How to Make Plans to Provide Care for Your Pet If You Can’t

If you have a pet, you undoubtedly take steps to be sure he or she is cared for if you go on vacation. And you even may have written into your will or trust who should be responsible for your pet after your death. But too few older owners plan for the … Continue reading

6 Ways the SECURE Act May Impact Your Retirement

The new Setting Every Community Up For Retirement Enhancement (SECURE) Act, just signed by President Trump, is the broadest piece of retirement legislation passed in 13 years. Ultimately, the law focuses on retirement planning in three key areas: 1) mo… Continue reading

How to Find a Good Estate Planner

Estate planning is a critical part of financial planning, but something many Americans procrastinate about. Yet drafting a will and a health care proxy or power of attorney, maybe creating a trust, and maximizing your loved ones’ inheritances by minimi… Continue reading

The Risks of a Handwritten Will

When the “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin died last August, it was believed that she hadn’t prepared any kind of estate plan, including a last will and testament. But now, nine months after her death, three handwritten wills have been found in her home … Continue reading

The Problems With Do-It-Yourself Online Wills

As a professional trustee and executor, I have seen hundreds of estate-planning documents, including some from do-it-yourself online services. I appreciate that using a DIY site to draft a will can save money and time. But I’m also concerned that somet… Continue reading

To Freeze Yourself at Death, There’s an Estate Planning Trust for That

Maybe you’re intrigued by the thought of having your body scientifically frozen when you die, on the chance you’ll be revived one day (cryonics). But the thought of having no ready access to funds when you’re thawed would have your head spinning like a… Continue reading