Making the decision to appoint a power of attorney (POA) is more than a formality; it's a safeguard for your future, ensuring that someone you trust can legally act on your behalf when you're not able to. Whether due to health reasons or other circumstances, having a POA in place provides peace of mind not just for you, but also for your loved ones. But how do you decide who should have such significant Read More
How to Find Trustees and Executors You Can Count On
Deciding who will manage your estate when you’re no longer around, is important. It's about more than just legal documents; it's about choosing someone who can conduct your wishes and take care of your legacy. Picking the right trustee or executor will make all the difference in the successful management of your estate. Getting this decision right is crucial for you, your loved ones, and everything you’ve worked so Read More
Your Child May Be an Adult, But They Still Need You
For many people, estate planning may seem like a daunting task, or something that’s reserved for older, more established people. However, everyone could benefit from an estate plan and should have one in place. This is especially true for young adults like college students. Students are just starting out on their adult lives, and usually don’t have a lot of assets, but there is more to life than just assets. It’s Read More
Power of Attorney for Your College Child
Heading off to college is a big moment for almost every young adult, and brings with it a whole new breadth of freedom and independence. Understandably, a lot of parents are concerned for the well-being of their children who are on their own, potentially for the first time in their lives. Power of attorney documents can provide the best of both worlds by providing young adults the freedom they want, while also Read More
Can You Have Too Much Money in Your Retirement Accounts?
You might be thinking: What do you mean, too much money in my account? How is that possible? You were likely told to save as much money as possible with your IRA and maximize 401(k) contributions, which is very common advice. If you followed that advice, however, you may end up with too much money accumulated in these accounts. What’s the Problem? When you’ve finally achieved retirement, and are ready to begin Read More
You Should Consider Power of Attorney for Your Child
Your child’s 18th birthday is an exciting, but nerve-wracking event. They now have full control over their finances and medical decisions, which understandably stresses some parents. You no longer have access to their medical records, or the ability to make important medical decisions for them. While you may be concerned, some options will allow you to retain the ability to make medical or financial decisions on Read More
Guardianship Versus Power of Attorney – Which do I Need?
When family members become disabled, someone needs to have official, legal authority to take care of their finances, make medical decisions, and generally step into their shoes. There are two legal ways this can be set up. One way is done in advance, while the other can’t be done unless they’re disabled. Advance Planning With a Power of Attorney Power of attorney is a legal document signed by someone who is not Read More
Selecting Your Helpers (For Your Estate Plan)
Your estate plan needs people to make it work. The plan is the “map” to the destinations (results) you want, but your helpers are the ones that make it happen. These people are your trustees, executor, guardians, and agents (under Power of Attorney), who have the job of carrying out your wishes. Picking the right helpers is just as important as making a plan for your assets. What Kind of ‘Helpers’ Do You Read More
