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# The Independent Financial Group

Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://indfin.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://indfin.com/jim-blog/)
- ["Should I Rollover Your 401(k) to an IRA in Retirement?"](https://indfin.com/should-i-rollover-your-401k-to-an-ira-in-retirement/) - Should I Roll Over My 401(k) to an IRA When I Retire? Explore options, costs, taxes, and how to align withdrawals with retirement income.
- [Where Should I Put My Money Before Retirement?](https://indfin.com/where-should-i-put-my-money-before-retirement/) - Where Should I Put My Money? If you have $500,000 or more to invest, you may be asking a deceptively simple question...
- [The Spousal IRA Rollover Mistake That Triggered a $100,000 Penalty.](https://indfin.com/the-spousal-ira-rollover-mistake-that-triggered-a-100000-penalty/) - Lucy inherited more than $2.5 million in IRA assets from her late husband, Bill. As a surviving spouse, she made a big spousal rollover mistake.
- [Retiring With a Large IRA Comes with Tax Traps](https://indfin.com/retiring-with-a-large-ira-comes-with-tax-traps/) - Retiring with a large IRA is a good problem, but tax traps make planning more complicated and even more important than it’s ever been before.
- [What Happens if the Market Falls Just After I Retire?](https://indfin.com/what-happens-if-the-market-falls-just-after-i-retire/) - What if the Market Falls Just After I Retire? A market decline early in retirement can create risk. Learn how can help protect retirement income.
- [Retirement Tax Planning Between Work and RMDs](https://indfin.com/retirement-tax-planning-between-work-and-rmds/) - Retirement tax planning before RMDs coordinates Roth conversions, Social Security, capital gains, Medicare premiums and more. They're all interrelated.
- [Is $2 Million Enough to Retire Comfortably in California?](https://indfin.com/is-2-million-enough-to-retire-comfortably-in-california/) - Is $2 million enough to retire in California? See how spending, Social Security, taxes, Medicare, housing costs, and withdrawals affect retirement after age 62.
- [How Can Retirement Income Create a Tax Trap?](https://indfin.com/how-can-retirement-income-create-a-tax-trap/) - Retirement income withdrawals are different and filled with tax traps, some of which can result in life-long penalties. Here's one tax trap example.
- [Index Annuities: Useful or Unnecessary Complexity?](https://indfin.com/index-annuities-useful-or-unnecessary-complexity/) - Index annuities may offer protection and income, but they also bring caps, fees, tax issues, and complexity. Are there better alternatives?
- [Social Security in 2026: 4 Themes (and What They Mean for Your Retirement Plan)](https://indfin.com/social-security-in-2026-4-themes-and-what-they-mean-for-your-retirement-plan/) - Four themes for Social Security in 2026: Gen X, reform pressure rises, claiming choices aren’t one-size-fits-all, and will Social Security benefits be cut?
- [8 Social Security Topics to watch in 2026?](https://indfin.com/8-social-security-topics-to-watch-in-2026/) - Social Security claiming is just one issue pre-retirees and retirees face. There are eight topics worth watching in 2026.
- [“How Do I Plan for Rising Prices?  Is Inflation Changing the Rules?”](https://indfin.com/how-do-i-plan-for-rising-prices-is-inflation-changing-the-rules/) - Rising prices can quietly reduce retirement income. Learn how rising costs, taxes, Social Security, Medicare, and investment withdrawals affect retirees.
- [Iran and the Ukraine - and Global Political Economics: A High-Level Overview.](https://indfin.com/iran-and-the-ukraine-and-global-political-economics-a-high-level-overview/) - It helps to see the whole chessboard - April 22, 2026 Iran and the Ukraine – and Global Political Economics: A High-Level Overview.
- [What's New for Social Security in 2026?](https://indfin.com/whats-new-for-social-security-in-2026/) - Take a look? - April 14, 2026 What’s New for Social Security in 2026? There are eight things to watch in 2026.
- [Is Social Security in Danger?](https://indfin.com/is-social-security-in-danger/) - For many people, Social Security is looking less secure. Should they be worried? - April 6, 2026 Is Social Security in Danger?
- [Beware the Medicare Premium Surprise (IRMAA)](https://indfin.com/beware-the-medicare-premium-surprise-irmaa/) - Medicare Premium Surprise - The Tripwire that springs the trap two years later!
- [Time for an Investment Strategy Reset?](https://indfin.com/time-for-an-investment-strategy-reset/) - How investment strategy changes in retirement: learn how to balance growth, income, risk, and taxes without chasing yield or taking unnecessary risks.
- [Can AI Really Tell You If You’re Ready to Retire?](https://indfin.com/can-ai-really-tell-you-if-youre-ready-to-retire/) - Can AI tell you if you’re ready to retire? Learn where AI helps, where it misses key blind spots, and there’s something else….
- [RMDs: The Retirement Tax Bill Most People Don’t See Coming](https://indfin.com/rmds-the-retirement-tax-bill-most-people-dont-see-coming/) - RMDs create time-bombs: Retirement planning isn’t just about how much you’ve saved—it’s about not getting clobbered with excess taxes later.
- [Can AI Tell Me When I Can Retire?](https://indfin.com/can-ai-tell-me-when-i-can-retire/) - Can AI Tell Me When I Can Retire? Can AI really tell me if I'm ready to retire? Should I trust AI with my retirement planning?
- [What a Million Dollar Retirement Really Buys](https://indfin.com/what-a-million-dollar-retirement-really-buys/) - Wondering What a Million Dollar Retirement Really Buys in California? See what a million dollars really buys and why your plan matters more than the number.
- [What the New Tax Bill Could Mean to You.](https://indfin.com/what-the-new-tax-bill-could-mean-to-you/) - Curious? Well here's a brief overview of the new tax bill. What the New Tax Bill Could Mean to You.
- [Should I Do a 401(k) to IRA rollover?  ](https://indfin.com/should-i-do-a-401k-to-ira-rollover/) - Thinking about a 401(k) to IRA rollover in Simi Valley or Moorpark, CA? Learn when you should roll over your 401(k) to an IRA, when to keep your 401(k), and the key tax, creditor protection, and RMD rules to review before you move your retirement savings.
- [How to Retire in an Inflationary World](https://indfin.com/how-to-retire-in-an-inflationary-world/) - Worried about inflation in retirement? See How to retire in an inflationary world for Simi Valley, Moorpark, and Thousand Oaks retirees and those getting ready.
- [Should I take social security at 62 or 70? The Real Math for Simi Valley and Moorpark.](https://indfin.com/should-i-take-social-security-at-62-or-70-the-real-math-for-simi-valley-and-moorpark/) - Should I take social security at 62 or 70? A unique breakdown analysis for Simi Valley, Moorpark and Thousand Oaks pre-retirees
- [A Roth Conversion Strategy is One Way to Pay Less Tax in Retirement. There are others!](https://indfin.com/a-roth-conversion-strategy-is-one-way-to-pay-less-tax-in-retirement-there-are-others/) - A Roth conversion strategy for Simi Valley or Moorpark residents who live in a high tax state, can be important. There are other ways to reduce taxes, too.
- [Will My Retirement Savings Last?](https://indfin.com/will-my-retirement-savings-last/) - Worried about making retirement savings last? A fiduciary advisor draws on 30+ years’ experience to help you get your ducks lined up.
- [How Does a Fed Rate Cut Affect Long-Term Investors?](https://indfin.com/how-does-a-fed-rate-cut-affect-long-term-investors/) - How does the Fed rate cut differ from market-driven loan rates? Learn what this means for bond yields, stock returns, and retirees’ investment strategies.
- [The OBBBA: A Tightrope Walk Moon Boots](https://indfin.com/the-obbba-a-tightrope-walk-moon-boots/) - The OBBBA impact is going to show up in many investors’ portfolios, healthcare costs, and maybe even the taxes their kids and grandkids pay.
- [Retirement Planning, Unplugged: How to Stop Losing Sleep Over Money, Markets, and the IRS.](https://indfin.com/retirement-planning-unplugged-how-to-stop-losing-sleep-over-money-markets-and-the-irs/) - Retirement planning decisions are often accompanied by legitimate fears: running out of money; when to retire; and deciphering the alphabet soup of IRS.
- [The SECURE Act Has Changed Inheritance Rules.](https://indfin.com/the-secure-act-has-changed-inheritance-rules/) - If your IRA or 401(k) money will be inherited by your children or grandchildren the SECURE Act will force them to drain the account within 10 years.
- [How to Handle Cognitive Decline Transferring Financial Control](https://indfin.com/how-to-handle-cognitive-decline-transferring-financial-control/) - Woodstock's a memory and Mary Richards is no longer at WJM in Minneapolis. Cognitive decline is now an issue for many boomers who used to be care free.
- [Don’t Miss Your Roth Conversion Window](https://indfin.com/dont-miss-your-roth-conversion-window/) - If you’ve built a large retirement nest egg, you’ve also built a large tax problem. - August 18, 2025 Don’t Miss Your Roth Conversion Window
- [Who is Your Trust’s Successor Trustee? Family or Friend?](https://indfin.com/who-is-your-trusts-successor-trustee-family-or-friend/) - Most people hand the successor trustee job to a family member. It feels right… until it goes wrong. Who is Your Trust’s Successor Trustee? Family or Friend?
- [Planning for a Special Needs Child's Future](https://indfin.com/planning-for-a-special-needs-childs-future/) - Today, nearly 57 million Americans have special needs; But few parents are aware of all the risks they’re taking with their child's future.
- [Is the “Trump Account” a Good Deal?](https://indfin.com/is-the-trump-account-a-good-deal/) - You’ve probably seen the Trump Account headlines: “Every newborn gets $1,000!” “Family members can add $5,000 a year!” Sounds like a game-changer, right?
- [7 Retirement Mistakes Pre-Retirees Need to Avoid.](https://indfin.com/7-retirement-mistakes-pre-retirees-need-to-avoid/) - Withdrawal strategies, tax traps, income coordination. Bad decisions lead to retirement mistakes that can cost thousands of dollars. Best to prepare early.
- [Do You Have a Mid-Year Financial Planning Strategy for Investors and Fiduciary Advisors.](https://indfin.com/mid-year_fiduciary_review/) - These are what I consider nine essential mid-year strategies for a mid-year review. Professional fiduciary guidance may be a wise move, as well.
- [Inflation Pressures, Retirement, and Woulda-Coulda-Shoulda](https://indfin.com/inflation-pressures-retirement-and-woulda-coulda-shoulda/) - 70% of retirees report that inflation has significantly eroded their retirement savings. The impact is significant.
- [From Growth to Efficiency and a Fiduciary Standard: Tax-Smart Investors Focus on More than Performance.](https://indfin.com/from-growth-to-efficiency-and-a-fiduciary-standard-tax-smart-investors-focus-on-more-than-performance/) - - From Growth to Efficiency and a Fiduciary Standard: Tax-Smart Investors Focus on More than Performance.
- [Why Claiming Social Security at Age 70 Could Be a Smart Move—But Here’s What Most People Miss](https://indfin.com/why-claiming-social-security-at-age-70-could-be-a-smart-move-but-heres-what-most-people-miss/) - What most people don’t realize: There are some important details about how and when these delayed credits are actually added to your benefit.
- [Five Sneaky Tax Traps - and How You Can Dodge Them!](https://indfin.com/five-sneaky-tax-traps-and-how-you-can-dodge-them/) - You’ve built up a healthy retirement nest egg in a traditional IRA. No worry about tax traps now! Not so fast. Here come the traps.
- [How To Disinherit Your Unnamed Beneficiary - the I.R.S.](https://indfin.com/disinherttheirs/) - #post_dateHow to disinherit the IRS
- [Retirement Planning and The Hidden Risk No One Talks About](https://indfin.com/retirement-planning-and-the-hidden-risk-no-one-talks-about/) - Retirement plannning doesn't seem as easy as it used to be. During the 1990s, everyone assumed that markets only went up and double-digit returns were accepted by many as normal. - April 2, 2013 Retirement Planning and The Hidden Risk No One Talks About
- [IRA Beneficiary Rules for Children are Different.  ](https://indfin.com/ira-beneficiary-rules-for-children-are-different/) - IRA Beneficiary Rules for Children are Different. Mistakes can result in the permanent loss of tax-deferred status and an unexpected tax bill.
- [How To Do a 401(k) Rollover.](https://indfin.com/how-to-do-a-401k-rollover/) - Changing jobs? Retiring? Don’t leave your old retirement account behind. Should you rollover your retirement plan or leave it? Do you know the pitfalls?
- [How to Plan for a Tax Free Retirement](https://indfin.com/how-to-plan-for-a-tax-free-retirement/) - The Big Picture: For years, baby boomers drove the housing market, and much of the economy, as they moved into their first homes, began raising families, and moved-up to larger homes finally ending-up in the “McMansions” we’re all familiar with today. The boomers are now older—they’re no longer moving up. In fact, they’re just beginning to “decumulate” and downsize. - April 4, 2025 How to Plan for a Tax Free Retirement
- [Are You " On-Track " to a Successful Retirement?](https://indfin.com/are-you-on-track-to-a-successful-retirement/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Retirement successmaynot be as easy to achieve as many think.I attended a conference and heard one speaker relay a story about one company's 401(k) enrollment meeting where 100% - yes, everyone – said they wanted to enroll in the company's 401(k) plan. They all were going through the materials and even - September 9, 2015 Are You ” On-Track ” to a Successful Retirement?
- [Annuity Income May Contain a Hidden Surprise](https://indfin.com/annuity-income-may-contain-a-hidden-surprise/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Annuity income may feel secure; but, is it really? Once you realize that money is worth only what it can purchase, the effects of inflation become woefully clear. Suppose your annuity will provide you with $50,000 in annual income through retirement. It sounds good, but does it provide for cost-of-living increases? - August 24, 2016 Annuity Income May Contain a Hidden Surprise
- [Why Do Individual Investors Seem to Always Lag Behind Market Returns?](https://indfin.com/whyindividualinvestorslagbehind/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® A recent study by Morningstar, a leading mutual fund research firm, compared mutual fund returns with the gains individual investors actually received. The study found that investor returns typically lagged fund returns. The reason: Investors tended to move cash in and out as markets would rise and fall, often buying high - February 19, 2018 Why Do Individual Investors Seem to Always Lag Behind Market Returns?
- [Will My Annuity Income Really Increase?](https://indfin.com/will-my-annuity-income-really-increase/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Annuities can play a valuable role in a retirement portfolio; but, often they're somewhat oversold. Should equity-indexed annuities serve as a substitute for stocks? Short answer: No. And, when making historical performance comparisons, you'd be better off comparing them to CDs and traditional fixed annuities. An equity-indexed annuity is nothing more - December 13, 2016 Will My Annuity Income Really Increase?
- [Who's Looking Out for YOU?](https://indfin.com/whos-looking-out-for-you/) - Your candidates likely reside in three camps: Not all advisors are alike; and it's worth knowing how to tell them apart. While the overwhelming majority of investment and financial advisors are honest, reputable, qualified, and provide quality work for loyal clients, those who are looking for a potential advisor do face a daunting task. It - September 18, 2014 Who’s Looking Out for YOU?
- [ROLLOVER DECISIONS - THE BEST AND THE WORST](https://indfin.com/therolloverdecision/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Bad decisions = bad consequences = big costs! As you may have seen or heard me say many times, it's not wise to act first and plan later; yet, that's exactly what I've seen people do time and again over the last twenty-five years. As you can imagine, I've seen a - June 13, 2017 ROLLOVER DECISIONS – THE BEST AND THE WORST
- [The Road to Retirement = 4 Simple Steps](https://indfin.com/the-road-to-retirement-4-simple-steps/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® When I was young, my father once advised, "Jim, just save 10-cents out of every dollar you ever earn and you'll never have to worry about money the rest of your life." He always was smarter than I'll ever be. He was also right. But, while I listened, I didn't follow - June 22, 2016 The Road to Retirement = 4 Simple Steps
- [Should You Buy TERM Insurance and INVEST the Difference?](https://indfin.com/termandinvest/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® BUY TERM INSURANCE! INVEST THE DIFFERENCE! That's the mantra that's been preached (mostly by tv gurus selling their DVDs) since the 1970 (they were selling tape cassettes back then) and even before. It seems logical: You buy term insurance and get pure protection with insurance dollars while you invest remaining dollars - February 5, 2018 Should You Buy TERM Insurance and INVEST the Difference?
- [The Top 5 Myths of Retirement Planning](https://indfin.com/5myths/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® I came across this video on the Five Myths of Retirement - It's by Northwestern Mutual. I have no relationship with them; however, it's an excellent educational video and I thought you might find it interesting. We know that many retirement expenses are guaranteed; but, how of the income required to - June 14, 2017 The Top 5 Myths of Retirement Planning
- [Is the 4% Rule Still Valid?](https://indfin.com/4percentrule/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Ever hear about the 4% Rule? It's about safe withdrawal rates for retirement income. If you've been following my pontifications over the years,you probably recognize this;but, if the rule is unfamiliar to you, here's a brief description. The 4% rule was the result of some back-testing and research by a financial - June 19, 2017 Is the 4% Rule Still Valid?
- [What Business Owners Need Most!](https://indfin.com/whatbusinessownersneedmost/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Business owners spend long hours for many years trying to build their dream. For many, their business represents 70%, 80%, even 90% of their net worth! It's not unusual to have everything tied-up in their business ownership. In essence, they have everything riding on one stock - something they'd never do - October 2, 2017 What Business Owners Need Most!
- [The REAL Cost of Luxury](https://indfin.com/the-real-cost-of-luxury/) - When most people buy things, the price tag doesn’t reveal the REAL cost. And, the real cost of luxury is more than most people realize.
- [Should You Buy Term Insurance and Invest the Difference?](https://indfin.com/termanalysis/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® I first heard this mantra in the 1970s. It resurfaced again in the '80s and again in the 90s. Funny thing is it's only the guru's selling CDs and DVDs - people who are neither registered, regulated, or even have a single client - who keep promoting it. Nevertheless, it does - March 22, 2017 Should You Buy Term Insurance and Invest the Difference?
- [Taxes in Retirement:  A Potential Time-Bomb for Many!](https://indfin.com/taxes-in-retirement-a-potential-time-bomb-for-many/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® No one knows what taxes will be like in the coming years; but, with a debt that's rising dramatically and an ageing baby-boomer population moving ever-increasing numbers into retirement, this is a collision that isn't hard to predict. For retirees, it's like being in business with a partner who has the - April 6, 2016 Taxes in Retirement: A Potential Time-Bomb for Many!
- [Getting Ready to Take a RMD?  Here's a 4-Point Checklist.](https://indfin.com/rmdchecklist/) - RMDs can present a tax trap for the unwary. Here's a 4-point checklist to help you avoid the pitfalls. - September 26, 2019 Getting Ready to Take a RMD? Here’s a 4-Point Checklist.
- [Can You REDUCE Risk by ADDING Risk?](https://indfin.com/can-you-reduce-risk-by-adding-risk/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Does 'adding' a riskier position to a portfolio actually REDUCE the total portfolio risk? The fact is many investors are often their own worst enemy. The media gurus - usually selling their own DVD sets - have succeeded in focusing on fees and expenses (something they're correct in doing) to the - May 4, 2016 Can You REDUCE Risk by ADDING Risk?
- [A Zero Percent Return Can Be Powerful!](https://indfin.com/a-zero-percent-return-can-be-powerful/) - The financial landscape is known for its complexity; and the plethora of confusing financial products – not to mention the alphabet soup of designations and certifications – can present a daunting task for any normal person to unravel. And, every time the market changes, the product vendors come out with another solution. When you add - March 2, 2016 A Zero Percent Return Can Be Powerful!
- [RETHINKING PRIORITIES?  SOME THOUGHTS FOR 2016](https://indfin.com/2016-priorities/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® The key to pursuing longer-term financial goals, such as retirement and education funding, is to have a well-thought-out plan that assigns actual dollar amounts to each goal -- and a timetable for getting there. Financial resolutions are only as good as your follow-through. Here are some planning considerations for the three - February 9, 2016 RETHINKING PRIORITIES? SOME THOUGHTS FOR 2016
- [WOMEN STILL FACE FINANCIAL CHALLENGES](https://indfin.com/women-still-face-financial-challenges/) - Even though women live longer than men, yet 80% take their Social Security at age 62 when it provides the least benefit! That choice also reduces their cost-of-living increases because they started with a smaller income. When you compound the lost income over a lifetime, it's a bunch of bucks. There's a hidden whammy in - January 11, 2016 WOMEN STILL FACE FINANCIAL CHALLENGES
- [Women May Be More Serious Than Men About Planning!](https://indfin.com/women-may-be-more-serious-than-men-about-planning/) - Could it be? Apparently, according to the 2012 Fidelity Millionaire Outlook Study. They found a rather large gap between what women and men look for in planning their financial futures. For example, according to the study, women were more than TWICE as likely as men to be interested in hollistic financial planning to meet a - January 15, 2013 Women May Be More Serious Than Men About Planning!
- [Will YOUR Money Last?](https://indfin.com/will-your-money-last/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® When I first entered the advisory business in the early 1990s, financial entertainment television was a new phenomenon. All the tv gurus were being interviewed regularly and talking heads discussed which funds were likely to do best in the coming months. The 'baby-boomers' were in the accumulation mode and the mantra - June 10, 2015 Will YOUR Money Last?
