Darla Mercado writes about retirement issues and products, including taxes, annuities and 401(k) plans. She welcomes feedback and tips from readers on interesting topics. Outside of the newsroom, Darla spends her time inline skating, biking, running and swimming. She Tweets at: @Darla_Mercado
Though most advisers do address giving, many clients walk away unsatisfied
Workers seem to be doing precisely what they would be expected to do with 20-page disclosure documents: Tossing them in the circular file
Jackson National Life Insurance Co.'s temporary halt on tax-free exchanges of variable annuities is in effect until Dec. 16 — but it turns out not everyone is subject to the suspension.
Some clients could come close to breaking even with the deal.
When setting up trusts, strike a balance between considering future changes and setting clear parameters to prevent abuse
Employer generosity is important, but that's not the only key to successfully saving for retirement
Companies that are flush with cash have the wherewithal to provide the best in 401(k) savings to their workers, but that doesn't mean smaller retirement plans can't run effective plans.
Uneven recognition of same-sex marriage will make for a complicated tax year
A new tax environment means that not all charitable giving vehicles are equal. Find out how you can best reduce your gross income.
Don't celebrate just yet: financial planning pitfalls still abound
