Since the evolution of the modern retirement plan, bonds have been used as a way to diversify portfolios, generate income, and preserve capital. The bond market is sometimes even used as a capital appreciation tool.

But with interest rates so low, is there still a role for bonds in today’s retirement portfolio? Traditionally, bonds were used in the past to mitigate risk while still providing yield to your portfolio, but are there other options for today’s environment?

One of the major considerations you'll need to take into account in retirement is figuring out your health insurance options.

Health insurance has become a very confusing topic of discussion, even for those who ARE still working.

But if you are nearing retirement and have questions, you are NOT alone, here are some recent submissions for topic suggestions for our After The Paycheck series:

• Karen K.: How do last year employment earnings affect insurance premiums for medical coverage (Part B or Part C)?
• Liz B.: Can I retire early, 62 or 63 and health care pre Medicare?
• Joe M.: What are my Medical insurance options when retiring prior to age 65?
• Bob D.: Health Insurance, long-term health insurance, medicare in retirement.
• Steve P.: Medical costs for a spouse who is too young for Medicare - How do you find the best info to make an informed decision on which plan to go with?

Add in all of the other things you are dealing with as you prepare for retirement, and health insurance options can quickly become a headache that you DO NOT want to deal with.

But, its important that you make the best choice for your situation so you aren’t stuck with something that you’ll regret.

This week's episode of After The Paycheck focuses on healthcare options in retirement