Personal financial planning news and resources

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September 1, 2026

How CPAs can expand from tax into personal financial planning

Find out how CPAs in tax practice can add personal financial planning services and build deeper relationships with clients.

August 28, 2026

Why many Americans don’t retire on their own terms

A third of middle-class Americans believe they’ll work until at least age 70, an annual retirement survey shows. But more than half of retired respondents left the workforce before age 65, suggesting that retirement timing is often shaped by factors beyond workers’ control.

August 19, 2026

Pets influence Americans’ financial decisions, AICPA survey finds

Dogs and cats are more than pets for many Americans, who consider the animals family members. An AICPA survey found that pet owners often budget for their animals, prioritize pet spending, and include pets in estate planning.

August 17, 2026

4 Medicare rules that surprise clients — and some advisers

Clients may be automatically enrolled in Medicare before they’re ready and may incur penalties that last a lifetime by passing on a supplemental plan they don’t yet need. Also, learn why the best monthly price and the best bargain aren’t always the same thing.

August 12, 2026

IRS provides guidance on rollovers between retirement plans and IRAs

Use of the sample forms and proposed rollover procedures in the guidance is optional for plan sponsors.

August 10, 2026

4 Social Security rules that surprise clients — and some advisers

A divorced spouse may qualify for benefits based on their ex’s work record. A surviving spouse may qualify before age 62. And some families may be eligible for benefits related to their children.

August 10, 2026

How annuities fit into retirement planning

Guaranteed income can bring retirees peace of mind, but financial advisers disagree about the trade-offs.

July 30, 2026

Why planning to work longer may be the better path to retirement

A personal financial planning expert shares insights on longer lifespans, retirement planning, career flexibility, and how to approach an employer about taking extended time away from work.

July 9, 2026

From estate planning to AI: Managing CPA liability

A coauthor of the JofA’s Professional Liability Spotlight column discusses the risks for CPAs related to the Great Wealth Transfer, how accountants can serve as a “critical guardrail” for clients, and the key components of an effective AI policy. Listen to the podcast episode or read the Q&A.

July 7, 2026

Scam stoppers: 5 ways CPAs can help older clients fight financial fraud

More than 80% of attendees in a recent ENGAGE session reported they’ve had at least one client compromised by a financial scam. The presenter explains how CPAs can be “fraud gatekeepers” before, during, and after an incident.

June 15, 2026

Are alternative assets a fit for a 401(k)?

More retirement plans may soon begin offering investment choices such as private equity, private credit, and digital assets under recently proposed regulations. Two CPA financial planners assess the potential risks and benefits for plan participants.

June 1, 2026

Most retirees worry about savings — but few use financial advisers

Less than one-third of retired Americans in a recent survey reported working with a financial adviser, even though nearly 7 in 10 are concerned about managing their income throughout retirement.

June 1, 2026

How tighter student loan caps will affect higher education

New federal student loan limits taking effect in July will change how students finance undergraduate and graduate education.

May 20, 2026

How CPAs can guide better retirement choices

Learn how CPAs can help clients make smarter retirement decisions by balancing taxes, withdrawal timing, IRMAA, and long-term goals.

May 1, 2026

Avoiding a big tax bill on inherited IRAs

The 10-year drawdown rule can trigger hefty taxes for heirs. Learn how smart planning can help.

May 1, 2026

Managing CPA liability in the Great Wealth Transfer

As Baby Boomers transition trillions to their heirs, CPAs face growing estate, gift, and trust liability risks. Learn how costly claims arise — and practical steps to reduce exposure.

April 28, 2026

CPA tips for building an emergency fund when savings fall short

Most Americans don’t have adequate emergency savings, according to a survey conducted for National Financial Literacy Month. The AICPA offers four tips from CPAs to help remedy the shortfall.

April 27, 2026

Beyond FIRE: Planning for mini-retirements

Many workers today are prioritizing midcareer breaks and flexible work lifestyles over retiring young. Advisers can help them with the planning needed.

April 16, 2026

A Machu Picchu moment and what it means for aging and retirement

Speaker and author Kelley Long, CPA/PFS, explains the evolving definition of, and approach to, retirement and how CPAs can help clients plan for flexible careers. She also previews her upcoming ENGAGE sessions on retirement strategies and making better use of HSAs. Listen to the podcast episode or read the Q&A.

April 15, 2026