Savings Goals

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

Risk Tolerance

This calculator is designed to help you clarify your comfort level with investment risk.

Life Insurance

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

IRA Eligibility

Use this calculator to determine whether you qualify for the different types of IRAs.

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Are Consumers Holding the Keys to a Better Economy?

Consumer spending still accounts for about 70% of gross domestic product, but some government statistics suggest that consumers may have reduced spending drastically in recent years, especially on discretionary items. High unemployment, household debt, and a general lack of confidence can affect consumers' ability and willingness to spend.

Federal Estate Tax Is Much Lower — For Now

The federal estate tax was repealed in 2010, then reinstated by the 2010 Tax Relief Act with new provisions for 2011 and 2012. This article discusses the temporary provisions, the options for estates of 2010 decedents, and potential changes in future years that could subject many more estates to the federal estate tax than under current law.

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).

For Better, For Worse: Communicating About Retirement

A recent study indicates that couples are not communicating clearly about retirement goals and strategies, even as they approach retirement age. This article offers suggestions to open a dialogue and encourages couples to discuss their retirement needs and desires with each other and with their financial advisor.

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