Adulting, Made Easier – Stories & Straight Talk
Quick reads, helpful tips, and honest breakdowns of what you need to know.
Featured Posts
Why Beneficiary Designations Could Harm Your Family
Some financial advisors and accountants might insist that an estate plan isn't necessary, suggesting that naming beneficiaries on your accounts will suffice. But what they might not mention are the hidden risks that could threaten your family’s financial security. Learn more.
Could $23,000 Change Your Life?
Picture this: you stumble upon a treasure trove of cash that rightfully belongs to you, only to learn that you can't access it. This is known as “unclaimed property” — money that’s yours but has been turned over to the government without your awareness. Believe it or not, this happens more frequently than you might imagine. Discover the details.
Could You Fall Victim to This Million-Dollar Mistake?
Picture this: You’re in your twenties, completing a form at your job, and designating your partner as the beneficiary of your retirement account. Fast forward 28 years—you’ve moved on, experienced life to the fullest, and then passed away, leaving your former partner with your now-million-dollar retirement savings. Sounds unbelievable? Think again. Read on to find out more.
Exploring Celebrity Estate Plans: Part 4 of 4 - Lessons from Elvis Presley and the Scammers
In the concluding part of our four-part celebrity series, we turn our attention to Elvis, the King of Rock. Despite his passing in 1977, his estate still offers valuable lessons in 2024, including protecting yourself from scammers. Read more.
Exploring Celebrity Estate Plans: Part 3 of 4 - Jay Leno’s Situation is Serious Business
In the third part of our four-part celebrity series, we tackle a topic that often feels more daunting than death itself: incapacity. Discover the valuable lessons Jay Leno and his family offer about the necessity of being prepared for any eventuality. Read more.
Exploring Celebrity Estate Plans: Part 2 of 4 - Vanilla Ice Has Thoughts
We all love a good celebrity tale, so this July, we're diving into the lives of four celebrities and their approaches to preparing for the inevitable (or not!). In the second installment of our 4-part celebrity estate planning series, Vanilla Ice shares his experience, advice, and lessons learned. Let's just say he has...thoughts. Read more.
Exploring Celebrity Estate Plans: Part 1 of 4 - Michael Jackson
For some reason, we can’t resist a juicy celebrity story. Over the next few weeks, we’ll delve into the lives of four celebrities and examine how they planned for the inevitable—or failed to! This week, we're shining the spotlight on the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Read more.
Cherish Freedom? Discover Why an Estate Plan is Your Personal Declaration of Independence
As you revel in the Fourth of July festivities, honoring freedom, independence, and the pursuit of happiness, take a moment to embrace the ultimate American liberty: the right to manage your own affairs, even beyond life or in times of incapacity. Read more.
The Unexpected Link Between Men’s Health and Estate Planning
June is Men’s Health Month, a time dedicated to highlighting health issues that primarily affect men and promoting the early detection and treatment of diseases in men and boys. This month, gentlemen, it’s all about you. Read more.
They're All Grown Up! Guiding Your Child's Leap into Adulthood
Once your child turns 18, they're legally deemed an adult, despite having much more growing up to do (even if they might not agree!). At this stage, privacy laws protect their health and financial information, just like any other adult. However, with some proactive planning, you can still provide the support they need. Read more.
A Father's Wisdom: Sidestepping the Traps in Estate Planning
As a father, you've always worked hard to provide the best for your family, ensuring their well-being and securing their future. However, even the most carefully thought-out plans can fall short if you overlook the complexities of estate planning. Read more.
A Guide to Estate Planning for Non-Biological Parents in the LGBTQIA+ Community: Protecting Your Family During Pride Month
Celebrate Pride and reflect on progress made for the LGBTQIA+ community this June. As a non-biological parent in the LGBTQIA+ community, it's important to be aware of the ongoing fight for full equality. One area that might require attention is ensuring your parental rights are legally protected, especially if you are a non-biological parent. Learn more about this and find valuable information here.
Memorial Day Insights: Building Your Timeless Legacy with Estate Planning
Memorial Day offers a chance to contemplate mortality, remembrance, and legacy. But what exactly is a legacy, and how does it relate to you? Read more.
Estate Planning: A Gift of Serenity and Empowerment for Every Mother
Give your mother a gift that truly lasts this Mother's Day: the reassurance and empowerment provided by well-crafted estate planning. Estate planning allows you to safeguard your well-being, your children's future, and your financial security, ensuring you're ready for whatever comes your way. It's the best gift a mom can receive. Learn more.
What Becomes of Your Social Media Accounts After You Pass Away?
Ever curious about the fate of your social media accounts after you're gone? Each platform follows its own set of rules, making it crucial to understand these policies to manage your digital presence responsibly. Continue reading to learn more.
Why Investing Your Tax Refund in Estate Planning Is a Smart Choice
So you received a tax refund this year—congratulations! You might be thinking of splurging on a vacation or saving it for an unforeseen expense, but there's an even smarter option for utilizing that refund: estate planning. Here's why it's a wise choice. Continue reading to learn more.
Beyond Vows and Partings: The Importance of Planning Ahead for the Conclusion of Your Relationship
Whether due to a breakup, divorce, or the passing of a significant other, all relationships inevitably reach a conclusion. The extent to which you've prepared for such an eventuality can significantly affect you, your partner, and your assets. Discover more.
3 Essential Estate Planning Papers Your Parents Should Have Immediately
As your parents enter their later years, securing their comfort and tranquility—as well as your own—becomes increasingly important. To guarantee your parents have access to the support they require, it's critical they have these three essential documents prepared and accessible. Discover more.
Estate Planning Essentials for Caregivers of Individuals with Dementia - Part 2
This week, we progress our conversation on estate planning for a family member with dementia, emphasizing the need for increasingly proactive and strategic planning to prevent future disputes regarding your loved one's wishes. Continue reading to learn more…
Estate Planning Essentials for Caregivers of Individuals with Dementia - Part 1
In this article, we delve into the significance of estate planning for those diagnosed with dementia. It's a vital step in safeguarding the preferences and legal rights of your loved one. Continue reading to learn more.