Laws governing the execution of a valid will vary by state, but they generally require certain formalities. For example, a will typically must be signed by the person making it —...
When Your Will Needs an Update, Follow the Formalities
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Estate Planning
What Are the Tax Implications of Gold and Other Precious Metal Investments?
To hedge against stock market volatility and inflation, some IRA owners and investors put money into precious metal assets, such as gold, silver and platinum. Although precious...
Finding Profitable Real Estate Investments
For most real estate investors, the goal is to choose profitable properties that will maintain and grow in value. But factors out of your control, including the COVID-19...
Financial Planning Before Stressful Events Occur in Your Family
When tragedy strikes in a family--in the form of a death or severe disability--people are overcome with emotional stress, be it grief, sorrow or the fear of how it will affect...
Cross “Create an Estate Plan” Off Your To-Do List
If you're like most Americans, you don't have an estate plan (according to various sources, adults with estate plans range from 23% to 33% of the population). You may not even...
You’ve Received an Inheritance. Now What?
Even if you've long expected it, receiving an inheritance can be somewhat disorienting — particularly if it's a large windfall that could alter your current standard of living....
Joint Ownership: Estate Planning Do or Don’t?
Estate planners often tout the virtues of owning property jointly — and with good reason. Joint ownership generally offers several advantages for surviving family members. But...
A Buy-Sell Agreement Can Promote Your Estate Plan’s Objectives
If you own a closely held business, you're probably familiar with the protections provided by buy-sell agreements. But do you know how important these documents can be to an...
A Closer Look at Durable Power of Attorney
As the COVID-19 pandemic taught many Americans, serious illness may strike at any time and any age. Of course, in ordinary times, older Americans are at risk of becoming...
When It Comes to Trusts, Silence May Be Golden
The idea of leaving a significant inheritance to your children or grandchildren may give you pause. Could the promise of wealth make your heirs act financially irresponsible or...