Your RMD Deadline Is Closer Than You Think — Miss It and Pay Dearly
Key Points RMDs are due each year by Dec. 31. Missing an RMD deadline can result in a 25% penalty on the required amount. Proactively managing your RMD can help you avoid penalties. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › You’re roughly 15 weeks away from Dec. 31, the annual deadline for […]
A Key Medicare Document Should Be Coming Your Way This Month, and All Enrollees Should Be on the Lookout
Key Points Medicare Advantage and Part D plans can change from year to year. Plan administrators are required to notify enrollees of changes ahead of Medicare’s fall open enrollment. Make sure to read your notice of change carefully so you’ll know whether to keep your current plan or find a new one. The $23,760 Social […]
I Don’t Plan to Claim Social Security at 62, but This 1 Thing Could Change My Mind
Key Points I plan to claim Social Security at age 70 to maximize my household benefits. If my health took a turn for the worse, I’d consider signing up early. I might choose not to apply for benefits at all if I didn’t need the cash to increase my family’s survivor benefits. The $23,760 Social […]
How Much Bigger Will the 2027 Social Security COLA Be Than 2026’s Raise? The Answer May Surprise You.
Key Points The 2026 Social Security cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) was 2.8%. Current estimates are calling for a much larger boost in 2027. Even if a generous increase comes through, there’s a big “gotcha” to keep in mind. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook › Earlier this year, Social Security benefits got a […]
New to Social Security? 2 Rules That Could Catch You Off Guard.
Key Points Some people claim Social Security without reading up on the program’s rules. You should know that if you’re working and getting benefits, you may be subject to an earnings test, depending on your age. Your benefits may also be subject to taxes, depending on your income picture. The $23,760 Social Security bonus most […]
My Bond Portfolio Allocation Explained: Short-Term Treasury ETF
By Jonathan Ping, originally published at My Money Blog. Most people worry about stock drama, but every so often, there is also bond drama. Bonds are debt, which means people worry when there’s an increased chance you won’t get paid back. However, the goal of my bond holdings is to have at least 5 years […]
Jonathan Ping
3 Big Misconceptions About the 4% Rule You Need to Get to the Bottom Of
Key Points The 4% rule tells you to withdraw 4% of your savings your first year of retirement and adjust future withdrawals for inflation. Not understanding who the rule is suited for and how it works could create financial troubles for you. Recognize that the rule is meant to support a specific timeline and asset […]
Michael Kitces
