When you retire, should you pay off your mortgage?

Thirty years ago, it was a rite of passage for many people to pay off their mortgage and then retire. This is no longer the norm. According to research done by Fannie Mae’s Economic and Strategic Research Group, Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1965, have more debt than earlier generations did at the same age and are less likely to own their own homes by the time they are ready to retire.

Why You Should Buy I Bonds Now

Treasury Series I savings bonds, one of the most exciting current bond offers, are expected to become less appealing in November when a new rate on the popular instrument is determined.

Want a Happier Retirement?

A happy retirement requires more than money. Here are seven things happy retirees do besides save for retirement.
 Here are seven habits that can boost retirement happiness.

The Benefits of Wills and Trusts

Surprisingly, 55% of Americans don’t have a will, but they’re crucial documents since they direct the distribution of your assets after your death. Without one, state laws determine who gets your assets, and your heirs may face delays and expenses trying to claim their inheritance. Here are some key facts about wills:

Naming a Trust as a Beneficiary

It is advantageous to name a trust as a beneficiary if your beneficiaries are minors, have disabilities, or cannot be trusted with large sums of money. To avoid future estate tax issues, some attorneys also recommend establishing a special trust as an IRA beneficiary to prevent its assets from becoming part of a surviving spouse’s estate.