Articles

Silhouettes of soldiers in front of a sunset with the US Flag watermarked in the background representing estate planning for veterans

Mission Accomplished: Your Guide to Veterans’ Planning Essentials

Joining the military often sets individuals on a path that is distinctly different from pursuing higher education or entering the civilian workforce. Every year around Veterans Day, we honor the sacrifices of those who have served our country. Howeve… Read More
keys to the house you have inherited when you leave your home to someone

If I Leave Someone My Home, What Do They Really Get?

Your home is likely one of the most valuable assets you own, if not the most valuable. Calling it an asset can sound cold. A home is far more than an assortment of materials and possessions. It is also a place to live, gather, create life stories, an… Read More
The phrase Do The Right Thing typed on a paper on office table. A reminder to make the right choices in your estate plan.

Twelve Estate Planning Blunders You Cannot Afford to Make

Many people believe that a simple will is all they need to accomplish their goals for the future. However, a flawed estate plan can create just as many headaches, heartaches, and expenses for your loved ones as having no plan. Life changes, laws evol… Read More
Important vector stamp

How to Help Your Loved Ones Avoid Probate (Spoiler: Fund Your Trust!)

Today, many people use a revocable living trust instead of a will, joint ownership, or beneficiary designation as the foundation of their estate plan. When properly prepared, a trust avoids the sometimes costly, always public, and often time-consumin… Read More
checklist for what to do after a loved one passes away

What to Do After a Loved One Dies

If you have been named the person responsible for settling a deceased loved one’s affairs, commonly called an executor or personal representative (if your loved one had no estate plan or had a will) or a successor trustee (if they had a trust), you… Read More
Categories: Probate
Urban traffic congestion sign saying Expect Delays demonstrating probate delays

Probate Delays: Five Reasons Your Probate Might Be Taking So Long

After a loved one dies, their money and property that goes through probate must be distributed to the people legally entitled to it, either according to a last will and testament (also called a will) or the state’s default distribution scheme (foun… Read More
Concept of avoiding probate cost piggy bank with money isolated on white

Three Simple Ways to Avoid Probate Costs

The bad news: When a person dies owning property in their sole name without a beneficiary, their loved ones will likely have to go through a court-involved process called probate to transfer the property out of the deceased person’s name and into t… Read More
Neon Sign

Do I Need a Will or a Trust?

Yes: everyone needs a will, a trust, or both. These important tools ensure that your legacy will be carried out according to your wishes and allow you to provide for loved ones after your passing. Having a will or trust in place also saves money and… Read More
When to remove your trustee shown with a Trustee Certificate with money and key

When a Trustee Becomes a Burden: Knowing When to Remove a Trustee

The title of trustee implies that this position should be held by someone you find trustworthy, and for good reason. Serving as a trustee of a trust carries significant responsibility and duty not just to you as the trust’s creator but also to the… Read More
Categories: Estate Planning, Trusts
Scale - Facts in Green or Myths in Red demonstrating estate planning myths

Four Estate Planning Myths: Debunking Common Misconceptions

Estate planning often feels complex, leading many people to rely on assumptions that can have devastating consequences for their loved ones and their legacy. From who can make decisions for you to whether you need an estate plan, common myths can sta… Read More