RETIREMENT SHELTERS

With malpractice litigation rampant,protecting retirement accountassets is crucial for today's doctors.And some companies are doing abrisk business selling insurance policiesthat shelter IRAs and 401(k)plan funds. Before you sign up, however,take a look at what protectionyou already have. Federal law protectsassets in 401(k) and 403(b)plans from creditors and litigators,although not from divorce settlementsor tax penalties. IRAs andKeoghs are not protected under federallaw, but many states do shelter allor a portion of the assets in theseplans. Be sure to check up on yourstate's law with your tax advisorbefore signing up for a retirementplan insurance policy.