When Granting Guardianship to a Family Member Is a Bad Idea
Is granting guardianship to a family member ever a bad idea? One of the most challenging things parents have to consider is that they may one day need someone to step in and take over the job of raising their children due to an unexpected accident or illness. Courts typically grant guardianship of children to…
Where Should You Store Your Estate Planning Forms?
Where should you store your estate planning forms? You have taken the time to make sure all your estate papers are filled out carefully. You have left nothing out, and nobody is forgotten, right down to your pet birds. You have a safe deposit box at the bank that you have done business with for…
Estate Planning After a Divorce: Parenting Plans, Guardianships and More
Why do estate planning after a divorce? You will want to readdress items that are needed; now though in reference to new parenting plans and other accommodations of the divorce. In addition, you will need to know what is going to happen to your children should one or both of you become unable to care…
Do I Need a Guardianship Attorney?
Do you need a guardianship attorney? Choosing someone to whom you should grant guardianship of your minor children in the event you are no longer able to care for them is a difficult idea to wrestle with. First things, first, it is not even clear what we mean by not able to take care of…
Is Inheritance Taxable? Your Guide to Inheritance Tax
The average inheritance that someone leaves behind is just shy of $200,000. But, getting an inheritance is often a bittersweet moment. While it can be a life-changing financial boom for many, it comes with the passing of a loved one. Unfortunately, you do not get to just put this money in the bank and walk away….
It has Been Awhile: The Top Signs It Is Time to Update Your Estate Plan
Is it time to update your estate plan? Are you thinking about updating your will? Have you had some big lifestyle changes that may affect your future finances? Have you always had a will but not kept up on updating it as your life has changed? If you have answered yes to one or all…
Do Not Forget Fido: What to Know About Including Pets in Your Will
What should you know about including pets in your will? A common question from pet owners is whether you can include pets in your will. What happens to my pet when I pass on? Keep reading to learn all about including pets in your will. What to Know About Including Pets in Your Will Pets have…
Giving to Charity: How to Leave Your Money to Charity
Did you know that 9% of all money given to charity in the U.S. comes from individual gifts? If you are looking to be a part of this statistic one day, you might have some questions about giving to charity through your will. If you plan correctly, you can leave a lasting positive impact on a…
Age Is Just a Number: Why You Should Write a Will When You are Young
Studies show that 78% of millennials (ages 18-36) and 64% of Generation X-ers (ages 37-52) do not have a will. By contrast, 82% of those 72 and older and 58% of baby boomers (ages 53-71) do have an estate plan. While seniors are usually prepared for the worst, younger people tend to put off thinking about such…
Planning Pitfalls: The Most Common Estate Planning Mistakes
Most people do not like to think about their eventual demise, and they certainly don’t like asking uneasy questions about estate planning. In fact, 6 in 10 adults in the United States do not have a will or living trust. And that is a problem, considering how many people want their assets to pass on to their…