Posts Tagged ‘Family’
What Real Estate Owners Don’t Know Can Hurt Them
The old saying, “what you don’t know won’t hurt you,” does not apply to real estate law. Ignorance of the law is never an excuse. In the U.S., everyone is expected to know and follow the law, whether they are aware of it or not. For real estate owners, the legal landscape is full of…
Read MoreHow Are My Business Documents Relevant to My Estate Plan?
Studies consistently find that only about 25–35 percent of Americans have an estate plan, a shockingly low rate when you consider that, in the absence of a plan, the state—not you or your family—decides what happens to your assets, including your business interests. The overall business succession planning rate is higher, with about two-thirds of…
Read MoreEstate Planning Considerations for a Secure Retirement
Retirement is a significant life transition that often prompts individuals to reevaluate their financial plans and priorities. While much attention is rightly placed on retirement savings and investment strategies, equally important is the process of estate planning. As you prepare for retirement, taking proactive steps to organize your estate can provide peace of mind and…
Read MoreChoosing, Reviewing, and Empowering Your Agents
In the realm of estate planning, much attention is often given to drafting wills, establishing trusts, and distributing assets. However, one crucial aspect that deserves equal consideration is the selection and empowerment of agents entrusted with carrying out your wishes when you are unable to do so yourself. These agents play pivotal roles in executing…
Read MoreThe Benefits of a Professional Fiduciary
Estate planning is a fundamental step in securing your assets, protecting your legacy, and ensuring that your wishes are carried out when you are no longer able to manage your affairs. While many people turn to family members or close friends to act as fiduciaries in their estate plans, there are compelling reasons why you…
Read MoreProtecting Your Trust from Scams and Fraud
Trusts are powerful financial tools used to manage and protect assets for individuals and their beneficiaries. They provide a reliable way to safeguard wealth for future generations, manage charitable giving, and protect assets from potential creditors. However, just like any financial arrangement, trusts can become targets for scams and fraud. To ensure your trust remains…
Read MoreThe Role of Trusts in Asset Protection and Growth
In the world of finance and wealth management, asset allocation is a crucial strategy for achieving long-term financial goals. One powerful tool in asset protection and growth is the use of trusts. Trusts provide a flexible and efficient means to manage assets, protect them from various risks, and optimize investments, especially during market fluctuations. The…
Read MoreThe 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…
Read MoreEstate Planning Myths and Misconceptions
Estate planning is a crucial aspect of financial responsibility that often gets overlooked or misunderstood. It’s not just for the wealthy; it’s for everyone who wants to ensure that their assets are distributed according to their wishes after they pass away. Unfortunately, there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding estate planning that can lead to…
Read MoreSecuring Your Legacy
Every year, during the third week of October, we observe Estate Planning Awareness Week—a time to highlight the importance of planning for the future and securing your legacy. While discussing topics like wills, trusts, and inheritances may not be the most exciting conversation, they are undeniably essential for the financial well-being of your loved ones…
Read MoreProtecting Your Legacy on the Go
Business travelers often find themselves navigating the complexities of estate planning with an added layer of challenge—frequent trips away from home. If you already have an estate plan in place, kudos on taking this important step. However, to maintain its effectiveness, it’s crucial to consider the unique circumstances of frequent travel. In this blog, we’ll…
Read MorePreparing for Year-End
As the year is quickly coming to a close, it’s a perfect time to conduct a year-end review of your estate planning documents and strategies. Estate planning ensures that your assets are protected, your loved ones are cared for, and your legacy is secure. Here are the essential steps to prepare for the end of…
Read MoreProtect Your Family’s Future
Life, with its unpredictability and surprises, underscores the importance of preparedness. While we revel in its beautiful moments, it’s also essential to brace ourselves for its uncertainties. For many, the primary motivation behind estate planning is the genuine desire to safeguard their family’s future, especially in the face of unexpected events. By creating a comprehensive…
Read MoreLabor for Your Legacy
In the spirit of Labor Day, we take a moment to honor the tireless efforts, dedication, and sacrifices made by workers everywhere. Labor Day isn’t just about barbecues and parades; it’s a recognition of the grind, the sweat, and the perseverance that’s intrinsic to creating and upholding our society. Similarly, estate planning isn’t merely about…
Read MoreThe ABCs of Estate Planning
As the back-to-school season rolls around, parents everywhere are busy with preparations – from buying new school supplies to setting up schedules and routines. But amidst the rush of a new academic year, there’s another essential matter that parents should prioritize: estate planning. Just as you prepare your children for a successful school year, it’s…
Read MoreEstate Planning Steps to Take Before the End of Summer
As summer winds down and we prepare for the fall season, there’s one important aspect of life that often goes overlooked – estate planning. Whether you’re young or old, wealthy or just starting out, having a solid estate plan is crucial to ensure your wishes are fulfilled and your loved ones are taken care of…
Read MoreAging Parents: Discussing Estate Planning
As our parents age, one of the essential topics that often goes undiscussed is estate planning. While it may be uncomfortable to broach the subject, having an open and honest conversation with your aging parents about estate planning is crucial to ensure their wishes are respected and their assets are protected. The Importance of Estate…
Read MoreEnd-of-Summer Estate Checkup
As the warm days of summer begin to wane, it’s a perfect time to take a step back from the fun-filled activities and think about the important aspects of life. One such crucial aspect is estate planning and, more specifically, reviewing your trust. An end-of-summer estate checkup can help ensure that your loved ones are…
Read MoreProtecting Your Children’s Education
As parents, one of our most significant responsibilities is to ensure the well-being and future success of our children. One essential aspect of this duty is providing them with a quality education that equips them with the necessary tools to thrive in an ever-changing world. With the rising costs of higher education, planning for your…
Read MoreTrust Administration Pitfalls to Avoid
Trust administration plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth transfer of assets and fulfilling the wishes of the trust creator. However, the process can be complex and prone to potential pitfalls. By exploring some of the common mistakes that can occur during trust administration and providing practical tips on how to prevent them, trustees…
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