- [Will You Work Past Full Retirement Age?](https://indfin.com/will-you-work-past-full-retirement-age/) - The Great Recession has many older Americans considering the prospects of staying in the workforce past their normal retirement again. But, working past your normal retirement age is not a new phenomenon. The Great Recession has many older Americans considering the prospects of staying in the workforce past their normal retirement; but working past your - March 27, 2014 Will You Work Past Full Retirement Age?
- [Why Install an Executive Compensation Plan?](https://indfin.com/why-install-an-executive-compensation-plan/) - Simple. Quite often qualified plan contributions, even at the limits, will be inadequate to meet the retirement income needs of highly compensated employees. Executives at companies with 401(k) plans actually often find they're severely limited by plan limits as to how much they can contribute; and, that severely limits their ability to achieve the necessary - January 21, 2014 Why Install an Executive Compensation Plan?
- ["When the Market Goes Up, You Make Money!  When the market goes down, you don't lose!"](https://indfin.com/when-the-market-goes-up-you-make-money-when-the-market-goes-down-you-dont-lose/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Sound familiar? If so, it's because you saw all those television commercials selling safety to a frightened public. After all, all those daily market gyrations are scary to an aging boomer population who've spent most of their adult lives getting their financial education from television gurus, talking heads, and financial (entertainment) - October 9, 2015 “When the Market Goes Up, You Make Money! When the market goes down, you don’t lose!”
- [Variable Annuities - Have You Looked "Under the Hood"?](https://indfin.com/variable-annuities-have-you-looked-under-the-hood/) - Investors often purchase annuities without really understanding what they bought, usually because the sometimes over-hyped guarantees sound so good their eyes tend to glaze over. Variable annuities differ from fixed annuities in that assets are invested in mutual funds. Think of a Reese's cup. Peanut butter inside are the mutual funds; the chocolate coating is - November 26, 2013 Variable Annuities – Have You Looked “Under the Hood”?
- [Top College Planning and Funding Mistakes](https://indfin.com/top-college-planning-and-funding-mistakes/) - Did you know it's possible for a grandparent to gift $10,000 to a grandchild for a college education and end up costing the family up to $7,000 in financial aid? That's a lot of money to pay for a $3,000 benefit. Did you know how some wealthy families end-up paying a lot less for college - April 10, 2014 Top College Planning and Funding Mistakes
- [To Roth or Not to Roth - Should You Do a Conversion?](https://indfin.com/to-roth-or-not-to-roth-should-you-do-a-conversion/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Steven Elwell, a CFP® practitioner in Amherst, NY recently wrote a nice piece for NerdWallet on this subject. In his piece, he mentions five situations that might suggest a conversion would be a good move: You are in a low tax bracket You don't need the money and plan to leave - July 8, 2015 To Roth or Not to Roth – Should You Do a Conversion?
- [The Insurance Illustration Landscape is changing](https://indfin.com/the-insurance-illustration-landscape-is-changing/) - Should You Believe Insurance Company Illustrations? Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Just in case you haven't heard, Genworth has decided to suspend life insurance and annuity sales. This decision will leave many agents and their client with questions on where to turn and how to get protected. Insurance companies seldom discontinue a business segment when it's - February 22, 2016 The Insurance Illustration Landscape is changing
- [RMD’s:  A Quick 4-Tip Checklist for Baby Boomers](https://indfin.com/rmds-a-quick-4-tip-checklist-for-baby-boomers-2/) - James Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Remember the 1990s? That was when every business channel had multiple programs with business gurus picking and ranking mutual funds. It was a time when many mutual fund managers were becoming the 'rock stars' of financial meda. Everyone wanted to know what Peter Lynch, Bill Gross, and others were buying, selling, - June 15, 2016 RMD’s: A Quick 4-Tip Checklist for Baby Boomers
- [Econ. 101-Supply and Demand - and Longevity Credits](https://indfin.com/longevity-credits/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® More and more boomers are beginning to approach retirement. No news there; but something's been happening – and continues to happen – that can negatively impact people who waited hoping to get a better deal regarding their retirement income. It's little wonder that so many retirement plans are in jeopardy. You - June 24, 2015 Econ. 101-Supply and Demand – and Longevity Credits
- [Do You Have A Greedy Business Partner - Even if you don't own a business.](https://indfin.com/greedypartnerblog/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® If you work, you have a business partner, even if you don't own a business. And, this partner isn't like most others. The problem is your partner in the business of life gets to decide how much of your revenue he wants to take... and you have no vote. In fact, - March 8, 2017 Do You Have A Greedy Business Partner – Even if you don’t own a business.
- [SEEKING OPTIMAL RETIREMENT INCOME](https://indfin.com/seeking-optimal-retirement-income/) - James Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® For years we've heard about "The 4% Rule". Of course, that's when the markets seemed to be going up all the time. In recent years, due to low interest rates and increased market volatility introducing everyone to sequence-of-returns risk, - I even did a webinar on this topic - many advisors - February 12, 2016 SEEKING OPTIMAL RETIREMENT INCOME
- [Rollover Mistakes Could Be Irrevocable!](https://indfin.com/rollover-mistakes-could-be-irrevocable/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® According to Cerulli Associates, rollovers from 401(k)s and other retirement plans will cause IRA assets to reach $12 trillion by 2020, and according to retirement expert, Ed Slott, CPA, fully 99% of advisors - never mind the general public; good luck – know next-to-nothing about the rollover/distribution side of the business.[1] - June 29, 2016 Rollover Mistakes Could Be Irrevocable!
- [Retirement Webinar Announcement:  This Saturday, October 1st](https://indfin.com/retirementwebinarannouncement/) - I'll be conducting a retirement webinar this comingSaturday, October 1st. Who would benefit: "Baby Boomers" planning for or nearing retirement and desiring to put a plan in place. You can learn more about the webinar and register here. When you register, you'll automatically be signed-up to receive our weekly ezine and, as a bonus, you'll - September 26, 2016 Retirement Webinar Announcement: This Saturday, October 1st
- [There's More than One Path to Retirement Security](https://indfin.com/retirementsecuritychoices/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® People often think investment strategies for retirement security involve a either/or choices, i.e, risky stocks or savings as a zero-sum choice, or active vs. passive investing as an either/or choice; Believe it or not, there's more than one path to retirement security. Sometimes (often) they can be blended. Active vs. Passive - August 29, 2017 There’s More than One Path to Retirement Security
- [What if Retirement Plan Statements Stated the Facts?](https://indfin.com/what-if-retirement-plan-statements-stated-the-facts/) - The next time you open your 401(k) or IRA statement and see your current balance, it might be worth remembering it isn't true. The balance, you see, isn't all yours! Remember how many times you've heard the phrasetax deferred? You'll avoid taxes only as long as you leave the money untouched; of course, by age - September 21, 2016 What if Retirement Plan Statements Stated the Facts?
- [Someone Predicts a Market Drop of 20%!  So What?](https://indfin.com/someone-predicts-a-market-drop-of-20-so-what/) - A market drop prediction of 20% may not mean what you think it does. It's an attention grabbing headline, but does it really mean anything to you?
- [SBA Small Business Week Begins April 30th](https://indfin.com/smallbusinesswebinars/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Small business webinars will be available the week of April 30th to help celebrate Small Business Week. SBA Secretary Linda McMahon announced this on the SBA website: The countdown to National Small Business Week (NSBW) is on! NSBW (April 30th - May 6th) is an annual event hosted by the U.S. - April 25, 2017 SBA Small Business Week Begins April 30th
- [SELLING YOUR BUSINESS?  This may be the best kept secret you'll need.](https://indfin.com/selling-your-business-this-may-be-the-best-kept-secret-youll-need/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Ever heard of a "One-Way Buy-Sell" arrangement? Don't feel bad. Few people have. I know when I was in publishing I hadn't heard of it, either. I wish I had. Here's the tease: How to sell your business - in advance, at a price you want, and secure the funding, too! - January 24, 2017 SELLING YOUR BUSINESS? This may be the best kept secret you’ll need.
- [RMDs - A Quick 4-Tip Checklist for Baby Boomers](https://indfin.com/rmds-a-quick-4-tip-checklist-for-baby-boomers/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Remember the 1990s? That was when every business channel had multiple programs with business gurus picking and ranking mutual funds. It was a time when many mutual fund managers were becoming the 'rock stars' of financial meda. Everyone wanted to know what Peter Lynch, Bill Gross, and others were buying, selling, - May 11, 2016 RMDs – A Quick 4-Tip Checklist for Baby Boomers
- [Should You Invest in Real Estate?](https://indfin.com/should-you-invest-in-real-estate/) - Hey, they ain't making anymore of it! Unlike the dollar, the government can't print real estate; so, I've been a long proponent of real estate investing. But, then, I'm also a proponent for investing in stocks. I also like commodities. What do they all have in common? They all have had their ups and downs. - May 9, 2013 Should You Invest in Real Estate?
- [Should You Retire or Keep On Working?](https://indfin.com/should-you-retire-or-keep-on-working/) - Politicians, journalists, and lawyers never retire – at least, it seems that way. Arnold Palmer was once asked when he would retire and he said, "Retire to what?" I can understand that. I took a stab at it myself some years ago – I even moved to Florida, bought a home on a golf course, - June 24, 2014 Should You Retire or Keep On Working?
- [Like the S&P 500 Index?](https://indfin.com/sp500/) - Like indexing? Like the S&P? You can get an index fund! Sounds good. Let's face it, most (virtually all) investment management companies fail to beat the S&P index on a consistent basis. We all know that. - October 12, 2020 Like the S&P 500 Index?
- [Financial Planning for Special Needs Children is Different!](https://indfin.com/specialneeds/) - According to Financial Planning magazine, more than 5% of school-age children are diagnosed with a disability of some type - December 9, 2019 Financial Planning for Special Needs Children is Different!
- [The Stretch IRA is Gone.  Now What?](https://indfin.com/stretchalternatives/) - The SECURE Act has changed the game, especially for parents who were planning on leaving substantial nest-eggs to their kids, with the elimination of Stretch IRAs. Uncle Sam may be the biggest beneficiary. - February 8, 2020 The Stretch IRA is Gone. Now What?
- [No RMDs for 2020!](https://indfin.com/roth-ira/) - Required minimum distributions (RMDs) have been eliminated for 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic; but, you just might want to consider taking a distribution anyway. Why? - August 14, 2020 No RMDs for 2020!
- [The SECURE Act Is A Financial Planning "Game Changer".](https://indfin.com/secure-act-game-changer/) - This major change will bring in $15.7 billion in tax revenue by 2029, according to the joint committee on taxation in their report on the bill, H.R. 1994. And, guess whose money they want? Yes, yours. - February 26, 2020 The SECURE Act Is A Financial Planning “Game Changer”.
- [What You Should Know About The SECURE Act!](https://indfin.com/secureact/) - The SECURE Act contains quite a few changes that impact both individuals and business owners. - January 20, 2020 What You Should Know About The SECURE Act!
- [Target Date Funds - An Easy Answer?](https://indfin.com/target-date-funds-an-easy-answer/) - The problem with easy answers is that easy answers aren't always the best. The investment industry has many product manufacturers eager to pounce on any rising investor concern with a convenient prepackaged answer that seems to solve their most pressing problem. Many 401(k) participants seeking an easy way to pick the funds that will let - September 19, 2013 Target Date Funds – An Easy Answer?
- [The Secret To Saving Money on Health Insurance: Buy Smart!](https://indfin.com/the-secret-to-saving-money-on-health-insurance-buy-smart/) - While politicians continue to debate health care, many people are worried about how to afford it. Health insurance has been a hot topic ever since costs began rising faster than inflation - certainly long before the debate began over the Healthcare Reform Act, now referred to as Obama-Care. Today, as our population ages and health - September 12, 2013 The Secret To Saving Money on Health Insurance: Buy Smart!
- [Thinking of an indexed annuity? Why not just build your own?](https://indfin.com/thinking-of-an-indexed-annuity-why-not-just-build-your-own/) - You've heard the annuity pitch. It says you canparticipatein market gains while being protected against loss! But do you really need to buy an annuity to do that? To paraphrase Warren Buffett, theremay bejust too many mouths to feed between the investor and the investment; and all those mouths cost money. Insurance companies don't have - June 27, 2013 Thinking of an indexed annuity? Why not just build your own?
- [Think Giving To Charity Steals From Your Heirs?](https://indfin.com/wealthreplacement/) - Giving to charity doesn't have to mean your kids get less. You might be able to make everyone happy... except Uncle Sam. - February 3, 2020 Think Giving To Charity Steals From Your Heirs?
- [What (Many) Life Insurance Agents Won't Tell You.](https://indfin.com/what-many-life-insurance-agents-wont-tell-you/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® First, let me state up-front that I AM a big believer in the power of life insurance, especially when designed as a financial tool using an "investment-grade" company in order to execute a larger financial plan. The fact is life insurance can do things for you - while you're alive - - April 15, 2015 What (Many) Life Insurance Agents Won’t Tell You.
- [What's So Great About a Rollover?](https://indfin.com/whats-so-great-about-a-rollover/) - Itdepends on how you do it! Changing or leaving a job can be a tumultuous experience. Even under the best of circumstances, making a career move requires a series of tough decisions, not the least of which is what to do with the funds in your old employer-sponsored retirement plan. Some people choose to roll - March 20, 2014 What’s So Great About a Rollover?
- [Losing A Spouse Can Be Expensive...](https://indfin.com/widowstax/) - Few people think about this – and I wish I could be the smart guy that thought of this for this post, but I wasn’t . It’s something called the widow’s penalty tax; it affects the surviving spouse. - January 6, 2020 Losing A Spouse Can Be Expensive…
- [Worried About Living Too Long?](https://indfin.com/worried-about-living-too-long/) - Longevity riskis getting a lot of attention these days, particularly with many of us living in the 'sandwich generation' – taking care of both elderly parents as well as grown children who've moved back in with their parents. As someone experiencing this first hand, I can tell you it's an expensive proposition – particularly taking - March 26, 2013 Worried About Living Too Long?
- [You Just Received an Inheritance? So did Uncle Sam!](https://indfin.com/you-just-received-an-inheritance-so-did-uncle-sam/) - The only difference between a taxidermist and a tax collector is that the taxidermist only takes your skin. - Mark Twain Don't try to keep your inheritance a secret from the IRS by sending them an email. There are other ways you might consider for reducing your tax exposure: Tax-managed mutual funds. There are really - June 26, 2014 You Just Received an Inheritance? So did Uncle Sam!
- [Your Doctor's Business Model May Change Soon](https://indfin.com/your-doctors-business-model-may-change-soon/) - Many doctors are overworked and making less. Now, with Medicare reimbursement revenue being cut, new business models may be on the way. As medical costs have risen, insurance companies have taken steps to reduce their exposure, putting a cap on a physician's income. At the same time, doctors have seen their costs rise without caps, i.e., - August 15, 2013 Your Doctor’s Business Model May Change Soon
- [Retirement Planning Dilemma](https://indfin.com/retirement-planning-dilemma/) - Retirement planning is becoming increasingly difficult for many pre-retirees; and it's virtually ignored among the young – so, what else is new? Expectations may a part, but there's more. One cause of the problem, of course, rests with advisors themselves. According to Phoenix Marketing International, only one-third of all households feel that financial firms look - July 29, 2014 Retirement Planning Dilemma
- [Retirement Planning and The Fiduciary Standard](https://indfin.com/retirement-planning-and-the-fiduciary-standard/) - "Will your interest be placed first?" There are lots of good brokers and investment advisors, but it's up to you to ensure your interest is protected. Although there are no guarantees, one way of mitigating the risk of conflicting advice is tohave your financial advisor sign the ProspectiveClient Disclosure Formdeveloped by the Center for Fiduciary - July 11, 2013 Retirement Planning and The Fiduciary Standard
- [Retirement Planning and Medicaid Maneuvers](https://indfin.com/retirement-planning-and-medicaid-maneuvers/) - Show me a retirement problem and I'll show you someone with a planning solution packaged to solve it. Unfortunately, too many people jump at great sounding packaged solutions without doing their homework. In recent years, Medicaid Planning has taken center stage, particularly in the insurance community. And, it's no surprise. Many people are concerned about - August 5, 2014 Retirement Planning and Medicaid Maneuvers
- [Retirement Planning and Denial](https://indfin.com/retirement-planning-and-denial/) - Are boomers in denial when it comes to retirement planning? While we've covered the state of financial illiteracy previously, denial is also all to rampant. Take a look at the following. I want to state up-front that I didn't write the two paragraphs and I'm embarrassed to say I don't know or remember where I - August 7, 2014 Retirement Planning and Denial
- [Would You Build A House Without a Blueprint?](https://indfin.com/planningincrisis/) - If you're receiving Social Security, Pension, or other guaranteed income, you may want to rethink how your nest-egg is arranged for long-term inflation risk. - May 4, 2020 Would You Build A House Without a Blueprint?
- [News and Markets Make You Worry?](https://indfin.com/news-and-markets-make-you-worry/) - When I first entered this business back in 1990, most people were watching financial tv shows - virtually all of which were covering mutual funds in those days. It seemed everyone wanted to buy mutual funds! In a way, it made sense. In those days, the large baby-boom demographic bubble was largely made-up of people - March 18, 2015 News and Markets Make You Worry?
- [Are the Markets On Their Way Back?](https://indfin.com/newmarkets/) - Increased debt, the worry of a debt spiral, low yields, and future taxes - all make a solid plan more important than ever. Unfortunately, too many put it off until the're "confident', but they never get there. - April 20, 2020 Are the Markets On Their Way Back?
- [Market Crisis in Perspective](https://indfin.com/marketperspective/) - It's good to have some perspective. - March 10, 2020 Market Crisis in Perspective
- [March 2015 IFG Viewpoint & Outlook](https://indfin.com/march-2015-ifg-viewpoint-outlook/) - Here's IFG's March 2015 Viewpoint and Outlook. It should serve as a "heads up" for those of you over age 50, for whom retirement planning is becoming an issue. Just click onIFG 2015 March. Enjoy! Jim ---------------- You can find some useful Life Guides and Worksheets here. Become an IFG client! Don't play phone-tag; schedule - March 5, 2015 March 2015 IFG Viewpoint & Outlook
- [Make Your Own Pension](https://indfin.com/make-your-own-pension/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Wouldn't it be comforting to know you're retirement is assured? An income you can't outlive does have appeal. People who retire from the government have a steady income stream. They don't have to manage portfolio withdrawals with actuarial precision in a world where change is a constant. It's no wonder that - August 12, 2015 Make Your Own Pension
- [Looking to Sell Your Business?](https://indfin.com/looking-to-sell-your-business/) - Do you know the true value of your business?Business valuation isn't as easy as assigning a multiple, and finding a buyer isn't as easy as placing an ad. Selling your business isn't easy. If I had to take a guess, I'd be willing to bet that 90% of all business owners have never sold a - April 9, 2013 Looking to Sell Your Business?
- [Julie Andrews Turns 79!   ... and does it with a sense of humor.](https://indfin.com/julie-andrews-turns-79-and-does-it-with-a-sense-of-humor/) - James Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® This was sent to us by one of my wife's friends; I thought you might enjoy it. To commemorate her 79th birthday , actress/vocalist, Julie Andrews made a special appearance at Manhattan 's Radio City Music Hall for a benefit. One of the musical numbers she performed was 'My Favorite Things' - April 1, 2015 Julie Andrews Turns 79! … and does it with a sense of humor.
- [Is Owning Your Home ALWAYS the Best Idea?](https://indfin.com/is-owning-your-home-always-the-best-idea/) - That's what we've always been told! But, how many of us have ever really run the numbers? A recent case from indicates what most of us already know: Most people don't understand cash flow. An article by Jim Grote, CFP®, in this month's Financial Planning relates the story of a 54-year old single woman, a - June 13, 2013 Is Owning Your Home ALWAYS the Best Idea?
- [IRS Creates a Coronavirus Site](https://indfin.com/irscoronavirus/) - IRS Coronavirus resoures - March 18, 2020 IRS Creates a Coronavirus Site
- [The Investment Model And It's Amazing Hidden Powers.](https://indfin.com/investmentmodel/) - Few understand the power of the investment allocation model, even in - especially in - times of crisis; but the power can be great when tied to a long-range financial plan. - May 18, 2020 The Investment Model And It’s Amazing Hidden Powers.
- [Investment Returns Can Be Misleading.](https://indfin.com/investment-returns-can-be-misleading/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® This sign represents the off-ramp many pre-retirees are seeking; but, there are usually many unforeseen detours before getting there; and, too often, far too many unpleasant road closings after finding it. Example: Average annual (arithmetic) returns tend to reflect how an investment has performed, while it'scompound (geometric) return may be more - July 6, 2016 Investment Returns Can Be Misleading.
- [How to Exit Your Business, Provide for Your Retirement, Turn the Business Over to your Kids, and Still Give Money To Charity!](https://indfin.com/how-to-exit-your-business-provide-for-your-retirement-turn-the-business-over-to-your-kids-and-still-give-money-to-charity/) - Yousay you own a successful C-corporation with excess cash and you'd like to retire and turn it over to your children and still give money to charity? You don't have to be Warren Buffett or Bill Gates to utilize sophisticated financial strategies to achieve your goals. Many are available to everyone; but, not everyone is - January 28, 2014 How to Exit Your Business, Provide for Your Retirement, Turn the Business Over to your Kids, and Still Give Money To Charity!
