Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Estate planning is organizing and managing your assets and documenting your wishes to ensure your estate is handled according to your wishes upon death.
A good estate plan should consider your financial situation, goals, personal and family circumstances, and estate and inheritance taxes. It may involve creating a will, trust, power of attorney, and advanced medical directive.
The goal is to ensure your wishes are respected and minimize potential tax implications and other costs.
Estate Planning 101: The Basics
Families at every income level can incorporate estate plans into their financial affairs. Here are some estate planning questions to consider as you get started.
Estate Planning Checklist: 10 Steps to Help You Prepare
Our estate planning checklist can help you think about how to structure an estate plan in the event of an unexpected death or life-threatening illness. Consider these steps when you start your estate planning.
What Are the Different Types of Trusts?
There are several types of trusts, and understanding them may help you choose the right one. Learn the common types to determine which is the best for you.
What Is a Living Trust?
Making estate planning decisions may have you wondering what a living trust is and how it differs from a will. Check out how living trusts operate and some factors to consider before deciding if one is right for you.
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What Is a Charitable Trust?
A charitable trust could offer many financial advantages for individuals. Explore the basics and benefits of charitable trusts and find out if one is right for your needs.
What Is a Spendthrift Trust?
A spendthrift trust is one way to help your loved ones manage their inheritance. Learn what to consider if you're leaving money to support your family.
What Is a Will?
Without a last will and testament, your wishes aren't legally binding. Learn more about what a will is and how you should start one.
Wills vs. Trusts
Wills and trusts are two different tools for estate planning, but they work differently. Learn about each of them, plus some of the similarities and differences between the two estate planning forms.
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What Does an Estate Executor Do?
What do you do if someone names you as their estate executor? Learn about an estate plan's importance and the executors' fundamental responsibilities.
What Happens If I Die Without a Will?
The outcome of dying without a will is determined by the state you live in. It takes into account marital status and whether you have any children. Learn more about what happens when you don't have a will when you die.
Understanding Power of Attorney
If you don't have one in place now, you may not be able to designate someone when you are unable to. Learn more about what a power of attorney is, the different types, and whom you might choose as your agent.
Healthcare Proxy vs. Power of Attorney
A healthcare proxy and power of attorney are two legal documents you should consider. Learn a few reasons why you might want either or both.
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Estate Tax vs. Inheritance Tax
The difference between estate and inheritance tax is significant, and understanding how each works may help you plan. Learn about the basics and what are the differences between the two.
5 Considerations When Leaving Money to Grandchildren
As you get older, it's natural to start thinking about the financial well-being of your youngest family members. Learn how to address your grandchildren's financial needs without inviting any unnecessary legal challenges or tax burdens.
How Does a Prepaid Funeral Work?
A prepaid funeral can be part of your estate plan. Learn more about what it is and how to start saving.
Help Preserve the Legacy You Leave
Your decisions today will determine the legacy you leave for the people who matter most to you. Learn more about giving more of what you save, protecting a lifetime of savings, and charitable giving.
Want to Maximize Your Charitable Giving Impact?
Are you taking advantage of a charitable giving strategy that lets you and the charities you support get the most out of what you give? Learn more about the charitable giving strategies that could give you the best of all worlds, from tax advantages to flexibility.
Don't leave the future of your assets and wishes to chance. Take control of your future and help protect your loved ones by starting your estate plan today!
Contact a financial advisor to discuss your options and create a personalized plan that fits your unique needs and goals. Take action now and to help ensure a secure future for yourself and your loved ones.
