How to Make Beneficiary Designations Better

September 8, 2020

Beneficiary mistakes can result in retirement plan assets being transferred to unintended beneficiaries.

Inherited IRAs Require Careful Handling

August 27, 2020

One wrong decision can lead to expensive consequences, and good luck trying to persuade the IRS to give you a do-over.

What Should I Know about Beneficiaries?

August 11, 2020

When you open a financial account, you’re often asked to name a beneficiary. Simply stated, a beneficiary is someone who is entitled to the benefits of the account on the death of the account holder. For example, if you’ve purchased life insurance, you name a beneficiary who receives the benefits of the policy when you pass away.

Review Your Estate Plan in the Coronavirus Pandemic

June 25, 2020

Many people are taking this time at home during the COVID-19 crisis to update their estate plan. Here are six critical estate plan components you should focus on in light of the current pandemic.

Are My Beneficiary Designations Trouble?

May 27, 2020

Most consumers are familiar with the beneficiary designation form they complete when opening an IRA or 401(k). The form designates who receives the asset if the account owner dies. However, these forms can create confusion, unintended bequests, and family turmoil if not adequately monitored.

Secure Act Passes So Revisit IRA Planning

December 26, 2019

The Secure Act will force faster withdrawals from Inherited IRA Accounts.

Costly Mistakes with 401(k)s

December 17, 2019

This is a big one. The IRS would love for you to take every penny out of your 401(k) when you change jobs for one very good reason: more tax revenue.

Ignoring Beneficiary Designations Is a Risky Business

October 7, 2019

We are programmed to contribute the “max” to our retirement accounts, but we disregard, or do not understand, the pitfalls of improperly filled-out beneficiary forms.

Do It Yourself Estate Planning Can Lead to Bad Outcomes

October 6, 2019

Thanks to the Internet, everyone has the ability to draft wills, trusts, and a variety of other legal documents. Many documents can be produced for less than $100, requiring only a few mouse clicks and filled-in blanks.

Why the Secure Act May Make Your Retirement Less Secure

August 8, 2019

The Secure Act would upend 20 years of retirement planning and stick it to the middle class.

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Beneficiary Designations