How to Save Money on Estate Planning

Plus, what you need to know about 401(k) plans. Created for {EMAIL} | [Web Version]( August 14, 2024 CONNECT WITH KIPLINGER  [LinkedIn]( [Facebook]( [X]( [Instagram ]( [Youtube]( [SIGN UP]( ⋅ [WEBSITE]( [] INTRODUCTION [] [Stepping Into Safe Communities]( Safety and security are on the list when most people shop for a home or apartment. It’s important to have a way to learn about a measure of public safety standards, especially if you are considering buying a home in an unfamiliar neighborhood or state; I can help with that. Read my article about the [25 safest communities in America]( to learn where to find the safest places to live. It is a comprehensive look at safety that considers violent and property crime rates, the share of the population in proximity to emergency facilities and spending on health and emergency services. - Donna LeValley, personal finance writer [How Long Will $1M Last in Retirement?]( It may sound like a lot of money, but is $1 million really enough for a comfortable retirement? Check out these scenarious of how long $1M could potentially last, as well as some important factors that could determine whether it's enough to save for retirement. [Learn more]( ADVERTISEMENT [] RETIREMENT PLANS [] [What You Need to Know About 401(k) Plans]( [What You Need to Know About 401(k) Plans]( (Getty Images) Some people overlook an important fact that the employer's match or direct contribution to a 401(k) is factored into your compensation package whether you use it or not. If your plan’s investment options are less than stellar, consider using that account to invest in index funds or bonds. Read on to [understand how 401(k)s work and the five advantages of owning a plan](. If your plan is good, remember that employer-matched contributions are not counted toward the total you can contribute to your 401(k) each year. [] SAVVY ESTATE PLANNING [] [How to Save Money on Estate Planning]( [How to Save Money on Estate Planning]( (Getty Images) Everyone needs an estate plan. It doesn’t need to be fancy or include complex documents or trusts. Estate planning is a way to protect yourself and your family while you are alive. Planning for temporary or permanent incapacity will allow you to speak for yourself when you’re infirmed. If costs are a concern, here are some [tips for how the average person can save money on estate plans and related attorney fees](. [Your IRA, made to order]( Choose where and when you want to retire, and a Betterment IRA can help make your money hustle all the way there. [Learn More]( ADVERTISEMENT [] OPTIMAL RETIREMENT SAVINGS [] [The Amount Most People Think They Need to Retire]( [The Amount Most People Think They Need to Retire]( (Getty Images) Social Security faces a significant funding shortfall. The fund is projected to run out in 2035 and pay just 83% of scheduled benefits, according to the [2024 annual SS and Medicare trustees report](. Inflation and the potential shortfall of the trust fund have some people rethinking how much they need to save for retirement. Keep reading to [learn how much people think is enough to retire on and how your savings compare](. [Tomorrow's Smart Power Grid: Is It A Wise Investment?]( Invest in the future with smart grid innovations. Secure stable returns while shaping tomorrow's energy landscape. [READ MORE]( ADVERTISEMENT [] OTHER KIPLINGER ARTICLES WE THINK YOU'LL ENJOY [] [Wisconsin launches home energy rebate program]( Wisconsin residents can save over $10,000 on energy efficiency improvements. 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