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At any age, health care is a priority. But when you retire, you should probably focus more on health care than ever before. That’s why it’s particularly important for women to factor in the cost of health care, including longterm care, as part of their retirement plan. How much you’ll spend on health care during…

The first five days of 2020 are in the books. Although the headlines have been quite scary, equities have picked up right where they left off last year. In fact, after the first five trading days of the new year, the S&SP 500 Index is up a respectable 0.65%. Jeffrey Hirsch of The Stock Trader’s Almanac follows…

At one time, the only way you could join your company’s 401(k) plan, 403(b) plan, or 457(b) plan was to put pen to paper and sign yourself up by filling out the appropriate forms. Now, though, in an effort to help participants increase their retirement savings, some employers have begun enrolling their employees automatically. With…

To most people, “risk” evokes negative images — driving faster than the speed limit, placing bets on “a long shot,” or traveling alone to unfamiliar places. Mention risk in terms of investing and people might think about losing their life’s savings. But in reality, investment risk comes in many forms, and each can affect how…

As just about every investor knows, it’s not what your investments earn, but what they earn after taxes that counts. After factoring in federal income and capital gains taxes, the alternative minimum tax, and any applicable state and local taxes, your investments’ returns in any given year may be reduced by 40% or more. For…

In the sports world, a mental error can cost your team the big game. When you are investing, a mental error can put your retirement portfolio at risk. Mistakes often result from letting misconceptions and emotions affect your decisions. Successful investing generally requires logic and reasoning. To avoid a fumble, you may want to guard…

The S&P 500 Index has closed higher five consecutive weeks, making six new all-time highs along the way. There now have been 19 new highs in 2019, tying the number we saw last year. There’s no doubt that this bull market has been incredibly impressive, especially lately. But, it may also be quite misunderstood. For…

If you fail to estimate your federal income tax withholding properly, it may cost you in a variety of ways. If you receive an income tax refund, it essentially means that you provided the IRS with an interest-free loan during the year. By comparison, if you owe taxes when you file your return, you may…

What does fantasy football have to do with investing? It teaches you to avoid Nick Foles-like fund money managers, whose one-time Super Bowl achievements often decline the following year. And it might also suggest that you avoid Tom Brady-like fund managers, whose six Super Bowl rings sure look tempting. With the start of the NFL…

had a few more months before its arrival. Unfortunately, time does not stop. This year, don’t wait for the holiday season to put the squeeze on your wallet. Take the time now to plan and budget. Week one: Before you spend a cent, start a savings plan. Estimate the total amount you can realistically afford…