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5 THINGS YOUR GRADUATE SHOULD DO BEFORE COLLEGE
May is graduation month. This is a time when many of you are celebrating a child’s academic achievements, and even getting ready to send them off to college. During this hectic time do not overlook important estate planning matters. My own daughter is graduating this month from college. Thankfully she took Mom’s advice. With her being away from home, having these documents in place made emergencies easier to handle.
Read MoreWILLS AND TRUSTS AND INTESTATE SUCCESSION. OH MY!
Have you wondered whether you have the right estate planning documents in place? Should you have a will or a trust? Do you need an estate plan at all?
Read MoreWHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR ONLINE ACCOUNTS WHEN YOU DIE?
So much of our life is spent online. We access our bank accounts, send emails, connect with friends, store family photos, and spend hours on social media. Have you considered what happens to these online accounts when you’re gone? Who will have access to your email? Will your family be able to post on your Facebook page?
Read MoreTHE HEALTHY ESTATE
At the time of this writing President Trump’s proposed tax plan is still uncertain. Along with tax reform, the proposal calls for a complete elimination of the estate tax in 2023 and an increased estate tax exclusion amount beginning January 1, 2018, through 2023. There is also a proposal to eliminate the generation-skipping transfer tax.
Read MoreESTATE PLANNING FOR SINGLES: ISSUES AND ESSENTIALS
These days nearly half of all Americans are single. If you are single and must deal with estate planning, it’s important to meet with a professional and consider the following points.
Read More5 MISTAKES MADE BY SUCCESSOR TRUSTEES (AND HOW TO PREVENT THEM)
When establishing a trust, you need to give serious thought to choosing your successor trustee—the person who will administer your trust once you’re no longer able to do so. This individual ideally should be:
Read More5 TRAGIC MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE WHEN LEAVING ASSETS TO THEIR PETS
A pet trust is an excellent way to make sure your beloved pet will receive proper care after you pass on. The problem, of course, is that you won’t actually be there to see that your wishes are carried out. It’s critical to set up a pet trust correctly to ensure there are no loopholes or unforeseen situations that could make your plans go awry.
Read MoreYOUR ESTATE PLANNING BINDER: TIPS FOR PROPER CARE AND MAINTENANCE
YOUR ESTATE PLANNING BINDER: TIPS FOR PROPER CARE AND MAINTENANCE You finally crossed “getting your estate plan done” off your list, and you’ve (rightly) breathed a huge sigh of relief. By tackling this challenge, you’ve not only established protections for your loved ones and legacy, but you’ve also freed up some important “mental space” that…
Read MoreIS A FINANCIAL PLAN ENOUGH? WHY EXPERTS SAY YOU NEED AN ESTATE PLAN, TOO
IS A FINANCIAL PLAN ENOUGH? WHY EXPERTS SAY YOU NEED AN ESTATE PLAN, TOO If you want to leave a robust financial legacy for your family, a financial plan alone is like trying to guide a boat with just one oar. It’s only part of the big picture for your overall monetary health. A well-informed…
Read MoreTHE PROS AND CONS OF PROBATE
THE PROS AND CONS OF PROBATE In estate planning circles, the word “probate” often comes with a starkly negative connotation. Indeed, for many people — especially those with larger estates — financial planners recommend trying to keep property out of probate whenever possible. That being said, the probate system was ultimately established to protect the…
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