years.
May 2023
The Rules Regarding Retirement Account Rollovers
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Terms and tips to help you decide whether to transfer retirement savings from one account to another.
April 2023
Investing for a Child’s or Grandchild’s Lifetime
AAII Journal Article by Paul Merriman
Any plan to help a young family member provide for their future starts with the most important component: time.
03/16/2023
Banks Behaving Badly, and How Your Accounts Are Insured
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
March 2023
The Truth About Annuities and Inflation
AAII Journal Article by Stan Haithcock
While there is no annuity strategy that perfectly solves for inflation, specific types of annuities can lessen its sting.
10/13/2022
Plans and Rules Work for Both Marathons and Investing
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
October 2022
A Financial Roadmap for Grief, Recovery and Well-Being
AAII Journal Article by Lacy Garcia, Reilly Robbins
Open conversations help you and your loved ones become more financially healthy and prepared for future uncertainties.
July 2022
Financial Planning Tips for Empty Nesters
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
A thorough review of your wealth-building plan is called for when children become financially independent.
April 2022
11 Key Retirement Dates You Should Pay Attention To
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Meeting important retirement deadlines doesn’t have to be confusing if you plan early.
January 2022
Generational Financial Literacy and Well-Being
AAII Journal Article by Charles Griswold
A study found that Generation Z adults (ages 18 to 23) exhibit lower financial literacy compared to older generations, with financial well-being directly tied to literacy levels.
11/11/2021
Run Your Own Race: Investing as Marathon Training
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
October 2021
Update Your Estate Plan for Your IRAs
AAII Journal Article by Ed Slott
Most non-spouse beneficiaries of retirement accounts are subject to the SECURE Act’s 10-year withdrawal rule, but not all.
September 2021
Can a Roth IRA Conversion Save You Money?
AAII Journal Article by Roger Young
Moving assets from a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA is most compelling when you pay tax on the converted amount at a relatively low rate.
April 2021
Leaving a Passion for Investing as a Legacy
AAII Journal Article by Christine N. Kieffer
What you can do to spark loved ones’ interest in investing and further their financial acumen.
February 2021
The Impact Life Milestones Have on Wealth
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
To better understand wealth disparities, researchers examined changes in wealth during life milestones such as marriage, divorce, childrearing, homeownership, retirement, the onset of health shocks and widowhood.
January 2021
Are You Protected If Your Broker Goes Bankrupt?
AAII Journal Article by John Deysher
For most investors, there are several layers of protection to keep your assets from disappearing in the event of a broker liquidation.
December 2020
17 Financial and Investing Moves for 2020
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Your tax picture may have changed this year because of the coronavirus, making it all the more essential to check for adjustments before 2021.
October 2020
Comparing and Contrasting Budgeting Apps
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Using a budgeting app makes setting up and managing a personal budget easier, faster and more accurate.
October 2020
A Primer on Social Security
AAII Journal Article by Robert Muksian
Understanding the key concepts involved in calculating Social Security benefits can aid in your retirement planning.
July 2020
Inherited IRA Rules Before and After the SECURE Act
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
The ability to stretch distributions over a beneficiary’s lifetime now depends on the date of death and the beneficiary’s category type.
June 2020
Coronavirus Returns for Robo-Advisers Expose Differences
AAII Journal Article by Ken Schapiro
While performance has varied among providers, most robo portfolios represent a viable, low-cost option for professional management.
June 2020
The Benefits and Costs of Long-Term Care Insurance
AAII Journal Article by Terry Savage
A little bit of insurance coverage for long-term care could make a big difference for your entire family. And now there’s a new policy type worth considering.
June 2020
The Relationship Between Wealth and Delaying Social Security Benefits
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein
Taxpayers with moderate levels of wealth can often lower the taxable portion of their Social Security benefits by delaying the start of these benefits.
June 2020
What the SEC Is Doing for Individual Investors
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut, Lori J. Schock, Jay Clayton
The SEC chairman and education director address AAII members’ concerns in a wide-ranging discussion covering the volatile markets, investor scams, SEC initiatives and teaching your kids.
04/22/2020
How to Find a Financial Adviser or Broker You Can Trust
Update by AAII Staff
Great financial advisers and brokers can not only help you make money on your investments but will also help you reach your goals, avoid undue investment risks and save money on insurance and other major decisions throughout your lifetime. While everyone wants a great financial adviser, the process of finding one can be more difficult than it appears. In this week’s digest, AAII staff cover two articles that highlight important resources and advice that investors can use when searching for a prospective adviser or broker.
