Retirement Watch Weekly
Basic Steps to Limit Vulnerability to ID Theft
There have been changes in our knowledge of ID theft. We know more about the crime than in the past, and there are some new trends. One trend is that the growth rate of the crime is slowing. A few years ago it was by far the fastest-growing crime, with new cases increasing by at […]
January 2008
January 22, 2008 02:10 p.m.The Big Sell Off It seems I caused a substantial decline in world stock markets. Last week I posted the February 2008 issue of Retirement Watch in which I argued that today’s market environment is more like 2001 or early 2002, with more losses to come, than it was like late […]
Estimated Tax Strategies for Retirees
Paying estimated taxes is a trap for many retirees. Most had income taxes withheld from paychecks while they were working. Once retired they are responsible for ensuring taxes are prepaid on their investment income, IRA distributions, and other sources of income. If the payments are late or not high enough, penalties can be imposed. If […]
New Rules Protect Variable Annuity Shoppers
Better late than never seems to be a principle of regulators. In that spirit new regulations were issued recently covering the sale of variable annuities. Variable annuities are one of the most-discussed investment vehicles of the last couple of decades. They have had strong sales, as investors are attracted by mutual fund investments coupled with […]
Is Longevity Insurance a Solid Safety Net?
longevity insurance is the latest tool designed to relieve Baby Boomers’ anxiety about outliving their income. This innovation now is offered by Hartford Financial Services and MetLife, and other insurers are developing their own versions. You know the problem. A 65-year-old today has about a 50% probability of living past 85, and a 34% chance […]
How to Preserve Retirement Capital
The greatest fear about retirement is running out of money. There are three risks that could cause one to run out of money. Investments could earn less than estimated; the retiree might live much longer than anticipated; and spending could be greater than estimated, because of either inflation or higher consumption. In last month’s visit, […]
A Shrewd Look at the Power of Attorney
A Power of Attorney is an essential part of an estate plan. You know that from past visits. The POA ensures that someone can manage your estate when you are unable to. Bills can be paid; investments can be managed; and other actions can be taken. Having a document called a power of attorney does […]
New Medical Insurance Options for Early Retirees
Health care orphans are receiving some help. Medical insurers and major employers are coming to their aid. The orphans are the second-fastest growing group of those without health insurance. They are people ages 50 to 64 who have no employer-sponsored medical coverage because they left their jobs, and their employers do not provide retiree medical […]
