Estate Planning Basics

New year, new will

One of the least discussed, but most important part of everyone's life is the creation and maintenance of a final will. In the New Year, people prefer to focus on the opportunities ahead, and a will is an opportunity to ensure their final arrangements will be made according to their wishes.

March 27, 2023 · 2 min read

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.

March 27, 2023 · 2 min read

Gifting to heirs: An introduction

Are you considering giving a significant gift to a future heir this holiday season? Our introduction explains the potential tax benefits as well as other important considerations for gifting to heirs.

March 24, 2023 · 2 min read

Small business solutions to minimize estate taxes

If you're an entrepreneur, your business is likely your most valuable asset. Fail to take the time to plan for disability or death and your estate may face significant tax consequences. So how do you protect your business and your heirs?

March 24, 2023 · 3 min read

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.

March 24, 2023 · 3 min read

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.

March 23, 2023 · 2 min read

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.

March 23, 2023 · 2 min read

What to consider when you believe a relative is not of sound mind

March 20, 2023 · 3 min read

7 tips for getting rid of your parents' lifelong possessions

March 20, 2023 · 4 min read

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.

March 16, 2023 · 3 min read