We often get asked this question: “wouldn’t this just be an easier way to avoid probate?” The reality is that is, of course, an option. However, there are many pitfalls (we detail 7 here) with that approach that get overlooked or are unknown. Watch this video to get the information you need before making such
Sweat the Small Stuff in Your Estate Plan
When planning their estates, most people focus on major assets, such as business interests, real estate, investments and retirement plans. But it’s also important to “sweat the small stuff” — tangible personal property. Examples include automobiles, jewelry, clothing, antiques, furniture, artwork, photographs, music collections, personal papers, collectibles (such as stamps, coins or baseball cards) and
How to Get Your Estate Planning Done in Just 10 Minutes
Research tells us that the majority of Americans today still do not have estate planning in place and only a third of parents have properly named legal guardians for their minor children. That’s problematic because life happens to all of us and gives none of us a heads up. But our message this week is not about
Checking Your Estate Plan: Is It a Trick or a Treat?
When was the last time you reviewed your estate plan? Do you know if it will work when you need it to and be a treat for your loved ones to manage? Or is there a nasty trick lying in wait? Get our Estate Plan Checklist to give your plan a quick audit. It’s no
The Estate Planning and Conversations You and Your Spouse Need to Have
When was the last time you and your spouse discussed your estate planning? We know it is probably not on your list of “date night” conversations. In fact, many of our friends, family, and even professionals we work with tell us that once they create their estate plan, they consider it finalized and do not
Helpful Gifting Strategies for Beneficiaries
Everyone loves giving gifts at the holidays and the exchange of joy it brings. But have you considered how gifting to your loved ones can be part of your estate plan and the legacy you leave? Gifting strategies are for everyone, not just for the wealthy. If you have amassed any kind of assets in
The Whys and Hows of Talking to Your Kids About Your Estate Plan
Talking about the taboo topics of money and death in one conversation is not most people’s idea of a good time. Many may say that talk of death makes them uncomfortable, and to discuss money would simply be impolite. Yet, when it comes to your family and their future, these connotations should be set aside
Why You Should Check Estate Planning Off Your To-Do List
January 1st has come and gone, but hopefully your New Year’s Resolutions have not done the same. Estate planning is one thing that should definitely make it onto your list of resolutions, whether you have already begun to plan or it is time for a review. The following are a few reasons to actually check
Summer Vacation Bound? Tackle These 5 Important “To Do’s” First
It’s no surprise that Americans spend more time planning their summer vacations than they do planning their estate. Indeed, two-thirds of Americans do not have any estate planning in place, and 69% of parents have yet to name legal guardians for their children. These are frightening statistics, but understandable as vacations are fun but contemplating