Many people postpone creating an estate plan because considering their demise is unsettling. Others make false assumptions that cause them to neglect this important task or make less-than-ideal decisions. Here are a few common misconceptions related to estate planning: Estate planning is for the wealthy. Anyone who owns property or assets, or has loved ones…

You’ve completed your taxes for the year and now you’re wondering what to do with that pile of records, 1099s, receipts and bank statements. The experts agree, take the time to organize them and store them in a secure place. You may need to refer to them in the months or even years ahead if…

For many of us, Social Security has a part in our financial plans for retirement or later stage of life. Even if you’re years away from applying for benefits, there are some good reasons why you should set up your online Social Security account at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. You can go online to ensure there aren’t any…

One of the most stressful decisions as you age is whether to stay in your current home or consider other alternatives. According to a survey by AARP, 90 percent of adults age 65 and older want to remain in their current residence as long as possible.  The desire to “age in place” is a natural…

While no one marries with the intention to later separate, if divorce or legal separation is in your future, make sure you understand the implications against retirement savings. If you or your spouse have money in retirement plans, you’ll most likely have to share the assets. It’s important to understand what governs the division of…

Amid retirement anticipation, it is crucial to take the time to make wise decisions regarding health care coverage.  Here are some things to consider at various times. Retiring at any age: While some Medicare Advantage plans cover dental and routine vision services, regular Medicare and Medigap plans don’t. If you’re not planning to buy a…

As 2018 winds down, it’s natural to focus on holiday activities. It’s also a great time to calculate your net worth, review your saving and spending for the year, and consider some smart moves to help you reach your financial goals. Here are a few to consider: Rebalance your portfolio. Has a certain class of…

Americans, as a group, are generous—especially during this wonderful holiday season. But they can also become cynical if they feel they have been duped.  A recent example is the New Jersey couple who raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for a homeless man on GoFundMe.  The feel-good story turned sour when New Jersey prosecutors announced…

For the Week of November 12, 2018 The Markets The three major indexes fell Friday as oil prices dropped 1.0 percent amid a rising global supply and the Federal Reserve appeared on track to raise interest rates next month. Reports from China indicating falling domestic demand and manufacturing activity increased downward pressure. For the week,…

For the Week of November 5, 2018 The Markets Following three mid-week stock market rallies, stocks fell Friday. Trade concerns weighed on stocks after a White House official suggested no deal with China was at hand. On a positive note, the Labor Department’s October jobs report was well above expectations. For the week, the Dow…