What Is Fair in a Second Marriage and Estate Planning?

If you are planning to take another walk down the aisle, it is critical to take the time to review and revise your estate plan, especially if meaningful assets and debts are being brought into the marriage.

Equal Is Not Always Fair When Considering Inheritance

When you’re planning to divide your estate unequally, explain the reasons to your heirs, and remember: They might be hurt anyway.

When Did You Last Review Beneficiary Designation Forms?

When it comes to your retirement accounts, do you know who your beneficiaries are? These types of accounts have complex distribution rules and significant tax implications for those who inherit them. This complexity is compounded, if there are errors or missing information on your beneficiary forms, as is often the case. Add to this the game-changer SECURE ACT, the largest retirement legislation that has been passed in decades—and there has never been a more important time to review your beneficiary forms.

Required Minimum Distribution Changes for 2025

New withdrawal requirements for inherited IRAs create tax planning challenges for beneficiaries.

What are Biggest Financial Blunders Folks make after 50?

Reaching age 50 is a milestone that most of us celebrate. Still, after you’ve blown out the candles and bid farewell to your guests, you may have a headache from too much champagne, but otherwise feel the same as before.

Don’t Delay Updating Your Estate Plan

Changes in tax law and in your personal life may mean that yours needs to be updated. Here are the easiest (and smartest) ways to do it.

Some Assets Better Left Outside of Will

That last will and testament you have tucked away? It may not be the last word on what happens to your stuff after you are gone. Instead, that legal document’s directives for doling out your wealth may be overruled by other paperwork and relevant laws.

Can You Catch-up? IRS Increases Contributions Limits

If you find that you have fallen behind in your retirement savings, you are not alone. Investment advisor Vanguard reported recently that only 14% of 401(k) participants contributed the maximum amount annually, and only 16% of eligible employees 50+ made additional catch-up contributions.