6 scenarios in which to consider setting up a trust
Estate planning can include many components. One component you may consider is a trust. However, just like a will, a trust is not perfect for every circumstance. It can be an extremely flexible way to control your assets, but it also has downsides. A trust, for...
Dos and don’ts for discussing assisted living with a parent
Even the idea of assisted living or a nursing home can strike fear into the hearts of many older Americans. It is an extremely sensitive topic and, therefore, you should approach it with care. If you feel that moving your parent or loved one to assisted living or...
Ask these 7 questions before moving forward with guardianship
If disease or injury leaves a person unable to make decisions and manage their daily life, guardianship may be an option for the care and keeping of that individual. But often it is not the only option. While guardianship is the best and only option in some cases, it...
Should I use a do-it-yourself estate plan?
The recent coronavirus pandemic has led to a surge in estate planning requests. It is tempting to update or put together an estate plan with a do-it-yourself or fill in the blank option. In some cases, this format may work. Those who are relatively young, do not have...
Why estate planning is a smart move for everybody
It's not something many of us enjoy thinking about, but just as we are all born, someday we all will pass away. While general estate legalities will occur, a proper estate plan allows family members and all beneficiaries to properly grieve without having to deal with...
Estate planning advice for small business owners
As anyone who runs or has run a business, it's hard work no matter the size. For business owners, the goal is success, sustainability, and one day, when its time to let the business go, succession. To make sure you, your family, and your business are prepared for an...
How to tell when parents need assisted living
Placing parents into assisted living is never an easy decision. The signs are often slow to manifest and can be hard to spot at first. A caregiver may also feel guilty for having to make this decision, as many parents might feel shame for needing increased care. There...
When do you know it’s time to put your parent in a nursing home?
The decision to move your parent to a nursing home is one of the most difficult decisions you must make as an adult. In the moment, it’s hard to tell if you’re making the right decision for them. For many adult children, they opt to care for their parent themselves....
Is it time to consider assisted living for an elderly parent?
The decision of whether or not to move a parent into an assisted care facility is a heavy one. Your beloved parents, who once cared for you, are now at an age where they can no longer effectively care for themselves. The brutal reality is that as Americans continue to...
10 signs it’s time to update your estate plan
The good news is that you created an estate plan. You took the step, signed the documents and proved yourself more responsible than roughly two-thirds of American adults. The bad news? Life is full of changes. Many of the changes in your life may weaken your estate...