Articles about wills and trusts
What is a will and why do you need one?
Learn what a will does, why it may be important, when to make one, what happens if you die without a will and whether a will avoids probate.
Types of wills and trusts for estate planning
Learn about common types of wills and trusts, how they work and which estate planning goals each option may support.
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?
Learn what an executor of a will does, including managing estate assets, addressing debts and taxes and distributing property to beneficiaries.
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 and end-of-life care choices
Find out how preparing a living will ensures your wishes are honored if you are unable to speak for yourself.
Charity comparison: Where does your money go?
Is there a guideline to know if a charity is legitimate? Use these tips to find out more about charitable organizations and where your money goes.
What to know before setting up a trust for children
Trust for children: Learn how trusts for minors work, explore common trust types, understand trustee responsibilities and review key steps for setting up a trust.
Estate planning articles
When should I update my estate plan?
When should I update my estate plan? Consider a review every three to five years and after marriage, divorce, a move or other major life changes.
What is a life annuity?
A life annuity is a payment you receive at regular intervals for the rest of your life.
How long to keep documents before shredding
Learn how long to keep tax records, bank statements, insurance policies and other documents. Plus find out how paperless billing may help simplify storage.
What to consider when choosing a beneficiary for life insurance or other financial accounts
Learn what factors to consider when choosing a life insurance beneficiary or a beneficiary for other financial accounts.
Review your estate planning checklist
This handy estate planning checklist 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 help improve financial wellness through simple spending, saving and budgeting tips.
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.
How to create a financial emergency plan
Learn how to create a financial emergency plan by reviewing your expenses, emergency savings, available resources and next steps for unexpected financial changes.
Financial Goals by Age: A Decade-by-Decade Approach
Help take the guesswork out of your lifelong financial goals, including your retirement goals, short-term goals and other financial to-do’s at any age.
What is a special needs trust?
Learn how a special needs trust works, what types are available and how to set one up while helping protect your loved one's eligibility for SSI and Medicaid.
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