Adding Children to Joint Account can have Unintended Consequences
Joint accounts may seem like an effective way to prepare if parents need help with finances as they get older, but unexpected problems could crop up.
May 2, 2023
Protecting Inheritances in a Blended Family
As divorce and second marriages become increasingly common, more people find themselves raising children who are not biologically their own. Estate planning for blended families should address this unique situation.
April 10, 2023
Steps Seniors should take before Remarrying
As the calendar turned to 2023, many of us took a moment to think about resolutions. I want to lose 10 pounds. I want to read things that aren’t just about work. I want to learn how to play pickleball. Or maybe this year I’ll give a relationship another shot. Maybe I’ll even remarry.
March 6, 2023
Consider Annuities in your Estate Planning
An annuity beneficiary is a person or entity that receives the benefit of an annuity after the death of the annuity owner. Who you choose to be the beneficiary of your annuity depends on several factors, including the type of annuity you own and your financial goals for it.
March 2, 2023
Consider Portability as a Solution for your Surviving Spouse
A common financial mistake married farm couples make occurs when the first spouse dies, and the surviving spouse fails to ‘elect portability.’
March 1, 2023
Steps to Ensure a Smooth Probate
The probate process can be expensive for some estates. Settling an estate through probate can cost you both time and money.
December 7, 2022
Funds Available to Help Seniors Age in Place
It’s common for older adults to leave their homes and move into a new living space – like a family member’s house, assisted living facility or nursing home – but a recent effort by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is hoping to change that and help older homeowners instead age in place.
November 17, 2022
Community Property Trust is Potential Tool
Getting a step-up in basis when each spouse dies can be a big tax advantage. It has not been available to those who live in common-law states. However, it may now be–through a community property trust.
October 17, 2022
Maximizing Lifetime Social Security Benefits
As retirement nears, you may be wondering when to start taking Social Security payments. These benefits are primarily based on your earnings during your working years and your age when you start receiving benefits.
September 28, 2022
There are Benefits to a QTIP Trust
A qualified terminable interest property (QTIP) trust allows an individual, called the grantor, to leave assets for a surviving spouse and determine how the trust’s assets are split up after the surviving spouse dies.
September 26, 2022