April 2020
The Top SECURE Act Provisions Individual Investors Should Be Aware Of
AAII Journal Article by Jamie P. Hopkins
Changes to retirement plan rules may impact your retirement and estate planning. Learn what you need to know.
March 2020
Key End-of-Life Planning Tasks to Complete
AAII Journal Article by Michael Falk
With estate documents and inventory lists in place, you can focus on the more important nonfinancial questions.
12/19/2019
Spending Bills Affect Inherited IRAs and Medical Deductions
Investor Update by Charles Rotblut
October 2019
Planning Essentials for Modest Estates
AAII Journal Article by John Horn, Dera Johnsen-Tracy
Modest estates are particularly susceptible to the vicissitudes of life, whether financial, health or legal. Failure to plan well can be catastrophic. An explanation of the essential documents you need.
09/30/2019
Ease Your Financial Planning Burdens in October
Update by AAII Staff
Kick off Financial Planning Month by tackling a few personal finance tasks on your list.
August 2019
Using Portfolio Returns to Determine When to Claim Social Security Benefits
AAII Journal Article by Brian L. Betker
Upon reaching full retirement age, a retiree can look back at the performance of their nest egg portfolio to determine whether to claim immediately or wait until credits for delayed claiming stop.
July 2019
Avoid Becoming a Victim of Investment Schemes
AAII Journal Article by H. Kent Baker, Vesa Puttonen
The creative imaginations of con artists permit almost limitless ways to swindle investors. Your best line of defense is education and awareness.
06/18/2019
AAII Journal Editor Charles Rotblut Featured in WSJ’s “The Best Financial Advice I Ever Got”
Update by AAII Staff
06/14/2019
Words of Advice: Letter to My Grandchildren
Update by AAII Staff
June 2019
Robo-Advisers Expand Services and Experience Some Growing Pains
AAII Journal Article by Ken Schapiro
An update on the digital advice industry reveals growing popularity as services are added, along with a few regulatory challenges and other missteps that require investor diligence.
June 2019
Five Major Considerations for Early Retirement
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Regardless of whether retiring early is planned or involuntary, taking the time to create a comprehensive plan is critical.
04/26/2019
Get Organized! How to Maintain Your Personal Financial Files
Update by Paula Hogan
April 2019
Health Insurance in Retirement: Medicare and Beyond
AAII Journal Article by Steve Vernon
The risk of high medical bills during retirement calls for a well-thought-out plan, especially at age 65, when you’re eligible for universal medical coverage under Medicare. Many crucial aspects of health insurance have the potential to save you a lot of money—or cost a lot if you aren’t paying attention.
03/18/2019
Maintaining Your Personal Financial Files
Update by AAII Staff
December 2018
19 Year-End Financial and Investing Moves
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Actionable steps covering personal finance, estate planning, investing, retirement and taxes that investors should consider taking now.
November 2018
Beyond the Index Card: Implementing the Advice of the Financial Experts
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut, Harold Pollack
The story behind Pollack’s index card, which contains the best financial advice individuals need, and the lesson’s he’s learned.
October 2018
Using Beneficiary-Directed Trusts to Protect Your Heirs
AAII Journal Article by John Horn, Dera Johnsen-Tracy
These trusts can protect a beneficiary from losing inherited trust assets to creditors, claimants and divorcing spouses.
October 2018
Well-Built 529 Plans Can Be a Great Option for College Savings
AAII Journal Article by Karen Wallace
529 plans allow investment earnings to compound and withdrawals to be taken for qualified college expenses on a tax-free basis.
September 2018
Advice on Evaluating an Adviser From an Industry Veteran
AAII Journal Article by William Francavilla
Identifying a good adviser requires conducting a background check and then asking them five important questions.
July 2018
Increasing Your Retirement Resources: The Power of Working Longer
AAII Journal Article by Jason Scott, John B. Shoven, Sita Nataraj Slavov
Postponing retirement by even just one year can boost a couple’s annual inflation-adjusted retirement income by 6.5% to 8.0%.
April 2018
Social Security and Medicare Can Raise Retirees' Tax Rates
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein, William Meyer
Higher levels of income not only affect the taxation of Social Security benefits, but can also lead to higher Medicare premiums.
