You may have been running around for weeks, getting your new college student off to school. It's exhilarating, and your heart likely is bursting at the seams. You're probably prouder than words can express, but you’re also a little afraid, too. How can you make sure your kid is going...
How Estate Planning Can Help You Dream About Your Future
A dream without a plan is simply a wish. Estate planning is not just about death and taxes -- it puts you in the driver’s seat of your financial life, allowing you to set achievable goals. It is a great opportunity to focus on the legacy you want to leave...
Five Considerations When Selecting a Guardian for Your Children
There is no question that having children changes everything -- and estate planning is no exception. If you and your spouse pass away or become legally incapacitated, and arrangements were never made in the event of such an emergency, your minor child or children will have to be placed with...
Discretionary Trusts – How to Protect Your Beneficiaries from Bad Decisions and Outside Influences
Although leaving your hard-earned assets outright to your children, grandchildren, or other beneficiaries after you die may seem like the easiest and most desired form of distribution, this scheme will make their inheritance easy prey for creditors, predators, and divorcing spouses. Instead, consider using discretionary trusts for the benefit of...
There’s Never A Better Time Than Now To Get Your Affairs in Order
The idea of getting your financial and legal house in order is likely the last thing on your mind during this time of year. But, getting started is much easier than you think. In fact, this time of the year is a good time to reflect upon the year that...
3 Asset Protection Tips You Can Use Now
A common misconception is that only wealthy families and people in high risk professions need to have an asset protection plan. But in reality, anyone can be sued. A car accident, foreclosure, unpaid medical bills, or an injured tenant can result in a monetary judgment that will decimate your finances. ...
Will vs. Trust: Which is Right for You?
When you sit down to create your estate plan, there are likely dozens of questions running through your mind. Who should get possession of your home? Who should run the family business? Will you create a college fund for your grandkids? What charity should you donate to? The options can...
The Harmonious Family that Won’t Fight? The Outcome May Surprise You
Most families are happy families. They get together for the holidays, share laughs, and tell stories. Everyone gets along and enjoys each other’s company. Then, the matriarch or patriarch dies. Suddenly, years of pent-up resentment and hurt feelings bubble to the surface, and the once-happy family is now embroiled...