- How to Set Up a 401(k) Account
Since their inception in 1987, 401(k)s have become the private sector’s most common employer-sponsored retirement plan — the Investment Company Institute says that there are roughly 60 million active participants in 2020. Participating in your company’s 401(k) is a key component of… read more…
- How to Withdraw Money From Your 401(k)
The 401(k) has become a staple of retirement planning in the U.S. Millions of Americans contribute to their 401(k) plans with the goal of having enough money to retire comfortably when the time comes. Whether you’ve reached retirement age or… read more…
- Comparing Different Types of 401(k) Plans
A 401(k) plan can be a simple and effective way to save money for retirement on a tax-advantaged basis. While employers increasingly favor these defined contribution plans in lieu of traditional pensions, they aren’t all alike. There are different types… read more…
- Basic Facts About FERS Disability Retirement
The Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) provides retirement and disability benefits to eligible workers. If you become disabled, you may be eligible to receive FERS disability retirement payments which are different from regular retirement benefits. There are specific requirements that… read more…
- How Is the Rule of 85 Applied to Retirement?
In place of a 401(k) plan, your employer may offer a defined benefit pension plan for retirement savings. These plans follow different guidelines for withdrawals, including the rule of 85, which governs what type of payment you’re eligible for should… read more…
- Understanding Your 401(k) Rollover Options
You just landed a new job, and with it, an opportunity to move your career forward. Now comes an important decision: what should you do with your 401(k) from your former employer? While you can choose to leave your 401(k)… read more…
- An Overview of 401(k) Rollover Rules
When rolling over a 401(k) from a previous employer, there are several important rules to keep in mind to avoid costly taxes and penalties. Central to this transaction is choosing between a direct or indirect rollover, and then understanding your responsibilities as the account holder in either scenario. A financial advisor can help you pick the best… read more…
- Should I Roll Over My 401(k)?
There’s a lot to consider when deciding whether to roll over your 401(k) after a job change. The available options of keeping your account with your former employer or rolling it over into a new tax-deferred plan pose a number… read more…
- How to Start Planning for Retirement
According to a 2022 Employee Benefit Research Institute (EBRI) Retirement Confidence Survey, many people think they’re doing a good job financially preparing for retirement. EBRI found that over seven in 10 workers remain confident in their ability to live comfortably.… read more…
- Indexed Universal Life (IUL) vs. 401(k)
When creating your personal retirement plan, there are a variety of tools you can use to fund your long-term savings goals. An employer-sponsored 401(k) is one of them while indexed universal life insurance (IUL) is another. A 401(k) allows you… read more…
- How to Retire in Bolivia: Costs, Visas and More
Bolivia is one of South America’s most diverse countries, in both its people and its beautiful, rugged landscapes. The country, which has more than 11 million people, has an array of sights and experiences, unlike anything most travelers will find.… read more…
- How to Retire in Barbados: Costs, Visas and More
An island in the West Indies, Barbados is a jewel of the Caribbean. Its turquoise waters and golden beaches are a perfect match to many people’s idealized days in the sun that they hope is waiting at the end of… read more…
- How to Retire in South Africa: Costs, Visas and More
Home to both lively landscapes and a highly diverse and fascinating culture, South Africa stands out as a place of opportunity for many potential retirees. Bask in a glowing sun while out on the golf course or relax in the… read more…
- How to Retire in Indonesia: Costs, Visas and More
Indonesia’s climate may be one of its biggest draws to foreign nationals escaping the cold. But it’s certainly not the only reason to visit or stay long-term. The country is well-loved for its similarly warm hospitality. Not only that, but… read more…
- How to Retire in Finland: Costs, Visas and More
For those considering how to retire in Finland, you have one of Europe’s finest countries waiting to be explored. As of 2022, Finland topped Gallup’s World Happiness Report for the third consecutive year and that ranking comes with good reason.… read more…
- How to Retire in the Netherlands: Costs, Visas and More
With just under 4,000 retired Americans getting Social Security benefits in the Netherlands at the end of 2019, this Western European country may not stand out as an obvious choice for retirement among some of its neighboring countries, but its… read more…
- How to Retire in Poland: Costs, Visas and More
For those exploring retirement abroad, Poland has plenty to offer the budget-savvy retiree. Poland is a relatively low-cost retirement destination when compared with some of its European nation neighbors, even in its capital, Warsaw. You’ll find that the country sits… read more…
- Where Retirees Rely Most on Social Security – 2021 Edition
Social Security is a financial safety net for millions of retired Americans. Founded in the aftermath of the Great Depression, this social insurance program was designed to pay out monthly income for workers after reaching full retirement age. But for most people today, the money provided by Social Security is not enough to live on during retirement.… read more…
- How to Retire at 50: A Step-by-Step Plan
Early retirement is a lofty financial goal that is sought out by many people but few are able to achieve the ambitious goal. If you’re interested in how to retire at 50 or even earlier, you’ll need to create a… read more…
- What Is an Accredited Retirement Plan Consultant (ARPC)?
Salespeople and marketers working in the financial services profession, as well as college students, can earn the Accredited Retirement Plan Consultant (ARPC) certificate to show they have proficiency and professionalism sufficient to help employers create effective retirement plans for workers.… read more…
- How to Retire in Brazil: Costs, Visas and More
Brazil, which has a population of some 216 million, is known for its passionate and fun-loving people, beautiful beaches and pristine rain forests that are home to an array of fauna and flora. Portuguese is the national language, and proficiency… read more…
- How to Retire in Denmark: Costs, Visas and More
If happiness is contagious, think about retiring in Denmark. Danes are routinely held to be some of the world’s happiest. Perhaps that’s due to the country’s generous social safety net. Or maybe it’s Danish devotion to outdoor recreation and culture.… read more…
- How to Retire in Slovenia: Costs, Visas and More
Slovenia, a country known for its castles and caves as well as a high number of bee-keeping aficionados, shares borders with Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary. While it isn’t one of the most popular retirement destinations, this predominantly Roman Catholic… read more…
- How to Retire in Austria: Costs, Visas and More
From Oktoberfest to the Salzburg Summer Festival, Austria seems to have festivities year-round. This German-speaking nation of some 9 million has a rich cultural heritage and can boast of such fabled composers as Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven, among others, as former residents. Citizens and visitors also come to Austria for the Alps,… read more…
- How to Retire in Singapore: Costs, Visas and More
Singapore is a tiny country made up of 64 islands clustered around the end of the Malay Peninsula. Most of its population of nearly 6 million lives in Singapore City. Many locals speak English, and it is home to many… read more…