A 401(k) vesting schedule is used by employers to control when ownership of retirement contributions transfer to employees. While many 401(k)s vest contributions immediately and no schedule is needed, there are two other types of schedules, cliff and graded, that employers can use to vest retirement contributions over time or all at once. How a…
6 Best 403(b) Companies 2018
A 403(b) tax-deferred annuity plan is a retirement plan used by nonprofits to help employees save through a combination of pretax and post-tax contributions. To identify the best 403(b) companies, we looked for providers with the widest array of cost-effective investment options, best customer service and additional services to help employers and participants. provides effective…
403(b) vs 401(k): Rules, Limits, Costs & Which Is Best 2018
403(b)s and 401(k)s have similar structures but are applied in very different circumstances. 403(b)s can only be used by nonprofits, while 401(k)s can only be used by small businesses. Not-for-profits like churches, public schools, and government agencies use a 403(b) vs 401(k) plans, which are used by for-profit companies and the self-employed. If you’re a…
6 Best SEP-IRA Providers 2018
A SEP-IRA allows small business owners to save up to $56,000 through tax-free profit-sharing contributions but require employers to fund all employee contributions. Choosing the right provider can save you time, money and prevent administration headaches. We’ve identified the best SEP-IRA providers and compare the best six below, including their costs and investment options. Top…
403(b) Plan Rules, Contribution Limits, & Deadlines 2018
403(b) plans are alternative retirement plans only available to non-profits like charities, churches, public schools, health systems, and government agencies. Like retirement plans used by for-profit businesses, 403(b)s incentivize employee saving through deferrals and employer contributions. Combined contribution limits are $56,000 and can be invested only in annuities and mutual funds. provides effective 403(b) plans…
Top 13 Home Buying Tips for Business Owners From the Pros
Buying a home can be a long and challenging process. As a small business owner, it can be even more challenging because banks often perceive business owners to be riskier than traditionally employed people and it’s much harder to prove the stability of income. We asked the experts to share their home buying tips for…
How to Open a SEP IRA in 6 Steps
SEP IRAs are employer-sponsored retirement plans allowing employers to contribute up to $56,000 or 25% of their pre-tax income each year. How to open a SEP IRA for you and your employees is quick and easy, once you understand how SEPs work and determine your eligibility. A good provider can help you with the rest….
How to Set Up a SIMPLE IRA in 5 Easy Steps
SIMPLE IRAs are employer-sponsored retirement plans that allow employees and employers to save up to $26,000 in pre-tax contributions each year. The process for setting up a SIMPLE IRA is easy and inexpensive once you’ve determined your eligibility. The right provider will help you complete forms, get employees enrolled, and administer your plan. Looking to…
Everything You Need to Know About Tax Lien and Tax Deed Investing
Tax lien investing and tax deed investing involves buying property on which owners have become delinquent paying their property taxes. Investors profit from tax liens by earning interest and sometimes penalties. Investors can also potentially acquire below-market property both with tax liens and tax deeds if the property owner ultimately fails to repay their debt….
Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT): The Ultimate Guide
Real estate investment trusts (REIT) are corporations that own or finance income-producing real estate properties. They are modeled after mutual funds and typically own a portfolio of real estate within a specific sector. REITs pay out 90% of their annual profits in dividends to their investors and are taxed at a low rate. In this…