- [Hidden Secrets of Insurance Company Promises](https://indfin.com/hiddeninsurancesecrets/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Life insurance illustrations have had, for more years than I can count, a well-deserved reputation for less than transparent and amazingly inaccurate projections of what the policyholder could expect in future years. Typical whole life policies had a lot going on "under the hood" and virtually invisible to the buyer. One - August 3, 2015 Hidden Secrets of Insurance Company Promises
- [A Guaranteed Income for Life?](https://indfin.com/guaranteedincomeforlife/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® In a previous post I talked about how everyone now has to be his/her own actuary, if they want to create a guaranteed income for life. I've even provided a 20-minute educational video on how it's possible to actually create a guaranteed income for life. I think you'll find it helpful; - July 27, 2017 A Guaranteed Income for Life?
- [Don't Confuse Loaning With Owning.](https://indfin.com/dont-confuse-loaning-with-owning/) - The Investment decisions we make aren'talwaysabout investing, after all. Your cousin Willie calls you and tells you he's going to open a taco stand in Beirut – there's little competition there – and he needs another $10,000 to make it happen; so, he's asking you to make him a loan and he'll pay you 10% - May 7, 2013 Don’t Confuse Loaning With Owning.
- [Retirement and Income Taxes](https://indfin.com/retirement-and-income-taxes/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Who better to talk about taxes in retirement and income taxes than a CPA? You may be familiar with Ed Slott from his frequent appearances on PBS. One of the very few gurus who actually is the real deal: A CPA who is recognized even inside the financial profession as an - June 16, 2017 Retirement and Income Taxes
- [The Provisional Income Trap](https://indfin.com/provisionaltrap/) - ... and what it means to your retirement income - particularly your Social Security taxation in retirement. Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Most people believe that municipal bond interest is tax-free and won't affect taxation on their retirement income. Well, it is, I guess; but, there are tax ramifications few people have heard about. It's called - July 25, 2017 The Provisional Income Trap
- [Optimizing Retirement Income:  Combine Actuarial Science with Investments.](https://indfin.com/optimizing-retirement-income-combine-actuarial-science-with-investments/) - You've probably heardabout "The 4% Rule" - it's been an 'accepted' rule-of-thumb for years that a retiree could withdraw 4% of his or her initial retirement portfolio value each year (increasing for inflation only, not market returns) and could reasonably expect his or her retirement nest-egg to last. Of course, that's when the markets seemed - August 10, 2016 Optimizing Retirement Income: Combine Actuarial Science with Investments.
- [The One-Way Buy-Sell](https://indfin.com/onewaybuysell/) - Typically, small business owners are the active managers of their businesses, are heavily invested in their businesses, and generally rely on a small number of important accounts and suppliers. Also, in most, if not all, cases no secondary market exists for easy valuation and quick disposition of ownership. - January 13, 2020 The One-Way Buy-Sell
- [Market Opinions Everywhere; That's Why They're Meaningless.](https://indfin.com/market-opinions-everywhere-thats-why-theyre-meaningless/) - Retirement planning isn't about gambling; it's about, well, planning. I noticed a recent Twitter post from US News & World Report entitled, 9 Simple Ways To Quit Worrying About Retirement. It’s aimed at people in their 40’s and contains some excellent advice. If you’re in your 40’s – or know someone who is – you may want to look - April 11, 2013 Market Opinions Everywhere; That’s Why They’re Meaningless.
- [Is A Reverse Mortgage Right For You?](https://indfin.com/is-a-reverse-mortgage-right-for-you/) - You’ve seen the commercials with celebrities touting reverse mortgages; ever wonder what they are? Actually, they are just what they sound like: It’s a loan; but the lender pays you and they don’t get their money back until you (or the last surviving borrower) die, sell the home, or `permanently’ move out of it (usually - January 17, 2013 Is A Reverse Mortgage Right For You?
- [IRS Clarifies IRA Rollover Rule](https://indfin.com/irs-clarifies-ira-rollover-rule/) - This, courtesy of the Financial Planning Association (FPA), of which I am a member: A U.S. Tax Court ruling on IRA rollovers has the IRS changing its longstanding position. In January of this year the U.S. Tax Court ruled that the "once a year" IRA rollover rule applies to all of an individual's IRAs, - June 5, 2014 IRS Clarifies IRA Rollover Rule
- [Think You're Diversifying Investments?  Not Really.](https://indfin.com/investment-diversification-and-reducing-investment-risk/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Investment diversification, reducing investment risk, may be one of the most misunderstood of investment principles. I've seen tv stock gurus tell you that owning three stocks in different industries passes forinvestment diversification, implying that risk is being reduced. I don't think so; it's just compounding investment concentration. Believe it or not, - April 28, 2017 Think You’re Diversifying Investments? Not Really.
- [Inflation, Stocks, and Computing Investment Returns](https://indfin.com/inflationandstocks/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® People are often either surprised to hear that stocks are probably the best inflation hedge they'll ever find - or they really don't understand why. Those who intuitively believe it believe it's simply because stock prices tend to rise over time; but, so do prices for other things, generally, including real - April 11, 2017 Inflation, Stocks, and Computing Investment Returns
- [Inflation Can Cause Financial Glaucoma](https://indfin.com/inflation-can-cause-financial-glaucoma/) - Remember when gas was 35-cents a gallon? You could fill a 10-gallon tank for $3.50! I know; I did - it was a small hatch-back. Heck, I even remember when Coca-Cola was 5-cents I think Grant was President, I forget – now it's a buck something; talk about losing purchasing power. When Reagan was president, a first-class postage - October 10, 2013 Inflation Can Cause Financial Glaucoma
- [MONEY OR INCOME:  Which is most important to you?- Part 3](https://indfin.com/incomeormoney-3/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® An income for life - a lifetime retirement income strategy is whatmost people want - but are they willing to do what's required? For most, if not many, the idea of 'bucketing' money into categories – current needs, emergency needs, and future needs – is intuitive. An that's the 'secret' behind - August 15, 2017 MONEY OR INCOME: Which is most important to you?- Part 3
- [MONEY OR INCOME:  Which is most important to you?- Part 2](https://indfin.com/incomeormoney-2/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Last week I asked which was most important to you: Never running out of money Never running out of income Whether you're building a house or your 'financial house', it begins with a plan – that's common sense. Yet, I've seen more than a few people make major financial decisions BEFORE - August 8, 2017 MONEY OR INCOME: Which is most important to you?- Part 2
- [If Inflation is Going Down, Why Don’t People Feel It?](https://indfin.com/if-inflation-is-going-down-why-dont-people-feel-it/) - Inflation deflates purchasing power. Money is worth only what it buys. Politicians are interested in popular support – they want votes. The media wants ratings.
- [How Will Rising Interst Rates Affect Your Bond Values?](https://indfin.com/how-will-rising-interst-rates-affect-your-bond-values/) - Rising interest rates can have an effect on bond values. After all, if you're holding a bond paying 2% and interest rates for comparable bonds rise to 3%, you'll have trouble finding a buyer unless you're willing to reduce the price of the bond to make up the difference. In addition, a bond paying 2% - August 26, 2015 How Will Rising Interst Rates Affect Your Bond Values?
- [How to Get Money From An Illiquid Asset and Not Pay Uncle Sam](https://indfin.com/how-to-get-money-from-an-illiquid-asset-and-not-pay-uncle-sam/) - You own an illiquid asset (land, buildings, etc) and you'd like to sell; but, you don't want to get hammered with capital gains taxes (now at 20% in 2013). That's a situation many people find themselves in. One solution worth discussing with your CFP®professional and an estate planning attorney is a charitable remainder trust (CRT). - May 21, 2013 How to Get Money From An Illiquid Asset and Not Pay Uncle Sam
- [How to Create A Risk-Free Investment Strategy.](https://indfin.com/how-to-create-a-risk-free-investment-strategy/) - Here's a strategy that's not exactly 'rocket science' – Here’s a risk-free investment strategy that’s a ‘diet version’ of a financial plan.
- [How to Buy or Lease Your Next Car!](https://indfin.com/how-to-buy-or-lease-your-next-car/) - Believe it or not, car buying isn’t as much of a hassle as it used to be – the reason is simple: There’s so much available information through internet sites. If you’re looking at a new car, it’s now possible to see exactly what the dealer paid – and, I’m not talking about the ‘dealer’s - January 10, 2013 How to Buy or Lease Your Next Car!
- [How Much Should You Be Saving?](https://indfin.com/how-much-should-you-be-saving/) - A recent survey by the Employee Benefit Research Institute reveals that 20% of respondents believe they should save 20% to 29% of their income for retirement. That might be right. For example, a 50-year old who makes $120,000 per year abd saving 20% or $2,000 per month will have $619,548.45 at age 67 (this includes - July 18, 2013 How Much Should You Be Saving?
- [How Middle-Income Boomers Are Planning For Retirement](https://indfin.com/how-middle-income-boomers-are-planning-for-retirement/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® According to a survey conducted by Bankers Life Center for a Secure Retirement, middle income boomers aren't paying much attention to planning for their old age. Here are some of the results: While 61% have taken at least one step in retirement planning, about only 1% havetaken all the steps. Only - September 28, 2016 How Middle-Income Boomers Are Planning For Retirement
- [Higher Tax Rates for Trusts](https://indfin.com/higher-tax-rates-for-trusts/) - The taxpayer relief act– I love that name since tax rates went up – raised the top tax rates that trusts pay on income. So, for 2013, new rates apply when trust taxable income goes over $11,950. And, in case you didn't know, the 3.8% Medicare contribution tax also applies to trust income above that - May 30, 2013 Higher Tax Rates for Trusts
- [Hidden Surrender Charges](https://indfin.com/hiddencharges/) - I don’t know anyone, certified financial planner professionals included, who is a fan of surrender charges; but, economically they are a fact of life for many products simply to make the offering available and viable for the investment or financial product provider. - September 14, 2020 Hidden Surrender Charges
- [HEALTH CARE COSTS MAY EAT HALF OF YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY INCOME](https://indfin.com/health-care-costs-may-eat-half-of-your-social-security-income/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® The 2016 Retirement Health Care Costs Data Report recently released by Healthview Services found that health care costs are continuing to rise, as if any of us are surprised, of course. According to Marlene Y. Satter, writing for BenefitsPro.com in the July 2016 issue of Retirement Advisor, a healthy person retiring - July 27, 2016 HEALTH CARE COSTS MAY EAT HALF OF YOUR SOCIAL SECURITY INCOME
- [Have You Had "The Talk"?](https://indfin.com/have-you-had-the-talk/) - You know.... the one with your parents... or your children. Not yet? Procrastination is easy. It's something you can always do later, right? Maybe not. This picture isn't a stock photo; it's of my wife and I with my parents after we brought them from Florida to California to live with us in 2005. This - September 26, 2013 Have You Had “The Talk”?
- [Guarantees Against Loss Not A Panacea... but maybe still valuable.](https://indfin.com/guarantees-against-loss-not-a-panacea-but-maybe-still-valuable/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Active managers can't beat their indexes consistently. Who cares? During my 25+years of helping people navigate financial waters, I can honestly say I have never had a single client who cared about beating an index - any index - except inflation. Pretty amazing since most media tend to focus on only - August 31, 2016 Guarantees Against Loss Not A Panacea… but maybe still valuable.
- [Getting Ready to Change Jobs?](https://indfin.com/getting-ready-to-change-jobs/) - There's more to changing jobs than simply getting a (hopefully) higher salary. This "One Sheet" will provide you with a list of some additional issues you may want to consider. Enjoy! Jim - March 7, 2016 Getting Ready to Change Jobs?
- [Funding Retirement and College Costs, too? How?](https://indfin.com/funding-retirement-and-college-costs-too-how/) - Retirement planning and college funding are, for many parents, hopelessly connected. The reason is simple: Whatever is spent on college usually comes at the expense of a secure retirement. Today, tuition, fees, room and board at a public four-year institution can total $31,700 for a single school year and around $41,000 at private schools – - April 17, 2014 Funding Retirement and College Costs, too? How?
- [Financial Literacy Soccer Game](https://indfin.com/financial-literacy-soccer-game/) - Financial planning, whether for retirement or anything else, can sometimes appear a little boring to many people. How much do most people really know about financial matters? You may know more than you think! If you like soccer, you can have some fun while you test your financial literacy. I learned about this online - July 22, 2014 Financial Literacy Soccer Game
- [How to Diversify Investments - As simple as a pie chart?](https://indfin.com/diversification/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Most of us want to learn how to diversify investments so we can reduce investment risk - but it may be one of the most misunderstood of investment principles. Too many think it's about simply selecting the right pie chart. I've even seen tv stock gurus tell you that owning three - July 11, 2017 How to Diversify Investments – As simple as a pie chart?
- [Congress Turns to Roth accounts to Raise Revenue – Again.](https://indfin.com/congress-turns-to-roth-accounts-to-raise-revenue-again/) - Back in 2006 the government passed a law that took effect in 2010 lifting income restrictions on converting individual retirement accounts (IRAs). Now, there’s no limit on conversions nor a cap on the amount that can be shifted. The budget deal that passed Congress on January 1st allows 401(k) participants to convert any money in their - January 8, 2013 Congress Turns to Roth accounts to Raise Revenue – Again.
- [Are You Recharging Your Batteries?](https://indfin.com/are-you-recharging-your-batteries/) - Many years ago, back during my days in publishing, I read an exchange between Jack Nicklaus and Lee Trevino - this was when Jack Nicklaus was dominating golf, much like Tiger did some years ago. Of course, we know today that Jack Nicklaus ended-up with 18 professional majors... more than Lee Trevino, Arnold Palmer, and - August 22, 2013 Are You Recharging Your Batteries?
- [Another Wealthy Celebrity (apparently) Gets Bad Advice](https://indfin.com/another-wealthy-celebrity-apparently-gets-bad-advice/) - The heirs of actor James Gandolfini, best known for playing mobster Tony Soprano, aren't likely to be too happy with his tax advisors. The actor left 80% of his $70 million estate to relatives other than his wife, creating an estimated $30 million federal and New York tax bill. You can read all about it here. - July 25, 2013 Another Wealthy Celebrity (apparently) Gets Bad Advice
- [A Reverse Mortgage Quickie Primer](https://indfin.com/a-reverse-mortgage-quickie-primer/) - Reverse mortgages can be worthwhile; but, there's no free lunch. Here are some issues to review. A reverse mortgage is a loan against the value of your home that does not have to be paid back for as long as you live in the home. Simply put, a reverse mortgage converts some of the equity - May 1, 2014 A Reverse Mortgage Quickie Primer
- [Economy Maybe Not So Strong After All](https://indfin.com/economy-maybe-not-so-strong-after-all/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® The new jobs report shows 178,000 jobs were created last month - and much of the media has reported that number; however, there's a number missing: All but 9,000 were part-time. While unemployment has dropped from 5% to 4.6% over the past year, the participation rate has remained constant and those - December 6, 2016 Economy Maybe Not So Strong After All
- [Does the 4% Rule Still Work?](https://indfin.com/does-the-4-rule-still-work/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Before you can take income from a nest-egg, you have to HAVE a nest-egg; but, getting there takes more than discipline - it takes MOTIVATION! What motivates YOU? Here are some thoughts from The Financial Planning Association: Reality Check It used to be that Americans could count on a pension plus - February 27, 2014 Does the 4% Rule Still Work?
- [Do Your Investments Match Your Risk Profile?](https://indfin.com/do-your-investments-match-your-risk-profile/) - Ask anyone. Most investors tend to associate risk with loss. But losing money can happen without market risk every day: Congress can raise taxes, inflation can reduce purchasing power, your spouse can beat you to the dresser in the morning. Investment risk incorporates other risks and understanding them, along with the potential return associated with - November 19, 2013 Do Your Investments Match Your Risk Profile?
- [Do You Know Your Social Security Options?](https://indfin.com/do-you-know-your-social-security-options/) - TEN THOUSAND AMERICANS TURN AGE 65 EVERY DAY! For some, making the decision to claim retirement benefits early may be right choice. But by claiming benefits early, millions of people could be losing out on tens-of-thousands, or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) tells us we're living - July 8, 2014 Do You Know Your Social Security Options?
- [Do You Know the 5 Biggest Risks To Your Retirement?](https://indfin.com/do-you-know-the-5-biggest-risks-to-your-retirement/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Do you know what your biggest retirement risks are? Many might think, after watching all the coverage about Greece, computer glitches on Wall Street, and stories about hackers, that it might be the financial markets; but, the fact is there have been all kinds of melt-downs over the years and some - July 15, 2015 Do You Know the 5 Biggest Risks To Your Retirement?
- [Beware:  The COVID-19 Scammers are Loose.](https://indfin.com/covid-19-scammers/) - IRS Coronavirus resoures - April 6, 2020 Beware: The COVID-19 Scammers are Loose.
- [Counting on Your Business To Finance Retirement?](https://indfin.com/counting-on-your-business-to-finance-retirement/) - Not so fast. It's common for a 60-something business owner to count on finding a buyer, selling for an attractive figure, then live off the proceeds for the rest of his/her life. But, when you look at real-world cases, it often isn't true. The fact is most business owners soon learn they may not be - May 23, 2013 Counting on Your Business To Finance Retirement?
- [Common Misconceptions About the Unlimited Marital Deduction](https://indfin.com/common-misconceptions-about-the-unlimited-marital-deduction/) - Did you know thatproperty transferred in excess of the unified credit equivalent will ultimately be subject to estate tax in the estate of the surviving spouse, meaning that use of the unlimited marital deduction will NOT eliminate estate settlement costs? The marital deduction eliminates both the federal estate and gift tax on transfers of property - February 11, 2014 Common Misconceptions About the Unlimited Marital Deduction
- [College Aid Fake "Advisors" Abound](https://indfin.com/college-aid-fake-advisors-abound/) - Last weekend I was going through my email in-box and found a company offering to supply me with a proven system for attracting new clients by selling an IMMEDIATE NEED, rather than a future one. The immediate need target market is supposedly parents of high-school (college bound) kids who are seeking college aid! It looked - June 20, 2013 College Aid Fake “Advisors” Abound
- [Changing Jobs? You May Have an Important Decision to Make!](https://indfin.com/changing-jobs/) - What to do with your money in an employer-sponsored retirement plan, such as a 401(k) plan? Since these funds were originally intended to help provide financial security during retirement, you need to carefully evaluate which of the following options will best ensure that these assets remain available to contribute to a financially-secure retirement. Take the - September 29, 2015 Changing Jobs? You May Have an Important Decision to Make!
- [Can You Pass The College Savings Test?](https://indfin.com/can-you-pass-the-college-savings-test/) - Mantaining a sound investment strategy can help put your children on the road to a valuable four-year college degree. Did you know that on average, a college graduate earns over 80% more than someone with just a high-school diploma?1 That advantage, however, comes with a price tag. Currently, the annual cost of a four-year private - April 3, 2014 Can You Pass The College Savings Test?
- [Buying An Annuity?  Keep it Simple!](https://indfin.com/buying-an-annuity-keep-it-simple/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® It isn't uncommon for people to buy things they don't need; and when it comes to annuities, it's often no different, and it doesn't help when (sometimes) an agent adds bells and whistles, in the form of elaborate policy riders, that the client will never use! Today, because many baby-boomers are - August 17, 2016 Buying An Annuity? Keep it Simple!
- [Business Valuation Matters](https://indfin.com/businessvaluationmatters/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Business valuation matters! And, not just when you plan to sell. Few business owners realize that valuation 'what-if's' can help determine the advisability of major purchases and investments, not to mention the implementation of pre-funded buy-sell arrangements. Yet, of the more than 200 million businesses in operation globally, fewer than 2 - November 13, 2017 Business Valuation Matters
- [Business Valuation Methods - Which One is Right for You?](https://indfin.com/business-valuation-methods-which-one-is-right-for-you/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Business valuation is something that most business owners don't think about until they decide it's time to sell. Big mistake. Business valuation can be a powerful planning tool! How willl this capital expenditure impact the value of my business? If my partner(s) pass away, how can I buy-out the partner(s) spouse(s) - January 10, 2017 Business Valuation Methods – Which One is Right for You?
- [Business Owners: Have you done tax bracket planning?](https://indfin.com/business-owners-have-you-done-tax-bracket-planning/) - Tax brackets have an impact on your choice of funding insurance solutions to meet the needs of closely-held corporations and their shareholders! For example, a corporation in the 15% tax bracket gets to keep 85 cents of every taxable dollar it makes, while an individual in the 35% tax bracket gets to keep only 65 - February 4, 2014 Business Owners: Have you done tax bracket planning?
- [Three Tips for Building Family Wealth](https://indfin.com/buildingwealth/) - Most people work long hours for 30+ years trying to build wealth for themselves and their families. These three tips can make it a little easier. - July 6, 2020 Three Tips for Building Family Wealth
- [Does "Bucket Investing" Achieve Goals or Destroy Wealth?](https://indfin.com/bucketinvesting/) - Does the ‘bucket’ approach to allocating assets to life goals make sense—or does it actually destroy wealth? Mentally, bucket investing is simply assigning money to ‘buckets’, i.e. goals - September 28, 2020 Does “Bucket Investing” Achieve Goals or Destroy Wealth?
- [Best Paying Jobs and Best College Majors](https://indfin.com/best-paying-jobs-and-best-college-majors/) - Most six figure jobs require an advanced degree, according to CareerCast, which created a report with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. I first learned of this in a piece by Michael Fischer, writing for ThinkAdvisor, an industry trade publication. I noticed `financial advisor' didn't appear on the list – someone must have seen - September 10, 2014 Best Paying Jobs and Best College Majors
- [BAD ADVICE REPEATED BECOMES ACCEPTED KNOWLEDGE](https://indfin.com/bad-advice-repeated-becomes-accepted-knowledge/) - We've seen it all our lives; and the older one gets, the more transparent it becomes. Some people simply don't know what they're talking about. Here are a few examples: "Pay cash and you avoid paying interest." You've heard that one. Whether good or bad, it sounds simple enough. It's apparent plausibility even leads us - March 9, 2015 BAD ADVICE REPEATED BECOMES ACCEPTED KNOWLEDGE
- [Are You Ready for Retirement?](https://indfin.com/are-you-ready-for-retirement/) - Ready for Retirement? Are you ready for retirement? Here are five words you should consider. Here's some food-for-thought from the Financial Planning Association: Three Key Retirement Income Considerations Average life expectancy has risen steadily in the United States, so retirees and soon-to-be retirees need to ensure that they don't tap their nest eggs too heavily. - March 6, 2014 Are You Ready for Retirement?
