Americans are known for their “work hard, play hard” mindset. On average, we work 1,789 hours per year.[1] However, even with our play-hard mentality, many of us do not stay up to see the ball drop on New Year’s Eve.[2] Less than one-third of Americans plan to either...
Year: 2024
Estate Planning Is a Great Way to Help You Celebrate the Holidays
It Is Time to Make Your Estate Planning List and Check It Twice “He’s making a list. He’s checking it twice. He’s going to find out who’s naughty and nice . . . .”[1] The estate planning process can sometimes be similar to Santa’s process. You decide who should...
It Is Okay to Ask for Help
There are times, like the holiday season, that we think about and prepare for, for much of the year. However, when they arrive, we may still feel unprepared. The holidays serve as a reminder of how quickly life happens. It can also feel this way when we get the news...
How to Choose the Initial Trustee of Your Trust
When you establish a trust, you nominate someone to be the trustee. If you are creating a revocable living trust, you will likely be the initial trustee. You will also want to name successors or backup trustees to step in and manage the trust’s affairs if you can no...
What to Do with Grandma’s Ring: Dividing Personal Property in an Estate
If you have a beloved late grandmother, many images and memories may come to mind when you reminisce about her. You might picture her at her home or at the family vacation house during the holidays. Your memory could be a special meal that only she prepared for you or...
How to Choose a Conservator for Yourself
Every day we make hundreds of decisions for ourselves—from what to eat for breakfast to where to vacation. However, what happens if you cannot make decisions for yourself? Who do you want making day-to-day decisions on your behalf and serving as your conservator? If...
Do It Now: Name a Guardian for Your Minor Children
We know it is difficult, even horrific, to imagine someone else raising your children. However, you must consider who you would choose to fill this important role. Otherwise, a judge—a stranger who does not know you or your wishes, your child, or your relatives and...
Should Your Child’s Guardian and Trustee Be the Same Person?
If you have overheard any estate planning discussions, you have likely heard the words “guardian” or “trustee.” In estate planning, deciding who will ultimately be tasked with caring for your minor child or managing funds for their benefit is an important decision...
Left Out of Your Parent’s Estate Plan? What You Need to Consider
Many members of the next generation are banking on a sizable inheritance as part of an unprecedented intergenerational wealth transfer occurring in the United States right now. However, research shows a growing disconnect between how much children expect to receive...
Reviewing Your Estate Plan after the Death of a Loved One
The death of a loved one is never easy. Regardless of your relationship with the deceased (for example, a relative, significant other, or close friend), you need space and time to process and grieve your loss. Once you have had time to cope with all that has happened,...