Love in the 21st century takes many forms, and for a growing number of couples, “forever” doesn’t always include a marriage license. While a deeply personal choice, being unmarried adds layers of legal and financial complexity that can’t be ignored, especially when it comes to protecting your assets and loved ones. Imagine this: you’ve built […]

The political landscape is shifting, and many same-sex couples are worried about what could happen if federal protections for their marriages are rolled back. You’ve worked hard to build a life together, and the last thing you need is uncertainty about whether your marriage, your assets, or your rights will be recognized in the future. […]

When someone asks you to be the executor of their estate, it might seem like a straightforward responsibility – distribute assets according to their will and handle some paperwork. However, as many executors discover, the role involves far more complexity, time, and emotional labor than expected. Understanding these challenges now can help you better prepare, […]

When disaster strikes, time is your most precious resource. Whether it’s a wildfire, hurricane, or flood, being ready to act can make all the difference for you and your loved ones. Having a clear plan helps you stay calm and focused during emergencies. In this article, we’‘ll walk you through how to prepare for evacuation, […]

Surveys conducted in 2024 by Caring.com and Ameriprise Financial revealed a troubling trend: Americans are falling behind on estate planning. The Caring.com survey revealed that only 32% of Americans have a will – a 6% decline from 2023. The Ameriprise survey found that 52% of couples lack estate plans. These statistics highlight a dangerous disconnect […]

You know that uneasy feeling when you think about what everyone you love would do, if (and when) something happens to you? That nagging voice reminding you that you still haven’t created a will or trust or updated the estate plan you do have? As we enter 2025, it’s time to stop pushing those thoughts […]

When preparing for college expenses, understanding how financial aid and estate planning intersect can make a significant difference. This article will break down the essentials of how asset ownership influences aid eligibility, offer actionable strategies to increase the chances of receiving aid, and highlight estate planning tools that can protect your wealth while optimizing support […]

The end of the year can feel overwhelming, but it’s also a time to set yourself up for credits and deductions that can put real money back in your pocket come tax time this April. From the Earned Income Tax Credit to residential energy improvements and even adopting a child, there are a wealth of […]

The desire to make a difference doesn’t end when we’re gone. For many people, incorporating charitable giving into their estate plan provides a way to support causes they care about while creating a lasting legacy. Whether you want to establish a scholarship fund, support medical research, or help your local community, thoughtful charitable planning can […]

When it comes to estate planning, we get many questions about many topics. One of the most common questions we hear concerns account ownership and asset management. Understanding how accounts are titled and who has access to them isn’t just about convenience—it’s about ensuring your assets transfer smoothly to your loved ones while protecting them […]