Do I need an estate plan? Three times in life the answer is yes.
We often overlook estate planning when discussing life milestones, yet it is an important part of financial planning. Most agree that having an estate plan makes sense, yet only about 30% of Americans actually have one in place. Why the low number? Some find the idea...
Long-term care and estate planning: Tips for a successful transition
At its core, estate planning is taking the time to organize finances and assets. Early in our lives, it can serve as an important tool to help develop our goals and plans for saving. Later in our lives, we start to review our plan to see if our strategy met our goals....
Parents often forget this important step when preparing children for college
Parents take steps to prepare their child for college by helping to plan everything from dorm furnishings to course schedules. Although these are an important part of the college experience, parents often forget another important, and possibly life-changing detail: an...
How do I account for a family business when putting together an estate plan?
As a business owner, your company represents not only your livelihood but also a significant part of your legacy. Integrating your business into your estate planning is an important step to help better ensure a smooth transition and continued success, even after you...
What are the consequences of dying without an estate plan?
Death is an inevitable part of life, yet many people avoid planning for it. While thinking about your mortality is uncomfortable, failing to prepare an estate plan can have long-lasting repercussions for your loved ones. What happens if you die without an estate plan...
Blended families can face complex probate issues
Probate is the legal process that happens after someone dies. It involves proving that the person’s will is valid, listing their belongings, figuring out what everything is worth, paying any debts and taxes and then giving out what’s left according to the will. If...