You've probably heard the saying, "Friends don't let friends drive drunk." I'd add another one: Friends don't let friends go through life without an estate plan. According to Caring.com, only 24% of Americans have a will. That means there's a good chance someone you care about is completely unprepared and you may be the one person willing to start the conversation. Here's how to bring it up without making it awkward, and what to tell them about what real estate planning actually looks like. August is National Make a Will Month, which makes this the perfect time to have that conversation.

You've brought it up. More than once. And every time, your spouse says, "We'll get to it." Here's the problem: "later" isn't an estate plan. Every week that goes by without a plan is another week your family is relying on chance instead of clear decisions. If you and your spouse aren't on the same page, don't give up. Here's how to move the conversation forward and what you can start doing today. Read more…

You trust your spouse, of course you do. But if you’re in a blended family and your plan just says “everything goes to my spouse,” here’s the reality: your kids could end up with nothing. Not because anyone’s trying to do the wrong thing… but because once ownership shifts, everything changes. Read more…

One spouse wants clarity and protection. The other wants to avoid “the paperwork.” Classic. Here’s how to bridge the gap without losing your mind or your future peace. Read more..