March 2018
Retirement Planning Strategies Following the 2017 Tax Act
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein, William Meyer
The lower tax rates and higher standard deductions make taking advantage of Roth IRAs more attractive now.
02/05/2018
Get Organized! How to Maintain Your Personal Financial Files
Update by AAII Staff
Everyone needs to keep certain personal financial files more or less permanently. But which files should you keep, and why do you need to keep them? How long should you keep them and in what format?
July 2017
Inherited IRA Rules for Spouses, Heirs and Trusts
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Inherited IRAs differ from traditional and Roth IRAs, with the rules dependent on who the beneficiary is. What you need to know.
May 2017
When You Haven't Saved Enough for Retirement
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Saving more, working longer, delaying the claiming of Social Security benefits and tapping home equity can all help fund retirement.
November 2016
The Art of Creating an Investment Policy Statement
AAII Journal Article by Clark M. Blackman
An investment policy statement helps to guide your portfolio decisions by defining your strategy, expectations and evaluation criteria.
November 2016
A Financial Planner’s Guidance for Women on Planning for Retirement
AAII Journal Article by Mary Jo Herseth
Consider the impact of each medical, financial and legal decision you have to make as well as your and your spouse’s vision for retirement.
October 2016
What the Evolving Robo Advisory Industry Offers
AAII Journal Article by Jaclyn N. McClellan
Acquisitions and new, large entrants have altered the competitive landscape, but robo-advisors continue to focus on providing low-cost portfolio management services.
October 2016
The Tax Advantages of Qualified Charitable Distributions From IRAs
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein, Kirsten A. Cook, Harry Harelik
Making charitable donations directly from an IRA can both reduce taxes and keep future Medicare premiums lower.
October 2016
12 Guidelines for Widows, and Suggestions for Husbands
AAII Journal Article by Karen C. Altfest
Suggestions on how to avoid common mistakes and gain control of finances following (and even before) the death of a spouse.
July 2016
IRA Rollover Chart: Rules Regarding Rollovers and Conversions
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
A helpful chart showing what types of retirement accounts can be rolled over or converted into another type of retirement account.
July 2016
Life After a Loss: 6 Smart Steps for Coping With Widowhood
AAII Journal Article by Karen C. Altfest
Guidance on which steps should be taken within few months of a spouse’s passing and which steps can and should be postponed.
May 2016
Steps to Smoothly Transfer Control of Your Family's Finances
AAII Journal Article by Douglas McCormick
Succession planning is one of the most the important actions to ensure your family thrives from a financial standpoint for many generations.
May 2016
The Labor Department's Fiduciary Rule for Retirement Accounts
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
The new rule requires that financial professionals put their clients’ interests first, but investors should not let their guard down.
April 2016
Assessing Your Life Insurer’s Financial Performance
AAII Journal Article by Brian Fechtel
The value of a policy depends on the financial performance of an insurer, which can be assessed by analyzing its financial statements.
January 2016
The Changes to Social Security Claiming Strategies
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut
Couples will no longer be able to use file and suspend and restricted applications, increasing the importance of considering each spouse’s longevity.
November 2015
Why Your Financial Adviser Should Be a Fiduciary
AAII Journal Article by Larry Stein
The fiduciary standard requires that the interest of the client be put first, making it stricter than the suitability standard.
September 2015
When It's Time to Transfer Financial Decision-Making
AAII Journal Article by Robert R. Johnson, David A. Littell
Failing to plan for a transfer of financial responsibilities can undo years of careful plans. Actionable steps to protect you and your heirs.
August 2015
Creating and Following a Real Financial Plan
AAII Journal Article by Carl Richards
Understanding why money is important can create a framework for making better financial decisions in the future.
July 2015
Using Annuities for Long-Term Health Care
AAII Journal Article by Stan Haithcock
Long-term care annuities, confinement care riders and Medicare-compliant annuities can help cover the costs of long-term care.
January 2015
What Exactly Do Online Investment Advisory Services Offer?
AAII Journal Article by Jaclyn N. McClellan
In contrast with the moniker of “robo-adviser,” online advisory services vary in the features they offer and how they interact with clients.
December 2014
Social Security: Delay Benefits at the Expense of Personal Savings?
AAII Journal Article by Marty Allenbaugh
By strategically choosing when and how to claim Social Security benefits, singles, divorced individuals and married couples can optimize their retirement income.
