Estate Planning Basics

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

Including your stepchildren in your estate plan
Here are some of the challenges blended families face in estate planning and what you need to know to make sure your final wishes are respected and followed.
March 14, 2023 · 3 min read
Why you need an estate plan even when you don't have financial assets
Estate planning isn't just for people with a lot of money or property, anyone can use estate planning to provide a legacy for loved ones.
March 13, 2023 · 5 min read
Including digital assets in your estate plan
In the event of your death or disability, what happens to all of your online accounts and the data stored on your electronic devices? Find out how to include digital assets in your estate plan.
March 9, 2023 · 4 min read
5 ways to probate a will
Depending on where you live and your circumstances, you might have multiple options to probate a will.
March 7, 2023 · 4 min read
How to use a remote online notary
Remote online notarizations have become an important legal tool during the coronavirus pandemic. Twenty-three states have already authorized its use. Find out if your state is one of them.
February 21, 2023 · 3 min read
When and how to Use a HIPAA form in your estate plan
A HIPAA authorization form lets you choose who can have access to your private medical information. Learn how to obtain and use this form as part of your estate plan.
February 17, 2023 · 3 min read
Coronavirus presents an opportunity to protect your family and the ones you love
As the world battles the coronavirus pandemic, it's easy to feel anxious and uncertain. Estate planning is one way to take control and make plans that will protect you and your family. Find out how an estate plan can help you get through this crisis.
February 17, 2023 · 3 min read
What makes a will invalid
Because your will is your final act, you want to make sure that it is valid so that your wishes are carried out. Avoid these common pitfalls to ensure your document is ironclad.
February 17, 2023 · 3 min read
I've been named the executor of a will. Now what?
The executor of a will is responsible for carrying out a deceased loved one's wishes. If someone named you the executor, you'll need to learn more about what your role will be, which includes ensuring their assets are distributed to the beneficiaries.
February 16, 2023 · 4 min read
How to avoid challenges to your estate plan after you're gone
The best laid out estate plans may not hold up if a disgruntled relative decides to challenge them. Find out how to make your estate plan bulletproof.
February 15, 2023 · 3 min read