Welcome to our Web site -- an information resource designed to help you learn more about personal finance. Click around and you'll find a variety of financial tools. There are financial calculators that can help you get a clearer picture of where you stand and where you're headed. There is a research library and newsletter articles on a wide range of financial topics. You can even request a quote for an insurance or investment product. And check back often, because we're constantly adding new material. If you have a specific question or want more information, click on Contact Us, drop us an e-mail message at service@lighthouseinvestor.com or call us at (763) 525-4060.  We're ready to help.

Impact of Inflation

Estimate the future cost of an item based on today’s prices and the rate of inflation you expect.

Required Minimum Distributions

Estimate the annual required distribution from your traditional IRA or former employer's retirement plan after you turn age 70.

Roth IRA Conversion

This calculator can help you determine whether you should consider converting to a Roth IRA.

Disability Income Insurance

How much Disability Income Insurance do you need?

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Settling on a Salary

As a company's profit situation improves, business owners may be in a position to decide whether to take home a larger salary or use more of the proceeds to invest for the future. This article discusses the possibility of choosing a business-owner salary that allows for other benefits, such as building the business, saving more for retirement, and adding employee benefits.

New Rules Are in the Cards

In 2010, the federal government issued a dizzying array of rules and reforms affecting consumer credit cards, debit cards, and gift cards. This article explains some of the important developments resulting from enactment of the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility and Disclosure Act of 2009.

Earning Income from Mutual Funds

More than half of working Americans are concerned that they may not have enough money to live comfortably during retirement. Although mutual funds are often thought of as a tool to build savings, they can also be used to generate income. This article examines the potential income benefits of bond funds, equity or stock income funds, and hybrid funds.

The Difference Between the Debt and the Deficit

The terms "debt" and "deficit" are often used interchangeably to describe the federal government's financial situation, yet they have significantly different meanings. This explanation of the budget deficit and the national debt may help readers understand the conversation.

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