- [Are You A Business Owner? Maybe You Should Know About Tax Bracket Planning!](https://indfin.com/are-you-a-business-owner-maybe-you-should-know-about-tax-bracket-planning/) - Owners of closely-held businesses have long understood the value of insurance as a funding tool for executive retention, transition planning, and enhanced retirement benefits; but, tax-brackets can have a significant impact on those solutions! For example, a corporation in the 15% tax bracket gets to keep 85 cents of every taxable dollar it makes, while - February 13, 2014 Are You A Business Owner? Maybe You Should Know About Tax Bracket Planning!
- [Thinking of Buying An Annuity?  Do Your Homework.](https://indfin.com/annuitychecklist/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® If you're thinking of purchasing an annuity, here's a report you might find helpful. I seldom use annuities for client portfolios; but, that doesn't mean they're bad. Any financial instrument will have it's good and bad points; the question is really whether the instrument in question is appropriate for a particular - January 22, 2018 Thinking of Buying An Annuity? Do Your Homework.
- [How Social Security and Pensions Might Impact How You Arrange Your Nest-Egg.](https://indfin.com/allocatingincome/) - If you're receiving Social Security, Pension, or other guaranteed income, you may want to rethink how your nest-egg is arranged for long-term inflation risk. - April 30, 2020 How Social Security and Pensions Might Impact How You Arrange Your Nest-Egg.
- [Do Advisors Really Add Value?](https://indfin.com/advisorvalue/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® For years the media and others have debated the ultimate value of an advisor to the individual investor. Some believe they either under or outperform; others believe the value is more about providing a disciplined investment process; and, there are still others who believe the value lies in the planning and - February 14, 2017 Do Advisors Really Add Value?
- [Adult Children Living at Home?  Here are a few tips!](https://indfin.com/adult-children-living-at-home-here-are-a-few-tips/) - When I grew up - I was an only child - there was my mom, my dad, and me. When I graduated from college, I took my first job in central Illinois over 1,000 miles away from my parent's home in Virginia. I wasn't unique. In those days, no one I knew - or even - March 25, 2015 Adult Children Living at Home? Here are a few tips!
- [A Quick Estate Planning Checklist](https://indfin.com/a-quick-estate-planning-checklist/) - Here's a quick checklist, courtesy of Kathleen McBride, Editor-in-Chief ofWealth Channel, AdvisorOne. You may want to sit down with your estate-planning attorney and review it together. Check your will and create a `revocable trust' to avoid probate. Assets pass easily, much like under a will, but you can avoid the probate process. Make sure your - May 14, 2013 A Quick Estate Planning Checklist
- [A Market High!!!!! Should YOU Jump In?](https://indfin.com/a-market-high-should-you-jump-in/) - The market seemed to love the first quarter... as it's loved many before. Does that mean the party will continue? It might be best to look at some underlying factors. I, along with most other advisors, constantly caution people about trying to 'time' the markets. I personally don't think anyone can do it with any - April 4, 2013 A Market High!!!!! Should YOU Jump In?
- [A Lesson from the Banks](https://indfin.com/a-lesson-from-the-banks/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® I think many, if not most, professional advisors would agree that even 99% of"the affluent" make the same mistakes made by virtually every other American. Fact is, even "rich" people worry about running out of money because they live at a higher standard and have a larger 'cash burn'. But, many - December 1, 2015 A Lesson from the Banks
- [A "Heads-Up" for 2014](https://indfin.com/a-heads-up-for-2014/) - Watch for mutual fund companies to begin touting their 5-year track-records in a race for new assets. That's because the 'market meltdown' happened six years ago, so those numbers won't show up in the five-year calculations. I don't expect too many commercials touting ten-year returns since those would include the melt-down years. Also worth thinking - January 10, 2014 A “Heads-Up” for 2014
- [The 401K Failure](https://indfin.com/401kfailure/) - Are we in the midst of a 401(k) failure? Some time ago,PBS aired an excellent program on retirement and how the various generation, including baby boomers, are being affected by their planning - or failure to plan. It's an hour-long program entitled, "When I'm 65". The program addresses savings rates, withdrawal rates, investment pitfalls, issues - August 3, 2016 The 401K Failure
- [Retirement and Social Security](https://indfin.com/2093-2/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® It's one thing to simply 'maximize' your Social Security, it's another to know just how taxation and the future health care costs will impact your plans. Your planning solution should be able to: Quickly provide estimated health care costs in retirement for individuals or couples. Incorporate Medicare Parts B and D, - May 25, 2016 Retirement and Social Security
- [](https://indfin.com/1990-2/) - Numerous studies have consistently shown than Americans are ill-prepared for retirement. 401(k)s have apparently failed to provide a solution. You may be interested in seeing just how pervasive this issue has become. If that weren't enough, the increasing national debt coupled with increasing entitlement obligations has made it painfully obvious to many that their taxes - March 9, 2016
- [The Future of Social Security](https://indfin.com/the-future-of-social-security/) - During his campaign, President Donald Trump pledged not to reduce Social Security benefits. He even proposed eliminating taxation on Social Security benefits, which would enable higher-income beneficiaries to retain more of their income. - March 17, 2025 The Future of Social Security
- [Tariffs, Trade Wars and the Cost of Guacamole](https://indfin.com/tariffs-trade-wars-and-the-cost-of-guacamole/) - Avocados have transformed from a niche fruit into a staple of the American diet, reflecting broader economic and trade dynamics, including tariffs.
- ["How Can I Increase My Social Security Benefit?"](https://indfin.com/how-can-i-increase-my-social-security-benefit/) - Not so long ago, baby boomers viewed Social Security as a retirement program for old folks. High-earning boomers felt that Social Security didn’t apply to them because the monthly checks were small, and they believed the system wouldn’t be around when they retired. - February 27, 2025 “How Can I Increase My Social Security Benefit?”
- [Bad Tax Planning begins when you believe your 401(k)/IRA statements.](https://indfin.com/bad-tax-planning-believing-your-retirement-statements/) - If you have $500,000 in your 401(k) or IRA, it’s not really $500.000. That's a tax planning mistake most people make going right out of the gate. If you’re married and filing jointly, it’s more likely you could have $325,000 (35% tax bracket) or just $315,000 (37% tax bracket). - February 18, 2025 Bad Tax Planning begins when you believe your 401(k)/IRA statements.
- [DOGE Wants to "Streamline" Social Security  -  That will be interesting.](https://indfin.com/social-security-streamlined/) - The three largest expenses in the federal budget are Social Security/Medicare, interest on the debt, and defense. How will that affect future benefits?
- [No More Zero Interest Rates!](https://indfin.com/no-more-zero-interest-rates/) - The Fed's past focus on zero interest rates resulted in printing money. Quantitative easing (QE) seemed to work as the stock market saw it's longest bull market in history.
- [Happy Thanksgiving:  Should you be thankful for the electoral college?](https://indfin.com/happy-thanksgiving-should-you-be-thankful-for-the-electoral-college/) - Maybe I should have saved this post for the 4th of July! Enjoy! Jim 805-265-5416 info@indfin.com https://indfin.com If you'd like to Get Started with IFG, you can begin here! Jim Lorenzen is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and An Accredited Investment Fiduciary® serving private clients since 1991. Jim is Founding Principal of The Independent - November 21, 2016 Happy Thanksgiving: Should you be thankful for the electoral college?
- [Retirement Income Knowledge Less Than Believed](https://indfin.com/retirementincomeknowledge/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® There's seems to be a huge gap between perceived retirement income knowledge (how much people really know) and the knowledge people actually possess. That appears to be the conclusion one can draw from the results of the American College's National Retirement Income Survey. The survey used questions commonly used to gauge - March 10, 2019 Retirement Income Knowledge Less Than Believed
- [Should You Graduate From Mutual Funds?](https://indfin.com/mutual-funds/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® It's probably a safe assumption that most individual investors began their investment programs with mutual funds and have built their 401(k)s, IRAs, and/or taxable accounts with mutual funds ever since. While those mutual funds may have been appropriate for them in those early days, are they appropriate today? If you're one - December 10, 2018 Should You Graduate From Mutual Funds?
- [Five Times When An Annuity Makes Sense](https://indfin.com/five-times-when-an-annuity-makes-sense/) - My recent blog posts, as well as on this platform, discussed the advantages of arranging assets early – ten years or more before retirement – to lay the groundwork for an income-tax free retirement. Many experts believe it's time to dump the stock-market-based approach in favor of an insured retirement solution - see Time - May 27, 2015 Five Times When An Annuity Makes Sense
- [Here's Your Important Document Checklist!](https://indfin.com/document-checklist/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® A fiduciary advisor is good to have; but, YOU are a kind of fiduciary, too! Your family depends on you, which means you have the responsibilities a fiduciary would have. Step one, of course, is knowing where your important documents are. Here's a checklist to help you get your ducks - January 8, 2018 Here’s Your Important Document Checklist!
- [How Will Rising Interest Rates Affect Stocks?](https://indfin.com/risingratesandstocks/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® ... and what do rising interest rates (and inflation) mean to your long-term success? Maybe less than you think... or is it maybe more than you think. We don't really know, do we? Planning isn't about what we know; if it were, we'd all just go with our guts and get - March 5, 2018 How Will Rising Interest Rates Affect Stocks?
- [Interested in Charitable Giving?  You May Want a Wealth Replacement Trust!](https://indfin.com/wealthreplacementtrust/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Charitable giving is a way you can truly leave a legacy beyond our own family; However, believe it or not, few among what many would call the 'mass affluent' ever give much thought to charitable giving. Often, they simply feel they don't have enough money; however, many of these same people - March 19, 2018 Interested in Charitable Giving? You May Want a Wealth Replacement Trust!
- [How to Turn a $350,000 IRA into $600,000 for Your Heirs!](https://indfin.com/rmdsforheirs/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® IRS mandated withdrawals from retirement accounts - required minimum distributions (RMDs) - must begin by April following the year people turn 70-1/2. But, if you wait until the year following that birthday, you will be required to take a double-distribution that year - two RMDs (be sure to talk to your - April 2, 2018 How to Turn a $350,000 IRA into $600,000 for Your Heirs!
- [Your Cash Value Life Insurance Has Value!](https://indfin.com/cashvalue/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® People often purchase cash value permanent insurance, throw the policy in a drawer or filing cabinet, and forget about it. This could be a big mistake. Most all permanent insurance has a cash value and that cash value has real value you shouldn't ignore! First a quick word about what permanent - April 16, 2018 Your Cash Value Life Insurance Has Value!
- [Here's Your 10-Point Financial Discussion Checklist!](https://indfin.com/10pointchecklist/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® How does your financial future look? Your chances for financial freedom will depend on how well you've covered your bases! Here's a checklist for your kitchen table discussions: When do you plan to retire? Your retirement age will impact how many years of spending your retirement assets will have to cover. - January 13, 2019 Here’s Your 10-Point Financial Discussion Checklist!
- [Are You Managing Money?  Maybe you should be managing risk.](https://indfin.com/managing-risk/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Markets are sensitive to risk. We know that. According to analysts at Lockwood Advisors, only 8% of global economies are now growing above recent averages; but, the U.S. is still the best; the G10 countries are the worst. Headwinds do include politics: Many market insiders are worried about a reversal of - January 28, 2019 Are You Managing Money? Maybe you should be managing risk.
- [Three Quick Tips for Building Family Wealth](https://indfin.com/buildingfamilywealthtips/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Here are three quick tips you might find helpful: Choose your beneficiaries wisely when allocating inheritance money. Leave tax-deferred accounts (IRAs and non-qualified annuities, for example) to younger family members. They're likely in a lower tax bracket and have longer life expectancies for taking the required minimum distributions, which means the - February 10, 2019 Three Quick Tips for Building Family Wealth
- [Don't Make These IRA Mistakes!](https://indfin.com/iramistakes/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Have you reviewed your beneficiary forms lately? You should. IRA mistakes there can't be fixed after the IRA or plan owner dies. The two biggest problem areas most prone to beneficiary form: Divorce and trusts. Problems often arise when someone erroneously believes that a trust takes care of naming the beneficiary - February 24, 2019 Don’t Make These IRA Mistakes!
- [Interesting Financial Statistics You May Not Know](https://indfin.com/financial-statistics/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® I came across some interesting stats in the most recent Journal of Financial Planning; I thought you might find a few of them interesting - I know I do. A recent survey revealed that 65% of respondents said they mistrust the financial services industry. Only 2% said they trusted financial professionals - March 21, 2019 Interesting Financial Statistics You May Not Know
- [Retirement Withdrawal Strategy May Need a New Twist!](https://indfin.com/retirementwithdrawalstrategy/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® The right retirement withdrawal strategy shouldn't follow conventional wisdom blindly. What's right for you might be very different. Conventional wisdom says retirees should withdraw funds from taxable accounts first, tax-deferred accounts (IRAs, 401(k)s, etc.) second, and tax-free money (Roth IRAs for example) last. But, should you do it that way? The - April 7, 2019 Retirement Withdrawal Strategy May Need a New Twist!
- [Ageing Issues Make Financial Planning More Important than Ever!](https://indfin.com/planningforageing/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® When I was a kid, no one I knew had Alzheimer's. Heck, no one my parents knew had it. In fact, I don't think anyone even knew what it was! There may have been a few special-needs children around, but I never saw one in either elementary or high school. Attention - April 21, 2019 Ageing Issues Make Financial Planning More Important than Ever!
- [Are All Financial Advisors "True" Fiduciaries?](https://indfin.com/fiduciaryadvisor/) - Not everyone is a true fiduciary. See what a search firm that specializes in this area has to say. - April 29, 2019 Are All Financial Advisors “True” Fiduciaries?
- [College or Retirement:  Does a 529 Plan Make Sense?](https://indfin.com/fiduciaryadvisor-2/) - Not everyone is a true fiduciary. See what a search firm that specializes in this area has to say. - May 20, 2019 College or Retirement: Does a 529 Plan Make Sense?
- [Alternative  Investments ("alts") and The Flight to Safety - Part II](https://indfin.com/fiduciaryadvisor-2-2-2/) - The financial planning profession has changed dramatically since I opened my first office in 1991; but, the financial services industry – not to be confused with the profession that operates alongside it – seems to have changed little, though it’s changed a lot. What? I’ll explain. - June 15, 2019 Alternative Investments (“alts”) and The Flight to Safety – Part II
- [Alternative  Investments ("alts") and The Flight to Safety.](https://indfin.com/fiduciaryadvisor-2-2/) - The financial planning profession has changed dramatically since I opened my first office in 1991; but, the financial services industry – not to be confused with the profession that operates alongside it – seems to have changed little, though it’s changed a lot. What? I’ll explain. - June 1, 2019 Alternative Investments (“alts”) and The Flight to Safety.
- [Withdrawal Tax-Traps You Want to Avoid!](https://indfin.com/fiduciaryadvisor-2-2-2-2/) - The financial planning profession has changed dramatically since I opened my first office in 1991; but, the financial services industry – not to be confused with the profession that operates alongside it – seems to have changed little, though it’s changed a lot. What? I’ll explain. - June 28, 2019 Withdrawal Tax-Traps You Want to Avoid!
- [RMDs Rules About to Change?](https://indfin.com/fiduciaryadvisor-3/) - Not everyone is a true fiduciary. See what a search firm that specializes in this area has to say. - July 8, 2019 RMDs Rules About to Change?
- [Do You REALLY Want to Invest Like Warren Buffett?](https://indfin.com/investlikebuffett/) - Not everyone is a true fiduciary. See what a search firm that specializes in this area has to say. - July 15, 2019 Do You REALLY Want to Invest Like Warren Buffett?
- [Financial Literacy College Courses May Become Mandatory](https://indfin.com/financialliteracycourses/) - Not everyone is a true fiduciary. See what a search firm that specializes in this area has to say. - July 22, 2019 Financial Literacy College Courses May Become Mandatory
- [Annuities Can Generate Guaranteed Income for Life! So, why do people hate them?](https://indfin.com/annuitybias/) - Not everyone is a true fiduciary. See what a search firm that specializes in this area has to say. - August 2, 2019 Annuities Can Generate Guaranteed Income for Life! So, why do people hate them?
- [ROLLOVER MISTAKES CAN BE COSTLY](https://indfin.com/rollover-mistakes-can-be-costly/) - Not everyone is a true fiduciary. See what a search firm that specializes in this area has to say. - September 12, 2019 ROLLOVER MISTAKES CAN BE COSTLY
- [Worried About the Markets?  Maybe you should(n't) try alternatives - part 2.](https://indfin.com/marketworries2/) - Do annuities make sense as an alternative. It depends on what you think your postponed taxes will look like. - September 25, 2019 Worried About the Markets? Maybe you should(n’t) try alternatives – part 2.
- [Worried About the Markets?  Maybe you should(n't) try alternatives.](https://indfin.com/marketworries1/) - Not everyone is a true fiduciary. See what a search firm that specializes in this area has to say. - September 21, 2019 Worried About the Markets? Maybe you should(n’t) try alternatives.
- [I.R.S. RULING MIGHT CREATE TIMING ISSUES](https://indfin.com/irsdistributiontiming-2/) - RMDs can present a tax trap for the unwary. Here's a 4-point checklist to help you avoid the pitfalls. - September 30, 2019 I.R.S. RULING MIGHT CREATE TIMING ISSUES
- [Changes To Medicare Plans to Begin Soon!](https://indfin.com/medicarechanges/) - RMDs can present a tax trap for the unwary. Here's a 4-point checklist to help you avoid the pitfalls. - October 3, 2019 Changes To Medicare Plans to Begin Soon!
- [Your IRA Has An Unnamed Beneficiary!](https://indfin.com/hiddenbeneficiary/) - RMDs can present a tax trap for the unwary. Here's a 4-point checklist to help you avoid the pitfalls. - October 7, 2019 Your IRA Has An Unnamed Beneficiary!
- [CDs, Fixed Annuities, and Indexed Annuities Share Some Common Risks- copy](https://indfin.com/cdannuityrisks/) - The most common risk associated with all fixed-rate investments is interest rate risk, but it doesn't end there. - October 14, 2019 CDs, Fixed Annuities, and Indexed Annuities Share Some Common Risks- copy
- [How Can You Manage Your Inheritance?](https://indfin.com/inheritance/) - Coming into money can create a lot of anxiety if you don't have a plan. Here's a tip sheet and LifeGuide that might help! - October 21, 2019 How Can You Manage Your Inheritance?
- [When A Loved One Dies](https://indfin.com/whenalovedonedies/) - Coming into money can create a lot of anxiety if you don't have a plan. Here's a tip sheet and LifeGuide that might help! - October 24, 2019 When A Loved One Dies
- [YOU Are an Acutary!](https://indfin.com/actuary/) - Coming into money can create a lot of anxiety if you don't have a plan. Here's a tip sheet and LifeGuide that might help! - October 28, 2019 YOU Are an Acutary!
- [The One Million Dollar Mistake.](https://indfin.com/milliondollarmistake/) - Here's a $1 million dollar mistake that many, if not most, 20-somethings make - and how it can be avoided. - November 4, 2019 The One Million Dollar Mistake.
- [Is Inflation on the Horizon?](https://indfin.com/inflationrisk/) - So far, tariff-induced inflation simply hasn’t arrived. You’d think if it was going to, it would be here by now. But, are we out of the woods? And, how can you protect yourself? - November 8, 2019 Is Inflation on the Horizon?
- [Your Insurance Company Just Went Under?](https://indfin.com/insurancefailure/) - You’ve been paying on an insurance policy for years. Now, you’ve learned your insurance company – the one that top ratings from all the major ratings services - just went bust – what do you do? What could you have done to protect yourself? - November 15, 2019 Your Insurance Company Just Went Under?
- [Stock Market Volatility Can Wreak Havoc on 4% Withdrawal Rates.](https://indfin.com/fourpercentrule/) - Often financial planning and wealth management is more about the unknowns in life than the knowns. After years of supporting roles on the Flintstones, Barney and Betty decided to retire from acting in cartoons (it's hard to be a cartoon character!) and enjoy life. - October 12, 2020 Stock Market Volatility Can Wreak Havoc on 4% Withdrawal Rates.
- [When A Loved One Dies](https://indfin.com/when-a-loved-one-dies/) - When a loved one dies, it can be a bit chaotic. I remember when my parents passed away, they had lived a very long and happy life. - October 27, 2020 When A Loved One Dies
- [Systematic Roth Conversion Strategies Can Be Powerful....](https://indfin.com/systematicrothconversions/) - Do you know what a systematic Roth conversion is? It's worth knowing! - November 10, 2020 Systematic Roth Conversion Strategies Can Be Powerful….
- [Medicare Advantage Plans May Come With Unpleasant Surprises.](https://indfin.com/medicareadvantage/) - Maybe you should think twice before buying a Medicare Advantage plan from a football player. - November 30, 2020 Medicare Advantage Plans May Come With Unpleasant Surprises.