November 2014
Avoid the Top 10 Mistakes Made With Beneficiary Designations
AAII Journal Article by John Horn, Dera Johnsen-Tracy
These 10 mistakes can derail well-intentioned estate plans and result in unintended consequences for your estate and your heirs.
October 2014
Misunderstanding Variable Universal Life Can Lead to Adverse Consequences
AAII Journal Article by Peter Katt
Bad market conditions can cause the cash value of these policies to be much lower than forecast. Find out how to best use these policies.
September 2014
Retirement Planning: Focus First on Covering Fixed Expenses
AAII Journal Article by Michael Falk
Once all fixed costs have been immunized, withdrawal rates no longer matter as any additional retirement assets can be used for discretionary spending.
July 2014
The Right Type of Life Insurance for Your Estate Planning Needs
AAII Journal Article by Peter Katt
Life insurance works well for estate planning because of when benefits are paid and the ability to create wealth for heirs outside of the estate.
May 2014
From Saver to Spender: Managing Your Money in Retirement
AAII Journal Article by Carrie Schwab-Pomerantz
Following these nine guidelines can help reduce your financial stress and increase the odds of enjoying a successful retirement.
April 2014
A More Dynamic Approach to Retirement Spending
AAII Journal Article by Colleen M. Jaconetti, Francis M. Kinniry, Michael DiJoseph
Establishing a “ceiling and floor” for portfolio withdrawal rates keeps spending relatively consistent, while remaining responsive to market conditions.
December 2013
Social Security Strategies for Couples
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein, William Meyer
By understanding the complexities and making smart claiming decisions, couples can add more to their lifetime benefits than singles can.
November 2013
Social Security Strategies for Singles
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein, William Meyer
The optimal age for a single individual claiming benefits depends on life expectancy and the need to extend a retirement portfolio’s longevity.
October 2013
Social Security Basics
AAII Journal Article by William Reichenstein, William Meyer
In this first article of a new three-part series, the impact of a worker’s retirement age on Social Security benefits is explained.
March 2013
Five Steps for Gaining Control of Your Investments and Avoiding Mistakes
AAII Journal Article by Carl Richards
Simple actions you can take now to focus on the things you can control and avoid making common investment mistakes.
December 2012
Lump Sum or Annuity: Which Should You Choose at Retirement?
AAII Journal Article by Rande Spiegelman
An annuity is attractive if you expect to live beyond normal life expectancy, but a lump sum may be better if you have other sources of income.
December 2012
Retirement Withdrawals: Can You Base Them on RMDs?
AAII Journal Article by Wei Sun, Anthony Webb
The IRS’s required minimum distributions are easy to follow and with a little modification can set the basis for a more optimal withdrawal strategy.
July 2012
Finding the Right Withdrawal Rate: One Key to
Portfolio Sustainability
AAII Journal Article by Maria Crawford Scott
A proper withdrawal approach ensures your retirement savings last, and allows you to separate your allocation decisions from your income needs.
July 2012
Behavioral Errors Hurt Your Returns
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut, Daniel Kahneman
Individual investors hurt their performance by buying and selling too often, picking the wrong securities to trade, and being overconfident.
June 2012
Dishonesty, Choices and Investing
AAII Journal Article by Charles Rotblut, Dan Ariely
The financial industry’s bad incentive structure leads to higher costs, but investors can counteract dishonesty simply by asking direct questions.
May 2012
Consumer Financial Protection in the Current Economy
AAII Journal Article by Paula Hogan
Academics and policymakers discuss how to make financial products more effective for consumers and their risks more easily understood.
April 2012
Comparing a Bucket Strategy and a Systematic Withdrawal Strategy
AAII Journal Article by Noelle E. Fox
Allocating a portfolio into three buckets for use in specific retirement time periods can help investors feel more confident that their savings will last.
April 2012
18 Recommendations for Minimizing Inheritance Conflict
AAII Journal Article by Mark Accettura
Your estate plan can both leave a lasting legacy of love and prevent disputes, if a combination of psychology, good lawyering and common sense are used.
October 2011
Magic Numbers: Reduce the Math of Annuities to Simple Arithmetic
AAII Journal Article by Robert Muksian
Magic numbers are used in shortcuts that help you calculate portfolio growth, how long your savings will last and how much you can withdraw.
