Patrick Harwood

Bonds are loans that are floated by companies and governments and bought by investors. Each bond has a par value, the amount the company will pay interest on, and a stated interest rate. However, bonds can be traded like stocks so you may…

The stated interest rate is a term used to describe the return on bonds. When a bond is issued, the stated interest rate determines how much interest will be paid based on the bond's par value. Bond Issuance When a…

Every banker owns a financial calculator. She carries the calculator with her to every meeting because she never knows when she may need it and no other calculator can do the work of a financial calculator. The most popular financial…

Bonds are investments often sought by retirees and other investors looking for a steady income stream or as a way to diversify a portfolio of stocks. Both municipal bonds and U.S. savings bonds offer up great tax advantages, and a low to…

A 401(k) plan is your best investment for retirement in many instances. If your employer contributes to your retirement, the matching contribution could be a windfall for you. Unfortunately, it could also be a windfall for your spouse if…

Your company 401k plan could become your best investment when you retire. That 401k plan that your employer offers you may come with a matching contribution or any number of other perks that could help you retire comfortably. The percentage…

Deciding how your money will last longer remains a key part of retirement planning. Many people think about the money they must contribute to their plans but give little thought to financial longevity once they retire. The volatility of…

Beneficiaries are people, trusts or organizations that will receive your benefits in the event of your death. You must name at least one primary beneficiary to whom the benefits would first be paid. In the event that your primary…

Getting divorced in Indiana means you may gain some of your ex-husband's retirement benefits. Indiana allows domestic relations orders that split up retirement accounts. This also applies to your husband's 401k plan. However, the order…

A 401k plan does not need to be kept when you retire. Rolling over your plan benefits gives you control over your retirement savings and may give you benefits, which include decreased taxes and increased investment options. Before you roll…