- [RMDs:  We're Baaaack!](https://indfin.com/rmds-are-coming-back/) - RMDs are back for 2021! Make sure you don't get his with penalties. - December 14, 2020 RMDs: We’re Baaaack!
- [To Roll or Not to Roll](https://indfin.com/rollover/) - Rollover advice isn't always straightforward - it's often conflicted. There are issues you should address before you act. - January 7, 2021 To Roll or Not to Roll
- [Medicare:  Things May Be Worse Than You Think.](https://indfin.com/medicareproblems/) - Don’t look now, but there are major real problems ahead for Medicare. And we’re not talking about the “down the road” distant future. - January 20, 2021 Medicare: Things May Be Worse Than You Think.
- [Investment Strategy Is About More Than Returns.](https://indfin.com/investment-strategy/) - Investment strategy tied to a plan can be powerful. Doing things a little differently can make a big difference. - February 4, 2021 Investment Strategy Is About More Than Returns.
- [Noise vs News](https://indfin.com/noise-and-news/) - In a social media world, many believe whatever they read on the internet - and accept credentials at face value. Media noise and news can be hard to differentiate. - February 24, 2021 Noise vs News
- [Tax-Advantaged is Better than Tax-Deferred!  Do you know the difference?](https://indfin.com/tax-advantaged/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Tax-deferred and tax-advantaged are two termsoften used interchangeably and, as a result, often lead to a lot of confusion; but, the difference can be significant in planning how you will be drawing income from your nest-egg during your retirement years. The key, of course, is to discover your options and do - October 27, 2016 Tax-Advantaged is Better than Tax-Deferred! Do you know the difference?
- [Tax-Advantaged or Tax-Deferred?  Do you know the difference?- copy](https://indfin.com/tax-advantaged-or-tax-deferred-do-you-know-the-difference-copy/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Tax-deferred and tax-advantaged are two termsoften used interchangeably and, as a result, often lead to a lot of confusion; but, the difference can be significant in planning how you will be drawing income from your nest-egg during your retirement years. The key, of course, is to discover your options and do - June 11, 2018 Tax-Advantaged or Tax-Deferred? Do you know the difference?- copy
- [Another Way of Looking at Risk](https://indfin.com/another-way-of-looking-at-risk/) - Ask virtually any advisor how the risk of an investment is measured, and you'll likely hear them talk about volatility, mean variance, or standard deviation. I know. I've done it myself – and still do. All those terms really refer to is simple price fluctuation around an average. Most investors don't like uncertainty, which is - October 9, 2014 Another Way of Looking at Risk
- [The Financial Security Gap](https://indfin.com/the-financial-security-gap/) - The Disconnect Between Illusion and Reality Helen Keller once remarked, "Security is largely superstition; it doesn't exist in nature." Maybe not; but, if history is any guide, "The Greatest Generation" – the Depression & World War II generation – were far more secure than their children or grandchildren. These people were the savers. They didn't - October 2, 2014 The Financial Security Gap
- [The Financial Tool That Solves Many of Life's Problems!](https://indfin.com/the-financial-tool-that-solves-many-of-lifes-problems-see-more-at-httpwww-jimsmoneyblog-com201408theres-more-to-retirement-planning-than-simply-saving-money-and-hoping-everything-gets-cove/) - There's more to retirement planning than simply saving money and hoping everything gets covered. Much more is possible if you know how to use the tools. Few people outside the financial industry understand the power of life insurance as a planning tool. It's understandable: When most people think of life insurance, the (often) typical reaction - August 19, 2014 The Financial Tool That Solves Many of Life’s Problems!
- [What Will Happen To My Child If I'm No Longer Here?](https://indfin.com/what-will-happen-to-my-child-if-im-no-longer-here/) - If you have a special needs child or grandchild, planning becomes especially important. We have special needs children in my own family; and we're far from alone. If you're a family dealing with this issue, there are some things that can't be ignored. To a large degree, the answer to the headline question will depend - October 16, 2014 What Will Happen To My Child If I’m No Longer Here?
- [Do You Know the Value of Your Business?](https://indfin.com/do-you-know-the-value-of-your-business/) - ... Why Should you care? You invested, probably heavily, in your American Dream; and you have a lot riding on it. Before you can cash-in on what you've built, you'll have to quantify what you've accomplished. That's when you'll be able to explore your options, choose your path, and make the moves that matter. Years - May 29, 2014 Do You Know the Value of Your Business?
- [Retirement is Different!](https://indfin.com/retirement-is-different/) - If you're planning your retirement about now, it's worth coming to this realization: You're entering a new stage of life. It's a simple statement; but, don't confuse it as being simplistic. You've been accumulating assets up to now; and, during accumulation, negative market fluctuations are not only partially masked by your ongoing contributions, they even - May 27, 2014 Retirement is Different!
- [Retirement Planning Requires Strategy](https://indfin.com/retirement-planning-requires-strategy/) - 2Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, January 2014. [*] The New Wealth Management, Evensky, Horan, Robinson, John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2011 - June 3, 2014 Retirement Planning Requires Strategy
- [Longevity Risk Worries Investors](https://indfin.com/longevity-risk-worries-investors/) - Enter Longevity Insurance– But Look Closely Before You Buy. You name the fear, the financial industry will come up with a solution to sell. These days, the fear is outliving our money. Indeed, we are living longer... and all those extra years cost money. Enter longevity insurance. Like all financial products, there are good points - February 20, 2014 Longevity Risk Worries Investors
- [Is Avoiding a Down Market Smart? Maybe not.](https://indfin.com/is-avoiding-a-down-market-smart-maybe-not/) - Jim onLinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jimlorenzencfp IFG onFace book This example is presented as an illustration for educational purposes only and does not represent any investment or index. No conclusions about the future of any investment or index should be drawn from this example.Jim Lorenzenis a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERâ„¢ and in his 22nd year of private practice as Founding - October 24, 2013 Is Avoiding a Down Market Smart? Maybe not.
- [Ten Tips for Happiness](https://indfin.com/ten-tips-for-happiness/) - 1. LOVE YOURSELF- It is the nucleus for all motivation. You have to feel good about yourself! A good place to begin is your physical appearance. Take care of yourself! When you look good, you feel good. 2. SEEK THE LOVING LIFE- Helping people also makes you feel good! When you can focus your attention - May 2, 2013 Ten Tips for Happiness
- [Could Your Business Run Without You?](https://indfin.com/could-your-business-run-without-you/) - Would you want your business interestretained for a family member, sold or liquidated? As I indicated, the 'cash buyer' is a fictional character in the small business market, evenwhen the businesses are successful. If a family member wants to buy it, will it support two owners during the sale process? If an outsider is involved, - April 25, 2013 Could Your Business Run Without You?
- [Business Owners and Executives Face Increased Risk For Retirement Shortfall](https://indfin.com/business-owners-and-executives-face-increased-risk-for-retirement-shortfall/) - Retirement planning for owner-employees, executives, and other highly-compensated employees can often fail because of one well-kept secret: These people will rarely, if ever, be able to meet their retirement income needs by simply using qualified retirement plan techniques. Surprised? The fact is that qualified plans are seldom sufficient for business owners or top executives if - April 23, 2013 Business Owners and Executives Face Increased Risk For Retirement Shortfall
- [Do YOU Know What Provisional Income Is?](https://indfin.com/do-you-know-what-provisional-income-is/) - If your retirement is still ten years or more in the future, NOW is the time to get your ducks lined-up. Don't wait until you're at the doorstep - and, here's why: You may think you'll spend less in retirement - that's what all the experts say - but, if you've been a disciplined saver - August 19, 2015 Do YOU Know What Provisional Income Is?
- [Did You Think Trusts Were Only for the Wealthy?](https://indfin.com/did-you-think-trusts-were-only-for-the-wealthy/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® When most people think about estate planning, they think about protecting assets from estate taxation. But, most people aren't worried about that liability. You may be surprised to learn that the upper middle class, defined as clients with between $500,000 and $5 million in investable assets can also benefit from estate - May 6, 2015 Did You Think Trusts Were Only for the Wealthy?
- [Does Time REALLY Reduce Risk?  Don't bet on it.](https://indfin.com/does-time-really-reduce-risk-dont-bet-on-it/) - You've seen this chart. Advisors have been using it - or something like it - with clients and prospective clients for years. It's supposed to educate you. It doesn't. The chart is designed to address the issue of risk by showing that it's time, not timing, that reduces risk for the investor. After all, as - May 6, 2015 Does Time REALLY Reduce Risk? Don’t bet on it.
- [Need to Manage an Inheritance?  Here's Your Checklist!](https://indfin.com/need-to-manage-an-inheritance-heres-your-checklist/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® For some, managing a large inheritance can be as daunting as winning the lottery; the windfall may sound good initially, but the money can disappear quickly if not managed properly. What needs to be considered? What needs to be done? What comes first? What's been overlooked or forgotten? Who should I - June 3, 2015 Need to Manage an Inheritance? Here’s Your Checklist!
- [Is Your Indexed Annuity a Stock, a Bond, or Something Else?](https://indfin.com/fia/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® The argument in favor of income replacement tools is simple: You insure your house, your car, your health, and some even their dental visits; why wouldn't you insure your future income. Many people who pride themselves in paying cash for everything else still find it difficult to pay cash for an - July 22, 2015 Is Your Indexed Annuity a Stock, a Bond, or Something Else?
- [Enjoy the 4th!](https://indfin.com/enjoy-the-4th/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® One of my hobbies, if you can call it that, is American history - particularly the period between 1765 and 1800. It was during that 35-year period that the colonies declared their independence, and began a rebellion that morphed into a full-fledged revolution (which had NO chance of success) that - July 1, 2015 Enjoy the 4th!
- [Will the Fed Act To Raise Rates Today?](https://indfin.com/will-the-fed-act-to-raise-rates-today/) - A slim majority of economists don't believe they will. We'll soon see if these 'experts' are right. - September 17, 2015 Will the Fed Act To Raise Rates Today?
- [What Happens to Your Business if Something Happens to YOU?](https://indfin.com/what-happens-to-your-business-if-something-happens-to-you/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® I can speak from personal experience on this one. I've been a business owner for thirty-seven years, owning seven different businesses in three different industries; and my wife's former husband passed away (unexpectedly) after building a chain of seven quality restaurants that stretched from El Paso, Texas to Northern California. Experience - October 27, 2015 What Happens to Your Business if Something Happens to YOU?
- [Happy Thanksgiving!](https://indfin.com/happy-thanksgiving/) - - November 24, 2015 Happy Thanksgiving!
- [Is Your Income/Tax Picture Common or Uncommon?](https://indfin.com/is-your-incometax-picture-common-or-uncommon/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Is your income common or uncommon? Most of us think our income is pretty normal, according to most of the studies I've seen. That may be because we see our neighbors living in the same neighborhood we do; driving the same type of car; and probably making similar incomes. The people - November 17, 2015 Is Your Income/Tax Picture Common or Uncommon?
- [Inflation (for YOU) May Be Less Than You Think](https://indfin.com/inflation-for-you-may-be-less-than-you-think/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® While historic inflation rates average a bit over 4% and many people doing their own calculations may be using figures in the 2-3.5% range, the actual numbers may - just may - be far less - maybe as low as 1%! Why? Because inflation doesn't apply to ALL of your spending. - November 3, 2015 Inflation (for YOU) May Be Less Than You Think
- [Big Changes in Social Security Claiming](https://indfin.com/big-changes-in-social-security-claiming/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® The Bipartisan Budget Act of 2015, passed by Congress and signed into law by President Obama on October 30, 2015, will dramatically impact two Social Security claiming strategies: restricted application benefits and voluntary suspension benefits. Passed in order to eliminate unintended loopholes in Social Security verbiage, Section 831(a) and 831(b) of - December 2, 2015 Big Changes in Social Security Claiming
- [ROLLOVER MISTAKES ARE OFTEN IRREVOCABLE](https://indfin.com/rollovermistakes/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Believe it or not, over the years I've had many new clients come to their first planning meeting having already made bad, and often irrevocable, choices on their own - yes, even prior to planning; and, I'm sure I'm not the only financial planner who's seen this. Most often, the mistakes - January 19, 2016 ROLLOVER MISTAKES ARE OFTEN IRREVOCABLE
- [LOOK FOR LOWER PAYOUTS ON GUARANTEED INSURANCE LIFETIME PAYOUTS](https://indfin.com/lowerpayouts/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Virtually all insurance companies will be using the newer 2012 mortality tables in 2016. Why is that important? The answer is simple: The difference in payouts is significant when our lives are measured by the new tables! According to the new tables to be used in 2016, the male life expectancy - January 26, 2016 LOOK FOR LOWER PAYOUTS ON GUARANTEED INSURANCE LIFETIME PAYOUTS
- [Should Investing Be Fun?](https://indfin.com/should-investing-be-fun/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® "If you think investing is fun, you're doing something wrong." - Warren Buffett I'll never forget visiting with a nice couple who was seeking advice on planning and investing. All of a sudden one of them piped-up and said, "I really like trading; it's fun, and I've been pretty good at - February 1, 2016 Should Investing Be Fun?
- [HAVE YOU CALLED A FAMILY MEETING?](https://indfin.com/have-you-called-a-family-meeting/) - No? You're not alone. Very few families ever sit down together and talk over important issues. Too bad; it's important. It should be considered an integral component in "the business of living". According to an excellent article in the current issue of the Journal of Financial Planning, there are four key areas every family should - February 15, 2016 HAVE YOU CALLED A FAMILY MEETING?
- [Danger in Future Inflation, Interest Rate, and Tax-Law Changes.](https://indfin.com/danger-in-future-inflation-interest-rate-and-tax-law-changes/) - The Federal Government's money: $168,000, unless your tax bracket changes and unless the federal government decides to change how much will be required to fund government operations. If more is required, the government can increase it's share of your retirement account without your consent. And, there lies the problem. According to this chart, federal finances - April 27, 2016 Danger in Future Inflation, Interest Rate, and Tax-Law Changes.
- [Tips for Managing an Inheritance](https://indfin.com/tips-for-managing-an-inheritance/) - Receiving an inheritance? Not sure how to manage it? Before you make decision, it's good to do your homework. You might find our report on managing inheritance money helpful. You can access it below. Get Your Inheritance LifeGuide here! ---------------------------- Visit the IFG Website! Arrange a brief15-minute introductory phone call with Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® - September 7, 2016 Tips for Managing an Inheritance
- [THE MARKET IS AT ALL-TIME HIGHS!  Corrections, however, are a fact of life.](https://indfin.com/time-to-rethink-401k/) - For workers in their 40s and 50s facing massive government debt and retirement 15-20 years off, it's worth asking: Is it time to (Dump) THE 401(K)? Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® In his book, The Retirement Miracle, Patrick Kelly writes about a man who had built-up a 401(k) balance of over $2 million over his career. - November 18, 2019 THE MARKET IS AT ALL-TIME HIGHS! Corrections, however, are a fact of life.
- [Webinar Announcement:  NEW DATE FOR WEBINAR - Planning Retirement in an Unpredictable World](https://indfin.com/webinar-announcement-planning-retirement-in-an-unpredictable-world/) - DATE CHANGE: The webinar will be held on June 4th! Uncle Sam (translation: elected politicians) will likely need more moneyin coming years. They'll need it to fund all their promises - and it wouldn't be surprising to see their demand for your money rise over the coming 2-3 decades just as aging 'baby-boomers' - the - May 25, 2016 Webinar Announcement: NEW DATE FOR WEBINAR – Planning Retirement in an Unpredictable World
- [Final Opportunity To Register](https://indfin.com/final-opportunity-to-register/) - LAST CHANCE TO REGISTER THIS WEBINAR: PLANNING RETIREMENT IN AN UNCERTAIN WORLD Tomorrow, June 4th: 9 a.m. Pacific, noon Eastern Register here and receive our complimentary LifeGuide: So You're Thinking About Retirement. It's filled with tips, checklists, and other information you might find helpful. So register today! Your webinar host: James Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® - June 3, 2016 Final Opportunity To Register
- [A "Safe" Route to Higher Income in a Rising Rate Environment](https://indfin.com/a-safe-route-to-higher-income-in-a-rising-rate-environment/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Think interest rates may be headed up in the future? Looking for a "safe" way to produce a rising income if that happens? First, the good news: It's pretty simple to do. It's called a bond ladder, but it can be accomplished using bank CDs or virtually any other fixed-rate instrument - June 7, 2016 A “Safe” Route to Higher Income in a Rising Rate Environment
- [How to Plan for a "Late Life" Income Without Giving Up Control](https://indfin.com/how-to-plan-for-a-late-life-income-without-giving-up-control/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Scott and Linda (not their real names) have done everything right: They've worked hard, saved and invested wisely, and did all the right things. But now, as they head toward retirement (he's in his mid-fifties) he's concerned about: What the federal debt means for income taxes during what could be - June 15, 2016 How to Plan for a “Late Life” Income Without Giving Up Control
- [Pension Plan Retirement Options](https://indfin.com/pension-plan-retirement-options/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Choosing between pension options can be a difficult task. Choosing an option that guarantees your spouse pension benefits after your death means extra security but also lower monthly benefits. On the other hand, choosing a pension option that only pays through your lifetime can provide larger monthly payments, but requires a - July 13, 2016 Pension Plan Retirement Options
- [TO ROLL?  OR, NOT TO ROLL....](https://indfin.com/to-roll-or-not-to-roll/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Getting ready to pull the retirement cord? In a previouspost, I had talked about pension options - worth reviewing if that's an issue for you. I also recently provided an IRA rollover checklistfor those evaluating the pros and cons of such a decision. Whether or not to to do a rollover - October 20, 2016 TO ROLL? OR, NOT TO ROLL….
- [Investment Return Figures Can Take Many Forms](https://indfin.com/investmentreturns/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Many years ago a prospective client told me his investment returnshad averaged 25% per year over the past ten years. This was back in the '90s when the markets were going strong and everyone (it seems) was watching 'talking heads' give their ratings of mutual funds on the various tv business - October 5, 2016 Investment Return Figures Can Take Many Forms
- [17 Unexpected Retirement Expenses](https://indfin.com/17-unexpected-retirement-expenses/) - Click Here for your report ----------------- Jim Lorenzen is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and An Accredited Investment Fiduciary® providing private client wealth management services since 1991. The Independent Financial Group is a registered investment advisor with clients located across the U.S. He is also licensed for insurance as an independent agent under California - October 12, 2016 17 Unexpected Retirement Expenses
- [Thinking of Rolling your 401(k)?  This checklist may help!](https://indfin.com/irarolloverchecklist/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Getting ready to leave your company? Considering doing a rollover? This isn't a decision to be taken lightly. While rolling over your 401(k) or other qualified retirement plan to an IRA makes perfect sense for many people, it's not an "automatic" decision. I've put together a little checklist that may provide - October 18, 2016 Thinking of Rolling your 401(k)? This checklist may help!
- [Caring for a Loved One at Home?  Here are some tips!](https://indfin.com/homecareresources/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Taking care of family does present its challenges; but, it can extremely rewarding - and a lot of fun! If you're one of those who's embarking on this journey, there are a lot of resources available to you; but, there's also a lot you'll want to know. My wife and I - October 25, 2016 Caring for a Loved One at Home? Here are some tips!
- [Looking for an Easy Bonus Plan for Your Key Employees?](https://indfin.com/looking-for-an-easy-bonus-plan-for-your-key-employees/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Executive Bonus plans are a little different from Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Plans (NQDC), which we talked about in another short paper. But, these types of plans are very popular! The employee (or a third party, such as an irrevocable trust designated by the employee) purchases and owns the policy and even - November 1, 2016 Looking for an Easy Bonus Plan for Your Key Employees?
- [Will Your Retirement Money last?  Maybe - with the right 'Late Life Income' strategy.](https://indfin.com/latelifeincomestrategy/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® This past Monday, I retweeted a Fox Business post, Why Your Retirement Savings May Be a Pipedream. A number of my clients, deciding to help ensure their late-life income needs will be met, have in the past elected to execute a "late life income" strategy - however, they wanted one that - November 15, 2016 Will Your Retirement Money last? Maybe – with the right ‘Late Life Income’ strategy.
- [Planning to Roll Your 401(k) to Your Own IRA?](https://indfin.com/planning-to-roll-your-401k-to-your-own-ira/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Getting ready to retire? Planning to roll your 401(k) into your own IRA? It will pay to do your homework first. To help you get started, you might find our 401(k) Rollover Reviewhelpful. It contains information on changing jobs, retiring, methods, rollover taxation issues, and more. Click Here for your 401(k) - November 29, 2016 Planning to Roll Your 401(k) to Your Own IRA?
- [Department of Labor Wants Consumers To Know Their Advisor's Fiduciary Status](https://indfin.com/dolconsumer/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® The DOL wants investors to know who their "advisors" are and just how they operate when giving advice to consumers regarding their retirement accounts, i.e., 401(k)s, IRAs, etc. Under the new rules, which are scheduled to be phased-in over time beginning in April, any financial advisor providing advice on retirement accounts - January 17, 2017 Department of Labor Wants Consumers To Know Their Advisor’s Fiduciary Status
- [Will My Money Last?](https://indfin.com/will-my-money-last/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Scott and Linda (not their real names) are in their 50s and have done a lot of things right: They've worked hard, saved and invested, and they've been practical in their spending. They feel like they're well on-track to a secure retirement; but, a few "wild cards" do have them concerned: - January 31, 2017 Will My Money Last?
