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Individual
Retirement Arrangements (IRA)
A convenient way to prepare for retirement is to invest in an IRA.
You can make periodic deposits and your earnings are not taxed until you make withdrawals,
so your money grows faster. But there are several restrictions to be aware of before
you invest. |
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401K Plans
Named after an obscure section of the IRS Code, the 401K is often
considered the blue ribbon of retirement plans. You can salt away a lot of money,
defer taxes on the earnings, and reduce your taxable income as well. |
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Keogh
Plans
If you work for yourself full or part-time, it may pay to set up a Keogh
Plan. A Keogh Plan may allow you to withdraw a higher percentage of your gross
income to be applied to your retirement plan. |
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SEP Plans
These plans are for people who are self-employed. It is preferred by
professionals in helping their clients because it is not as complicated as other plans. |
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Annuity
Plans
Under an annuity contract, you make an up front payment or a series of
payments in return for a stream of income in the future, often after retirement.
What's more, your earnings are tax-deferred until you take the money out. |
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Social
Security
It may not be enough income at retirement. For many people, Social
Security is a regular deduction from their paycheck. But for those who are retired
and for their spouses and children, it is often the primary source of income. |
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Life
Insurance
Evaluating your life insurance needs is a key part of financial planning.
But how much you need, and what type you should buy, is less clear-cut.
Different types include term life, whole life, and variable life. |
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Planning
For Your Heirs
Part of financial planning should include a strategy to protect your
assets for your family and heirs. But be prepared - the tax collector, the courts,
and the federal and state governments all may want a piece of the family pie.
Business Continuation Planning may take on a lot of different alternatives to sell the
business at retirement. Many financial plans may be used to help such as the
Business Continuation Planning Resources below. |