Planning for the end of life is never easy, but including your funeral and memorial wishes in your estate plan can relieve a major burden from your loved ones. When your family is grieving,…
A qualified terminable interest property (QTIP) trust can be a valuable estate planning tool if you have a blended family. In such families — where one or both spouses have children from prior relationships…
Making sure your family will be able to locate your estate planning documents when needed is one of the most important parts of the estate planning process. Your carefully prepared will, trust or power…
A do-it-yourself (DIY) estate plan may seem appealing to those who feel confident managing their own affairs and want to save money. With the abundance of online templates and legal software, it’s easier than…
Your estate planning goals likely revolve around your family, including both current and future generations. But don’t forget to take yourself into consideration. What if you become incapacitated and are unable to make financial…
For many individuals, certain assets bypass their wills or trusts and are transferred directly to loved ones through beneficiary designations. These nonprobate assets may include IRAs and certain employer-sponsored retirement accounts, life insurance policies,…
Life insurance is often a cornerstone of estate planning, providing liquidity to cover estate taxes, debts or other obligations. However, life insurance proceeds generally will be included in your taxable estate if you own…
When it comes to estate planning, one of the more nuanced tools available is a quiet trust (also known as a “silent” trust). Unlike a traditional trust, a quiet trust keeps beneficiaries — often…
For family business owners, an estate plan and a succession plan often work in tandem, ensuring that both personal and business affairs transition smoothly. Your estate plan can help ensure that your assets are…
