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A Power of Attorney May Not Be What You Think
If you've ever considered planning for your future or helped someone plan for theirs, you've probably heard the term "power of attorney." But do you really know what it is and how it works?...
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Preventing Family Feuds Over Your Personal Belongings
The passing of a loved one is heartbreaking, but the aftermath can become even more painful if disagreements over their personal belongings tear your family apart. These disputes, especially when centered around meaningful objects, can leave lasting wounds that may never fully heal…
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Matthew Perry’s Estate Plan Demonstrates the Benefits of Trusts
When Matthew Perry, the beloved star of Friends, passed away last year, the world mourned the loss of a comedic icon. However, as details of his estate began to emerge, a curious puzzle presented itself: why did he seem to have less money than you’d expect?…
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What Do Lasagna and Estate Planning Have in Common?
Most people think “estate planning” is the same as drafting a will or trust. This is a common misconception. Estate planning isn’t about certain documents but more like a good lasagna recipe…
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3 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Creating Your Estate Plan With AI
The allure of do-it-yourself estate planning through AI is strong, especially when you think your situation is simple and straightforward. But here’s the truth: estate planning isn't just about creating a set of documents, and it’s almost always more complicated than you think…
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Labor Day Reflections and Your Legacy
Labor Day also provides an opportunity to think about your personal labor, or the work you’ve put into building your life. Your home, your family, your career – these all came about from hard work! Let’s reflect on everything you’ve worked hard for throughout your life…
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How Beneficiary Designations Put Your Family at Risk
Many financial advisors, accountants, and even other lawyers will tell you that you don’t need an estate plan and that naming beneficiaries on your accounts is enough. But they’re not telling you about the risks you may unknowingly take with your family's financial future…
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Would $23,000 Make a Difference to You?
Imagine discovering thousands of dollars that belong to you, only to be told you can't have it. It’s called “unclaimed property,” which is money that’s yours but has been handed over to the government without your knowledge. It happens more often than you may think…
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Would You Make This Million Dollar Mistake?
Imagine this: You're in your twenties and you fill out a form at work, naming your significant other as the beneficiary of your retirement account. Fast forward 28 years - you've long since broken up, lived a full life, and died, and your ex gets your now-million-dollar nest egg. Sound far-fetched? It's not…
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Celebrity Estate Plans Series Part 4 of 4: Elvis and the Scammers
In this last installment of our four-part celebrity series, we spotlight Elvis, the King of Rock. Although he passed away in 1977, we can learn valuable lessons from his estate, even in 2024, like how to avoid falling prey to scammers…
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Celebrity Estate Plans Series Part 3 of 4: Jay Leno’s Case is No Laughing Matter
In this third installment of our four-part celebrity series, we discuss a topic that no one wants to think about as it may seem to be a fate worse than death: incapacity. Find out what Jay Leno and his family can teach us about the need to be prepared, no matter what happens…
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Celebrity Estate Plans Series Part 2 of 4: Vanilla Ice Has Thoughts
Since we love a good celebrity story, this July we’re looking at the lives of 4 celebrities and how they’re preparing for the inevitable (or didn’t!). In this second article of our 4-part celebrity estate planning series, Vanilla Ice chimes in with his estate planning experience, advice, and lessons learned…
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Celebrity Estate Plans Series Part 1 of 4: Michael Jackson
For whatever reason, we just can’t resist a good, juicy celebrity story. So for the next few weeks, we’re going to look at the lives of 4 celebrities and how they prepared for the inevitable (or didn’t!). This week we're turning the spotlight on the King of Pop himself, Michael Jackson…
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Value Freedom? Here’s Why an Estate Plan Is Your Declaration of Independence
As you celebrate the Fourth of July and all it represents - freedom, independence, and the pursuit of happiness - take pride in the ultimate American liberty: the right to decide your own affairs, even after death or in the event of incapacity…
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The Surprising Connection Between Men’s Health and Estate Planning
June marks Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about health issues predominantly affecting men and encouraging the early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys. So this month, gentlemen, let’s turn the focus on you…
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They’re Not Kids Anymore! Navigating Your Child’s Transition Into Adulthood
When your child turns 18, they’re legally considered an adult even though they have a lot more growing to do (though they may not think so!). Just like any other adult, their health and financial information is protected by privacy laws. But you can still step in and help them if you and your child plan ahead…
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Father Knows Best: Avoiding Common Estate Planning Pitfalls
As a father, you've always strived to provide the best for your family, ensuring their well-being and securing their future. However, even the most well-intentioned plans can fail if you overlook the complexities of estate planning…
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Protecting Your LGBTQIA+ Family: A Pride Month Guide to Estate Planning for Non-Biological Parents
As an LGBTQIA+ non-biological parent, June's arrival sparks a flurry of Pride celebrations reminding you of the remarkable progress the community has made, while also shining a light on the ongoing fight for full equality. One area where you may still face unique legal hurdles is in ensuring your parental rights are properly protected if you’re a non-biological parent…
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Memorial Day Reflections: Crafting Your Lasting Legacy With Estate Planning
Memorial Day brought with it an opportunity to reflect on the concepts of mortality, remembrance, and legacy. But what is a legacy, really? And how does it apply to you? Read more…
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10 Steps to Take Now to Secure a Comfortable Retirement: Part 2
In the first part of our series on practical steps to take to ensure a comfortable retirement, we discussed estate planning, passing on legacy, and planning for long-term care. This week, we continue with 5 more steps, from adapting your home for comfort and safety to harnessing technology for independence. Taking these steps will give you comfort in your later years…