- [Can You Reduce Risk By Adding To It?](https://indfin.com/riskreport/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Ever wonder why so many "off-the-shelf" allocation engines available today tend to look so much alike? The reason is pretty straightforward: The investor's menu of choices is limited by the engine provider based on similar sets of data inputs and a short risk questionnaire. When you couple that sameness with a - February 7, 2017 Can You Reduce Risk By Adding To It?
- [Trying to Keep Top Talent?  This could be your roadmap](https://indfin.com/rebareport/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® No, that's no my picture - I wish I were that young and good looking; but he does look like a happy executive who's worth keeping.... a key employee! Key employees don't have to be executives. It can be anyone who is valuable to a business, particularly a small business that - February 21, 2017 Trying to Keep Top Talent? This could be your roadmap
- [Is Your Business A Ticking Grenade?](https://indfin.com/tickinggrenade/) - Enjoy, Jim Jim Lorenzen is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and An Accredited Investment Fiduciary® serving private clients since 1991. Jim is Founding Principal of The Independent Financial Group, a registered investment advisor with clients located across the U.S.. He is also licensed for insurance as an independent agent under California license 0C00742. The Independent - February 28, 2017 Is Your Business A Ticking Grenade?
- [What's Your Focus?](https://indfin.com/whatsyourfocus/) - What's Your Focus Life Insurance Priorities Tool By the way, when you request this tool, you'll also receive future issues of my ezine. I hope you find that helpful, as well; but, you can unsubscribe at any time and be removed from the list immediately. Enjoy! Jim Jim Lorenzen is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional - March 14, 2017 What’s Your Focus?
- [Someone else likes your key employee - Your competition!](https://indfin.com/easybonusplan/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Successful business owners know they're successful because of their people. Within that group there's usually one or two key people that either seem to make everything run well or, without their presence, the business would suffer a significant loss of revenue. Sometimes they have special vendor or banking relationships, which means - March 28, 2017 Someone else likes your key employee – Your competition!
- [A Slick 2017 Market Outlook Infographic!](https://indfin.com/2017vgoutlook/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Here's an interesting market outlook infographic from Vanguard! Thought you might enjoy seeing it! Just click on the image; you can enlarge it. The White Paper referenced was written at the end of last year, but you may still find it interesting. You can get ithere. Enjoy! - April 4, 2017 A Slick 2017 Market Outlook Infographic!
- [Business Owners Face Potential Tax Law Changes](https://indfin.com/business-owner-tax-law-changes/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® 1954 1986 2017 What do those years have in common? If you guessed those were the years of major tax reform, you'd be right–at least about the first two. 2017 is still a question mark. While tax law changes can occur quite often, major reforms appear to come around about every - October 16, 2017 Business Owners Face Potential Tax Law Changes
- [MONEY OR INCOME:  Which is most important to you?](https://indfin.com/incomeormoney/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Which goal is most important to you? - Never running out of retirement money - Never running out of retirement income - Both Sure, you said both. And, maybe that's possible! The problem for many is that not only are substantial assets required to provide a comfortable retirement income – you - August 1, 2017 MONEY OR INCOME: Which is most important to you?
- [Old-Age Financial Security:  Silence is NOT Golden, yet Some aren't talking!](https://indfin.com/canwetalk/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Generational planning didn't seemimportant for old age financial security in my grandparent's day. They were living at a time when Social Security was passed and designed to last for a lifetime beginning at age 65. Of course, life expectancy back then was around age 68! Who needed to worry about generational - July 17, 2017 Old-Age Financial Security: Silence is NOT Golden, yet Some aren’t talking!
- [Beware of Mortgage Loan Scams](https://indfin.com/mortgageloanscams/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® First I want to point out that this post is really courtesy of Senior Deputy Becky Purnell of the Moorpark Police who provided this information in the City of Moorpark Guide; but, I thought it was so worthwhile I wanted to relay the information here. According to Deputy Purnell, you should - September 5, 2017 Beware of Mortgage Loan Scams
- [What To Do With Business Sale Proceeds](https://indfin.com/businesssaleproceeds/) - Click Here! By the way, when you get the report, you'll also be subscribed to our free ezine. If you decide you don't want it, simply unsubscribe at any time - your name will be removed immediately. IFG will never share your email address with anyone for any reason. If you would like help, of - October 30, 2017 What To Do With Business Sale Proceeds
- [Managing Retirement Income Decisions During Retirement](https://indfin.com/managingretirementincome/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Managing retirement income has never been easy. Those who retired in the early 1970s saw interest rates rise dramatically, then fall the same way – all within about a 15-year period. When interest rates were going up, it made them feel good; but, few paid attention to inflation or tax implications. - November 27, 2017 Managing Retirement Income Decisions During Retirement
- [How To Avoid the Family Business Wealth Evaporation Trap](https://indfin.com/familybusinesswealthevaporation/) - Click Here Enjoy! Jim Jim Lorenzen is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and An Accredited Investment Fiduciary® serving private clients since 1991. Jim is Founding Principal of The Independent Financial Group, a registered investment advisor with clients located across the U.S.. He is also licensed for insurance as an independent agent under California license 0C00742. - December 11, 2017 How To Avoid the Family Business Wealth Evaporation Trap
- [A Long Life Is Wonderful When You Can Enjoy It!](https://indfin.com/familybusinesswealthevaporation-2/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® We know we're living longer; a long life can be wonderful... and some of us get to live better, too. I think you'll enjoy this little one-minute video - Say "Hi" to Ida. ....and, enjoy the Holidays! Enjoy! Jim Jim Lorenzen is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional and An Accredited Investment - December 20, 2017 A Long Life Is Wonderful When You Can Enjoy It!
- [Thinking of Giving to Charity?  Here are some options for giving!](https://indfin.com/tax-advantaged-or-tax-deferred-do-you-know-the-difference-copy-2/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Giving to charity? While most anything can be given to charity, these are the more common forms of donated property: Cash:Cash gifts are the easiest to give to a charity, both in terms of substantiating the deduction and in determining the value of the gift. But, cash may be your most - September 26, 2018 Thinking of Giving to Charity? Here are some options for giving!
- [Are Risk Questionnaires Meaningless?](https://indfin.com/riskquestionnaires-2/) - Risk questionnaires have played a major role in retirement and investment planning for as long as I can remember; and I’ve used them no less religiously than any other advisor. Frankly, I’ve always felt they were a little stupid. - November 22, 2019 Are Risk Questionnaires Meaningless?
- [What Will "Medicare for All" Really Cost?](https://indfin.com/healthcareforall/) - I’m not sure how many of the candidates who are running on government supported Medicare for everyone majored in economics or finance – it maybe explains the obvious their all to obvious failure to address the question directly. Elizabeth Warren, for example, promised that it won’t cost the middle class “one penny” – a feat that hasn’t been accomplished by any country now offering universal health care. According to an inciteful Advisor Perspectives article by Rick Kahler, CFP and registered investment advisor based in Rapid City, S.D., the middle class in those countries pay income taxes of up to 40% and a national sales tax equivalent to 15-25% of income. While Senator Warren estimates the cost over a decade at $20 trillion in new federal spending – a cost the middle class is somehow to avoid – Estimates from six independent financial organizations put the figure in the $28-36 trillion range. Link: http://www.crfb.org/blogs/how-much-will-medicare-all-cost A Forbes article describes the tax increases aimed at wealthy individuals. Included are: Eliminating the favorable tax rate on capital gains Increasing the “Obamacare” tax from 3.8% to 14.8% on investment income over $250,000 Eliminating the step-up in basis for inheritors Establishing a financial transaction tax of 0.10% The capital gains tax increase, the step-up in basis, and the financial transaction tax will all affect middle class investors – potentially anyone with a 401(k) or an IRA. Rick Kahler points out that the American Retirement Association estimates that the financial transaction tax alone will cost the average 401(k) and IRA investor over $1,500 a year. The 0.10% financial transaction tax, for example, would apply to all securities sold and purchased within a mutual fund or ETF, in addition to any purchases and sales of the funds themselves by investors. Mr. Kahler estimates these costs can run 0.20% to 0.30% a year to fund investors. When you consider some index funds charge only 0.10% in total expenses, the increase comes to 200% or more. Eliminating the step-up in basis and the favorable capital gains treatment will certainly cost middle class investors more than a penny. A retiree leaving an heir $200,000 with $100,000 in cost basis, could easily cost the middle class inheritor $10,000 to $20,000 or more in taxes. Forbes link: https://www.forbes.com/sites/howardgleckman/2019/11/07/warrens-plan-to-double-tax-wealth-is-unrealistic/#4444076e4aaf Candidates can promise – that doesn’t cost anything – but it’s the electorate who needs to do the math. After all, our elected representatives don’t live in the same health care world the rest of us do. - December 2, 2019 What Will “Medicare for All” Really Cost?
- [Women and Social Security Land Mines](https://indfin.com/women-and-social-security-land-mines/) - Bad decisions can create time bombs, and few decisions can be as disastrous as those that result from the mistakes many women make when it comes to claiming Social Security benefits. This is particularly true for widows, divorced spouses, and stay-at-home parents. - May 20, 2021 Women and Social Security Land Mines
- [Should You ALWAYS Wait to Claim Social Security Benefits?](https://indfin.com/social-security-claiming/) - There may be times when you might decide it's worth claiming your Social Security benefits early! - July 15, 2021 Should You ALWAYS Wait to Claim Social Security Benefits?
- [Social Security Report Indicates Benefit Cuts May Be On The Way.](https://indfin.com/social-security-report-on-benefit-cuts/) - The Social Security Board of Trustees released its annual report on the long-term financial status of the Social Security Trust Funds. - September 2, 2021 Social Security Report Indicates Benefit Cuts May Be On The Way.
- [Social Security Claiming Mistakes Mean Retirees Set To Lose $3.4 Trillion in Retirement Income.](https://indfin.com/social-security-claiming-mistakes-mean-retirees-set-to-lose-3-4-trillion-in-retirement-income/) - Over half of all Americans expect to live a comfortable retirement and only one third think Social Security will be important to them. - September 14, 2021 Social Security Claiming Mistakes Mean Retirees Set To Lose $3.4 Trillion in Retirement Income.
- [7% Return?  From the U.S. Treasury?](https://indfin.com/7-percent-from-the-us-treasury/) - Yes, Virginia, Series I bonds sold from November 2021 through April 2022 earn interest at 7.12%. Oops. - April 26, 2022 7% Return? From the U.S. Treasury?
- [Tax Planning for Retirement Income](https://indfin.com/tax-planning-for-retirement-income/) - Tax Planning doesn't stop at retirement. In fact, tax planning is important for optimizing retirement income - and it changes during all four stages of retirement. - May 23, 2022 Tax Planning for Retirement Income
- [Remember 1966?  How About 1967?](https://indfin.com/remember-1966/) - Retirement decisions can be momentous. Which year you would have remembered would depend on if you retired back then... and which year! - June 28, 2022 Remember 1966? How About 1967?
- [Managing an Inheritance](https://indfin.com/managing-an-inheritance/) - Managing inherited money isn't as simple as depositing the check and picking some sure-fire investments. - July 11, 2022 Managing an Inheritance
- [When Should You Apply for Social Security Benefits?](https://indfin.com/when-should-you-apply-for-social-security-benefits/) - Mistakes can be costly - and may be permanent! - December 13, 2022 When Should You Apply for Social Security Benefits?
- [Thinking About a Rollover?](https://indfin.com/thinking-about-a-rollover/) - No, we're not training your dog. But, if you're nearing retirement, you know exactly what a rollover is - and you know it's a big decision. - January 16, 2023 Thinking About a Rollover?
- [The Big (Expensive) Rollover Mistake Some People Make](https://indfin.com/bigrollovermistake/) - At retirement, some people receive a check from their employer for their 401(k) balance and write a check for deposit into their IRA before the 60-day deadline, just like they were told, to avoid any problems with the IRS. They’ve met the deadline. The money is now in their IRA. They’re clear and the rollover is complete…. or is it? - March 14, 2023 The Big (Expensive) Rollover Mistake Some People Make
- [Uncle Sam’s Greed and Your Retirement: Should You Go All-In on Your 401(k)?](https://indfin.com/uncle-sams-greed-and-your-retirement-should-you-go-all-in-on-your-401k/) - Given the size of our growing national debt it’s no wonder so many people believe taxes will be higher in the future. We have an ageing population and there are a number of factors at work: There’s the annual deficit plus money needed to fund Medicare and Social Security, just to mention a few. - May 19, 2023 Uncle Sam’s Greed and Your Retirement: Should You Go All-In on Your 401(k)?
- [Want to Defer RMD Taxable Income? Try a QLAC!](https://indfin.com/want-to-defer-rmd-taxable-income-try-a-qlac/) - A QLAC tax-free transfer by your IRA that can defer RMD taxable income. And, because of SECURE Act 2.0, it can also do more.
- [Key Retirement Milestones](https://indfin.com/key-retirement-milestones/) - Retirement milestones should actually begin the day you leave school and enter the workforce; but few people think about retirement at that age.
- [Get Ready for Some Possible Tax Increases!](https://indfin.com/taxincreases/) - As you may or may not know, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is due to expire at the end of next year – just 16 months from now. The Biden Administration has proposed new tax increases worth knowing about. - August 5, 2024 Get Ready for Some Possible Tax Increases!
- [No Tax on Social Security Benefits?](https://indfin.com/no-tax-on-social-security-benefits/) - No taxes on Social Security sounds good! Be careful what you wish for.
- [Will My Money Last?](https://indfin.com/will-my-money-last-2/) - If you are one of those asking the 'will my money last' question, there's a way you can find out just what your probabilities are! - August 2, 2024 Will My Money Last?
- [Protecting Wealth from Inflation](https://indfin.com/protecting-wealth-from-inflation/) - We all know the Fed target is 2% inflation; but, since COVID-19 and all the accompanying spending, it’s been tough going for the Fed. While the rate of inflation has been slowly declining, it’s still stubbornly around 3% - and with people living longer, it can still spell disaster for those facing retirement, especially with longer life expectancies. - July 15, 2024 Protecting Wealth from Inflation
- [What Does the Future Hold for Social Security?](https://indfin.com/what-does-the-future-hold-for-social-security/) - What's the future for Social Security? Politicians love to use scare tactics since no solution favors everyoneit's a math problem with four possible solutions.
- [Facing Retirement Account Rollover Decisions?](https://indfin.com/facing-retirement-account-rollover-decisions/) - Retirement account and rollover decisions can be irreversible and costly. If you're facing retirement, know your options and the pros and cons of each.
- [Tax-Delayed Isn’t Tax-Free](https://indfin.com/tax-delayed-isnt-tax-free/) - Believe it or not, investing during working years was the easy part. Just keep accumulating! Even better, the money you put aside wasn’t taxable. Such a deal! Tax-delayed doesn't mean tax-free however. - February 5, 2024 Tax-Delayed Isn’t Tax-Free
- [Bad Financial Behavior and How to Avoid It!](https://indfin.com/bad-financial-behavior-and-how-to-avoid-it/) - Rollercoasters are fun – at the amusement park. Not so much in your retirement account. And that’s where bad financial behavior gets costly. - October 20, 2023 Bad Financial Behavior and How to Avoid It!
- [Older Variable Annuities Can Be Expensive!](https://indfin.com/older-variable-annuities-can-be-expensive/) - Older variable annuities can be expensive. Are you paying 1.4% in annuity charges? Your annuity may have grown making that 1.4% expensive!
- [How Can You Make Your Retirement Money Last?](https://indfin.com/how-to-make-your-retirement-money-last/) - Making your retirement money last through retirement isn’t easy. Pension plans are all but gone. Now, everyone has to be his/her own actuary.
- [Social Security Answers to The Most Pressing - Questions.](https://indfin.com/socialsecurityquestions/) - Social Security Answers to the most common and pressing questions. Many of the most pressing are answered here! There's even a free video!
- [Planning Your Future Without a Roadmap?](https://indfin.com/planning-your-future-without-a-roadmap/) - You want to begin planning your future life, but aren't sure how. You want help but don't know how to get stareted. Sound familiar? It should. - September 14, 2023 Planning Your Future Without a Roadmap?
- [Do Roth Conversions Make Sense if You're in a High Tax Bracket?](https://indfin.com/do-roth-conversions-make-sense-if-youre-in-a-high-tax-bracket/) - There are a lot of myths surrounding Roth conversions and this one might rank near the top, and you should know why. It’s important to have some historical perspective. - September 5, 2023 Do Roth Conversions Make Sense if You’re in a High Tax Bracket?
- [Roth Accounts Provide Many Advantages - But Congress Could Provide the Wild Card.](https://indfin.com/roth-accounts-provide-many-advantages-but-congress-could-provide-the-wild-card/) - But Congress Could Provide the Wild Card. Roth accounts can be attractive, especially when viewed through the lens of our national debt and the possibility (probability?) of higher taxes in the future to fund that debt. - August 7, 2023 Roth Accounts Provide Many Advantages – But Congress Could Provide the Wild Card.
- [The Intersection of Current Events, Banking Crises, and Financial Planning: Navigating Uncertainty with Prudence](https://indfin.com/bank-crisis-and-safe-money/) - It’s been said that the only constant is change and lately it’s been the banking crisis. Financial planning is often more about what we don’t know than what we do know. Lately, we’ve been through COVID, supply chain issues and (ongoing) issues with some of our country’s financial institutions. - June 15, 2023 The Intersection of Current Events, Banking Crises, and Financial Planning: Navigating Uncertainty with Prudence
- [Which is Better: An IUL or a Roth IRA?  ](https://indfin.com/iulorroth/) - When it comes to building a solid financial future, finding the right investment vehicle can be a daunting task. Comparisons are often made between an IUL (Indexed Universal Life Insurance) and a Roth IRA (Individual Retirement Account) as a choice between getting life insurance or investing in the stock market. While an IUL can give the appearance of doing both; however that’s not really the case – and, often, this can lead to unrealistic expectations. - June 6, 2023 Which is Better: An IUL or a Roth IRA?
- [How Long Will Your Retirement Money Last?](https://indfin.com/makingmymoneylast/) - Longevity risk is real. Accumulating assets for retirement was a lot easier than managing retirement income. Now you practically have to be an actuary to make sure your money doesn't run out before you do! - October 21, 2021 How Long Will Your Retirement Money Last?
- [A Tax Trap That Catches Many By Surprise](https://indfin.com/tax-planning/) - Tax planning through retirement is important; and failing to do it through all four stages of retirement can prove costly because some of the tax traps are permanent. Here’s an example: - April 17, 2023 A Tax Trap That Catches Many By Surprise
- [What Baby Boomers Need to Know About Social Security in 2023!](https://indfin.com/what-baby-boomers-need-to-know-about-social-security-in-2023/) - Social Security claiming decisions aren't as simple as they may appear. The decisions you make for yourself can impact your spouse, your future taxes, and even the bite Medicare premiums take from your Social Security benefits. - April 11, 2023 What Baby Boomers Need to Know About Social Security in 2023!
- [SECURE Act 2.0 and How Tax Law Changes Might Change Your Plans.](https://indfin.com/secure-act-2-0-and-how-tax-law-changes-might-change-your-plans/) - The SECURE Act includes roughly 100 new rules for retirement affecting both individuals and businesses - all with tax implications and various effective dates. These are the most expansive changes to retirement rules in 40 years. - March 31, 2023 SECURE Act 2.0 and How Tax Law Changes Might Change Your Plans.
- [Should You Take Social Security Early and Continue to Grow your IRA?](https://indfin.com/should-you-take-social-security-early-and-continue-to-grow-your-ira/) - Many people believe they should take Social Security early in order to keep from drawing down IRA assets, believing that the longer they can grow the IRA tax-deferred, the better off they’ll be. Are they wrong? Maybe. Maybe not. Different people are in different circumstances. - March 20, 2023 Should You Take Social Security Early and Continue to Grow your IRA?
- [What's New for Social Security in 2023?](https://indfin.com/whats-new-for-social-security-in-2023/) - There have been some changes to Social Security this year. - March 16, 2023 What’s New for Social Security in 2023?
- [What People Get Wrong About Retirement Rollovers](https://indfin.com/rollovermistakes-2/) - Here’s what people get wrong when making rollover decisions. - February 27, 2023 What People Get Wrong About Retirement Rollovers
- [Retirees' Biggest Decision?  It's Still When to Claim Social Security.](https://indfin.com/retirees-biggest-decision-its-still-when-to-claim-social-security/) - Too many seniors still take the Social Security claiming decision too lightly – it’s a mistake that can cost them tens, if not hundreds, of thousands of dollars of retirement income during their lifetimes. And, often, the decision is made based on false bias or assumptions rather than a solid planning strategy. - February 15, 2023 Retirees’ Biggest Decision? It’s Still When to Claim Social Security.
- [<strong>Does SECURE Act 2.0 Create a Stealth Tax?</strong>](https://indfin.com/secure-act-stealth-tax/) - The SECURE Act 2.0 may do a lot to help secure Uncle Sam, but I’m not so sure about the rest of us. - January 23, 2023 Does SECURE Act 2.0 Create a Stealth Tax?
- [<strong>IRAs With Excess Assets Impact Family Members Too!</strong>](https://indfin.com/iras-with-excess-assets-impact-family-members-too/) - After passage of the SECURE Act of 2019, non-spouse IRA beneficiaries are now required to liquidate their inherited IRAs by the end of the 10th year. Often, that means they’ll be withdrawing taxable income from the inherited IRAs during their peak earning years – great gift for Uncle Sam, but not so good for the kids. - January 9, 2023 IRAs With Excess Assets Impact Family Members Too!
