Karen Wallace

Taking advantage of tax benefits by investing in low-cost, smartly designed 529 plans can stretch your college savings dollars.

We refocused the Morningstar Analyst Rating around its most predictive elements and gave fees even more weight.

Weighing the pros and cons will help you choose the best option.

Plan sponsors are increasingly offering Roth 401(k) accounts alongside traditional 401(k) accounts.

We tackle reader questions about annual contribution limits, how your contribution amount could be too high, and how the match math works.

The ins and outs (or rather, ups and downs) of the yield curve.

Here are some things you can do to safeguard your accounts.

We take a look at the valuations of six prominent IPOs.

If setting up a college savings account is on your to-do list, here are some tips for getting going.

We compare and contrast a few of the most common college-savings vehicles.

Data shows that more parents are taking out loans for college funding. We take a look at the pros and cons of different funding sources.

Uncertainty surrounding cost inflation and investment performance make it difficult--but not impossible--to estimate how much you should save.

Sonal Desai, chief investment officer of the Franklin Templeton fixed-income group, says fundamentals in global bond markets are strong.

The Oracle of Omaha might take an interest in these high-quality firms if Berkshire were nimble enough.

Consider setting up a living will and a durable power of attorney for healthcare.

Many times it lends helpful context, but not always.

Not the ideal scenario, but also not a deal breaker.

Life is full of surprises; not all of them are good.

Here's a crash course, with links to more in-depth analyst opinions and commentary.

Get a better understanding of these popular college savings vehicles to help you maximize your investment.

It may be an unpleasant surprise, but a lower refund might not be a bad thing.

The combination of a higher standard deduction and new and enhanced credits should offset the repealed personal exemptions.