Using Living Benefits for Retirement Income
Many Americans are finding it difficult to predict how much they can save by retirement. Because traditional pensions are available to just one out of three workers today, a potential way of creating a guaranteed income stream in retirement is to purchase the guaranteed living benefits that are available with some variable annuities.
Federal Estate Tax Is Much Lower — For Now
The federal estate tax was repealed in 2010, then reinstated by the 2010 Tax Relief Act with new provisions for 2011 and 2012. This article discusses the temporary provisions, the options for estates of 2010 decedents, and potential changes in future years that could subject many more estates to the federal estate tax than under current law.
HOT TOPIC: Understanding the Three New U.S. Trade Agreements
Congress recently approved trade agreements with South Korea, Columbia, and Panama. They are the first U.S. trade agreements in four years. This article examines the pros and cons of the agreements and how they may stimulate the U.S. economy.
Tax-Efficient Investments for the Tax-Averse
Raising taxes is one of many ideas that have been proposed to help reduce mounting federal budget deficits. Readers who are concerned about the prospect of higher taxes in the future may want to consider the tax advantages associated with municipal bonds and tax-exempt mutual funds.
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