- [<strong>ESG Investing: Really Worthwhile or Just Another Wall Street Gimmick?</strong>](https://indfin.com/esg-investing-really-worthwhile-or-just-another-wall-street-gimmick/) - The value of ESG – or even what it is – hasn’t been defined. So, it depends on who you ask, how the law is interpreted, and apparently, who’s doing the packaging. Oh, yes, it also depends on how you quantify it. - November 27, 2022 ESG Investing: Really Worthwhile or Just Another Wall Street Gimmick?
- [Looking for a Riskless Alternative to Risky Investments?](https://indfin.com/alternative2risk/) - How about an asset class that doesn’t have the risks of stocks or bonds? One that can provide stability and peace of mind. - November 14, 2022 Looking for a Riskless Alternative to Risky Investments?
- [Did You Know the Government Subsidizes Market Losses in Traditional IRA and 401K accounts?](https://indfin.com/did-you-know-the-government-subsidizes-market-losses-in-traditional-ira-and-401k-accounts/) - True! Market losses aren't all yours. The IRS subsidizes part of them. - October 28, 2022 Did You Know the Government Subsidizes Market Losses in Traditional IRA and 401K accounts?
- [Planning for Retirement?  Here are a few tips!](https://indfin.com/planning-for-retirement/) - For some people, planning for retirement can feel like trying to eat an elephant; but, it doesn't have to be that way. Before making big decisions, it's always important to get the ducks lined-up first. - September 29, 2022 Planning for Retirement? Here are a few tips!
- [Customer Service is a Problem at Social Security](https://indfin.com/social-security-customer-service-problems/) - Have you tried to call Social Security lately? If so, this won’t come as much of a surprise – customer service is all but non-existent. - August 22, 2022 Customer Service is a Problem at Social Security
- [Annual Social Security Trustee Report Urges Reform](https://indfin.com/social-security-trustee-report/) - The annual Social Security trustees' report is to advise Congress on the financial condition of the Social Security system over the next 75 years. If they project that 100% of benefits will be paid, it's said to be in balance and no action will be needed. If they project a shortfall, they call on Congress to fix the problem by either raising taxes, cutting benefits, or some combination of the two. - June 14, 2022 Annual Social Security Trustee Report Urges Reform
- [SECURE Act 2.0: RMD Age Hikes Coming?](https://indfin.com/secure-act-and-rmd-age-hikes/) - RMD age hikes may not be the blessing you think. The question just might be who is more secure? Retirees or future government spending? - August 8, 2022 SECURE Act 2.0: RMD Age Hikes Coming?
- [Two Interesting Investment Strategies - But No Free Lunch.](https://indfin.com/investment-stratey/) - No investment strategy is without some kind of risk; but, I think this comes close. Take a look: - June 20, 2022 Two Interesting Investment Strategies – But No Free Lunch.
- [A SECURE Act Defense Strategy](https://indfin.com/a-secure-act-defense-strategy/) - Congress labeled it the SECURE Act, because it’s a better sell to the public. But, what Uncle Sam really wanted to do was make their spending programs more secure – hence, securing reelection. - June 6, 2022 A SECURE Act Defense Strategy
- [To Roll or Not to Roll](https://indfin.com/irarollovers/) - Good question. Whether or not you should roll-over your retirement funds to an IRA..... it depends (#1 in the consultant’s handbook of responses). - May 13, 2022 To Roll or Not to Roll
- [Does The SECURE Act Make You More Secure?](https://indfin.com/retirement-security/) - Looking for retirement security? Government spending has been out of control for decades and Congress needs to raise revenue. So, they passed The SECURE (Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement) Act in December 2019. It may secure the government’s future; but, one provision may make your heir’s retirement a little less secure. - April 29, 2022 Does The SECURE Act Make You More Secure?
- [2022 Decisions Can Affect 2024 Taxes for Some!](https://indfin.com/irmaa/) - Expecting a big capital gains or other tax event this year? It might mean an unexpected tax surprise that can affect your Medicare premiums two years from now! - April 18, 2022 2022 Decisions Can Affect 2024 Taxes for Some!
- [Beware of Tax Torpedoes and the IRMAA Cliff](https://indfin.com/beware-of-tax-torpedoes-and-the-irmaa-cliff/) - Tax traps are waiting. Did you it's possible to be smack in the middle of the 22% tax bracket, yet taking an additional $1,000 in income could make that additional money taxable at 40%? It can happen to some taxpayers. In fact, there are other pitfalls many aren't aware of, as well. - April 11, 2022 Beware of Tax Torpedoes and the IRMAA Cliff
- [Planning Retirement?   Think Hard.  Stuff Happens.](https://indfin.com/guardrails/) - Remember 1966? What if you retired then? Would it have made a difference if you retired in 1967 instead? Can you time retirement? If not, how do you reduce your risk when there's no time to rebuild all over again? - March 28, 2022 Planning Retirement? Think Hard. Stuff Happens.
- [New Social Security Statements Available](https://indfin.com/social-security-2/) - Have you checked your Social Security statement on the SSA's website? You should; there's a lot of good information there! - March 24, 2022 New Social Security Statements Available
- [Are You A "Baby Boomer" Getting Ready for Social Security?](https://indfin.com/social-security-for-baby-boomers/) - If you're a baby boomer, you may want to begin your Social Security planning early - and it's especially true when it comes to claiming Social Security! Today it's different from when your parents filed their claims: they just went down to the Social Security office and put in the paperwork! Today, it's far more complicated. - March 18, 2022 Are You A “Baby Boomer” Getting Ready for Social Security?
- [Retirement Planning with Rising Rates and Inflation](https://indfin.com/retirement-planning-with-rising-rates-and-inflation/) - Retirement planning was much easier during working years than the challenge of managing after retirement. During the working years it’s relatively simple: just keep stashing money into your retirement plan and let the markets, over decades, do the rest! - February 22, 2022 Retirement Planning with Rising Rates and Inflation
- [529 vs Roth IRA:  Which is Better for College Savings?](https://indfin.com/college-planning/) - We’ve all been conditioned to believe the well-known 529 plan is the “designated” college savings vehicle – people tend to think of it automatically when planning. - January 27, 2022 529 vs Roth IRA: Which is Better for College Savings?
- [Roth Conversions Can Be Advantageous, but Not for Everyone.](https://indfin.com/roth-conversions-can-be-advantageous/) - There may be times when a Roth conversion may be advantageous; but there are others when it may not be your best move. - January 4, 2022 Roth Conversions Can Be Advantageous, but Not for Everyone.
- [Good News: Social Security Isn't Going Broke.](https://indfin.com/socialsecurityoutlook/) - However we're not out of the woods.... - November 29, 2021 Good News: Social Security Isn’t Going Broke.
- [Social Security Claiming can be Confusing.](https://indfin.com/social-security/) - Social Security can be confusing; even the hard-working people working in Social Security offices don't always get it right. Here are the two questions advisors often get asked. - November 15, 2021 Social Security Claiming can be Confusing.
- [Social Security Claiming Mistakes Can Be Expensive.](https://indfin.com/socialsecurity4boomers/) - Social Security claiming mistakes can result in more than just lost income; you might end-up paying thousands in extra taxes later! - November 8, 2021 Social Security Claiming Mistakes Can Be Expensive.
- [Do You Have A System for Managing Retirement Income?](https://indfin.com/makingmymoneylast-2/) - Longevity risk is real. Accumulating assets for retirement was a lot easier than managing retirement income. Now you practically have to be an actuary to make sure your money doesn't run out before you do! - October 22, 2021 Do You Have A System for Managing Retirement Income?
- [Can Your IRA Grow Too Big?](https://indfin.com/can-your-ira-grow-too-big/) - A Roth conversion for some IRA assets may provide more tax savings than you realize. - September 28, 2021 Can Your IRA Grow Too Big?
- [17 Unexpected Retirement Expenses](https://indfin.com/17-unexpected-retirement-expenses-2/) - I wish I could take credit for this list, but I can’t. This is from the Society of Actuaries who outlined these unexpected or shocking expenses in its 2015 Risks and Process of Retirement Survey. I doubt it’s changed much since. Here they’re ranked by the likelihood of it happening. - July 23, 2021 17 Unexpected Retirement Expenses
- [Higher Taxes Ahead?](https://indfin.com/higher-taxes-ahead/) - What could those tax hikes look like? Let’s consider the possibilities. - July 10, 2021 Higher Taxes Ahead?
- [When to Name a Trust as your IRA Beneficiary](https://indfin.com/when-to-name-a-trust-as-your-ira-beneficiary/) - IRAs are popular choices as a retirement vehicle, today holding over $11 trillion in assets, estimated to comprise more than one-third of all retirement assets. What’s interesting is that naming trusts as IRA beneficiaries has become more common. - June 24, 2021 When to Name a Trust as your IRA Beneficiary
- [SECURE Act 2.0?](https://indfin.com/secure-act-2-0/) - Remember when we heard the SECURE Act eliminated the stretch IRA for most all non-spouse beneficiaries? - June 9, 2021 SECURE Act 2.0?
- [Retirement Income Planning Gains Importance.](https://indfin.com/retirementincome/) - Retirement Income Planning Gains Importance. - May 7, 2021 Retirement Income Planning Gains Importance.
- [IRA Rollover Mistakes Can Be Irrevocable](https://indfin.com/ira-rollover-mistakes-can-be-irrevocable/) - IRA rollover mistakes are easy to make and could be impossible to correct. It’s worth understanding that every time IRA or 401(k) money is touched, it’s a gamble for those who don’t know what they’re doing. - April 20, 2021 IRA Rollover Mistakes Can Be Irrevocable
- [What Does A Tax Strategy Look Like?](https://indfin.com/what-does-a-tax-strategy-look-like/) - There are many possible tax strategies available. The question, of course, is which, if any, are appropriate for you. - March 11, 2021 What Does A Tax Strategy Look Like?
- [Insurance Company Ratings May Not Be What They Seem!](https://indfin.com/insurance-company-ratings-may-not-be-what-they-seem/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Don't believe beautiful illustrations. They're based on assumptions that can change. Unless you know the probability of success in advance - not an easy thing to do - you may be buying a "pig-in-a-polk", as we used say when I was in college back in Virginia. Example: Before Executive Life of - October 21, 2015 Insurance Company Ratings May Not Be What They Seem!
- [Are YOU a Target in the Green Book?](https://indfin.com/are-you-a-target-in-the-green-book/) - Last week we heard from many experts who believe it may be time to dump the 401(k). Two weeks ago we discovered that many experts, like retirement guru and CPA, Ed Slott and former US Comptroller General David M. Walker, believe income taxes are going up – I even conducted my first-ever webinar on how - May 20, 2015 Are YOU a Target in the Green Book?
- [Bull or Bubble?](https://indfin.com/bull-or-bubble/) - Financial planning is about preserving purchasing power for retirement and beyond. It may not be as easy as it looks, especially for those close to or in retirement. Few of these folks have overweighted stock allocations. In the meantime, bonds have likely hit their highs and their yields are low; so, even a 40% increase - March 7, 2013 Bull or Bubble?
- [Fraudsters Targeting Seniors Chasing Yield](https://indfin.com/fraudsters-targeting-seniors-chasing-yield/) - Whenever there’s a crowd chasing a solution, there’s a fraudster willing to take their money. While inflation has found people at the gas pump and the grocery line, the increased income inflation is supposed to provide has not found its way into Social Security payouts. This has resulted in many seniors searching desperately for high - September 9, 2014 Fraudsters Targeting Seniors Chasing Yield
- [The Federal Debt Solution](https://indfin.com/the-federal-debt-solution/) - If history is any guide, we may already know the answer. Politicians will take the easy way out. Given the increasing deficits, the outlook for growth is problematic. It would appear there are three available options. Which one do you think the politicians will choose? (1) Reduce the level of debt, i.e., reduce spending; or - October 16, 2012 The Federal Debt Solution
- [The Benchmark Myth](https://indfin.com/the-benchmark-myth/) - We’ve all heard it. We’ve all read it. Most managers fail to match, let alone beat, the market. Actually, it makes sense! And, there’s a very simple reason for this, which comes in two parts. First, if you believe – probably rightly so – that institutional managers of giant pension plans, mutual funds, etc., actually comprise - November 6, 2012 The Benchmark Myth
- [Are Risk Questionnaires A Waste of Time?](https://indfin.com/are-risk-questionnaires-a-waste-of-time/) - Are these things worth anything? ... or nothing. Risk questionnaires have played a major role in retirement and investment planning for as long as I can remember; and I’ve used them no less religiously than any other advisor. Frankly, I’ve always felt they were a little stupid. Elmer Duckhunter walks into Brainy Smartsuit’s office at - November 8, 2012 Are Risk Questionnaires A Waste of Time?
- [Company Stock and NUA](https://indfin.com/company-stock-and-nua/) - Getting ready to retire? Leaving your company? Wondering whether you should sell or roll-over your company stock? That's really a tax-treatment question, which means you should consult with your tax professional; but, here's a little information you may want to review. What you should know: Shares of employer stock get special tax treatment, and in - November 12, 2012 Company Stock and NUA
- [Three Retirement Rollover Mistakes to Avoid](https://indfin.com/three-retirement-rollover-mistakes-to-avoid/) - Planning to retire? Contemplating a rollover? Here are three ways NOT to do it. 1. Get a check from the company Of course, this is just foolish. The company must withhold 20% from the payment, so that a person with a $100,000 account will have $20,000 withheld, and will receive a check for $80,000. In - November 12, 2012 Three Retirement Rollover Mistakes to Avoid
- [How Much Is That $1 Coupon Really Worth?](https://indfin.com/how-much-is-that-1-coupon-really-worth/) - Retirement success may not be as easy to achieve as many think. I attended a conference and heard one speaker relay a story about one company’s 401(k) enrollment meeting where 100% - yes, everyone – said they wanted to enroll in the company’s 401(k) plan. They all were going through the materials and even choosing allocations they felt - November 14, 2012 How Much Is That $1 Coupon Really Worth?
- [New Tax Rates - New Game Plan for 2013](https://indfin.com/new-tax-rates-new-game-plan-for-2013/) - Higher Tax Rates You probably know we now have a new restored 39.6% top marginal tax bracket for high earners. Those people will also be paying a 20% rate on both capital gains and dividends; but, there's more: These are the people who very likely will be paying an additional 3.8% Medicare tax on investment - February 14, 2013 New Tax Rates – New Game Plan for 2013
- [Commissions or Fees: Which is Cheaper](https://indfin.com/commissions-or-fees-which-is-cheaper/) - You guessed it: It depends. You can ask ten people and get ten different opinions about this issue; but, after more than twenty years in this business – having begun in a Wall Street big name `wire house’ and gradually changing my business model from stockbroker to independent broker to independent planner/broker to independent planner/broker/advisor - February 21, 2013 Commissions or Fees: Which is Cheaper
- [Inflation Is Sneaky; The Hazards Can Be Significant!](https://indfin.com/inflation-is-sneaky-the-hazards-can-be-significant/) - Inflation is like glaucoma. You can’t see it on a day-to-day basis, but the erosion of purchasing power is still there. Do you remember when $50,000 a year was a lot of money and $5,000 would buy a luxury car? I do (okay, I also remember double-knits). My dad retired in 1974 and lived 32 - February 26, 2013 Inflation Is Sneaky; The Hazards Can Be Significant!
- [Ten Tips for Retiring Rich](https://indfin.com/ten-tips-for-retiring-rich/) - “Money may not be too important to you, pal; but, to me, it ranks right up there with oxygen. Ruth Gordon Former Actress It’s a funny line – and there’s a certain ring of truth to it; after all, no one wants to live a life of worry and insecurity in their later years; But, - February 28, 2013 Ten Tips for Retiring Rich
- [The Government May Be Your Partner!](https://indfin.com/the-government-may-be-your-partner/) - "A taxpayer is someone who works for the government, but doesn't have to take the Civil Service Exam." - Ronald Reagan Is the government your partner? If so, wealth preservation may be an issue... expect Uncle Sam to want part of all you worked for when you die. If you own raw land, a farm, - April 30, 2013 The Government May Be Your Partner!

## Pages

- [Certified Financial Planner and Fiduciary Advisor](https://indfin.com/) - CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) professional, an ACCREDITED INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY® (AIF®) serving Simi Valley, Moorpark, and Thousand Oaks pre-retirees and retirees navigating the transition from a corporate career to Retirement, including Social Security income planning and tax management strategies since 1991.
- [The Social Security "Elephant In the Room"](https://indfin.com/the-social-security-elephant-in-the-room/) - "When should I claim Social Security based on my income needs, taxes, life expectancy, spouse, and overall retirement plan?" You've come to the right place! Get your “The Social Security Elephant in the Room,” practical Social Security claiming guide that walks through the major considerations and includes a simple decision flowchart you can complete in
- ["Can I Retire?"](https://indfin.com/howdoibegin/) - One of the most common questions asked is "Can I retire?" That's probably because for the first time, a retiree has to live off assets instead of earned income.
- [Organizing Your Life](https://indfin.com/your-life-data-file/) - Organizing your life information may seem daunting; but, it's about just getting started. This page is here to help you get started!
- [Your Goals and Priorities](https://indfin.com/your-goals/) - What do you still want to do? Directions: Rank each of the following values 1-13 (or more). Remember, you must rank each one; no ties! ____ FINANCE CHILDREN'S/GRAND CHILDREN'S EDUCATION ____ BUY A NEW HOME (PRIMARY/VACATION) ____ BUY A NEW CAR/BOAT/THING ____ TRAVEL EXTENSIVELY ____ SAVE FOR RETIREMENT ____ REDUCE/ELIMINATE DEBT ____ SET UP A
- [Rank Your Priorities](https://indfin.com/your-values/) - What's important to you? Want a copy of this info? Download our free PDF Values Exercise What's important to you? Directions: Rank each of the following values 1-16 (or more). You must 'Rank' each one, i.e., NO ties! (Drawn from Ken Rouse, Putting Money in its Place) ____ ACHIEVEMENT: To accomplish something important in life,
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://indfin.com/faqs/) - Welcome to my site! My clients value straight talk and clear communications; so, here are some of the questions I hear asked most often - along with the answers - by those thinking of choosing me as their advisor. along with the answers! Many people understandably confuse advice with custody. An advisor can choose to
- [The IFG Services Menu](https://indfin.com/ifg-services-investment-advisor-moorpark-ca-planning-retirement-moorpark-2/) - All IFG services are conducted by a qualified CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® who is also an ACCREDITED INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY®. Welcome to IFG!
- [Getting Started with IFG - IRMAA Concerns](https://indfin.com/getting-started-with-ifg-irmaa-concerns/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® You've come to the right place! Avoid the Medicare Premium Surprise. Here's where you can get the quick PDF for executives nearing retirement. Spot the bonus, severance, and stock years that can raise Medicare costs later. Access Your IRMAA Tripwire Kit What's in the Kit: > The 10 most common IRMAA
- [Asset Diversification Report](https://indfin.com/asset-diversification-report/) - Below is your FREE copy of the Asset Diversification Report which details diversity in the Asset Allocation Process. i306_Understanding The Diversification Puzzle Sign-up for IFG Newsletters! Email (required) * First Name * Select list(s) to subscribe to I am currently retiredI am a Business OwnerI am a pre-retiree corporate executiveSign me up for all IFG
- [Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF®](https://indfin.com/your-advisor-jim-lorenzen-cfp-aif/) - An independent certified financial planner and fiduciary advisor in Simi Valley. with more than 30 years' experience in wealth management advisory Simi Valley.
- [Retirement Income Planning](https://indfin.com/retirementplanning/) - The Independent Financial Group specializing in retirement income planning. Whether near you in Simi Valley, CA., or anywhere, you can get started with IFG!
- [Video Library](https://indfin.com/video-library/) - You can schedule your introductory phone call with Jim here! Accumulating money during your working years was simple: sock it away and grow! The distribution phase is different. This video begins with a brain-teaser you might find eye-opening! 2026 Tax Planning Through the Four Stages of Retirement Six Retirement Account Options Every
- [Video Library](https://indfin.com/video-library-2-2/) - By Appointment Only Schedule your introductory phone call here! Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® THE INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL GROUP A Registered Investment Advisor Phone: 805-265-5416 Fax: 805-830-1138 Toll Free: 800-257-6659 E-mail: info@indfin.com Ca. Ins. Lic. 0C00742 2655 First Street, Suite 250; Simi Valley, California 93065 Join Our Newsletter Can You Tell the Difference Between a "Financial Advisor"
- [How to Create A Tax-Managed Investment Strategy](https://indfin.com/investment-philosophy/) - Since Uncle Sam wants to be your partner, a tax-managed investment strategy is about positioning money to limit just how much 'stock' he has in you!
- [Social Security Decisions Can Be Costly... and irrevocable](https://indfin.com/socialsecurity/) - Your Social Security decisions can have a huge impact on your taxes in retirement, whether you live in Simi Valley or Florida. Planning is key.
- [Getting Started with IFG.](https://indfin.com/getting-started/) - Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Ready to begin? Getting your planning started is easy! You can get started in just 2 easy steps: Step #1 - Complete the Retirement Planning Priority Review. You can do it one of two ways: (a) Complete the Personal Planning Priority Review form. This will give me an overview to help
- [You're in the right place!](https://indfin.com/irmaa-kit-thank-you/) - Thank you! Here's your IRMAA Tripwire kit! You can download your kit here! If you'd like help in applying this, here's how to get started! Enjoy! Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF®
- [Generational Planning: Getting Estate Planning Ducks Lined Up.](https://indfin.com/beyond-estate-planning-generational-planning/) - Generational planning is the first step to successful estate planning. Getting everyone involved and on the same page can prevent problems later.
