Articles

Block letters on toy fire truck showing the importance of re-appointing power of attorney after a divorce

Understanding the Power of Attorney

In its various forms, a power of attorney is an essential tool when planning for possible incapacity or if you otherwise need a trusted agent to manage your affairs. This legal document can grant broad authority to one or more agent to transact busin… Read More
Close up of a person writing a letter by hand with a pen

Why a Letter of Intent is Crucial

A letter of intent (LOI) can be a valuable piece in your estate planning, and although it is an informal letter, it can more fully represent your financial and personal intentions after you die. Everyone knows they need to make a will, but this lesse… Read More
LGBTQIA Couple Holding Hands

Estate Planning in the LGBTQIA+ Community: Are There Differences?

Since the 2015 recognition of same-sex marriage being constitutionally protected, same-sex couples who are married have been able to enjoy the same rights as heterosexual couples when it comes to estate planning. But for unmarried couples, careful pl… Read More
Storing Directives on a Smart Phone

Storing Your Health Care Directives on Your Smart Phone? There's an App for That.

More Americans than ever can now store information on smartphones and tablet devices. Whether engaging in online banking, using a mobile plane boarding pass, or creating work calendars shared in the cloud, the internet of things provides needed conne… Read More
Example of Older workers with photo of senior woman in warehouse.

Senior Workers Can Help American Workforce Needs

Although many older Americans want to work, the April 2020 unemployment rate for workers 55 and older rose to 13.6 percent. COVID-19 restrictions and associated layoffs account for some unemployment increase, but so does the lack of employment opport… Read More
naming a beneficiary

Lapse: What Happens to Inheritance if the Beneficiary Dies?

A key part of your estate plan is your will. In addition to identifying who is in charge of handling your estate after your death, your will names who will inherit your property and assets. But what happens if that beneficiary dies before you do? For… Read More
cattle on the family farm

Estate Planning for the Family Farm

Suppose that mother and dad have run the family farm for a long time. Now, though, they’re getting on in years, and they’re considering moving into a smaller place. One of the daughters and her husband help run the farm, but the rest of the sibli… Read More
woman looking at laptop screen

Preparing for Your Aging Parents' Care

Although every situation is unique, one truism to preparing for an aging parent’s care is that preparation is crucial to success. Whether you need basic information about eldercare resources and services, are looking for a local agency to provide t… Read More
A will provides instructions about who should receive a person’s money and property after the person’s death and who they would like to care for their dependents.

What Your Will Can and Can Not Do (Hint: It's Not a Magic Wand)

A will is a legally binding directive stating who will receive much of your property upon your death. Having a will allows you to appoint a legal representative or executor to carry out your bequests and name a guardian for your children. If you die… Read More
Teddy bear with sad face sitting on footpath blurry background

Combatting Senior Loneliness

Growing older might not be as pleasant as envisioned for many seniors. Diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, heart conditions, and pulmonary problems are common hurdles to overcome or manage. Apart from these well-known health issues, growing evide… Read More