September 2011
Retirement Spending on Planet Vulcan: Longevity Risk and
Withdrawal Rates
AAII Journal Article by Moshe A. Milevsky, Huaxiong Huang
The optimal amount to withdraw depends on survival probabilities, pension income, legacy goals and the willingness to risk outliving one’s assets.
September 2011
Aging and Investing: The Risk of Cognitive Impairment
AAII Journal Article by David Laibson
Cognitive impairment afflicts approximately half of all 80-year-olds. However, there are steps investors can take to protect themselves financially.
July 2011
Delaying Retirement, But Not Your Retirement Dreams
AAII Journal Article by Christine S. Fahlund
Investors can practice retirement by continuing to work but diverting dollars meant for new retirement savings to pursuing retirement dreams now.
May 2011
Social Security: Delay or Take the Money and Run—Act II
AAII Journal Article by Robert Muksian
For most retirees, it makes economic sense to delay taking Social Security benefits until age 66.
April 2011
How to Check Out a Financial Advisor
AAII Journal Article by Chuck Jaffe
Before hiring an advisor, make sure he is the right person for the job. Here are some questions to ask.
August 2010
Family and Finances: Start the Dialogue
AAII Journal Article by Gregory Salsbury
Protecting family wealth involves discussing all aspects of financial planning, including long-term plans, with both parents and children.
July 2010
Grandparents’ Gifting for College Education
AAII Journal Article by Dawn Brown
Coordination is important, since gifting can impact a grandchild’s ability to get financial aid and have tax consequences.
June 2010
Sorting Through Your Portfolio Mail
AAII Journal Article by Bonnie Kirchner
Account statements, annual reports, prospectuses and proxy materials all contain important information that should be looked at.
July 2008
How to Value a Stream of Payments
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Are you overlooking a large pool of assets? That may occur when it is hard to put a number on an asset--for example, valuing a guaranteed steady payment stream, such as pension plan and Social Security payments, for retirees. Ignoring those assets may cause you to be too over-invested in fixed income.
June 2008
Immediate or Income Annuities
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Annuities are primarily used as a means of securing a steady cash flow during retirement. Unlike a deferred annuity, an immediate annuity has no accumulation period--an investor simply pays the insurance company a lump sum, and then receives the stream of payments for the set time period.
May 2008
Measured Reality: What It Takes to Reach a Net Return Goal
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Many strategies promise to "beat the market" but fail to deliver what they promise because their stated return goals are "gross" returns--before taxes and costs. Here's how to translate those goals into a reasonable expectation of what the strategy's actual--net--return will be.
August 2006
Analyzing Your Financial Health Using Personal Financial Ratios
AAII Journal Article by Charles J. Farrell
Many individuals use financial ratios as a concise way to assess the financial health of a company. This article introduces a set of personal financial ratios to analyze your own financial standing.
August 2006
Money Matters: Teaching Kids to Be "Trust" Worthy
AAII Journal Article by Alan Goldfarb
The problem of raising financially responsible children is compounded when children receive trust funds. Tips on how to prepare a child or grandchild well in advance for an inheritance.
July 2006
8 Steps That Will Make Life Easier for Your Heirs
AAII Journal Article by Deborah H. Levenson
Many people spend time planning their financial legacy, but skip relatively basic steps that can lead to administrative hassles for their heirs.
May 2006
Get Organized! How to Maintain Your Personal Financial Files
AAII Journal Article by Paula Hogan
Everyone needs to keep certain personal financial paperwork, but how do you decide which to keep and which to chuck? A guide to organizing your personal financial files.
April 2006
Juggling Competing Goals: College vs. Retirement Funding
AAII Journal Article by Christine S. Fahlund
What's more important, your retirement or your child's college education? While financial planners generally suggest retirement should receive priority, most parents also want to plan for their children's higher education. A look at how to balance the two goals.
August 2005
529 Plans: Educate Yourself Before You Invest
AAII Journal Article by John Gannon
Eight key lessons that can help you make smarter choices when investing in 529 college savings plans.
August 2004
Surviving a Loss: Financial Planning for Widows and Widowers
AAII Journal Article by Mark Colgan
Financial Planning: Losing a spouse is a life-changing experience. A widow or widower can easily be overwhelmed by the financial details. How can a surviving spouse regain control of their future? A guide to the financial transition process.