- [Why Choose an Independent Fiduciary Advisor?](https://indfin.com/all-about-ifg/) - Why choose an independent fiduciary advisor? Because every client deserves, and has the right to expect unbiased objectivity and minimum conflicts.
- [How to Contact IFG!](https://indfin.com/contact/) - Jim Lorenzen is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® professional, an ACCREDITED INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY® and a Registered Investment Advisor.
- [Retirement Rollover Decisions and Your 401(k)](https://indfin.com/retirementdecisions/) - Retirement rollover decisions involve more than asking 'how much do I need?' Uncle Sam plays a role too! It's up to you how much of a role he plays.
- [How The SECURE Act Changes Retirement Planning](https://indfin.com/how-the-secure-act-changes-retirement-planning/) - How the SECURE Act changes retirement planning for you and your children and grandchildren. The Act helps secure savers at the expense of inheritors.
- [Tax Planning the Smart Way](https://indfin.com/tax-planning-the-smart-way/) - Discover expert tax planning in Simi Valley with The Independent Financial Group. We provide proactive strategies to reduce tax liabilities on retirement accounts, Medicare premiums, and more. Start planning today!
- [Calculator Library](https://indfin.com/calculator-library/) - Link Disclosure: The information being provided is strictly as a courtesy. When you click on any of the links provided here, you are leaving this website and viewing information provided by a third party. We make no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of information provided by any third-party website. Nor is the company
- [The Planning Process](https://indfin.com/ifgplanningprocess/) - The Seven-Step Financial Planning Process Are you over age 50 and concerned about your future? Do you need help? The financial planning process is really a road map designed to help you on the way to your goals. Planning for retirement income and wealth preservation in the face of inflation and taxes requires some thought.
- [Sitemap](https://indfin.com/sitemap/) - Primary links Home All About IFG Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® IFG Services Investment Philosophy Asset Custody All About YOU Financial Conversation Checklist Your Values Your Goals Your Life Data File The Process FAQs Getting Started Contact Resources Calculator Library Video Library Articles Library Whitepaper & Reports Jim's Blog Secondary links Sitemap Privacy Policy Terms &
- [White Papers & Reports](https://indfin.com/ifg-resources/) - IFG Resources White Papers & Reports Understanding_Mutual_Fund_Landscape Understanding Investment Returns IRA Rollover Checklist The Fatal Rollover Oversight IRA Beneficiary Designations Matter 17 Unexpected Retirement Expenses Time & Money Learn more Tools and Strategies Some useful Life Guides and Worksheets IFG Blog Visit Jim's Money Blog Tell a Friend Spread the word about IFG by telling
- [Executive Compensation for Business Owners](https://indfin.com/business/executive-compensation-for-business-owners/) - Why Install an Executive Compensation Plan? Simple. Quite often qualified plan contributions, even at the limits, will be inadequate to meet the retirement income needs of highly compensated employees. Executives at companies with 401(k) plans actually often find they're severely limited by plan limits as to how much they can contribute; and, that severely limits
- [Articles Library](https://indfin.com/articles-library/) - For Business Owners Planning for Business Owners Executive Compensation for Business Owners Business Succession Planning For Wealth Management Retirement Planning Charitable Giving Planning to Roll-Over your 401(k)? You may want to do some homework first. See our IRA Rollover Checklist to see if the rollover decision is the right one for you. Click Here
- [Time & Money](https://indfin.com/time-money-2/) - It's about time! There are three factors that will affect your future financial success: How much you set aside for your future The rate at which your money grows, after taxes and inflation How long do your saving before you retire These three factors are related! For example, if you achieve a higher rate of
- [Tell a Friend](https://indfin.com/tell-a-friend/) - We grow our business through client referrals. If you've been happy with our services and our work together, please tell a friend! Filling out the following form is a quick and easy way to let others know about our services. The mandatory fields are denoted with an asterisk (*). Note that your friend's e-mail address
- [Tell a Friend](https://indfin.com/thank-you/) - Thank you! Your submission has been received. Click here to return to the home page. Go back to the form
- [Resources](https://indfin.com/resources/) - Here are some useful resources you might like: Social Media Pages LinkedIn Twitter Facebook Resource Links Watch House & Senate Live on CSPAN The Conference Board The IRS The Federal Reserve Social Security Administration More resources: Calculator Library Are You On Track? Will you achieve your goals? This exercise may help you see if you're
- [Get My Retirement Plan Started](https://indfin.com/getmyplanstarted/) - Want to get started on getting retirement planning help? The first step is to recognizeall the issues involved and review your priorities! Here are two helpful pieces to get you started. Just click on the titles to open and download. The IFGi_RetirementPriorityReviewwill help you organize your priorities. You can download this form to your
- [Financial Conversation Checklist](https://indfin.com/financial-conversation-checklist/) - Planning your retirement success is like building a home: it takes some advance planning. Checklists are useful tools. Here's a financial planning conversation checklist you might helpful before you call me (or any other advisor - Naturally, calls are always welcome, but preparation is always better, I'm sure you would agree.) The first step is to
- [CRS Additional Information -Conflicts](https://indfin.com/crs-conflicts/) - My financial planning services are under a flat-fee arrangement, quoted in advance and investment advisory services are based on a percentage of account value. See my compensation structure at indfin.com/CRS/fees. I routinely offer a written Fiduciary Oath to my clients. You should ask any advisor you are considering if they're willing to sign a fiduciary
- [Charitable Giving](https://indfin.com/charitable-giving/) - You don't have to be Warren Buffett or Bill Gates to leave a legacy to a charity; and, you don't have to forsake your heirs, either. Want to help support art, science, or education? Everyone has their own reason for gifting their assets or a portion of their income to charitable organizations. Some find comfort
- [Business Owner Issues](https://indfin.com/business/) - Business owners aren't all alike. Neither are financial advisors. Unlike many financial advisors or many other CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®professionals, I've actually owned businesses; not just one, but several outside the financial profession - and all going full-cycle from founding to exit. I know what it's like to work with suppliers, employees, and customers – and
- [CRS and ADV Disclosures](https://indfin.com/crs/) - Customer Relationship Summary and Additional Information Jim Lorenzen, CFP®, AIF® Welcome to the IFG Disclosures page! Here you'll be able to easily access disclosures for The Independent Financial Group. Much of the language is mandated, including the questions, form, and length; however, since mine is a solo private practice, you should find my business model
- [CRS Additional Information: IFG Services](https://indfin.com/crs-services/) - Information: Services What investment services will you provide me? Services I provide for individual private clients fall into three broad categories: Phase One: Financial Planning Services Process following the CFP® Board's 7-Step process and fiduciary guidelines. Organizing your current investment and insurance information to help you understand how they interrelate and to identify your current
- [CRS Additional Information - Fees](https://indfin.com/fees/) - (a) The first step: Learning about you. The formal term is "Gap Analysis", but it amounts to the same thing. This is where we gather all information about your current situation, as well as your priorities, views, and goals. Retainer: $750. (b) The second step: Financial Planning. This is a collaborative process and could take
- [Safe Money: Asset Custody and Strategic Partners](https://indfin.com/asset-custody/) - Safe money is important. IFG does not take custody of client assets at any time. You are the only one with access to your funds.
- [Asset Protection Planning - A Common-Sense Primer to Get You Started.](https://indfin.com/asset-protection-a-common-sense-primer-to-get-you-started/) - Learn the essentials of asset protection planning in Simi Valley with The Independent Financial Group. Our primer helps you safeguard your wealth and plan for the future with effective, common-sense strategies.
- [Business Continuity](https://indfin.com/business/businesscontinuity/) - The loss of a key executive or other employee can change the trajectory of a business' growth for months, if not years. A key executive might be one who has relationships with key customers, bankers, suppliers, and/or industry contacts. This is the reason many realize Loss = Cost = Reason to Insure. After all, it's
- [Executive Retention:  Keeping Key People](https://indfin.com/business/executivecompensation/) - Business success is often – if not always – the result of having the right people... and keeping them! The loss of the intellectual and entrepreneurial skills of a key person may be even more important than protecting against the loss of physical property. Most business owners have fire insurance, but the building doesn't make
- [Video Library](https://indfin.com/video-library-2/) - Start Today! It's as simple as 1-2-3! Provide us with some basic information. Schedule your introductory phone call here! Pick a time that's convenient for you! Complete and return your IFGi_RetirementPriorityReview! (You can download and save it to your computer before completing. Return it to Jim prior to the Introductory Call. Send it to cfp@indfin.com.
- [Financial Planning for Business Owners](https://indfin.com/financial-planning-for-business-owners/) - Financial planning forbusiness owners is more complex only because independent business owners must confront a myriad of tax laws and regulations while trying to effectively create products or services, manage their employees, develop and cultivate clients, and do so profitably. It can be challenging, to say the least. Quite often, owners are so absorbed in
- [What Is Your Business Worth](https://indfin.com/what-your-business-worth/) - ... and why should you care? You invested, probably heavily, in your American Dream; and you have a lot riding on it. Before you can realize your rewards fully, you'll have to quantify what you've accomplished. Only then will you be able to explore your options, choose your path, and make the moves that matter.
- [Retirement Planning for Business Owners](https://indfin.com/business/ownerretirement/) - Click Here to get your Sample Business Valuation Report If you'd like to schedule an introductory call with me, you can do that here.
- [Business Succession](https://indfin.com/business/businesssuccession/) - > Is this person properly equipped and experienced to do the job? > Will your employees,board members, customers, suppliers, and bankers support this person or will relationships and terms change? > How will the tranfer be funded that secures your future and the future of your dependents and heirs? If you have already begun a
- [Retirement Priority Planning Review](https://indfin.com/retirement-priority-planning-review/) - Retirement Priority Planning Review Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Personal Information Please complete only the information that may not be in our current records. Name * First Last Phone * Cell Business Phone Email * Business Email Spouse Name First
- [Will My Money Last?  Common Question for those Facing Retirement.](https://indfin.com/willmymoneylast/) - Will my money last? Retirement decisions require the answers to a lot of questions. The best first step to know that answer. A needs-analysis is the key!
- [IFG Services for Business Owners](https://indfin.com/business/ownerservices/) - Business Solutions Executive compensation Executive bonus Key person protection Protecting the business from loss of a key employee Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans When 401(k)s are not enough Business Continuation One-Way, family, and third-party Buy-Sell solutions Informal Business Valuation For strategic planning, financial decisions and retirement planning Business Succession Transferring the business at a fair price
- [Terms & Conditions](https://indfin.com/terms-conditions/) - The following terms and conditions of use ("terms and conditions") govern your use of, and access to, The Independent Financial Group (IFG) website. By accessing, using, printing or downloading anything from this Website, you agree to use the Website in accordance with, and be bound by, the terms and conditions stated below. You may use
- [IFG Blog](https://indfin.com/jims-blog/) - Trouble viewing this page? Click here.

## Categories

- [Uncategorized](https://indfin.com/category/uncategorized/) - Uncategorized Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [IFG Viewpoint & Outlook](https://indfin.com/category/ifg-viewpoint-outlook/) - IFG Viewpoint & Outlook Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Family Issues](https://indfin.com/category/family-issues/) - Family Issues Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Life Insurance](https://indfin.com/category/life-insurance/) - Life Insurance Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Estate](https://indfin.com/category/estate/) - Estate Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Retirement](https://indfin.com/category/retirement/) - Retirement Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Business Owners](https://indfin.com/category/business-owners/) - Business Owners Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Taxes](https://indfin.com/category/taxes/) - Taxes Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Planning](https://indfin.com/category/planning/) - Planning Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Investing](https://indfin.com/category/investing/) - Investing Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Executive Compensation](https://indfin.com/category/executive-compensation/) - Executive Compensation Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Economy](https://indfin.com/category/economy/) - Economy Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Inflation](https://indfin.com/category/inflation/) - Inflation Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Annuities](https://indfin.com/category/annuities/) - Annuities Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Charitable Giving](https://indfin.com/category/charitable-giving/) - Charitable Giving Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Special needs](https://indfin.com/category/special-needs/) - Special needs Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Business Succession](https://indfin.com/category/business-owners/business-succession/) - Business Succession Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Health](https://indfin.com/category/health/) - Health Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [SECURE Act](https://indfin.com/category/secure-act/) - SECURE Act Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Roth conversions](https://indfin.com/category/roth-conversions/) - Roth conversions Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Medicare](https://indfin.com/category/medicare/) - Medicare Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [IRAs](https://indfin.com/category/retirement/iras/) - IRAs Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Rollovers](https://indfin.com/category/retirement/rollovers/) - Rollovers Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Social Security](https://indfin.com/category/retirement/social-security/) - Social Security Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Inheritance](https://indfin.com/category/planning/inheritance/) - Inheritance Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Retirement Income](https://indfin.com/category/retirement/retirement-income/) - Retirement Income Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [Annuities](https://indfin.com/category/retirement/annuities-retirement/) - Annuities Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/
- [AI - Artificial Intelligence](https://indfin.com/category/ai-artificial-intelligence/) - AI – Artificial Intelligence Retirement Planning and Wealth Management Solutions https://indfin.com/jims-blog/

## Tags

- [Retirement Planning](https://indfin.com/tag/retirement-planning/) - Articles about planning for retirement and the planning process.
- [Retirement Income](https://indfin.com/tag/retirement-income/) - Articles about producing income in retirement
- [Retirement Strategy](https://indfin.com/tag/retirement-strategy/) - Articles about creating a sound retirement strategy
- [Guaranteed Income](https://indfin.com/tag/guaranteed-income/) - Articles about guaranteed income strategies
- [Retirement Annuities](https://indfin.com/tag/retirement-annuities/) - Articles about using annuities for retirement or as retirement supplements.
- [Income Annuities](https://indfin.com/tag/income-annuities/) - Articles about immediate and deferred income annuities.
- [Tax-Free Retirement Income](https://indfin.com/tag/tax-free-retirement-income/) - Articles about creating a tax-free income during retirement.
- [Inheritance](https://indfin.com/tag/inheritance/) - Articles about inheritance issues.
- [Investment Strategy](https://indfin.com/tag/investment-strategy/) - Portfolio management, asset allocation, and investment strategy articles.
- [Financial Security](https://indfin.com/tag/financial-security/) - Articles about achieving financial security
- [Reducing Risk](https://indfin.com/tag/reducing-risk/) - Articles about risk reduction and mitigation
- [Safe Money](https://indfin.com/tag/safe-money/) - Articles about money that must be kept liquid and safe
- [IRAs](https://indfin.com/tag/ira/) - Articles about IRAs and IRA strategies
- [Inflation](https://indfin.com/tag/inflation/)
- [Interest rates](https://indfin.com/tag/interest-rates/)
- [Rising income](https://indfin.com/tag/rising-income/)
- [Liquidity and Safety](https://indfin.com/tag/liquidity-and-safety/)
- [Required Minimum Distributions](https://indfin.com/tag/required-minimum-distributions/)
- [RMDs](https://indfin.com/tag/rmds/)
- [Taxes in retirement](https://indfin.com/tag/taxes-in-retirement/)
- [diversification](https://indfin.com/tag/diversification/)
- [rollover mistakes](https://indfin.com/tag/rollover-mistakes/)
- [retirement mistakes](https://indfin.com/tag/retirement-mistakes/)
- [pension decisions](https://indfin.com/tag/pension-decisions/)
- [pension options](https://indfin.com/tag/pension-options/)
- [retirement decisions](https://indfin.com/tag/retirement-decisions/)
- [IRA rollover](https://indfin.com/tag/ira-rollover/)
- [company plan rollover](https://indfin.com/tag/company-plan-rollover/)
- [Retirement tax strategies](https://indfin.com/tag/retirement-tax-strategies/)
- [Annuity](https://indfin.com/tag/annuity/)
- [Annuity income](https://indfin.com/tag/annuity-income/)
- [401(k) planning](https://indfin.com/tag/401k-planning/)
- [401k decisions](https://indfin.com/tag/401k-decisions/)
- [managing inheritance](https://indfin.com/tag/managing-inheritance/)
- [managing a windfall](https://indfin.com/tag/managing-a-windfall/)
- [Tax reduction](https://indfin.com/tag/tax-reduction/)
- [retirement webinar](https://indfin.com/tag/retirement-webinar/)
- [investment returns](https://indfin.com/tag/investment-returns/)
- [understanding investment returns](https://indfin.com/tag/understanding-investment-returns/)
- [Investment mistakes](https://indfin.com/tag/investment-mistakes/)
- [Home care](https://indfin.com/tag/home-care/)
- [Resoures for home care](https://indfin.com/tag/resoures-for-home-care/)
- [Tips about home care](https://indfin.com/tag/tips-about-home-care/)
- [Resources for helping an aging parent](https://indfin.com/tag/resources-for-helping-an-aging-parent/)
- [Executive Benefits](https://indfin.com/tag/executive-benefits/)
- [Executive Bonus](https://indfin.com/tag/executive-bonus/)
- [Bonus plans](https://indfin.com/tag/bonus-plans/)
- [electoral college](https://indfin.com/tag/electoral-college/)
- [Thanksgiving](https://indfin.com/tag/thanksgiving/)
- [business value](https://indfin.com/tag/business-value/)
- [business decisions](https://indfin.com/tag/business-decisions/)
- [business owners](https://indfin.com/tag/business-owners/)
- [Selling your business](https://indfin.com/tag/selling-your-business/)
- [selling closely-held business](https://indfin.com/tag/selling-closely-held-business/)
- [business owners retirement](https://indfin.com/tag/business-owners-retirement/)
- [secure retirement](https://indfin.com/tag/secure-retirement/)
- [life insurance](https://indfin.com/tag/life-insurance/)
- [life insurance decsions](https://indfin.com/tag/life-insurance-decsions/)
- [term insurance vs permanent](https://indfin.com/tag/term-insurance-vs-permanent/)
- [calculating returns](https://indfin.com/tag/calculating-returns/)
- [managing risk](https://indfin.com/tag/managing-risk/)
- [management](https://indfin.com/tag/management/)
- [business owner tax planning](https://indfin.com/tag/business-owner-tax-planning/)
- [Financial planning](https://indfin.com/tag/financial-planning/)
- [Estate Planning](https://indfin.com/tag/estate-planning/)
- [term insurance](https://indfin.com/tag/term-insurance/)
- [investment planning](https://indfin.com/tag/investment-planning/)
- [health care](https://indfin.com/tag/health-care/)
- [health care for all](https://indfin.com/tag/health-care-for-all/)
- [Medicare planning](https://indfin.com/tag/medicare-planning/)
- [Medicare surprises](https://indfin.com/tag/medicare-surprises/)
- [charitable giving](https://indfin.com/tag/charitable-giving/)
- [wealth replacement](https://indfin.com/tag/wealth-replacement/)
- [trusts](https://indfin.com/tag/trusts/)
- [SECURE Act](https://indfin.com/tag/secure-act/)
- [Coronavirus](https://indfin.com/tag/coronavirus/)
- [social security](https://indfin.com/tag/social-security/)
- [Roth IRA](https://indfin.com/tag/roth-ira/)
- [Roth conversions](https://indfin.com/tag/roth-conversions/)
- [death planning](https://indfin.com/tag/death-planning/)
- [End of ife](https://indfin.com/tag/end-of-ife/)
- [ira beneficiaries](https://indfin.com/tag/ira-beneficiaries/)
- [taxes](https://indfin.com/tag/taxes/)
- [higher taxes](https://indfin.com/tag/higher-taxes/)
- [tax hikes](https://indfin.com/tag/tax-hikes/)
- [tax law changes](https://indfin.com/tag/tax-law-changes/)
- [social security claiming](https://indfin.com/tag/social-security-claiming/)
- [when to claim social security](https://indfin.com/tag/when-to-claim-social-security/)
- [social security help](https://indfin.com/tag/social-security-help/)
- [making money last](https://indfin.com/tag/making-money-last/)
- [managing retirement savings](https://indfin.com/tag/managing-retirement-savings/)
- [social security outlook](https://indfin.com/tag/social-security-outlook/)
- [college planning](https://indfin.com/tag/college-planning/)
- [ira rollovers](https://indfin.com/tag/ira-rollovers/)
- [401(k) rollovers](https://indfin.com/tag/401k-rollovers/)
- [Banking Crisis](https://indfin.com/tag/banking-crisis/)
- [financial risk](https://indfin.com/tag/financial-risk/)
- [annuity review](https://indfin.com/tag/annuity-review/)
- [tax management](https://indfin.com/tag/tax-management/)
- [Will Social Security be there for me](https://indfin.com/tag/will-social-security-be-there-for-me/)
- [longevity](https://indfin.com/tag/longevity/)
- [tax planning](https://indfin.com/tag/tax-planning/)
- [Tariffs](https://indfin.com/tag/tariffs/)
- [Trade wars](https://indfin.com/tag/trade-wars/)
- [economy](https://indfin.com/tag/economy/)
- [special needs](https://indfin.com/tag/special-needs/)
- [special needs trusts](https://indfin.com/tag/special-needs-trusts/)
- [cognitive decline](https://indfin.com/tag/cognitive-decline/)
- [Alzheimers](https://indfin.com/tag/alzheimers/)
- [Dementia](https://indfin.com/tag/dementia/)
- [generational planning](https://indfin.com/tag/generational-planning/)
- [AI](https://indfin.com/tag/ai/)
- [Medicare](https://indfin.com/tag/medicare/)
- [tax traps](https://indfin.com/tag/tax-traps/)
- [spousal ira](https://indfin.com/tag/spousal-ira/)
- [investment decisions](https://indfin.com/tag/investment-decisions/)