The Basics of Social Security Retirement Benefits
Financial Planning: Helping You See the Big Picture
Newsletters
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Foreign Stocks Outperformed in 2025
Although U.S. stocks have provided a higher return over the past 20 years, foreign stocks outperformed in seven of those years, including 2025.
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Closed-End Funds May Offer Higher Income
Closed-end funds are considered to carry higher risk but may provide a higher income stream than traditional mutual funds holding similar securities.
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Mega Backdoor Roth: A Tax-Friendly Retirement Strategy for Serious Savers
High earners may not be eligible to contribute to a Roth IRA, but some people can use a workplace plan to save more and create a source of tax-free retirement income.
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HOT TOPIC: Pressure at the Pump: Will High Gas Prices Shake the U.S. Economy?
This article looks at why gas is so expensive, what it might take to stop the upward trend, and the potential effect of high gas prices on consumers and the broader economy.
Calculators
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Retirement Plan Early Distribution
Estimate how much would remain after paying income taxes and penalties if you took an early distribution from a retirement plan.
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Taxable Equivalent Yield
Calculate the rate of return you would have to receive from a taxable investment to realize an equivalent tax-exempt yield.
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Estate Taxes
Use this calculator to estimate the federal estate taxes that could be due on your estate after you die.
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Life Expectancy
Knowing your likely life expectancy is an important factor in making long-term financial plans.