While the current low interest environment is great for mortgages and other debts we may hold, it can mean something different for our retirement savings. Whether you’re just getting started with a 403(b) or 457(b) Plan – or have been contributing to one for a while – now is the time to consider selecting a Fixed Indexed Annuity (FIA) as one of your allocation options if your plan offers one.
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Teachers: 5 Things You Should Know About a 403(b)
This summer, I was tasked with overhauling Retirement Homeroom, a National Life website dedicated to helping Educators and School District Employees plan for retirement. Like any project, I started with an open mind, gathering as much knowledge as I could and putting myself in the shoes of those we seek to help: Teachers. I found myself back in the classrooms of my favorite teachers, reflecting on their contributions to who I am – and where I am – today. I thought about the relentless “one-paper-every-weekend” assignment in Mr. Hayes’ AP English Class: I mastered the art of the m-dash. I left more prepared for college than I ever imagined. I became a writer.
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Hurricanes Harvey & Irma: Hardship Distributions and Loans
Hurricanes Harvey and Irma have brought both windstorm and flood damage to hundreds of thousands of residents. For those who do not have federal flood insurance, their homeowner’s insurance most likely will not cover flood losses to their primary residence. But residents should know there may be another option for assistance: a hardship distribution or loan.
When it Comes to Planning Your Financial Future, Don’t Go it Alone.
We live in a high-tech world where information about all topics under the sun is available at your fingertips. We are moving toward self-service and automatic access to everything. I love that I can look at my checking account balance on my phone; I love that I can make dinner reservations with a couple of clicks, and I love that I can confirm a dentist appointment with a one-letter text message response.
While high-tech solutions offer tremendous convenience, some things are still much better when they are high-touch. One of these things is retirement planning and creating a financial plan for the future. (more…)
