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Substantial Waste Cited in U.S. Health Care System
In an article titled “Not Much to Show for Nation’s High Cost of Care” posted on www.medpagetoday.com, Caroline Poplin MD, JD, former staff internist for the National Naval Medical Center currently practicing medicine part-time at the Arlington Free Clinic in Virginia, outlines some…
Some “unfair” aspects of Social Security
It’s a great program, and many people feel that way. But Social Security does have, by design, some aspects that are viewed as unfair in some quarters. The double-taxation issue, for example is viewed by many as a flaw, as…
The “Golden Age” of Defined Contribution Pensions is Fading, But It’s Not That Bad
The retirement savings picture in this country is described in many media accounts as being in crisis, but not everyone agrees with that. Paul Schott Stevens, president and CEO of the Investment Company Institute, is one who believes that Americans are well ahead…
The Implications of Multiemployer Pension Plan Cuts
Roughly 10 million participants in multiemployer pension plans are keeping a watchful eye on potential actions by the Treasury Department that could pave the way for cuts in what they once thought of as guaranteed retirement benefits. What’s under consideration is…
Generational Fears – Difference in Values
Each generation struggles with its own problems, whether they are financial, career oriented, or investing. Millennials struggle with student debt and job prospects, problems that compound upon themselves. Generation X holds the most fear in losing their job and worrying…
Seasonal Residents Turning Permanent
“Snowbirds” are a common site in many southern states in the fall and winter months as seniors migrate to the warmer weather and away from the frigid conditions of the north. More and more of these seasonal residents are starting…
Investing for Retirement – Pitfalls to Avoid
As the Baby Boomer generation starts to retire, they are starting to put more focus in researching investment options that will sustain their lifestyle after work. One of the most common mistakes being made is investing too much in to…
Standard of Living Declines as Quality of Life Rises
Most of the Baby Boomer generation agrees that their children will not be as well of as they are. Many cite the increasing cost of taxes and healthcare combined with stagnating wages in most careers. Experts are noting, however, that…
Resist the Urge to Tap Into Your 401(k) Early
Baby boomers were the most likely to dip in to their retirement fund early according to a recent survey from Bankrate.com. Almost a fifth of those that did said they used the money for an emergency expense, showing how important…
May Be No Cost-of-Living Increase for 2016
2016 may see no increase in payouts for Social Security Benefits. Benefits have been on a schedule of yearly increases since 1975 in order to combat inflation. The increases are tied to Cost of Living calculations according the Consumer Price…