
Important Steps to take After the Passing of a Spouse
The death of a spouse leaves a long list of things to do, all while you’re grieving. It can be tough to know exactly what to tackle first.

The death of a spouse leaves a long list of things to do, all while you’re grieving. It can be tough to know exactly what to tackle first.

Family wealth discussions are never easy. Nonetheless, it’s necessary to talk about money with loved ones. Use the right approach to stay on the same page and avoid miscommunication.

Discussing inheritance early avoids surprises and prepares your children to manage the wealth and responsibilities they’ll inherit.

Using DIY deeds like quitclaim deeds can create more problems than they solve, from legal complications to financial penalties.

Contingent beneficiaries provide a safety net, if the primary beneficiary cannot receive the assets from an estate or proceeds from a life insurance policy or retirement account.

Estate planning ensures that your children will have the future you want for them no matter what happens to you.

Single parents must carefully consider each option when preparing their estates. By creating an intentional plan, parents can ensure their wishes will be honored for their children.

Appointing a successor trustee for your revocable trust ensures that your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes without probate.

Your family may struggle to get the money you leave them if it gets caught in probate. Set up a trust to ensure that your loved ones are secure, even when you’re gone.

An irrevocable trust must be carefully funded, structured and managed to achieve both asset protection and tax planning.