Articles about wills and trusts
What is a will and why do you need one?
A will is a legal document that establishes who will receive your assets from your estate and can appoint guardianship of minors.
Types of wills and trusts
What are the differences between a basic will, pour-over will, tax-saving will, living trust and more? Learn more about wills and trusts in this informative article.
What is the difference between a will and a trust?
Wills and trusts are an important part of estate planning. Wherever you are in the planning process, know your options.
What does the executor of a will do?
When named the executor of a will there are many responsibilities to fulfill.
Questions about Social Security survivor benefits
Who is eligible for Social Security survivor benefits? We break down what survivor benefits are, explain how to claim survivor benefits and identify who qualifies.
Preparing a living will & end-of-life care choices
It's not the most pleasant task, but making your preferences known in a living will has to be done.
Common estate-planning mistakes
Avoid these common mistakes when planning an estate.
Avoiding probate
The probating of a will permits a court of law to supervise the transfer of assets from the decedent to his or her heirs.
Leaving money to a charity in your will
Including philanthropy in your estate plan requires asking yourself a few key questions.
Giving money to your grandchildren
Here are a few smart options to consider for gifting to grandchildren.
Estate planning articles
Does everyone need estate planning?
An estate plan does more than just offer direction for assets. Estate planning can help others execute your wishes and take care of those you love.
What is digital estate planning?
As technology continues to evolve, it's vital to understand what happens to your online accounts when you can no longer manage them or pass away.
Estate planning for the terminally ill
Estate planning is an important step in everyone’s financial preparations, but estate planning for the terminally ill is even more crucial. Learn how.
When should I update my estate plan?
Marriage, death and divorce are definite times you should review your estate plan. Here are some others.
What to consider when choosing a beneficiary for life insurance or other financial accounts
Learn what a beneficiary is and factors to consider when naming a beneficiary.
Review your estate planning checklist
This handy estate planning checklist form can provide thought-starters for tasks involved with planning your estate.
Financial wellness tips to help improve your financial future
Get ahead and learn how to improve financial wellness through simple spending, saving and budgeting tips.
Take time to create a financial emergency plan
It's hard to plan for the worst when times are good, but if a financial emergency strikes, you'll be happy you did.
How long to keep documents before shredding
Do you know how long to keep tax records, bank statements, utility bills and other important documents? Here are some suggestions to help.
How to talk to your parents about money
Talking to elderly parents about finances can be complicated. Here are some helpful tips to help you break the ice and have a productive dialogue.
Estate planning for individuals with special needs
How to use life insurance to help a special needs child or adult
From life insurance to a special needs trust, here's what you need to know to keep your loved one financially secure.
Special needs guardianships: How to ask
The key to discussing special needs guardianships is to plan ahead and be clear about your needs.
Special needs financial planning
Creating a special needs financial plan for a loved one requires extra preparation.
Care & jobs for a special needs child or adult
When it comes to special needs care, the options range from minimal assistance to full-time care.
What is a special needs trust?
Learn how a special needs trust could help address the lifelong financial needs of a loved one with special needs.
Building a special needs estate plan
Planning for the care of your loved ones if you're not there is important. It's critical when you are responsible for an individual with special needs.
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