If you’re close to retirement and have a pension or 401(k), there’s one decision that matters more than almost any other — when and how you take your money . Here’s the part most people don’t realize until it’s too late: requesting your pension or 401(k) as a lump sum can be a mistake.  Once the money is released, taxes are triggered, deadlines begin, and your options can shrink fast. That’s why the most important step isn’t choosing a product. It’s talking to an expert befor

When planning for retirement, understanding steady income sources is crucial. Annuities are a popular choice for those looking to secure regular payments later in life. However, not all annuities are created equal. Fixed and variable annuities operate differently, and knowing the distinctions can help you make an informed decision. Inflation is another factor often overlooked. How can you protect your savings from rising costs? Some annuities come with features to help counte

Planning for retirement doesn’t stop when you reach your last day of work. In fact, one of the most important aspects of retirement is knowing where your income will come from—and how to manage it wisely. While everyone’s situation is unique, most retirees draw from a combination of income sources. Understanding these can help you feel more confident and in control of your financial future. Social Security Benefits For many Americans, Social Security provides a foundational i

As we age, the quest for financial security becomes more important than ever. For many, annuities can be a key part of that security. But what exactly are they? If you’re 60 or older, understanding annuities can empower you to make informed decisions about your retirement. Here are five intriguing facts about annuities that you might not know! 1. What Exactly Is an Annuity? Let’s start with the basics. An annuity is a financial product designed to provide a steady income stre

Today more than ever, retirees are struggling to feel reassured about their retirement savings. In recent years, fixed indexed annuities (FIA) have gained popularity by offering guarantees to income with potential for interest accumulation. And with an FIA you can sleep at night knowing that the next stock market crash won’t force you to alter your lifestyle. With pensions no longer being offered by the majority of employers, fixed indexed annuities are a way to help create

As exciting as retirement is, it can be overwhelming. You are making big changes in your life psychologically, physically, and financially, and that’s not easy! By checking all your bases, educating yourself and creating a plan with a retirement specialist, you can head into retirement with confidence. Here is a short checklist to get you thinking. Get Financial Advice Your financial situation is unique and deserves special attention. While there is a lot of information avai

Most of us have the goal of someday settling down to retire, after years of hard work and some preparation. It’s no surprise that people are living longer and cost of living is climbing, contributing to the reason why many Americans are retiring at a later age, or even struggling to retire at all. There are also arguments around the ideal age for retirement, which takes into consideration things like Social Security and Medicare. Planning for retirement can be daunting, but w

It is very important to know your terms before applying for a mortgage . Bookmark this tab on your computer so that you can reference these terms at any time before or during the mortgage process. Appraisal : A rough estimate of how much the home is worth. Appraisals are required by lenders before a home loan can be signed. The appraisal tells the lender how much can be loaned to the borrower. Appraisals come from an independent third party, not the lender. Principal: The s

1.   You want to have guaranteed income for life.

Basic forms of annuities include Immediate vs. Deferred, Fixed vs. Variable, Equity-Indexed, and several other options that can include a de