Actor Val Kilmer’s passing in April 2025 highlights estate planning issues that can affect almost anyone. Although Kilmer was a celebrity, these issues—including managing real estate in more than one state, deciding what happens with digital assets, and using charitable gifts to...
Death is the elephant in the room when we talk about estate planning. We often use phrases like pass away and pass on to make our meetings feel more comfortable and avoid being overly macabre, but the not-so-subtle subtext of...
Although Americans are living longer and spending more time—and money—in retirement, many parents intend to leave an inheritance to their children. The exact amount can vary greatly depending on individual circumstances and wealth levels, but even a small inheritance can...
It is summertime, and the living is easy. Maybe you spent the day out on the boat, at the beach, or at home relaxing in your most comfortable lounge chair. As the sun sets,...
A basic estate plan is like a scoop of vanilla — it gets the job done, but it’s just the beginning. This article explores how you can customize your plan with thoughtful “toppings” like timed inheritances, trust structures, and charitable...
Retirement is supposed to be a carefree period of enjoyment and fulfillment. However, retirement has become a daunting prospect for many Americans, full of anxiety and financial uncertainty.
Longer lives and rising costs make the idea of...
Owning a vacation property is a special thing. It's not just about the money; it holds lots of memories and fun times. However, passing it down to your kids can be tricky. Without a good plan, family fights and...
Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, had a career spanning nearly 60 years, releasing 38 studio albums and 6 live albums. Despite her fame, her estate planning caused controversy after her death. She left behind two wills that led...
If you have a lot of money, understanding estate, gift, and generation-skipping transfer (GST) taxes is really important. Consider thinking about giving gifts or money to your grandchildren while your kids are still alive. It's crucial to know...
You've likely heard of estate and gift taxes, but there's another tax called the generation-skipping transfer (GST) tax that ultra-wealthy families should know about. This tax shapes how wealth passes down through generations and can significantly impact your family's...
