The Great Wealth Transfer, a broad term for the largest transfer of wealth from older generations to younger ones through inheritances and other financial gifts, is underway.[1] But that does not mean that every heir will receive a share or even wants to inherit. Some may miss out on an inheritance because their parents spend down […]
Having an estate plan, even an imperfect one, is usually better than having no plan at all. But an existing plan can still have serious flaws that defeat its overall goals or objectives. A plan based on misperceptions, including the idea that estate planning must be perfectly timed, can be nearly as problematic as putting off […]
Congratulations on your new role. Stepping into a new position marks an exciting and important chapter in your life. As you navigate this transition, our team is here to protect your future through comprehensive estate planning. Ensuring that you have the following items in place can set you up for success. We are here to help […]
Many people first encounter life insurance when they start a full-time job and are offered coverage through their employer’s group plan. It is an easy decision to make—and one that often receives little attention afterward. But as your financial and family circumstances evolve, your coverage is worth revisiting. What Is Life Insurance? In general terms, life […]
For many snowbirds, cooler weather means it is time to head south. If you are thinking about heading for warmer weather this winter, there are a few things you should consider before hitting the road. Which state do you consider your home? If you split your time between two states, it is important to understand the […]
Your money, home, and vehicles are not the only assets that should be addressed in your estate plan. You should also consider your intellectual property, including any rights and income associated with it. You do not have to be a famous author, painter, or inventor to own valuable intellectual property that could generate income for your […]
A comprehensive estate plan does more than direct who will receive your money and property after your death. It also provides instructions for managing your affairs during your lifetime and identifies the people who will act as a fiduciary for you if you are unable to act for yourself. An effective plan generally does the following: […]
A parent dies, and something about the paperwork does not sit right—a will changed late in life, a trustee who has gone quiet, a caregiver who ended up with more than anyone expected. Family members face a choice: Let it go or take the fight to court. Before choosing either path, families should understand what estate […]
When a child is preparing to leave for college, both the student and the parent may face a period of uncertainty. For many students, college is their first experience living independently. That independence extends beyond just living away from home. It may include having new financial accounts, credit cards, electronic devices, school portals, and online services […]
When a parent’s health crisis hits, families often discover that the plan they thought was solid fails to hold up under pressure. Grief, exhaustion, and dysfunctional family dynamics can distort verbal understandings, and good intentions do not translate into legal authority. Meanwhile, hospitals, banks, and insurance companies operate on formal documents instead of family consensus. Crises have […]
