Estate Planning Basics

Learn the essentials around planning and protecting the future for your family and loved ones.

Revising your estate plan after divorce
After a divorce, your estate plan will undoubtedly change. It is important to consider changing your will, living trust, power of attorney documents, and beneficiary designations. Find out how divorce can affect your estate plan.
February 2, 2024 · 3 min read
The basics of probate accounting
If you have been designated the personal representative for a deceased relative or friend, you need to understand the basics of how to handle the probate accounting.
February 1, 2024 · 5 min read
Reasons to appoint a co-executor of your will
An important part of estate planning is selecting an executor for your will. In some situations, it may be a good idea to designate two or more co-executors.
January 31, 2024 · 2 min read
10 ways to prepare to help your parents manage their finances
These 10 actions can help open the lines of communication and determine where you can play a role.
January 26, 2024 · 3 min read
5 steps to protect family heirlooms
Use these tips to avoid disputes over cherished family items.
December 11, 2023 · 2 min read
Top five mistakes to avoid writing a living trust
A living trust can be an important part of your estate plan, but watch out for errors that could hamper your estate planning objectives or invalidate the trust.
December 11, 2023 · 4 min read
Estate plan strategies for small business owners
What happens to your business after your death depends a lot on decisions you make now.
October 25, 2023 · 4 min read
Rights and responsibilities of a remainderman
Do you stand to inherit property or plan to reserve a life estate in property? Read up on the basics of the rights and duties of a remainderman.
September 28, 2023 · 3 min read
What you can learn about estate planning from Aretha Franklin
What's one thing you can do to reduce the odds of family squabbles after your death? Have an estate plan prepared to make clear your wishes regarding how your assets should be divided. If you skip this step, the state will decide for you.
September 18, 2023 · 4 min read
Contingent beneficiary vs. primary beneficiary
One of the best ways to make sure your assets are handled according to your wishes is to designate both primary and contingent beneficiaries. Learn the difference between the two so you can make an informed decision.
September 12, 2023 · 4 min read