Planning for Special Circumstances

Are You Married To An Evil Stepparent?

I received a call from a woman whose father recently passed away. His death was not unexpected. He had cancer and knew he was going to…

Wacky Wills

Wacky Wednesday: Wills That Make You Go “Hmmm…” Solomon Sanborn

NB: This post is part of a series highlighting wills that contain some interesting, and sometimes bizarre, bequests and stipulations. You can see all these posts here.

Financial Powers of Attorney

How to Talk With Your Parents About Their Financial Affairs

Many elderly parents are uncomfortable sharing their finances with their children. An article I read recently suggested several reasons they may be wary. Some parents worry…

FAQs About Dying Without A Will

Will The State Get All My Assets If I Die Without A Will?

The law gives you the freedom to decide how and to whom your assets are distributed when you die by making a Will. If you die without…

Planning for Special Circumstances

Can Your Spouse Handle Your Financial Affairs?

Often in marriages, one spouse ends up handling most of the couple’s financial affairs. The division of responsibilities doesn’t always fall along gender lines. Typically, the…

Odds and Ends

In Memory of Jake

My family experienced the full spectrum of emotions last week. We started the week celebrating my brother’s wedding, and ended it grieving the death of my father-in-law,…

FAQs About Estate Planning

You’ve Signed Your Estate Planning Documents…Now What?

Once you’ve signed your estate planning documents—your will, powers of attorney and other important paperwork—you’re more prepared than most Americans. However, you’re not out of the woods…

Planning for Special Circumstances

Three Dangerous Consequences of Putting Off Estate Planning

Any attorney can tell you it’s best to create your will while you’re healthy and in full command of all your resources. Unfortunately, though, some people just…

FAQs About Estate Planning

Does an IRA Beneficiary Designation Override a Will?

I recently received a note from a woman whose mother had recently passed away. Her mother’s Will directed that her estate be divided equally among her three…

Newsworthy

How To Talk With A Friend Who Is Sick

At some point in our lives, most of us will know someone who is facing a life-threatening illness. We’ll want to help, but may not know just…