Think twice and get a second opinion before using tax-deferred dollars to pay off a mortgage
(LA Times Horse Racing)

Dear Liz: I`m 54 and plan on retiring at 55 with a government pension. I have about $450,000 in a 457(b) deferred compensation plan. I owe about $220,000 on my home. I would like to pay off my 15-year, 2.5% interest mortgage. This would free up $1,900 a month and leave us debt-free. Everyone I`ve...