Retirement benefits

The higher tax rates passed by Congress this year have some top U.S. earners seeking last- minute strategies to lower their tax bite as year-end calculations turn up unpleasant surprises.

Since the institution of 401(k) plans more than 30 years ago, 401(k) providers have escalated the number of plan features to stay competitive within the marketplace. But, in order to be successful today, selling features alone won’t cut it, writes blogger Jerry Kalish.

Funded ratio equals highest monthly level since 2008.

If your clients’ plans don’t exhibit these success signs, consider doing an audit before the end of the year.

While the thought may not have occurred to retirement and financial planners, one expert says that with the rising cost of health care, it’s a concept that could save their businesses.

Solutions you share can help overcome the false assumptions held by 80% of people who think they are above-average investors.

Their lack of understanding is often displayed in the questions they ask.

The Department of Labor is apparently close to finishing its controversial work on establishing a fiduciary standard.

Understanding and overcoming the barriers to retirement readiness.

While still a relatively under-used tactic, advisers are making a push for auto features more than ever before.

John Ludwig on how to instill positive saving actions in retirement plan participants.

Craig Davidson on how doing the right thing as a fiduciary sometimes means losing a fight with a client, or even getting fired.

Expert qualities of the fictional super-sleuth can adapted by business professionals.

Never underestimate the value you bring to clients simply by being there.

Answers to plan participants’ burning questions.

Periodically re-evaluating your role in the retirement business environment can yield some stark insights.

Reform proposals from the Securities and Exchange Commission could have a significant impact on your clients and their plan participants.

Certain requirements must be met in order to terminate these small business plans.

401(k) plans are largely outscoring 403(b) plans in some key plan features, writes The Principal Financial's Aaron Freidman, who equates this to a pre-season football game.

Benefits advisers for government contractors say employees will be impacted in the way of retirement savings and more.