Life events
After the death of a spouse: financial accounts and benefits
A plain guide to the financial steps after a spouse dies: Social Security, retirement accounts, pensions, life insurance, taxes and account titles.
4 min read
Topic
Life events
Job changes, layoffs, divorce, the death of a spouse and inheritances.
5 articles
Life events
Changing jobs: a retirement and benefits checklist
A job change touches your old 401(k), vesting, plan loans, health coverage and beneficiary forms. Here is what to review before and after you leave.
4 min read
Life events
Divorce and retirement accounts: QDROs and IRA transfers
Workplace plans and IRAs are divided under different rules in a divorce. Learn what a QDRO does, how IRA transfers work and how taxes apply.
4 min read
Life events
Laid off: what happens to your retirement accounts and benefits
After a layoff, your vested 401(k) money remains yours. Learn how unemployment pay, severance, health coverage and early withdrawals are treated.
4 min read
Life events
Receiving an inheritance: the basics
Most inherited property is not federal taxable income, but retirement accounts and later sales follow their own rules. Here is how each type works.
4 min read