Has the Pandemic Made People More Aware of Estate Planning?
Close to half of respondents earning $80,000 a year or more have a will, an increase of 7% since 2020, according to Caring.com.
Who Can Speak for an Incapacitated Young Adult?
Incapacity can occur because of illness or an accident. It can be temporary or permanent. That’s why every adult needs a power of attorney in place, once they turn eighteen.
Does ‘Gray Divorce’ Fit into Estate Planning?
“Gray divorce” — the unfortunately named term for divorce after age 50 — is increasing among baby boomers.
Organize Your Important Papers and Get Personal and Financial Affairs in Order
The first step in getting your affairs in order is to gather up all your important personal, financial and legal information, so you can arrange it in a format that will benefit you now and your loved ones later.
What Does ‘Community Property’ Mean?
You may have heard the term “community property.” However, do you know exactly what it means or how it could affect you?
Why Shouldn’t I Wait to Draft my Will?
It’s an important task that is easy to procrastinate. However, here is why you shouldn’t:
Why Do I Need a Last Will?
If you die without a will, you die “intestate” and your assets will be distributed according to your state’s law. That could result in a distribution you didn’t intend.
How Do I Talk to My Parents About Estate Planning?
If you have a parent over the age of, say, 65, thoughts about their future may have started to creep into your mind. But because end-of-life planning can be emotional and overwhelming, it’s tempting to put these conversations off — and even more pleasing to avoid them altogether. If there’s a lesson to be learned from the pandemic, however, it’s that waiting until the last minute to prepare is seldom a good idea.
What are My Responsibilities if I’m Named an Executor?
If a loved one asks you to be the executor of their estate, think carefully before you take on this responsibility. While you have the option of declining the request, the person reaching out likely considers you to be responsible and detail oriented. An executor of an estate typically helps file paperwork, close accounts and distribute the assets of the deceased.
What Can Trusts Do for Me and My Family?
Trusts are often associated with the rich, but the uber-wealthy are not the only people who can benefit from using trusts. There is no minimum asset level or net worth required to set up a trust, and you can put any amount of money into a trust.
