Creating a collection can be an exciting hobby. Depending on what you collect, your collection could have significant value, or it might simply be valuable to you because you enjoy it. As you consider your estate plan, you may wonder how to include your collection....
Estate Planning
What accounts count (toward probate thresholds)?
It is becoming increasingly common for people to have many financial accounts. In addition to the classics, like checking and savings, you may also have multiple retirement and investment accounts. As you think about your estate plan, you will need to consider what...
Is it worth it to try to avoid probate?
Part of having an estate plan is making it more straightforward for your loved ones to wrap up your affairs after you pass away. Although some headlines and pop culture references suggest trying to avoid probate altogether, that is not typically the best option....
Should my business be part of my estate plan?
Owning a business is an integral part of building a life for you and your family. As you think about creating an estate plan, your company has likely played a significant role in building the assets you intend to pass down. Having a plan for your business when you...
Could my end-of-life expenses wipe out my estate?
Your estate plan is a way for your legacy to live on and to support your loved ones, even after you pass away. After years of planning, you want your friends and family to have the assets you worked hard to leave for them. Unfortunately, medical care is often an...
Could death tax changes make some states a worse place to die?
One part of estate planning that many people are concerned about is how taxes will impact their remaining assets and their loved ones' inheritances. Some prefer to plan around the impact of taxes, while others attempt to avoid taxes on their estate altogether. Many...
Naming a minor as a beneficiary
One of the main reasons you may want an estate plan is to provide for your loved ones after you pass away. After all, you worked hard to set money aside for them, and you want the assets from your estate to enhance the lives of your family and close friends. Suppose...
Could citizenship affect what you leave your spouse?
After spending a lifetime together, you want to ensure your spouse has a certain amount of financial security when you pass away. While some people embrace the philosophy of “dying broke”, you may want your spouse to continue enjoying the same lifestyle as they did...
Remember to fund your living trust
Trusts can be useful for many kinds of estate plans. Depending on the situation, a trust can hold assets or provide guidance for their distribution. A living trust can be helpful as you plan who will inherit the assets of your estate. With a living trust you can...
Is it time to update my estate plan?
An estate plan is an essential part of helping your loved ones wrap up your affairs while passing on your legacy. The assets you leave for your loved ones can help them move forward with the life you imagined for them. An important part of a thorough estate plan is...
