Approximately one-fifth (20 percent) of post retirement income sources today comes from qualified retirement plan assets. Within 20 years, that number will increase to just under one-third (30 percent) of post retirement income. These are broadly defined as assets on which you have not yet paid retirement income taxes, though there is one exception in the Roth IRA. (more…)

The thought of retire early may be an illusion for some and a punishment for others. Everything is, as the saying goes, depending on how you look at it. First, is it the decision whether retirement is voluntary or forced? Often when companies offer their employee early retirement is not really such an offer since the other option is to be fired. (more…)

It’s not just choosing the right retirement investment that helps 401k grow faster. It’s keeping your hands off them too. Most plans permit you borrowing from 401k against the account balance for compelling reasons. Those all-too-compelling reasons may reduce the amount you’ll be able to draw someday from your 401k. (more…)

Another old adage says that we should learn from the mistakes of others. When it comes to retirement planning, there are many legal, tax, and retirement saving mistakes you can make as a business owner, retirement plan trustee, or plan participant. (more…)

Unlike past eras, it’s doubtful you’ll spend your career with the same employer. When you’re ready to move on, you’ll face some important decisions about what to do with your 401(k) plan. Essentially, there are four choices when you’re ready to take a hike:

1. Take the money and run. (more…)