Education Center

When it comes to retirement, faculty members typically fall into two groups—those deeply committed to continuing their academic work and those actively planning for retirement. Each group faces unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding university retirement plans and savings strategies can help faculty members maximize their financial security and retire on their terms.

After decades of guiding university professionals through retirement, we’ve identified six key financial challenges that can complicate the transition. While your salary once provided security, retirement demands a new approach. Careful planning now can help you avoid costly missteps later.

Academic consulting contracts offer lucrative opportunities, but as independent contractors, academics face unique tax challenges. This income isn’t subject to withholding, potentially leading to a hefty tax bill.

As university professionals approach retirement, they leave behind the sheltered environment of a university setting and enter a world that resembles self-employment. They will have to pay themselves regular salaries, find health and life insurance coverage, and take full responsibility for their financial security for the rest of their lives. This report provides guidance on preparing for this transition.

For university faculty approaching retirement—whether next year or in 10 years— this is the perfect time to get serious about financial planning.

Medicare is a federal health insurance program that provides coverage to millions of Americans. Understanding the basics of Medicare is essential for anyone who wants to make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage. Here are six things you need to know.

During the annual open enrollment period, it is important to carefully consider all options and make informed decisions — now is not the time to check the “default” box. This report will serve as an informative guide to help you navigate the open enrollment period and reveal 5 money-saving tips.

Most people underestimate the likelihood of needing long-term care. The reality is, a significant portion of the population will require assistance with daily activities as they age. This can be a huge financial burden, but there are steps you can take to plan ahead.

When we work with university professionals, it’s common for them to have several retirement and investment accounts. Perhaps they’ve worked at multiple universities, or their university went through a retirement plan custodian change. Learn more about the three potential hidden risks of consolidation and consider an alternative way to manage your many accounts.

Preparing for retirement during your career as a university professional can be both exciting and daunting. While there is much to look forward to as you approach this major milestone, it’s easy to make some critical planning mistakes.

A complex financial life leaves more room to miss key things, may needlessly enhance tax liability, and potentially leaves fewer assets behind for heirs. For those edging closer to retirement, the biggest questions are: How do I begin to simplify my financial life? What does simplification even look like? 

During the transition from university employment to retirement, you leave the benefits “umbrella” that university employment provides. Learn how to replace four important benefits you will lose when you retire from the university.