The Basics of Social Security Retirement Benefits
Financial Planning: Helping You See the Big Picture
Newsletters
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HOT TOPIC: The Shutdown is Over: What Now?
The longest government shutdown in U.S. history ended on November 12, 2025. This article looks at the bill that ended the shutdown, issues that are unresolved, and estimates of the economic impact.
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Closed-End Funds May Offer Higher Income
Closed-end funds are considered to carry higher risk but may provide a higher income stream than traditional mutual funds holding similar securities.
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Locked Out? How to Break Into Today’s Housing Market
Homeownership can still be an attainable goal, but it may take more planning, flexibility, and creativity than it did in the past.
Calculators
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Retirement Plan Early Distribution
Estimate how much would remain after paying income taxes and penalties if you took an early distribution from a retirement plan.
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Estate Taxes
Use this calculator to estimate the federal estate taxes that could be due on your estate after you die.
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Taxable Equivalent Yield
Calculate the rate of return you would have to receive from a taxable investment to realize an equivalent tax-exempt yield.
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Life Expectancy
Knowing your likely life expectancy is an important factor in making long-term financial plans.