Adulting, Made Easier – Stories & Straight Talk
Quick reads, helpful tips, and honest breakdowns of what you need to know.
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Debunking Common Misconceptions About Estate Planning
October 21-27 marks National Estate Planning Awareness Week—a perfect time to bring clarity to this often overlooked and misunderstood subject. Let’s dive in and explore why estate planning is essential for securing your future and protecting what matters most. Read more.
Your Complete Guide to Disaster Preparedness: Be Ready for Anything
In a world where life can change in an instant—whether due to natural disasters or unexpected events—being prepared isn't just a smart idea; it's essential. Don't wait until it's too late. Find out how you can protect what matters most. Read more.
A Power of Attorney Could Be Different Than You Expect
Have you ever thought about planning for your future or assisted someone else with theirs? If so, you've likely come across the term "power of attorney." But do you truly understand what it means and how it functions? Find out more.
Avoiding Family Conflicts Over Your Cherished Possessions
Losing a loved one is incredibly tough, but the pain can deepen when disagreements over their personal belongings cause rifts within the family. When cherished items become the center of conflict, the emotional scars can run deep, sometimes never fully healing. Read more.
The Power of Trusts in Legacy Planning: A Lesson from Matthew Perry's Estate Plan
When Matthew Perry, the beloved Friends star, passed away last year, the world grieved the loss of a comedic legend. But as details about his estate surfaced, an unexpected question arose: why did his wealth seem smaller than anticipated? Read more.
How Is Estate Planning Like Crafting the Perfect Lasagna?
Many people assume that 'estate planning' just means creating a will or trust, but that's a common misunderstanding. Estate planning isn't just about paperwork—it's more like crafting the perfect lasagna recipe, with layers of thoughtful preparation. Learn more.
Key Questions to Consider Before Using AI to Create Your Estate Plan
The appeal of DIY estate planning with AI is tempting, especially if you believe your situation is simple. But here’s the reality: estate planning isn’t just about filling out forms, and it’s often more complex than it seems. Read more.
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.