Articles
79% of Americans agree they would benefit from having basic financial education and information.
Source: The 2018 Consumer Financial Literacy Survey, The National Foundation for Credit Counseling
Welcome to our research center! We've put together a library of information on important financial topics that we believe you'll find helpful.
Simply click on one of the general financial topics below and you'll find a selection of easy-to-understand information sheets about related financial concepts and strategies. This information is updated regularly to reflect the latest facts, figures, legislation, and economic trends.
Estates & Trusts
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Estate Planning
Wills and trusts allow you to spell out how you would like your property distributed, but they also go beyond that.
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Avoiding Probate
The probate process can be lengthy and complex. There are strategies you can use to help avoid the probate process.
Retirement
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A New Chapter for Retirement
With the changing pension landscape, it is important to take charge of your own retirement security.
Tax Planning
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Tax-Advantaged Investments
Many traditional tax-advantaged investment strategies have gone away, but there are still some alternatives.
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Tax-Advantaged Alternatives
While stable, CDs can create quite an income tax bill. Fixed annuities and municipal bonds can offer tax advantages.
Investing
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Diversification
An important element to successful investing is to manage investment risk while maintaining the potential for growth.
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Investment Risks
Understanding different types of investment risk can help investors manage their money more effectively.
Cash Management
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Cash Management Basics
A sound cash management program uses a disciplined approach: accounting, analysis, allocation, and adjustment.
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Smart Financing Ideas
Here are some smart ways to refinance your home.
Risk Management
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Long-Term Care Costs
The odds of needing long-term care increase as you age. Prior planning can help protect you from financial ruin.
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Long-Term-Care Needs
If you were to suffer an illness or disability that required long-term nursing care, would you be covered?