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A recharacterization is a tax-free transfer of funds from one kind of IRA to another. If you converted a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA and now are reconsidering, recharacterization allows you to undo the transaction and move the funds back to a traditional IRA.

iRead your column in the Chicago Tribune and have learned a lot. I have a question I don't think you have addressed.I have multiple Roth IRA's that I converted years ago, paid the taxes and they are continuing to grow.

Every so often, the IRS or the courts remind us that the exceptions to the 10% early distribution penalty are narrowly interpreted. That means if your situation doesn’t fit the letter of the law to a “t,” then the exception will not apply, and the tax will be due.

You may understand the basics of how an HSA works. The fundamental premise is not so complicated. If you have a qualifying high deductible health plan you may contribute to an HSA.

As summer ends and fall approaches, so does the season for taking required minimum distributions (RMDs). There is a 50% penalty for failing to take an RMD, so don't miss one. But don't just take an RMD, plan ahead now to make it work for you. Possibilities...

You may ask if you should leave your IRA to a trust. This can be a complicated question. Trusts can be complex and retirement accounts are not like other assets.

Quick question. Client’s daughter died at age 41. Client is age 71. Can she combo her daughter’s 401k into her current Traditional IRA since she has to take RMD’s on the traditional and a Beneficiary/Inherited IRA would be based on her (Mom’s 71) current age for Beneficiary/Inherited RMD’s, OR does she have to open a Beneficiary/Inherited RMD no matter what and a combo of Traditional IRA and Beneficiary/Inherited IRA is not allowed.

For years we saw and heard the commercials – rollover your 401(k) to an IRA. They suggested that this was the only option – and the best option – for you. But it was not the only option; and it might not be the best option for you.

One of the most important things you learn in law school is how the law is structured. You are better able to analyze the rule (and predict outcomes) when you understand how it is was created and how is has been treated ever since. Every law starts with a broad concept.

Mr. Slott, My 45 year old daughter’s financial advisor has recommended for her NOT to put retirement contributions into a Roth IRA! His reason being that by paying taxes up front for a Roth, there is less money to grow!