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Common Mistakes with DIY Estate Plans The internet offers all the information and tools we need at our fingertips to create our own estate plan, right? For most people, this is simply not true. Although your DIY “estate plan” may initially cost only $49.95, it may end up being much, much more expensive than an…

Which Distribution Method Is Best? Showing Your Children the Love Every parent wishes they could love and protect their children forever. Leaving an inheritance through trust ensures you can still contribute to their well-being once you are gone. There are a variety of ways that you can leave money and property to your children. You…

Nothing Says “I Love You” Like Planning for Your Spouse You’ve built a life together, you’ve weathered of storms, and you’ve saved for your future. Now what? It’s time to prepare for the possibility that your spouse may survive you. Ease that future burden by protecting your spouse and other loved ones now! There are…

Fraud Advisory: Protect Your Social Security. The Office of the Inspector General, Social Security Administration has released a Fraud Advisory. Here’s what you need to know. All over the country, scammers pretending to be government employees are obtaining personal information from people who don’t know what to look out for. Keep your Social Security and…

Estate Planning is Like Building a Snowman If you leave out important documents when you create your estate plan, it is unlikely to accomplish all of your goals, and the benefits you thought you were gaining could melt away. Step 1: Shape a strong foundation—the trust The foundation of a snowman is the large snowball…

Why Title Matters Understanding how your real estate is owned, or “titled,” is necessary because this determines the extent of control you have over your real estate, how susceptible your property is to creditors, and what will happen to it upon your death. Individually One of the most common ways people own real estate is…

529 Plans: What you Need to Know With the average cost of tuition rising every year, it is never too early to start saving for your children or grandchildren’s college expenses. 529 plans are among the most popular types of accounts used to set aside these funds, but there are pros and cons to using…

Loan, Gift, or Advancement: Why the Classification Matters We all want to provide financial help to our loved ones, but it’s important to understand that how the money is classified will affect your estate planning! Understanding the Differences The intent behind the transfer of the money is key when determining if it will be considered…

Plan on Giving this Holiday Season? 5 Things to Consider The holiday season is a time to enjoy friends, family, and loved ones. Often we consider our life circumstances and may get in the spirit of giving. This is particularly true if you are at a point in your life where you have enough from…

Your Five Task Year-End Estate Planning To-Do List 2020 is fast approaching.  As we all prepare for the holidays and a new year, it is important that we wrap up any loose strings.  Before entering into the new year, here are some things that need to be on your end of year checklist: 1. Make…