August 2003
How to Make Personal Finance "Connect" With Young Adults
AAII Journal Article by Paula Hogan
The challenge for parents is to develop steps that will make the world of personal finance visible, credible, and appealing to young adults as they work their way through adolescence.
August 2003
How to Make Personal Finance "Connect" With Young Adults
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
The challenge for parents is to develop steps that will make the world of personal finance visible, credible, and appealing to young adults as they work their way through adolescence.
April 2003
Reassessing Your Risk Tolerance? Don't Overlook Estate Planning
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Important not only for protecting your assets, estate planning also assures that your assets will pass according to your wishes at the least cost and administrative burden. It can be a relatively easy, six-step process.
July 2002
A Guide to Dealing With an Estate Planning Attorney
AAII Journal Article by Paula Hogan
Estate Planning: An up-to-date estate plan maximizes the chance that your wishes with respect to both medical and financial affairs will be carried out in the event of your death or disability.
June 2002
What You Need to Know About Making Contributions to an IRA
AAII Journal Article by Clark M. Blackman
There are several types of IRAs, each of which has unique rules pertaining to account contributions and distributions. Understanding the rules will help you decide which one is the best retirement vehicle for you.
July 1999
Your Company's Stock: A Good or Bad Bet for Your 401(k)?
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Many individuals get the opportunity to invest in their company stock - often at a good price. But is it a good idea to put your 401(k) money in company stock? There can be some advantages, but there are also some disadvantages to be aware of - particularly if you go overboard and hold too much.
September 1998
Achieving Financial Security by Conquering Personal Debt
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Overloading on debt is expensive and removes a cushion of security in the event of a crisis. How to get a handle on your personal debt.
January 1998
What to Look for When Selecting a Trustee for Your Estate Plan
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
The decision to name a trustee is a complex process that includes weighing and balancing the various factors according to personal preferences and circumstances.
April 1997
Contingency Plans: Helping a Spouse Cope Financially After Your Death
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Asset allocation and contingency plans for the death of a spouse.
October 1996
Keeping Your 401(k) on Track
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Most 401(k) plans are composed of mutual funds, where daily scrutiny isn't necessary or even desirable. Quarterly check-ups - a review every three months or so - is more in order. How to monitor your retirement portfolio.
July 1996
Lifestyle Changes: Myths and Misconceptions About Life in Retirement
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Knowing what to expect and what not to expect as you enter retirement can ease this major lifestyle transition. Debunking the myths of retirement.
May 1996
A Practical Look at What You Need to Know About Medicare
AAII Journal Article by Michael E. Leonetti
Financial Planning Column: A plain-English description of the Medicare system: What it does and does not cover under present rules.
April 1996
Receiving a Retirement Plan Distribution: Considerations for Younger Investors
AAII Journal Article by Maria Crawford Scott
Portfolio Strategies Workshop: What should a twentysomething investor do with a retirement distribution when changing jobs? A look at the alternatives.
January 1996
The Living Will—Do You Really Have One? A Look at Various Directives
AAII Journal Article by Michael E. Leonetti
Drawing up a living will involves more than signing a general statement of intent. An introduction to living wills and power of attorney directives.
November 1994
How to Decipher Your 401(k) Plan Statement
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Most plan participants want to know the answer to a very basic question: How much money do I have in my plan? The answer is in your employer-provided retirement plan statement, but it can be hard to find if you don't understand how to read it. A look at a typical 401(k) plan statement.
January 1992
A Worksheet Approach to Selecting a Financial Planner
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
How should you select a financial planning adviser? Asking each potential adviser questions will provide basic information to help you decide who will best fulfill your needs. Worksheets for the evaluation process.
September 1991
The 10 Myths of Retirement Planning
AAII Journal Article by AAII Staff
Many individuals view retirement through rose-colored glasses. But retirement planning requires a clear-eyed analysis of future needs. A look at the most common retirement myths and how you can bring reality into focus.
Lifestyle Changes: Misconceptions About Life in Retirement
Evergreen by AAII Staff
Debunking the myths of retirement. Retirement planning: Misconceptions About Life in Retirement.
Your Company's Stock: A Good or Bad Bet for Your 401(k)?
Evergreen by AAII Staff
Many individuals get the opportunity to invest in their company stock—often at a good price. But is it a good idea to put your 401(k) money in company stock? There can be some advantages, but there are also some disadvantages to be aware of—particularly if you go overboard and hold too much.