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Managing Lump-Sum Retirement Payments By Robert A. Sagar ROCKVILLE CENTRE, N.Y. - Each year, millions of employees become eligible for a lump-sum payment from their employer's retirement plan as they change jobs, leave the workforce, or retire. For many of these people, this money is the largest financial asset they own and may be their only private source of retirement income -- income that must last for the rest of their life. People eligible for lump-sum payments can choose how to handle the payment from among many options. Here are six of the most common ways:
The choice may depend on whether you are a job changer or a retiree. The most popular options selected by job changers, in order, are: to transfer the money to an IRA, take the cash payment, or to leave the money in the plan. For retirees, the most popular choices are: to transfer the money to an IRA, leave the money in the plan, take the money in installment payments, or take the money in a lump-sum. Research indicates that the majority of people base their decision on the advice of family, friends and their own analysis. Few seek the advice of a qualified financial planner. This could be the reason why many people confronted with the "lump-sum conundrum" make choices that end up costing them money and reducing their asset value. The option you choose could be the right one. But if you pick the wrong option for your situation, it can have unintended financial consequences. Before you choose, get the advice of a financial professional and ensure that your hard-earned retirement money stays in your pocket. |
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