Estate planning is an important process that all adults should consider. Estate planning allows individuals to implement documents that provide instructions on how assets should be distributed upon a person’s death. Estate planning tools can also allocate child...
Age Gracefully With A Plan In Place
Year: 2023
3 things to know about Medicaid’s lookback period
Navigating Medicaid's rules and regulations can be challenging, especially regarding long-term care planning. One of the critical elements in this process is the Medicaid lookback period. Understanding this lookback period is essential for those considering Medicaid...
What’s the difference between godparents and legal guardians?
A lot of parents think that if their child has one or more godparents, there’s no need to name a designated legal guardian in their will. That’s not the case. Godparents can play a significant role in a child’s life, or they can have merely a symbolic role. The naming...
3 easy tips to keep your final will current, valid and secure
Your will is much more important than you may believe. Of course, it protects your final wishes, but perhaps more importantly, it gives your family guidance when they need it most - as they mourn your loss. Like most, you may take comfort in knowing your final...
Should you disinherit someone by leaving them a dollar?
Disinheriting someone means leaving nothing to someone who otherwise would have expected to get an inheritance. This could be a direct heir who would naturally inherit from you, or a beneficiary who was previously included in the will but is now being removed. One way...
How are bank accounts handled in estate planning?
Estate planning encompasses many tools and mechanisms to ensure your assets are allocated appropriately after you’re gone. It's not just about significant assets like homes and investments. Even everyday bank accounts must be carefully considered. When it comes to...
When should you update your estate plan?
There are many misconceptions about estate planning. Some people believe that it only applies to elderly people or those who have fallen ill. Thus, nearly two-thirds of Americans have no estate plan. If you’ve taken steps to address your estate, this is positive....
Why long-married couples should think twice about a joint will
A lot of married couples put off estate planning until well into their senior years. That’s risky for a lot of reasons. However, if you and your spouse have finally been convinced by your kids or your friends to at least get a will, you may think that a joint will is...
Estate planning when your kids don’t want your stuff
What do you do when you’re thinking about the legacy you want to leave behind and you realize that your adult children (and grandchildren) don’t want all of the belongings that are currently taking up space in your home? It can be hard to accept the idea that your...
When should I begin my Medicaid planning journey?
Medicaid is a needs-based state and federal government-funded health insurance program. Americans with income below a certain level and without significant assets can apply for Medicaid to cater to their medical treatment and healthcare needs. While Medicaid is part...