Estate Planning Basics
Learn the essentials around planning and protecting the future for your family and loved ones.
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Appointing a Legal Guardian
Learn why you should appoint a legal guardian for your children, the rights and responsibilities of the legal guardian, and the steps that you need to take to appoint someone as the legal guardian of your children.
· 5 min read
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Do You Know the Top Reasons to Avoid Probate?
If you have heard anything about probate, you were probably told to avoid it at all costs. However, you may not know what it is, what the drawbacks are and most importantly, how best to avoid it.
· 3 min read
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Protect Your Prized Pet: Create a Pet Trust
Since 87% of Americans consider their pets to be family members, making a pet trust is only logical. There's no greater sense of security than knowing you've provided for all your family, whether two-legged, four-legged, or feathered. Read more to find out how to create a pet trust.
· 3 min read
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What Happens to Credit Card Debt When You Die?
You've done all the research and made sure your assets will be distributed to your heirs, but what happens to your credit card debt? And what about when you have more debts than assets? Get the skinny on how the courts settle your debt when you die.
· 2 min read
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Using & Managing an Inheritance
For heirs, the loss of a loved one is often devastating, and making decisions about how to use an inheritance can be daunting. It is important to remember, though, that your benefactor included you because he or she wanted to protect and provide for you. Whether it's a huge windfall or a more modest sum that comes your way, here are some ideas for managing inheritance if you're not sure what to do.
· 2 min read
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7 Tips for Getting Rid of Your Parents' Lifelong Possessions
It's a topic no one likes to think about: the inevitable clean-out of your parents' belongings. But as with many uncomfortable subjects, the best way to approach this one is to plan and start now. Here are some tips to help make the process easier, not only for you but also for your parents and other loved ones. 1. Talk to your parents If your parents are still around and can communicate their wishes, involve them in the process. Do your best to balance being sensitive to their preferences with practical concerns.
· 4 min read
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Estate Taxes: What They Are and How to Plan for Them
Learn the basics about estate taxes and how you can plan to avoid or reduce them in this short primer.
· 3 min read
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How Long Does Probate Take?
Whether you're an executor, administrator, or heir to a probate estate, you probably want to know—just how long is this going to take? Read on.
· 4 min read
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How to Refuse an Inheritance
Refusing an inheritance isn't complicated, but you must be sure you're making the right decision and also following proper procedure.
· 2 min read
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Certified Financial Planner vs. Financial Planner: What's the Difference?
Looking to hire a financial planner? Read on to learn the differences between professional financial planner designations, and how to choose the best adviser for your financial needs.
· 5 min read
