What Does Estate Plan Include?

A will is first. In essence, a will spells out who will get your stuff, in what proportions they will get it and in some instances at least, upon what conditions.

What a Will Can and Cannot Do

A will allows you to distribute your worldly goods, select a guardian for minor children and name an executor to carry out your wishes.

What a Will Won’t Accomplish

That last will and testament you have tucked away? It may not be the last word on what happens to your stuff after you are gone. Instead, that legal document’s directives for doling out your wealth may be overruled by other paperwork and relevant laws.

Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

According to a Caring.com survey, only 4 in 10 American adults have a will or a living trust. And what may be even more surprising is that younger adults are outpacing their middle-aged and older counterparts when it comes to estate planning.

Do People Get Divorced after Age 65?

A divorce almost always comes with emotional, personal and financial complications. However, a divorce late in life also adds a level of complexity to your estate and tax plan.

Do I Need to Update My Estate Plan?

Even though it is critical for your assets, family and legacy, estate planning tends to fall to the bottom of people’s to-do lists. What new parent wants to draft a will, while finalizing a nursery paint color?

What Happens If You Don’t Name Beneficiaries?

If you’ve had an IRA and a 401(k) for many years, you may occasionally ask yourself some questions: ‘Am I contributing enough?’ ‘Am I still funding these accounts with the right mix of investments for my goals and risk tolerance?