We’ve all heard about the importance of having life insurance, but is it really necessary? Usually, the answer is “yes,” but it depends on your specific situation. If you have a family who relies on your income, then it is imperative to have life insurance protection. If you’re single and have no major assets to [...] Read more »

Planning is a part of nearly everything we do in life. It’s even a part of dying. How will you preserve your assets from estate taxes and probate fees? How will you ensure distribution according to your wishes? Who will make financial and medical decisions in the event of your incapacity? By taking steps in [...] Read more »

Here’s a new twist on an old saying. There are three things in life that are certain: death, taxes, and college costs that go up every year, even during a recession. How can students and parents avoid the “extreme borrowing” phenomenon that can lead to years of burdensome loan payments? They can start by looking [...] Read more »

You no doubt have had at least a few moments of doubt and concern at the recent stock market volatility. The bad news is that stock markets are ultra–sensitive to bad news, such as the recent turmoil in the subprime mortgage market. The good news is that the kind of volatility we’ve seen over the [...] Read more »

The combination of declining home values, a banking crisis, and turbulent financial markets made 2008 a year that investors won’t soon forget. In the midst of unsettled financial markets, many equity investors faced decisions about how to position their portfolios for the future. During volatile financial times, it is only natural to reconsider your own [...] Read more »

Recent elections have revolved around issues of great importance to investors and consumers that are still, well, at issue. Although tax rates, health insurance, and the future of Social Security and Medicare dominated campaign rhetoric in 2004 and 2006, voters are still waiting for a clear direction on these matters. But in this year’s election, [...] Read more »

Did you know that federal income tax rates are low by historical standards? The top marginal tax rate has been twice the current 35% rate or more in several tax years since the Sixteenth Amendment was ratified in 1913. The bottom marginal tax rate hasn’t been lower in decades. And, for some people, capital gains [...] Read more »

The Five Most Common Reasons for filing a long term care insurance claim, according to a 2008 study by the American Association for Long Term Care Insurance (AALTCI), are: Alzheimer’s Disease, Stroke, Arthritis, Circulatory Problems (such as caused by diabetes), and Injury. Who is more likely to file a claim for long term care insurance? [...] Read more »

All types of IRAs and employer-sponsored retirement plans are subject to annual contribution limits set by the federal government. The limits are generally adjusted periodically to compensate for infl ation and the increase in the cost of living. IRAs For the 2009 tax year, you can contribute up to $5,000 to all IRAs combined (starting [...] Read more »

After weeks of intense negotiation with local officials, the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles decided last month to keep the New Bedford branch open as an Express Branch. Available services at the branch will be somewhat limited with longer wait times expected. The RMV has, however, made many more services available online. Following are the [...] Read more »