Cryptocurrency has become an important part of many investment portfolios. Yet many owners focus on buying, selling or holding coins without considering what happens in the event of death or incapacity. Unlike traditional financial accounts, cryptocurrencies often...
Estate Planning
Not having an estate plan increases the odds of disputes
One thing that significantly increases the odds of a dispute between family members after a parent passes away is if that parent did not have an estate plan. This can lead to numerous conflicts and disputes between surviving family members and beneficiaries. The...
Irrevocable trusts are beneficial in many estate plans
Estate plans are highly personalized and must be set up based solely on the creator’s wishes. When you’re creating your estate plan, you’ll have to think about how you’re going to get your assets to your loved ones. This is sometimes challenging. One option that you...
The advantage of using a special needs trust
As you make your estate plan, if you have a beneficiary with special needs, it may be wise to set up a special needs trust. This is a way to give them an inheritance. Instead of giving it to them directly, as you would with a will, you put the money into a trust and...
Don’t overlook your residuary estate when reviewing a will
The main priority for many people planning their estates is to ensure the right people inherit their most valuable property and prevent their loved ones from fighting over their assets. Most people prioritize their high-value resources, including financial accounts,...
How to protect aging parents from undue influence
Your parents were there to protect and guide you when you were younger. However, as they age, it's natural for them to rely more heavily on others for help with their finances, health care and decision-making. Unfortunately, that increased dependence can make them...
How to talk to your adult children about your estate plan
Having an estate plan in place can provide you with peace of mind. You’ve worked hard, built a life and want to make sure everything is handled according to your wishes. The next step is discussing your estate plan with your family. It can be an uncomfortable...
Avoiding common estate planning mistakes in second marriages
Second marriages often mean blended families with children from previous relationships, along with separate assets. While remarriage can provide a fresh start personally, it also creates challenges. Without careful estate planning, many couples risk family conflict...
Do grandparents make ideal guardians?
When young parents have a new child, they may draft an estate plan and choose a guardian for that child. If they pass away, they want to know who is going to take care of the child in their place. Choosing a guardian helps to give them a sense of security about the...
The benefit of a springing power of attorney
If you draft a power of attorney, you are turning over your right to make certain decisions to someone else, who is known as your agent. A very common example is a medical power of attorney. Your agent is then allowed to make medical decisions on your behalf,...