Equitable distribution of assets among children is an obvious and correct decision in many situations. Yet, in some families, each child receiving the same inheritance can be inappropriate, deplete the estate’s assets due to ensuing litigation, or cause other family…
In estate planning, there are many different types of trusts; revocable and irrevocable trusts are the most common. While there is some similarity, these two major categories of trusts have different purposes in your estate plan. Both can substitute for…
There can be a lot of anxiety associated with discussing your parents' wills or estate plans with them. Many adult children put off having the “dreaded talk” with parents and are unprepared when an unforeseen event like an accident or…
When it comes to buying or selling a home, there is an overwhelming amount of paperwork to handle, but which documents are important to keep? While your agent, title company, and mortgage lender (if applicable) collect and monitor the bulk…
Ensure your affairs are in order in case of unforeseen circumstances such as an accident, incapacitation, or death by planning for the unexpected. If the COVID-19 pandemic taught us anything, it’s that life is uncertain and that caring for you…
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits may be claimed by both spouses; however, each spouse must meet his or her own eligibility requirements. SSDI benefits consider the work history and earnings of each person who has worked and paid Social…
As part of the Senior Safe Act, which went into effect on May 24, 2018, financial institutions and regulators will be allowed to report incidences of potential financial exploitation of senior citizens. Those who are covered by this law include…
There are many family circumstances that can increase the risk of probate litigation, but there are two main causes: disagreements around handling mentally incapacitated family members or, after death, disagreements regarding the dissolution of estates. High-risk factors that often bring…
Your property can be protected from legal claims and creditors by real asset protection. It can help prevent your assets from being seized or liquidated in the event of a lawsuit, bankruptcy, or other financial crisis. Asset protection strategies can…
It is likely that all of us will at some point be caregivers for a close relative whose health is declining. Depending on the family’s dynamics, determining who should handle the role and what type of care the ailing relative…