Estate Planning

When life changes occur, such as divorce, marriage, or the birth of a child, it is essential to review and update your beneficiary designations. Neglecting this task can result in: The distribution of assets to an ex-spouse, which may not align with your current...

Anyone putting together an estate plan is wise to consider the impact of taxes on their estate. Federal and state taxes may take a portion of your assets and could even impact your heirs. With a little strategic planning, you can reduce these costs and better ensure...

Probate is the court-supervised legal process that manages a deceased person's estate. Its purpose is to validate their will, settle any debts or taxes and distribute the remaining assets to the rightful beneficiaries. While the process can seem confusing and...

The approach that some people take to estate planning involves getting the process over with as quickly as possible. They find it unpleasant to think about what happens after they die and may rush through the process. Frequently, people may choose to draft a will and...

Estate planning can be private business that you manage on your own. You are the only one who is in charge of what is included in your plan. You get to make the decisions about what to do with your assets and how to pass them on to the next generation. You can also...

When you have worked hard your entire life and amassed some wealth, it is only sensible that you protect it in the event of incapacitation or death. And one of the most sensible estate planning tools you can use to protect your wealth is your will.  But, a will can...

You may find yourself worrying about how your heirs are going to spend the money that you leave to them. Perhaps it’s a significant amount of money and you’re afraid that it will take away their motivation to work. Maybe you know that they’ve struggled with certain...

Estate planning is the preparation for the distribution of your estate in anticipation of your passing. An estate plan is made during the testator's life. Typically, an estate plan includes a will, trust, beneficiaries, executor of the estate and power of attorney....

Sometimes when a couple who has been married for many years embarks on their estate planning, they initially plan to have a joint will. They share their assets and agree that whoever is the first to go will leave everything to the other. Then, when they’re both gone,...