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Sign that says JUST in CASE to show you still need an estate plan

Have a Harmonious Family that Does Not Fight? You Still Need an Estate Plan

Last week, we shared tips for avoiding a will contest. In many families, everyone gets along, happily gathering for the holidays, sharing laughs, telling stories, and enjoying each other’s company. Then, the matriarch or patriarch dies. Suddenly, y… Read More
Avoid unintended will and trust contests

Four Tips to Avoid a Will or Trust Contest

Fighting over provisions in your will or trust can derail your final wishes, rapidly deplete your financial legacy, and tear your loved ones apart. However, with proper planning, you can help your family avoid a potentially disastrous fight by helpin… Read More
Same sex female couple discuss estate plan choices

Who Needs an Estate Plan?

If you are reading this, you need an estate plan. Why? The short answer is that everyone age 18 and older needs an estate plan. It does not matter whether you are old or young, have built up considerable wealth or are just entering adulthood—you ne… Read More
Two minor children boys hugging their mother at home

Planning for the Unthinkable: Essential Tools for Parents of Minor Children

Approximately three-fourths of Americans do not have a basic will.[1] Many of the same people also have minor children, which underscores a major misunderstanding about estate plans: they can accomplish much more than just handling financial assets (… Read More
Wedding couple in car decorated with plate JUST MARRIED and cans

Estate Plan Basics for Newlyweds: How to Prepare for the Unexpected

Getting married is a special time in your life; you may have a beautiful wedding, a fun reception (with a delicious cake and special gifts), and a romantic honeymoon. It is also the right time for you and your new spouse to plan for your future—for… Read More
Joint account (JTWROS) text in heart shape presented for active business education concept on paper slip background.

Why Joint Ownership (JTWROS) Should Not Necessarily Be the Go-To Plan for Newlyweds

If you recently married or have been married for a while and have acquired additional money or property (or plan to), you have options regarding how your assets can be owned. Although joint ownership seems easy and convenient, particularly when that… Read More
LGBTQIA Same-sex Couple Dancing

Estate Planning for the Newly Married

Now, when you are newly married, is the perfect time to start working on an estate plan. As newlyweds or those about to marry, you are likely in the process of deciding which of your accounts and property (your assets) to combine and how to turn two… Read More
Judge With Magnifying Glass Looking At Figurines of a Family to choose guaridan

Do It Now: Name a Guardian for Your Minor Children

We know it is difficult, even horrific, to imagine someone else raising your children. However, you must consider who you would choose to fill this important role. Otherwise, a judge—a stranger who does not know you or your wishes, your child, or y… Read More
residuary beneficiaries after debts paid shown by a gift box with cash inside

Pros and Cons of Naming Many Residuary Beneficiaries in a Will or Trust

You have meticulously created your estate plan to ensure that it includes and addresses all of your most important assets (accounts and property). You have reviewed your asset list repeatedly, and everything seems to be accounted for. But what if you… Read More
Estate Planning Word Cloud

Wills, Trusts, and Dying Intestate: How They Differ

Most people understand that having an estate plan benefits them and their loved ones. However, many individuals do not initiate the estate planning process because they do not fully understand the nuances of foundational estate planning tools such as… Read More