As a parent, you probably want to protect your children from financial hardships even when they become adults. An estate plan can allow you to help your kids financially, but what if one of them is a reckless spender? They might blow their inheritance instead of using...
Estate Planning
Key points for small business owners concerning estate planning
Building a small business often takes years of hard work, personal sacrifices and strategic planning. Have you considered what will happen to your business when you can no longer run it? For many small business owners, their enterprise is their most significant asset...
How can you include philanthropic interests in your estate plan?
You've worked hard throughout your life, accumulating assets and building your legacy. Now, you're starting to think about the future, and you may be wondering, "How can I leave a mark on the world that lasts long after I'm gone?" The answer could lie in combining...
How and when to designate a healthcare surrogate
When it comes to medical care, it’s important to have a plan in place for how you want to be treated if you’re unable to make decisions for yourself. One way to do this is by designating a healthcare surrogate. This person will be responsible for making medical...
3 reasons people add power of attorney designations to their estate plans
Power of attorney designations are some of the most common estate planning resources utilized by adults of all ages. Some people who don't even have a will yet have drafted powers of attorney. The basic function of power of attorney designations involves giving...
4 steps to protect your will from being contested
Creating a will as part of your estate plan ensures that all your wishes are carried out after you pass away. However, the last thing you want is to leave your family arguing when you’re gone. This is why you should do everything possible to prevent your will from...
It’s never too early to make a will or trust
Planning for the future can seem daunting, especially when it comes to estate planning. However, it is crucial that you make an estate plan early to make sure your assets are distributed according to your wishes. One way to ensure this is by creating a will or trust....
3 estate planning mistakes you should avoid
An estate plan is a critical document for all adults. While most recognize that failing to have one in place and never updating it are two major errors, they may not realize that there are other mistakes they can make when they create the plan. Be sure you avoid these...
How should I update my estate plan after having a baby?
Describing life as hectic after becoming a parent is one massive understatement for most parents. Besides adjusting to life with a new member of the household, there are a number of concerns you need to start thinking about. Which school will your child attend? What...
Understanding a power of attorney for health care
Most adults want to make decisions about their health care for themselves. Few consider what will happen if they are incapacitated and cannot advocate on behalf of their own needs, values and preferences. It’s possible for you to take steps to ensure you know who will...